How to Become a Retail Manager in 5 Steps

What Does a Retail Manager Do?

Retail managers oversee the staff and day-to-day operations of retail businesses. The job duties of a retail manager vary depending on where they work. Some retail managers work in small businesses and may be responsible for the entire staff and operations. Others may work in large department stores and manage one department out of several, or they may be in charge of the managers for all departments. Retail managers might have other titles, such as general manager or store manager, depending on where they work. A flexible schedule is often required, and managers usually work evenings and weekends.

How to Become a Store Manager

With a bit of research, work experience, and maybe some formal training, breaking into retail management can be completed in 5 steps, as demonstrated below.

Step 1: Research Retail Positions and Job Duties

There are many positions available in a store, from entry-level to managerial. Research the different positions and corresponding job duties to find out if a job in this field sounds like a good fit. Asking any friends or colleagues who work in retail or job shadowing may be a good opportunity to see what working in retail is really like.

Step 2: Gain Retail Experience

Managerial positions usually require previous experience in retail. Entry-level positions usually provide on-the-job training and don't require formal education. A high school diploma or equivalent may be required in some stores. Depending on the size of the store, training may last a couple of days, or it may be an organized program that can last longer. Entry-level positions are usually cashiers or associates, and typical job duties include handling money, selling products, and assisting customers. The position can help an individual acquire customer service, interpersonal, and time-management skills that will be important for a future position as a manager.

Step 3: Pursue Education

Retail manager education requirements vary by store, but many prefer applicants to have a bachelor's degree. It can give an applicant an edge over the competition to have formal education. Some degrees that can be useful for a position as a retail manager include an associate's degree in business management or a bachelor's degree in business administration. Many of these programs have available concentrations in retail management. The curriculum in a business management bachelor's program can provide useful education in the theories and concepts of managing a business from all aspects.

An additional option would be to pursue certification or take independent business administration courses. Community colleges offer formal certificates where individuals can take courses in math, professionalism, management, and marketing. Courses in some programs can be applied towards a future associate's or bachelor's degree. Certificate programs can require up to 30 credit hours.

Step 4: Apply for a Manager Position

Once relevant work experience and/or formal education has been completed, an individual can qualify for a position as a retail manager. A low-level managerial position may be the best place to start, so one can have a greater chance of being hired and receive experience for a higher-level position in the future. Low-level managers might only be responsible for one area or department and have duties such as scheduling other employees, managing inventory, or training new hires.

Step 5: Become a Retail Manager

Retail managers, store managers, or general managers are all generally the same position and are on the higher end of retail management positions. They are usually responsible for an entire store and may have duties such as scheduling, hiring or firing employees, managing company assets, implementing company programs, and ensuring sales quotas are being met. This is the position where experience and formal education can be a real asset and is often preferred or required.