Getting a graduate job in retail and sales

From work experience to graduate schemes, there are a number of ways to break into the retail sector…

Do I need a related degree?

Currently only a limited number of jobs in the retail sector require a degree and relatively few managers are qualified to degree level. However, most of the large retailers have graduate schemes which require specialist knowledge in IT, HR and finance.

If the continued technological advancement is to be managed effectively, there is a need for more graduates with higher level skills to enter the sector.

For information on entry requirements and relevant qualifications, see types of jobs.

What skills do employers want?

Graduate recruiters in the retail sector require candidates with:

• communication skills - particularly verbal;
• problem solving and initiative;
• willingness to work unsociable hours and weekends;
• commercial awareness;
• reliability;
• ability to work under pressure.

Where can I get work experience?

Many graduates will have worked in the retail sector at some point during their studies or through the summer holidays. Experience of having worked in the sector is looked upon favourably by graduate scheme recruiters.

As the majority of jobs in retail are part time with flexible hours, gaining work experience is easier than in some other sectors. If you go into your local retailer you will often find roles advertised on notice boards or if you're looking to work in a smaller independent retailer then simply enquiring in store will help you find out if a role is available.

To find work placements and internships in the retail and sales sector, search for work experience.

How do I find a graduate job in retail?

There are a number of graduate schemes available in the sector covering all functions of retail. Schemes often require a 2:2 or above in any undergraduate degree and many employers ask for some experience of working in the sector but this is not always essential.

You may find if you have worked with a large retailer part time during your studies that there are opportunities to train as a manager from within and you can apply as an internal candidate.

To find jobs and graduate schemes in the sector, search graduate jobs in retail and sales.