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Retail Graduate Jobs

About Graduate Retail Jobs
When it comes to graduate jobs, the retail sector is a popular field for job hunters. This is not surprising since the retail sector employs over 3 million people in the UK. These are people from all different backgrounds, many of them doing part time retail jobs working as a store assistant.

You might be interested in retail graduate jobs because you have worked as a retail assistant yourself as a student. This could have been in a supermarket, high street store or in fashion retail jobs. Perhaps you are even thinking about staying with that company and applying for their retail graduate schemes. It is increasingly common these days for those of you in student jobs to move into graduate jobs within the same company.

The great thing about retail graduate jobs is that you don’t necessarily need to have had any previous retail experience. Many companies who offer places on their retail graduate schemes will not even specify a particular degree. Being successful in retail is as much about the type of person you are as your qualifications.

Because graduate retail management jobs are so popular, competition for vacancies can be stiff so many companies (although, not all) will ask for a 2:1 minimum in whatever degree you are reading for. After that, it will be down to you and the company to decide whether you are the right person for their retail management positions.
Types Of Retail Graduate Jobs
The British retail sector is a diverse one and you could be doing retail graduate jobs in a variety of positions. Depending on the company you are working for, many retail graduate schemes will give you the opportunity to spend time working in different retail jobs so that you can see where your strengths lie. Some graduate jobs in retail could even see you working abroad if you are working for a large international company.

If you have an interest in the latest designs on the catwalk then graduate fashion retail jobs might suit you. If fashion really isn’t your thing, however, then no need to worry. There are lots of other types of retail jobs out there. Graduate jobs in retail could be working in supermarkets, music and entertainment, pharmaceuticals, the motor industry, hospitality, travel and tourism, utilities. The list can go on. Wherever there is a service and customers want to make a purchase, there are retail jobs.
What Do Employers Look For In Their Graduates?
Retail jobs are not just about skills and knowledge. Employers are looking for graduates with the right personality to join their retail graduate schemes. So, what might they be looking for? Whether it’s on your application form, in an interview or in assessment centres, those who are successful in landing their dream graduate retail jobs often display the following traits:

  • Excellent communication skills: Retail management jobs will mean yoıu need to be able to communicate effectively with customers. You will also need to be able to communicate with your team of staff so that they know exactly what is expected of them.
  • Flexibility: If you are looking for traditional 9-5 office hours, then jobs in retail are not for you. Depending on the type of company you are working for, you can also expect to be working evenings and weekends as well as bank holidays.
  • Willingness to travel/relocate: If the company you are working for has a number of branches around the country, some retail graduate schemes will require you to spend time in different branches so that you get experience of working and training in different areas of the firm. This could be a long commute or time away from home.
  • Driven and motivated: Employers look for graduates who are driven and motivated so that they will be working in retail management jobs, running their own stores or departments within a relatively short space of time. There is much to learn so your commitment and passion will be needed to succeed. Your drive and determination is also what will help you succeed in reaching company targets.
  • Leadership qualities: Graduate retail manager jobs will require excellent teamwork skills so that you can get tasks completed. As a trainee manager, you will also need to be able take the lead and get the best from your team of staff by motivating them.
  • Ability to learn quickly: If you have experience in retail jobs already, you will know what a fast paced environment the retail sector is. Graduate retail jobs will need you to be able to both keep your eye on the ball and also adapt quickly to changes within the industry.
Retail Graduate Jobs Salary
Graduate retail jobs are attractive because the salaries you can achieve as you move up the scale can be high. Even in retail graduate schemes, whilst you are training, you should still be able to earn enough to start making dents in your student debts. As you head into retail management jobs in the future, then your salary will continue to climb. Retail area manager jobs would obviously see you further increase your responsibility and your salary, too.

Other benefits of retail graduate jobs can be the inclusion of a company car with the role as well as other perks offered by the company you are working for. This could include health care or extra holidays.
Career Progression In Retail Graduate Jobs
Retail graduate schemes are designed to equip you with the experience and skills to work in retail management jobs in the future. Many retail companies are keen to promote from within so once you have completed your placements, you can continue to progress within the company. Alternatively, some graduates like to move on and gain experience of retail jobs in other sectors.
Apply For Retail Graduate Jobs In The UK
We regularly advertise vacancies for retail graduate schemes and other types of retail jobs. If you think you have got what it takes to succeed in this fast moving world then take a look to see if there is anything to suit you. You could soon be on the path to a successful career in retail.
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