Rising through the ranks: alternative routes into retail

If you have a passion for retail – and for a particular brand – don’t be put off by the lack of a graduate programme. If you have store experience, commercial nous and potential leadership, you will be well placed to climb the career ladder. Even if you didn't get the 2.1 you needed, you can still get a foot in the door and prove to managers that you deserve a place.

The opportunities

Many management roles can be found in-store. You could become an assistant or deputy store manager, or take on responsibility for a specific area of operations such as sales, early on in your career – especially if you have already worked for the employer in a part-time capacity. Senior positions include store and area managers.

It is important to realise that management opportunities are not always open to non-employees – many companies are keen to invest in current staff by sending them on management training or other continuing professional development courses.

There are also management opportunities in head office areas such as buying, finance and merchandising. It may be a case of starting off on a lower rung of the ladder and using the transferable skills you’ve gained during your studies to make a name for yourself.

Speedy career progression

In such a high-speed industry, career progression can be rapid. After two years’ experience, development opportunities may well open up. If you still feel that way inclined you can then start training for a managerial position.

Certain areas of work within the retail industry require specific knowledge or skills, but large retailers often have HR and development units in place specifically to monitor your performance and tailor training to suit your needs.

Competencies that are essential for success throughout the sector include excellent communication skills, creativity, numeracy, a flexible attitude, customer focus and a determination to make things work.