Questions

What would be the appropriate steps to take a job as an entry level sales associate at a high end retail store and procure a pay raise?

Looking to ask for an pay increase by providing more value through extensive product and brand knowledge of which is not typically required of a sales associate.

2answers

Hi! I'll start by saying that this is a tough one. I personally employ several sales reps, some 100% commish while others take te bigger of two: commissions for that period or a predetermined hourly rate (if they feel they won't do as good that week)

With that said, these type of jobs tend to pay only on production, merit based, not presumed value. But that doesn't mean you can't work around it.
Try:
1. Use a speculative wage offer approach... This is you identifying gaps in the firm and offering solutions in lieu of the opportunity and pay increase...
2. Speculative application doing the same at another firm...
Assuming you are barely starting with the firm i would serioiusly recommend you do your best during the review period, while planning to meet and extend your offer to the firm... This is done for high corporate entry level positions as well and tends to work if you pitch yourself right...
Focus on the holes in the firm you can fix,
How much money that will save or generate considering your wage, and the credit the hiring manager will get if all goes great

Good luck


Answered 10 years ago

It sounds like you are not paid in the form of sales commission, correct?

The bottom line - out sell your peers and you will move to the top of the pay scale.

Sales people are only compensated on their production. Product and brand knowledge is not an option for a top sales person, it is a minimum standard requirement.

So, do as you are suggesting and master the product and brand. Then, become the most helpful sales person to the customers. And, outsell the others. You will be noticed.

By the way, if you are looking to make a career out of sales - a noble profession - product and brand knowledge is just part of the equation. You will need to master many other areas.

If you would like to chat, schedule a free call. Go to my profiile for a promo code.

Regards,

Kevin McCarthy


Answered 10 years ago

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