Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Engage with customers and trade members to drive sales and build relationships.
- Company: Join a leading home retail brand with a focus on customer experience.
- Benefits: Full-time hours, competitive pay, and opportunities for growth in a dynamic environment.
- Other info: Exciting events and trade shows await you as part of this role!
- Why this job: Be part of a vibrant team and make a real impact in the retail space.
- Qualifications: Retail sales and customer service experience preferred; strong communication skills essential.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 43200 ÂŁ per year.
Reports To: Store Manager
Type: Full-time, Monday to Friday, 40 hours per week.
Role Overview: The Trade Specialist is a retail-based, customer-facing role, working directly from the shop floor and trade area within the store. The role utilises strategic selling and problem-solving skills to effectively establish and manage relationships with existing trade members, while proactively building new accounts and business opportunities. Working across all four brands — West Elm, Pottery Barn and Pottery Barn Kids — you will combine a solution-focused mindset with a “get to yes” mentality, delivering exceptional in-store service standards while driving trade sales performance and commercial excellence.
Responsibilities:
- Utilise effective selling techniques to achieve sales goals
- Provide sincere, personalised, and energetic customer service that exemplifies World-Class service standards
- Efficiently and accurately process sales transactions to ensure a seamless customer experience
- Perform other duties as assigned by management, including store maintenance, visual standards, and customer service support
- Work with trade members, guiding them through the shopping, order placement, and fulfilment process
- Effectively and consistently manage leads, from recording contact information at initial enquiry through ongoing relationship follow-up
- Cultivate new member business through effective outreach and follow-up
- Maintain strong brand and product knowledge, including seasonal launches and current offers
- Work closely with the B2B Account Manager, attend training and weekly touchpoints with the B2B team, and report on and maintain accountability for location trade KPIs
- Stay informed on industry news, trends, and projects, and remain alert to market opportunities
- Actively contribute to achieving the home retail location’s monthly, quarterly, and annual sales goals
- Attend and represent the company at design events and trade shows as required
- Comply with all company policies and procedures.
Qualifications, Experience and Key Skills:
- High school diploma (or equivalent)
- 1–2 years’ experience in retail sales (speciality retail preferred)
- 1–2 years’ experience in customer service
- Proven ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
- 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
- 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
This position description is not inclusive of all duties and responsibilities and does not include duties that may be reasonably required to be completed as part of the role. This position description can be changed without notice.
Location: Chester House 1.10, London, SW9 6DE, GB
Trade Associate employer: Williams-Sonoma, Inc.
Contact Detail:
Williams-Sonoma, Inc. Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Trade Associate
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company and its brands inside out. When you walk into that interview, show us you’re not just another candidate but someone who genuinely understands what we do at West Elm, Pottery Barn, and Pottery Barn Kids. It’ll make a massive difference!
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your selling techniques! We want to see how you can engage with customers and trade members. Role-play scenarios with friends or family to nail down your approach and build confidence before the big day.
✨Tip Number 3
Network like a pro! Attend design events and trade shows, even if it’s just to soak up the atmosphere. You never know who you might meet or what opportunities could arise. Plus, it shows us you’re proactive and passionate about the industry.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can go a long way in keeping you top of mind. It shows us you’re keen and professional, which is exactly the kind of attitude we love to see.
We think you need these skills to ace Trade Associate
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the Trade Associate role. Highlight your retail sales experience and customer service skills, as these are key to impressing us!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to showcase your personality and explain why you’re the perfect fit for our team. Don’t forget to mention your passion for retail and how you can contribute to our success.
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since this role involves a lot of interaction with trade members, make sure your written application demonstrates your excellent communication skills. Keep it clear, concise, and engaging – we want to see your ability to influence and connect!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Williams-Sonoma, Inc.
✨Know Your Products Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you’re familiar with the brands you'll be working with, like West Elm and Pottery Barn. Understand their product lines, seasonal launches, and current offers. This knowledge will help you demonstrate your passion for the role and show that you're ready to engage with trade members effectively.
✨Showcase Your Selling Skills
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've used effective selling techniques in past roles. Think about times when you exceeded sales goals or provided exceptional customer service. This will highlight your ability to drive trade sales performance and deliver world-class service.
✨Demonstrate Problem-Solving Abilities
Be ready to share instances where you’ve successfully resolved customer issues or managed multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment. This will showcase your strategic thinking and solution-focused mindset, which are crucial for the Trade Associate role.
✨Engage with Enthusiasm
During the interview, let your personality shine through! Show your enthusiasm for the role and the company. A 'get to yes' mentality is key, so express your eagerness to build relationships with trade members and contribute to the team’s success.