What Retail Salespeople DoSell merchandise, such as furniture, motor vehicles, appliances, or apparel to consumers.
- Greet customers and ascertain what each customer wants or needs.
- Recommend, select, and help locate or obtain merchandise based on customer needs and desires.
- Compute sales prices, total purchases, and receive and process cash or credit payment.
- Prepare merchandise for purchase or rental.
- Answer questions regarding the store and its merchandise.
Retail Salespeople Education, Salary, and GrowthOnly you can decide how much you need to earn — but knowing what it actually costs to live in your area can help. The Family Budget Calculator can guide you.
Minimum EducationNone
Career ProspectsSteady (Staying constant (within 1%))
Training Time6 months to 1 year
Job Openings555,800 Annually
Median Earnings
$37,250 in California
$34,580 Nationally
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Real Talk Reel
We've curated a playlist for you to get a glimpse into a day in the life of this career.
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Is This Career Right For You?
YOU Like
- Influencing or leading others
- Using data or completing tasks
you value
- Accomplishing things
- Having support
- Personal relationships
you are skilled in
- Active Listening
- Coordination
- Service Orientation
- Social Perceptiveness
- Speaking
- Reading Comprehension
Go Deeper: Retail Salespeople Explained
Retail SalespersonExplore career pathways, key skills, and what each role has to offer.
How Do You Train for This Career?
Learn about the education and training paths that can lead to this career — and what to expect from each one.
Associate's DegreeAn associate's degree typically provides graduates with foundational knowledge and skills for entry-level jobs in the graduate's industry, or serves as a stepping stone towards further education.
🎓 College
⏱️ Finish in 2-3 years
find training near you
Find local programs, apprenticeships, or degrees to start your path.
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What Is the Administration & Sales Industry?
Administration & SalesThe primary activities of this group involve managing teams and projects, providing administrative support, and selling products or services.