1. Preparing for Work Placement in the Retail Industry

2. Basic Facts about the Retail Industry Is the largest employer in Australia Employs about 920,000 or 12 % of the Australian workforce 49 % of retail labour force are full-time Sales Assistants and Shop Managers account for more than 50% of jobs

3. More facts about retail… Provided more new jobs in the past 5 years than any other industry 3 rd highest growth industry with a percentage share of 18% or 128,200 new jobs is RETAIL

4. Success in Retail relies on: Quality of goods Quality of service Quality of staff

5. What makes the Retail Industry Unique? Totally customer focused First impressions are vitally important Very labour intensive Quality conscious Very competitive

6. What are retailers looking for when taking on work placement students? Commitment to the industry A positive attitude Basic knowledge of the industry Genuine desire to learn Enthusiasm Ability to work as part of a team Willingness to carry out basic duties

7. What are some of the career options in Retail? * Sales* Management * Human Resources* Buying * Merchandising * Administration * Information Technology* Marketing * Accounting* Wholesaling

8. What should you do before work experience? Find out some information about the organisation you will be going to Confirm what is appropriate dress for the employer you are going to Ensure that you have polished closed- in shoes Be punctual

9. How do you make a positive impression on your retail supervisor? Be enthusiastic Be on time Be honest at all times Be polite to customers and other staff members Show an honest, willingness to learn

10. What’s important when pursuing a Career in the Retail Industry? Attitude Appearance Communication Skills Ability to work in a team Cash – handling skills Problem-solving skills

11. What are the benefits of a career in Retail? Enhances communication skills Increases confidence Creates awareness of personal presentation Continual people contact allows for development of problem solving/conflict resolution skills Develops very marketable skills – valued in any job role Many career options & pathways Multi-national companies can mean travel opportunities

12. Where you can find more information? www.nra.net.au www.ara.com.au www.serviceskills.com.au