Retail Manager

Indian shopping has witnessed a sea change in the last decade. Novelty stores and local garment shops have given way to swanking new malls that promise everything under one roof. Though the customer has always been the king, he/she has never been so pampered. If you are lifestyle conscious and want to help people make the right choices then Retail Management is for you. Most stores rely on a pleasant environment to capture the customer's attention. If you enjoy a varied, lively environment with heavy focus on people contact and real 'hands on' management then this is a career worth considering. Customer service is paramount in this field and you should be able to put your business skills to practical and visible application. It is the self-motivated individuals who can infuse enthusiasm into others who end up being team leaders. 
Retail Managers often work long hours under pressure and even on weekends. As an executive/trainee, you will work in different areas of a store, obtaining practical experience of each department and gaining selling, marketing and managerial skills.

To become a retail manager in India, you can follow these steps:

1. Educational Qualifications: Most companies require a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Marketing, or a related field. However, some companies may also accept candidates with a diploma or certification in retail management.

2. Gain Work Experience: Most companies prefer candidates with prior work experience in the retail industry. You can start by working as a sales associate, assistant manager, or department manager to gain experience in retail operations.

3. Develop Skills: Retail managers need to have strong communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills. You can develop these skills by participating in training programs or taking courses in management and leadership.

4. Network: Networking with other professionals in the retail industry can help you learn about job opportunities and gain valuable insights into the industry.

5. Apply for Jobs: You can apply for retail manager positions through online job portals, company websites, or recruitment agencies. Make sure to tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant skills and experience.

6. Interview: If you get selected for an interview, make sure to prepare for it by researching the company and the retail industry. Be ready to answer questions about your experience, skills, and how you would handle various situations as a retail manager.

7. On-The-Job Training: Once you are hired as a retail manager, you will receive on-the-job training to familiarize yourself with the company's policies, procedures, and operations.

It's important to note that the requirements and qualifications for becoming a retail manager may vary depending on the company and industry. Therefore, it's always a good idea to research the specific requirements for the companies you are interested in working for.

Employment Opportunities for Retail Manager:

Opportunities are aplenty in this field. Departmental stores, designer boutiques, fast food chains, super markets, company stores, music stores, electronics showrooms, automobile dealers all employ Retail Managers. Top Recruiting Companies: 
Hospitality & Travel sectors, Government and Public Sector establishments, Service industries, It sector and consumer goods manufacturers , Industries and businesses , export houses, international trade firms employ sales executives.

How to become Retail Manager?

 Good communication, organisational and leadership skills
 Enjoy working with people
 Ablity to work accurately and neatly
 Good numerical skills
Product knowledge or interests in market areas like fashion, computer games, etc helps. And if you have the right aptitude and a personality to match, your academic background really doesn't matter. Graduates are taken in at entry level while MBAs join in at the supervisory level. Check out opportunities for summer jobs. The experience gained in any store will come in handy.

Median Pay Scale / salary of Retail Manager :

Starting salaries are in the range of Rs 1.2 –1.5 lakhs p.a. In a couple of years, you will be earning around Rs 2.5 – 3 lakhs p.a. Senior Managers make between Rs 4 –6 lakhs p.a. The more you sell the more you earn. One of the best parts of this job is that your work as a reatil manager is out there for everyone to see. Your skills and experience therefore matter more than your qualifications while deciding promotions. MBAs from premier business schools start at Rs 6 lakh p.a Other MBAs are paid in the range of Rs 3-4 lakh p.a.