Sales Associate Review

On a day to day basis I work as a sales associate in my designated department. Here I carry out a selling role along with working with my team to ensure Harrods' standards are maintained and specific operations carried out. However, being on the programme means that I additionally receive extra training, all to enhance my performance, as well as have the opportunity to meet with various people around the business. This is a unique and valuable opportunity. In addition, I receive development support from Learning and Development as well as my managers to allow me to take on board additional responsibilities outside of a Sales Associate's job role in order to improve and increase my chances of progressing within Harrods.

The programme develops your adaptability as I you rotate departments every 6 months (in an 18 month course). You have to learn a different skill set upon each move as well as get to know and work cohesively with different teams. Additionally, you develop confidence as it is necessary to complete a presentation in front of managers and stakeholders in the business at the end of each placement. Lastly, as you are starting from the bottom, and working your way up; you receive an authentic and in depth of exactly how Harrods operates and what is required for customers to have the best experience on the shop floor.

I really enjoy the programme. I especially like the fact I have worked in 3 seperate departments, meet a wide variety of people in the business (including directors) and have had exposure to luxury retail. The staff are always supportive and friendly, and I have real support in trying to develop within the company.

I do feel valued by Harrods. The staff complete regular surveys so that the company can establish general work satisfaction and make improvements accordingly. Additionally, there is a vast support network in helping individuals progress and learn skills requied to succeed. Harrods definitely focuses on supporting internal staff development and happiness, before external.

We receive schedules of organised trainings and meetings before moving to each placement and we are reminded of these dates or informed of any rescheduling with adequate notice. The only improvement could be having the trainings/meetings more logically structured in order to maximise development in each 6 month placement.

We receive massess of support. We are encouraged to book in regular catch ups with her, and I certainly know that I could conatct her with any questions or queries. They try to attend as many of our meetings and trainings as possible and we will meet as a group frequently when preparing for our presentations in order to receive as much support as we require.

There is plenty of support available within Harrods. I have experienced very supportive line managers who take the time to help me develop myself and my career as well as provide support in any immediate situations. We do not have open and frequent communication with HR, however when required, they are helpful.

The basic salary is very good for a sales associate job level and additionally, we receive 1% commission on our sales. However, I do still live in London and costs of living and travelling are very high and therefore, I am required to be careful with my spenditure.

Harrods offers local volunteering opportunities as well as further afield opportunities (such as an upcoming NSPCC trek in China). Additionally, there is the annual Harrods Ball at Christmas time which they try to make very special for the staff. Despite these opportunities, working in retail requires you to have a very flexible schedule, and the irregular shift patterns coupled with travelling to central London on a daily basis, does make it more difficult to join clubs/activities outside of work.

Yes

It's such a unique place to work where you are exposed to a wide variety of opportunities and experiences. There is an extremely good support network within the business, and a huge variety of jobs that makes your future career prospects exciting and promising.

Be sure it is what you want to do, as retail requires a lot of commitment and time. This is especially the case at Harrods as the customers and business demand a lot from you. The application involves an online application, online interview and assesment centre.