What makes a good retail assistant?

A good retail assistant is foremost a good listener and an effective communicator. As a retail assistant, you actively listen to customer questions and respond with helpful answers. You maintain a professional appearance and create a positive shopping atmosphere. A retail assistant must have customer service or sales experience in addition to a basic knowledge of the products being sold. Those interested in a career in retail, especially those with an interest in management or in owning their own store, often earn an associate or bachelor’s degree. Additional qualifications include basic mathematical skills, money handling skills, and the ability to work alone as well as part of a team.