Buyer
Tasks & duties
Buyers may do some or all of the following:
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review stock levels
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refer to records to work out ordering for busy periods
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learn about new products and consumer trends
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talk with sales representatives
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inspect, compare and select goods for sale
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negotiate prices with suppliers
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arrange for payment and delivery
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decide how much to charge for goods
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decide how best to advertise goods
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assist with product range and development
Skills & knowledge
Buyers need to have:
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knowledge of the products they are selling, and of competitors' prices, services and products
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knowledge of presentation and sales techniques
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knowledge of shopping and fashion trends
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budgeting skills
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planning and time management skills
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written and oral communication skills
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negotiating skills
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decision-making skills
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computer skills
Entry requirements
There are no specific entry requirements to become a buyer. Many buyers start their career by working in retail outlets as salespeople.
Employers will often favour people with retail experience, or tertiary qualifications in business, arts, marketing, management or commerce.
Secondary education
Useful secondary subjects include English, maths, and accounting.
Training on the job
Buyers gain a lot of skills and knowledge on the job. Employers may provide marketing and presentation courses, and it is important for buyers to keep up to date with trends in the industry.
Useful experience
Useful experience for buyers includes any work in a shop, supermarket, or warehouse as a:
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salesperson
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storeperson
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customer services worker
For more information, please refer to myfuture.
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