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- Tasks: Engage with trade members and boost brand awareness through strategic selling.
- Company: Join Williams-Sonoma, a leading retailer of high-quality home furnishings in North America.
- Benefits: Enjoy a generous employee discount, competitive pension plan, and opportunities for personal growth.
- Why this job: Be part of a creative team that values passion and commitment while making a real impact.
- Qualifications: 1-2 years of retail or customer service experience preferred; strong communication skills required.
- Other info: Flexible hours with a focus on teamwork and relationship building.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 43200 £ per year.
Founded in 1956, Williams-Sonoma, Inc., together with its subsidiaries and the brands they represent, is the premier specialty retailer of high quality home furnishings in the United States and Canada. Known for their outstanding customer service, Pottery Barn, Pottery Barn Kids, PBteen, west elm and Williams-Sonoma are among the most iconic and well respected retail brands in North America. We market our products and engage our customers through three major channels — retail stores, catalogues, and the Internet.
We believe our Company has limitless potential, driven by our associates and their imagination, passion and commitment. We provide an exciting and creative work environment, along with a variety of opportunities for professional as well as personal growth. Our associates receive a generous discount on products as well as a variety of benefits including, but not limited to a competitive pension plan, employee assistance program and service recognition gifts.
SUMMARY: The Trade Associate encompasses the ability to effectively establish and manage relationships with existing trade members as well as proactively build brand awareness for the company by introducing the brand to new business opportunities. Provide strategic selling and problem-solving skills to grow and develop business and cultivating sales channels. This “startup” position requires mental flexibility, a “get to yes” mentality and an open to learn positive attitude.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Provide sincere, friendly and energetic customer service by exemplifying World-Class service standards.
- Achieve established sales and contest goals.
- Maintain knowledge of current sales and promotions.
- Assist customers with special services including: locating merchandise, catalogue orders, special orders, back orders, charge sends, courier deliveries, and furniture orders.
- Utilise effective selling techniques to build multiple sales and increase productivity.
- Demonstrate comprehensive product knowledge, including features and benefits.
- Efficiently and accurately perform register transactions (sales, returns and exchanges).
- Assist in implementation and maintenance of visual merchandise presentation, signage and lighting.
- Uphold store maintenance and cleanliness standards.
- Straighten, clean and help maintain stockroom as needed.
- Process, ticket, and restock merchandise as needed.
- Perform other duties as assigned by management.
- Comply with all Company policies and procedures.
- Work with trade members guiding them through the shopping and order placement and servicing their entire follow up request including estimates, order entry and special requests.
- Fastidious in managing leads, from recording contact info at initial inquiry through follow up relationship management.
- Take a systematic approach to servicing member base to ensure all opportunities are actively pursued and all member relationships are continuously cultivated.
- Cultivate new member business by staying abreast of industry news, trends, projects, and attending events and being alert to all market opportunities.
- Play a key role in achieving store’s monthly, quarterly and annual sales goals.
- Attend and represent the company at design events and trade shows.
- Proactively promote new products to existing clients.
EXPERIENCE: 1-2 years retail sales experience (specialty retail preferred), 1-2 years customer service experience. Proven ability to prioritise and handle multiple tasks simultaneously.
SKILLS/KNOWLEDGE/COMPETENCIES: Excellent verbal/written communication skills and the ability to influence business partners at all levels. Proficient computer skills including word processing and spreadsheet software programs.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: Ability to be mobile on the sales floor for extended periods of time. Availability to work a minimum of three shifts per week, minimum of three Saturdays per month and two Sundays per month, annual inventories and entire holiday season (November and December). Ability to lift and mobilise medium to large items, up to 30kg, while utilising appropriate lifting equipment and safety techniques. Ability to operate POS system.
EDUCATION: Completion of Year 12 (or equivalent) preferred.
REPORTS TO: Area Manager
This position description is not inclusive of all duties and responsibilities and can be changed without notice.
Trade Associate employer: Pottery Barn
Contact Detail:
Pottery Barn Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Trade Associate
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the brands under Williams-Sonoma, especially West Elm and Pottery Barn. Understanding their product lines and customer service ethos will help you connect better with potential clients and demonstrate your passion for the brand during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network within the industry by attending design events and trade shows. This not only helps you stay updated on market trends but also allows you to meet potential colleagues and clients, which can be invaluable when building relationships as a Trade Associate.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your problem-solving skills by preparing examples of how you've successfully handled customer inquiries or sales challenges in the past. This will highlight your ability to think on your feet and adapt to various situations, which is crucial for this role.
✨Tip Number 4
Demonstrate your enthusiasm for learning and growth. Be ready to discuss how you keep up with industry news and trends, as well as any personal development initiatives you've undertaken. This aligns with the company's values of imagination and commitment.
We think you need these skills to ace Trade Associate
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure to thoroughly read the job description for the Trade Associate position. Understand the key responsibilities and required skills, so you can tailor your application accordingly.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise any retail sales or customer service experience you have. Use specific examples that demonstrate your ability to manage relationships and achieve sales goals.
Showcase Your Skills: Make sure to highlight your communication skills and proficiency with computer software in your application. Mention any experience you have with POS systems or managing multiple tasks simultaneously.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that reflects your enthusiasm for the role and the company. Discuss how your background aligns with the company's values and how you can contribute to their success as a Trade Associate.
How to prepare for a job interview at Pottery Barn
✨Showcase Your Customer Service Skills
As a Trade Associate, you'll need to provide outstanding customer service. Be prepared to share examples of how you've successfully handled customer inquiries or resolved issues in the past. Highlight your ability to create a friendly and energetic atmosphere.
✨Demonstrate Product Knowledge
Familiarise yourself with the brands under Williams-Sonoma, such as Pottery Barn and West Elm. During the interview, express your understanding of their products and how they can meet customer needs. This will show your enthusiasm and readiness for the role.
✨Emphasise Your Sales Experience
With 1-2 years of retail sales experience required, be ready to discuss your previous roles. Share specific achievements, such as meeting sales targets or successfully upselling products, to demonstrate your capability in driving sales.
✨Exhibit a Positive Attitude
The job description mentions a 'get to yes' mentality and a willingness to learn. Convey your enthusiasm for the position and your eagerness to grow within the company. A positive attitude can set you apart from other candidates.
