Hire a Stock Associate
Stock associates work with the inventory at retail establishments. They are responsible for the flow of merchandise within the store. Based on instructions provided by their supervisors, the associates move items to specific sections of the store so that customers can find them easily. Stock associates also work behind the scenes in the stock room, maintaining and organizing items that will go out on the floor later. These workers usually are hired in grocery, general merchandise, and department stores. Work shifts vary according to the demands of the establishment. Some may work overnight hours to ensure that the store is adequately stocked for the customers, while others may restock throughout the day. The employment of stock associates is likely to increase by 5% to 9% over the next decade, as per the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This increase will result in almost 270,000 more job openings nationwide. The average annual pay for this position is $25,000 a year, with the top 10% earning more than $41,000 per year.
Job responsibilities of a stock associate
Stock associates play an integral role in ensuring that the merchandise is available and locatable. To accomplish this, they have to undertake a number of core day-to-day duties. The core tasks positively impact customer experience through display and visual appeal. The primary responsibility is to ensure that products are always available and accessible. Customers become disgruntled when they are not able to find what they want to buy. Thus they have to keep a sufficient supply of merchandise on the shelves for customers to peruse and purchase. Stores do not have the option to place all available stock on display. Stock associates have to help address customers' requests for special items, ensuring their availability in the stockroom. Stock associates should also keep the establishment clean and organized. Managers may give the associates directions on setting up the displays and ensure the maintenance of the stockroom. In addition, most employers prefer that the associates handle the shipments, move arranging items in the stockroom or onto the main floor. Seasoned stock associates are often in charge of getting new hires up to speed and supervising their daily work.
Background, skills, and competencies
To become a stock associate, the candidate needs to have at least a high school diploma. On-the-job training is common, though employers often prefer candidates with prior experience in retail or inventory. Employers seek associates who can follow directions as well as work independently. Other traits that the hiring managers look for in an associate include the ability to multitask, work well in a team, and interact professionally with customers. Strong organizational and time-management skills are also a must. The stock associate must be conscious about safety to avoid on-the-job injuries and damage to merchandise. Because the job requires the stock associate to be active, employers prefer individuals who are physically fit.
