Sales Associate Review

The job role you have whilst on the programme is a Sales Associate. There are two different routes you can take on the programme, One being a management route and one being a stylist route. You learn from the shop floor and from the training sessions, interacting with the buyers and managers. The programme not only gives you lots of responsibility but also gives you a chance to meet people from all over the business. You are there to be the role model to other associates, you act as the link between the managers and staff, helping on the shop floor and mentoring your colleges. Its a brilliant programme to kick start a career in retail.

The training courses we have train you on all different aspects of the business. Not only have I learnt a lot about myself for example how I remain composed in difficult situations and what are my strengths and weaknesses are I've also learnt an incredible amount about the world of retail. I've noticed in particular how I've grown in confidence. As part of the programme we have meetings with the directors of the business and also have presentations which we have to present to a large audiences. I have developed as a person on so many different levels and the skills I have learnt I will use throughout life.

I really enjoy the programme, its exactly what I wanted to get out of the business. Moving around the business has given me the chance to work in different environments with different teams which I have loved. The Harrods team and Learning and Development have been brilliant and supportive throughout. It was a huge transition in my life going from school to full time work and the Harrods team have made this as easy as possible. The programme has exceeded my expectations.

The meeting that we have with Directors and managers around the business really makes me feel valued. The programme has a very good reputation and people always seem impressed to here you on it. I think the programme itself is still developing and becoming better known however the programme has a brilliant reputation internally and externally and I am very proud to be on it.

The introduction was brilliant very clear and very welcoming. The training has been my favourite part of the programme as I've learnt so much. I also enjoy the class room aspect as its not too distant from school and brings a sense of fun to the role. The support from L&D has been brilliant, however our programme mentor has changed a few times during the course of the programme and this has caused some confusion and caused the programme to feel disorganised. Other than that (which couldn't be helped) the structure of the programme has been brilliant.

Our mentor of the programme has changed a few times during our time of the programme which has been difficult to get to know a new person each time. However the mentors we have had have been brilliant and thoroughly supportive.

The support differs from each department. However the support I have received from my managers has been excellent. They just want to see you do well and are there to guide you throughout your time in their department.

I commute 2 hours each way to work so my travel costs are expensive. There is a transport loan the company offers however with the salary being as high as it is this is not necessary. The pay is higher than almost any other retailer so if retail is what you want to go into then this is a really good salary. On top of your pay check you also get commission. Which is fantastic. Depending on what department you are in it could mean you get an extra £300 a month.

The company being as large as it is has many events outside of work you can attend. There is a bulletin for the staff advertising on-going events for staff to join. For example; on Tuesdays there is a Free fitness workshop where you work out with an instructor as a group. For each session you attend you get your card stamped and if you attend 10 sessions you receive £10. There are also lots charity events that you can take part in. This year I took part in the Colour run raising money for the charity NSPCC. Not only are there tones of organised events, but the relationships you'll build with you're colleges will exist outside of work also. Harrods hols a black tie Christmas ball each year where everyone is invited and its a huge event which everyone wants to go too.

Yes

Its a brilliant programme, I have thoroughly enjoyed it and learnt so much throughout. I couldn't imagine going into a full time job without all this support and training.

Be confident, positive, and enthusiastic. Defiantly visit Harrods before applying or having an interview. Don't be worried. The application process is very simple and easy to follow. I would suggest going to Harrods main competitors also so you can talk about the comparisons in the interview.