Retail often gets a bad rap in the job market. Considered a last resort for many, retail is known for a high turnover rate, no benefits, and uneven, always-changing hours. Many of these assumptions, however, come from entry-level positions: the fry cook, the cashier, or the shelf-stocker. Although it’s a rough start, sticking it out and having success on the job may lead to a career in retail management.

Beginning at the bottom is the start of a long path to the top. Some who stay in retail do end up in managerial roles, but at the same time, the higher you go, the greater the competition. Experience may be held higher than education, but no education at all can be detrimental, even in retail. Increasing your success in landing a retail management position is getting a degree, such as an Associate or Bachelor of Science in Business. An educational program focusing on marketing, accounting, and managerial skills coupled with knowledge of the industry positions you as a better candidate.

Business knowledge is only part of the background for a retail management role. Leadership, teamwork, and communication skills are just as important. A typical retail manager at a business of any size is involved in training, overseeing operations, managing merchandise and inventory, loss prevention, and the work environment. A hostile leader often inevitably leads to a less-than-ideal workplace.

While education and on-the-job experience help your chances, computer software, customer service, and administrative skills make a retail manager more effective and helpful. He or she needs knowledge of Microsoft Office and QuickBooks, and possibly an inventory management program.

Odd hours are a downside to retail management, regardless of the store. Most managers will not work nine to five; instead, he or she may need to arrive earlier to open or stay later to close.

Store size changes the hierarchy of retail management. A small, independently-owned shop or restaurant, for example, may have senior and assistant managers, an accountant, and various lower-level employees – sales associates, cookers, servers, or waiters – on staff. Big box and chain operations, on the other hand, have an extensive line of managerial roles. In one area, for example, a district manager will oversee multiple stores, each store will have its own senior and assistant manager team, and individual departments within the store will have their own team leaders.

Buying a store location or a management trainee program are other approaches to retail management. Having solid business, leadership, and marketing skills is crucial to the former; without them, the location may go out of business. A management trainee program, on the other hand, is ideal for business college graduates looking to get into management. Such programs prepare an individual for managing a full store or restaurant location; after training has ended, he or she typically ends up in a senior or assistant manager role.

Getting into retail management starts with applying to jobs that match your background and skill level. Find several openings on ManagementJobs.net. Browse around positions in your location, and apply today to advance your career in retail.

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