The world of retail fashion can be fast-paced and glamorous. Who wouldn’t want to work with beautiful clothes all day?
But as you probably know, no one starts out as the CEO of Barney’s. Just like many other competitive industries, fashion retail sales requires that you work your way up. That means starting out with an entry-level position to get your foot in the door.
Here are five fashion retail sales jobs that could get your career started off right!
Sales Associate
This is the job that most people think of when they think of “fashion retail.” A sales associate usually works on the floor of a clothing store, setting out merchandise and answering customer questions.
Sometimes, sales associates will receive a commission for their sales. Others may be paid a salary or an hourly rate. These jobs are often entry level, which makes them a good place to start out if you have no experience in fashion sales.
For example, UA Brands often has available retail fashion sales jobs in Decatur, GA. These jobs can include sales associate positions that may eventually turn into higher-level store management roles.
While most of the time no prior experience is necessary, there are some high-end fashion retail sales jobs that require extensive product knowledge and understanding of the latest trends. Sales associates in these stores can make a high salary — even six figures!
Reseller
Fashion reselling is not new. Consignment stores have been around for ages. However, now that we have the internet, reselling is available to individuals as well as the consignment shops.
Resellers buy clothing — sometimes in bulk — and then list their products for sale in online stores. They may sell through an established platform like eBay or luxury reseller The RealReal. Other resellers set up their own websites with a Shopify store so they can keep more of the sale price.
Anyone can get started as a fashion reseller, as long as they have the capital to buy inventory and set up an online shop. If you have dreams of running your own fashion retail empire, this may be a great way to start!
eCommerce Assistant
Over a quarter (27%) of apparel was sold online in 2019. That means there is an enormous demand for people who understand how to run an online shopping platform. Many of the larger fashion brands have multi-level departments run by a VP or President of eCommerce.
To get started, look for an eCommerce Assistant or customer service position. You’ll be able to learn the basics of order management, processing, and reporting, and those skills will be useful no matter where your future takes you.
Customer Support
In a perfect world, every order would arrive at its destination in perfect condition and fit the customer like a glove. Unfortunately, things don’t always go to plan.
That’s where customer support comes in. As the “voice” of the business, customer support specialists will help customers get their issues resolved quickly and efficiently. By providing a great service experience, you will keep the customer coming back to the brand and hone your ability to be personable and sympathetic.
A great track record in support can prove that you’re ready for a supervisory role or in-person sales.
Social Media Sales
The line between social media manager and salesperson has become increasingly blurred in recent years. While some people use social media simply to share stories and information, others use it as a sales platform through ads and links to product pages.
If you have social media expertise, you may be able to channel that into a job in the fashion industry. Look for a local brand that needs your help to grow their following and increase their sales. You may even be able to do this part time as you build up experience in the industry.
Fashion Retail Sales Jobs
Fashion retail sales jobs can be found wherever clothes are sold — and that means every city in the United States.
A Sales Associate position may be the easiest way to break into the fashion industry. These positions often don’t require prior experience and provide training.
To be an eCommerce Clerk or Assistant , you’ll need some basic computer skills, like Microsoft Office. You may also need some understanding of Amazon, eBay, or Shopify. There are lots of free online resources that you can use to start this education.
Keep your eyes on the goal! Picking the right entry level position can help set you on the path to a successful career.