How to Become a Team Member?
Steps to Become a Team Member
Before pursuing a team member position, make sure you're ready for a job in retail and able to commit to everything the role entails. While you're sure to receive on-the-job training when you land a job as a team member, you also need skills that can't be taught. Successful team members excel at communication, organization, and time management.Apply for team member positions.
Retail stores offer several team member positions that require no experience except for a short period of on-the-job training. These positions include cashier, stock clerk, and customer service representatives. Entry-level positions are excellent opportunities to gain retail experience and get used to working in a retail environment. Remember that when you apply and interview for a team member job, you should maintain a positive attitude and emphasize your interpersonal skills.
Consider pursuing a degree.
Even though you only need a high school diploma or equivalent to gain entry into the retail industry, it's always a good idea to complete a bachelor's degree. By pursuing a bachelor's degree in retail sales management, fashion management, or marketing, you'll stand out among your fellow employees when a promotion opportunity opens up. If you ever need a change of pace, a degree will make you eligible for jobs in fields like public relations, recruiting, and advertising.
What type of degree should you pursue to become a Team Member?
93% of people working as a Team Member earned a Bachelor's Degree
What skills do you need to be a Team Member?
- Excellent Communication
- Strong WORK Ethic
- Urgency
- Time Management
- English Language
- Excellent Customer Service
- Effective Communication
- Positive Attitude
Continue to develop your career skills.
You should never overlook opportunities to advance your career, especially if you're interested in becoming a store manager eventually. If your company offers trainee or apprenticeship programs, take advantage. Employers appreciate a team member who is willing to acquire new skills and take on new responsibilities. Be sure to apply for positions like team leader, floor manager, or warehouse manager. These positions commonly lead to a sales manager job.
Consider a transfer.
If you work for a retail chain with several locations, consider transferring to another store if that store has any openings. While a transfer that comes with a promotion is ideal, even a lateral transfer can boost your career and give you a nice change of scenery. Plus, experience working in multiple locations could lead to a job in the regional office.
Apply for positions with other companies.
It isn't uncommon for a team member to work for more than one company over the course of their career. If your current position isn't leading to the opportunities that you want, consider applying for a new position with another company. You may find other companies have additional opportunities for you to advance in your career.
Team Member Career Path
Team Member
Senior Team Member
Lead Team Member
Total Pay Trajectory
Team Member Career Path
Related Careers in the Retail & Food Services Industry
Interested in other Retail & Food Services careers? Below are occupations that have high affinity with Team Member skills. Discover some of the most common Team Member career transitions, along with skills overlap.