National Occupational Classification (NOC) 2011

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National Occupational Classification (NOC) 2011
Introduction

6421 - Retail salespersons

Retail salespersons sell, rent or lease a range of technical and non-technical goods and services directly to consumers. They are employed by stores and other retail businesses, as well as wholesale businesses that sell on a retail basis to the public.

  • Illustrative example(s)

    • audio equipment salesperson
    • automobile salesperson
    • car rental agent
    • clothing salesperson
    • computer salesperson - retail
    • counter clerk - retail
    • department store clerk
    • furniture salesperson
    • hardware store clerk
    • jewellery salesperson
    • retail sales associate
    • retail sales clerk
    • retail salesperson

    All examples

  • Exclusion(s)

    • Cashiers (6611)
    • Retail stock clerks (See 6622 Store shelf stockers, clerks and order fillers)
    • Sales clerk supervisors (See 6211 Retail sales supervisors)

  • Main duties

    Retail salespersons perform some or all of the following duties:

    • Greet customers and discuss type, quality and quantity of merchandise or services sought for purchase, rental or lease
    • Advise customers on use and care of merchandise, and provide advice concerning specialized products or services
    • Estimate or quote prices, credit terms, trade-in allowances, warranties and delivery dates
    • Prepare merchandise for purchase, rental or lease
    • Prepare sales, rental or leasing contracts and accept cash, cheque, credit card or automatic debit payment
    • Assist in display of merchandise
    • Maintain sales records for inventory control
    • Operate computerized inventory record keeping and re-ordering systems
    • May conduct sales transactions through Internet-based electronic commerce.

    Retail salespersons may specialize and act as consultants in home entertainment systems, computers and other products and services.

  • Employment requirements

    • Completion of secondary school may be required.
    • A university degree or college diploma may be required by some employers.
    • Specific subject matter courses or training may be required.
    • Demonstrated sales ability and product knowledge are usually required for retail salespersons who sell complex or valuable merchandise, such as automobiles, antiques or computers.

  • Additional information

    • Technical or sales training programs may be provided by employers.
    • Progression to retail supervisory positions is possible with additional training or experience.
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