Retail Salespeople


Marketing > Retail Salespeople > Working Conditions
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Retail Salespeople

Retail Salespeople - Working Conditions

In a typical work setting, retail salespeople:

Interpersonal Relationships

  • Have a high level of contact with customers and coworkers.
  • Communicate with customers and coworkers daily by telephone or in person.
  • Have moderate responsibility for outcomes. Salespeople are expected to meet sales quotas.
  • Occasionally deal with angry or discourteous people.
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  • Work in a group or as part of a team.

Physical Work Conditions

  • Almost always work indoors. However, retail salespeople may work outdoors if they sell items such as cars, plants, or lumber yard materials.
  • Work near customers and coworkers, but usually have a few feet of space separating them from others.

Work Performance

  • Must be exact in their work. This is so that customers are charged the correct price for items.
  • Are able to set some tasks for the day without talking to a supervisor. This is because they often repeat the same tasks.
  • Often make decisions that affect customers. They consult supervisors for some decisions, but make most without talking to a supervisor.
  • Are moderately competitive with coworkers.
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  • Must meet strict deadlines on a weekly basis, such as sales quotas.
  • Repeat the same physical and mental activities.

Hours/Travel

  • Generally have a set schedule each week.
  • May work part time or full time, but most work 40 hours a week.
  • May work evenings, weekends, or holidays. Often work longer hours around the winter holidays.
  • May be discouraged from taking vacation time during peak shopping periods.
Source: Illinois Career Information System (CIS) brought to you by Illinois Department of Employment Security.