Buyer

Tasks & duties

Buyers may do some or all of the following:

Skills & knowledge

Buyers need to have:

• knowledge of the products they are selling, and of competitors' prices, services and products
• knowledge of presentation and sales techniques
• knowledge of shopping and fashion trends
• budgeting skills
• planning and time management skills
• written and oral communication skills
• negotiating skills
• decision-making skills
• 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.

Retail Institute website - information on training for a career in retail

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.

NZ Retailers Association website - information on retail staff training

Useful experience

Useful experience for buyers includes any work in a shop, supermarket, or warehouse as a:

• salesperson
• storeperson
• customer services worker

Video

Retail Buying

From just a job on you tube

For more information, please refer to Career Services.