Bookseller : Entry requirements

Although this area is open to all graduates and diplomates, a degree or HND in business/management may increase your chances.

A degree is not essential, but a high proportion of those working in bookselling have a degree or HND, especially those working in academic booksellers. Bookshops on campus often use students for temporary staff. More specialist shops may favour applicants with a good academic background and specify a degree for entry, although the work itself may not necessarily draw upon this. A pre-entry postgraduate qualification is not needed.

Employers commonly seek people who are enthusiastic and can demonstrate excellent communication and customer service skills. Although pre-entry experience is not always required, experience in retailing or any other experience which demonstrates your ability to work with the public, communicate effectively and work as part of a team will improve your chances. A passion for books is often regarded as a desirable, but not an essential attribute for people wishing to work as booksellers.

In general candidates will need to show evidence of the following:

• excellent communication skills;
• the ability and confidence to deal with a wide range of people;
• organisational skills;
• time management skills;
• good teamworking;
• the ability to work under pressure;
• good general knowledge;
• interest in books;
• commercial awareness;
• IT literacy;
• an interest in, and knowledge of, the bookselling sector;
• an ability to multi-task.

Many sellers use online ordering and direct delivery services, so a grasp of e-commerce may be useful. An awareness of current literary topics is desirable. Some specialist bookshops may have specific requirements for subject knowledge. Although not well paid, competition for posts is high. Some jobs are secured through speculative applications.

For more information, see work experience and internships and search courses and research.