Retail Sales Workers

High School

Employers generally prefer to hire high school graduates for most sales positions. Such subjects as English, speech, and mathematics provide a good background for these jobs. Many high schools and two-year colleges have special programs that include courses in merchandising, principles of retailing, and retail selling.

Postsecondary Training

In retail sales, as in other fields, the level of opportunity tends to coincide with the level of a person's education. In many stores, college graduates enter immediately into on-the-job training programs to prepare them for management assignments. Successful and experienced workers who do not have a degree might also qualify for these programs. Useful college courses include economics, business administration, and marketing. Many colleges offer majors in retailing. Executives in many companies express a strong preference for liberal arts graduates, especially those with some business courses or a master's degree in business administration.

Other Education or Training

The National Retail Federation offers classes and other continuing education opportunities. Topics include customer service, management issues, sales training, purchasing, store operations, merchandising, and marketing. The Retail Design Institute offers workshops and seminars that educate participants about industry trends and developments in retail store design. Contact these organizations for more information.