Retail Jobs Are Still Available
Even though there are fewer retail jobs available this summer, it doesn’t mean there are no retail jobs available at all. A quick search on major job search websites like Monster, CareerBuilders, and CraigsList returns thousands of "retail" results at all levels. There may be 10-12 people applying for every one of those 15,000 positions, but at least there are openings to pursue.
Job seekers who really want a retail job -- not just any old job -- are going to have to get creative and aggressive in order to to beat the competition for one of the coveted retail positions open this summer. If that type of competitive activity bothers you, it might be wise for you to reconsider your career choice. By nature, retailing is a creative and aggressive industry. That only becomes more true when the economy is sluggish and sales are slow.
Start Small When Looking for a Job
Non-mall businesses are often surprised and delighted when unsolicited job applicants walk in their door. Don’t forget these types of smaller and independent stores when looking for your retail job this summer:
- Small outdoor strip malls
- Single stand-alone stores
- Locally owned non-franchise stores
- Large office buildings with first floor retail shopping
- Airports (Because of security, you’ll need to contact these by phone or e-mail)
- Hospital gift shops
- Hotel retail stores
Smaller retailers might be impressed that you sought them out for a job, but they are going to have one big question that needs a really good answer. "Why do you want to work here?”
You’re not going to inspire an employer of any size with an answer like “Because I need a job.” Be more creative, more specific, and more prepared with your answer to this standard interview question. Hopefully
Most importantly, always be sincere, be professional, and be energetic in your retail job search. When you work in a small operation, you also need to be ready to work because your performance there will be more noticeable. What is noticed will need to be impressive, or you will find yourself summer unemployed once again.
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