Retail manager : Training

Many of the larger retail companies have dedicated training stores. Graduate schemes are often well structured and cover all areas of retailing within the store. You may be assigned a mentor who is an experienced manager and will oversee your training, offering support and guidance.

Training programmes are normally in-house and combine practical on-the-job or work shadowing experience with supplementary courses and workshops.

Short courses may offer:

• technical aspects, such as accounts;
• interpersonal training, such as coaching and mentoring;
• structured behavioural training in influencing or facilitation skills.

Training programmes aim to give you an overview of the company through exposure to the various retailing areas. The length of training varies between nine months and three years. Many training programmes are flexible and can be tailored to your requirements; you will be expected to drive your own future in accordance with the needs of the business.

Companies may also support trainees in gaining further professional qualifications related to specific disciplines.