Retail is an industry with limitless potential. The world always needs retail, with essentials like pharmacies and supermarkets always holding their imperative place in the economy. What’s more, there is plenty of room for career advancement, with the ability to move into higher roles always on the cards for passionate employees!

With this in mind, here are five essential tips to help you get employed and get ahead in this exciting industry:

1. Volunteering is a good place to start

The best retail recruitment agencies Melbourne has will say that it never hurts your prospects to start with volunteering at an op-shop. This is because the employment sector is becoming more difficult to enter and there are more people vying for the same roles. Unfortunately, this can make it difficult to enter the industry, in which case it is a good idea to show your passion through op-shop volunteering!

Plus, you’ll have first dibs on all the vintage clothes that come rolling through – bonus.

2. Think about the stores you like

Do you like the kind of elegant clothing you would find at David Jones or Myer? Or, do you want to work in a stylish deli amongst gourmet delights from around the world? The industry is wide and varied, and full of stores that could be perfectly pertaining to your industry interests. So, the next thing to think about is, what kind of industry do you want to work in? Having an interest in that industry will help you impress your prospective employers more than if you don’t really care what they are selling.

3. Start on the floor

We can’t all show up and expect to be a famous enterprise’s regional manager – we have to start small! This means applying for jobs on the store floor, including roles like cashier, shop assistant, shelf-stacker, the kind of roles that, once you gain experience and show your passion, will help you climb up the ranks. This is the best way to forge a career in the retail industry and has worked time and time again in the past!

4. Show what you’re made of

Now that you’ve found yourself an awesome role, it’s time to show the company that you’re passionate about the work. This is the best way to get ahead as it shows that you want to succeed in a personal and collective way. And, the best way to show your passion for the role? Be enthusiastic and show an interest in learning about the company, their product, goals and values.

Sure, working the floor on Saturday afternoon may not be everyone’s favourite starting point, but through showing your passion for the role you will demonstrate a willingness to learn and actually learn about your company. They love to see it and you will be rewarded in kind!

5. Keep an eye out for opportunities

Retail companies big and small are always creating new opportunities for passionate young team members to grasp. Therefore, it’s always a good idea to keep your eyes and ears open for any new and exciting opportunities. Even if an opportunity isn’t right for you at this moment it doesn’t hurt to express interest – it shows that you have a willingness to progress with that company and are not just treating the role as a money-maker until you move onto something different.

Be sure to follow these imperative employment tips and you will receive the awesome rewards that come with them!