Retail sales associates are the face of the retail store and a direct line to the customer. They are responsible for greeting customers, helping resolve minor issues or needs, building rapport, ringing up sales, and more.
These associates are responsible for keeping a clean and organized store. They stock shelves, clean up messes, return orders, direct and assist customers, and close sales. The associate can also encourage customers to join rewards programs, offer advice or recommendations, and assist with the delivery or pick-up of goods.
Retail sales associates should have an excellent understanding of the POS systems the company uses. Additionally, they should have excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, and they will generally be expected to have a flexible schedule. The ability to upsell, along with a positive attitude and having great teamwork are also valuable skills.
Sample job description
Average salary and compensation
The average salary for a retail sales associate is $29,800 per year, often paid as an hourly rate (the equivalent of $14.33). Many roles offer sales commission or a cash bonus. While only base salaries are reflected here, commissions and bonuses may greatly increase total compensation. Additionally, salaries will vary based on experience, company size, industry, and geographic market.
| Location | Salary Low | Salary High |
|---|---|---|
| Phoenix, Arizona | $29,650 | $40,100 |
| Los Angeles, California | $33,450 | $45,250 |
| Denver, Colorado | $27,900 | $37,700 |
| Washington, DC | $33,950 | $45,900 |
| Miami, Florida | $27,750 | $37,500 |
| Orlando, Florida | $25,800 | $34,600 |
| Tampa, Florida | $26,000 | $35,000 |
| Atlanta, Georgia | $27,100 | $36,700 |
| Chicago, Illinois | $31,150 | $42,150 |
| Boston, Massachusetts | $33,700 | $45,600 |
| Minneapolis-St.Paul, Minnesota | $26,850 | $36,300 |
| New York City, New York | $35,450 | $48,000 |
| Philadelphia, Pennsylvania | $28,900 | $39,100 |
| Dallas, Texas | $28,100 | $38,000 |
| Houston, Texas | $27,900 | $37,850 |
| Seattle, Washington | $32,400 | $43,850 |
| National Average | $25,350 | $34,250 |
Sample interview questions
- Why do you want to be a sales associate?
- What do you know about being a sales associate?
- How good are you at communicating with people, especially strangers?
- What interests you about working in our business?
- What are your unique qualifications?
- How quickly can you adapt and learn?
- Can you share your experience as a sales associate in the past?
- What are your greatest strengths?
- How will your greatest strengths help you in this position at our company?
- How many years of experience do you have?
- What tools are you familiar with that can help you in the position?
- How will your administrative skills contribute to our team?
- Why did you leave your previous job?
