Retail is one of the most accessible and fast-moving industries to work in. Whether you’re looking for your first job, a side hustle, or a long-term career, the retail sector is packed with opportunities.
But with thousands of candidates applying for roles in top brands like Tesco, Zara, JD Sports, and M&S, you need more than just availability to stand out.
Here are the best tips for getting a job in retail in 2025—from crafting a winning CV to acing the interview.
âś… 1. Tailor Your CV to the Job
Don’t use a one-size-fits-all CV. Retail managers want to see:
- Customer service experience
- Teamwork and communication
- Product knowledge (if applicable)
- Flexibility with shifts
đź“ť Example:
Instead of “Worked at Tesco,” write:
“Provided fast and friendly service to 300+ customers per day, maintaining 97% satisfaction score.”
📌 Bonus tip: Add retail buzzwords like “POS systems,” “merchandising,” “stock replenishment,” and “till operation.”
âś… 2. Write a Strong Personal Statement
Start your CV with 2–3 lines that show you’re enthusiastic, reliable, and customer-focused.
Example:
“Friendly and dependable retail assistant with 2 years’ experience in busy high-street stores. Passionate about delivering excellent service and helping customers find what they need.”
âś… 3. Apply Strategically (and Widely)
Use job boards like:
- Indeed
- RetailChoice
- TotalJobs
- [Company websites] (e.g. Primark, ALDI, Superdrug)
🛎️ Set job alerts to be the first to apply—many retail jobs close quickly once they hit a certain number of applicants.
âś… 4. Get Interview Ready
Retail interviews often include:
- Customer service role-plays
- Situational questions (“What would you do if…”)
- Availability discussions
Common questions:
- “Tell me about a time you dealt with a difficult customer.”
- “What does good customer service mean to you?”
- “Are you flexible to work evenings and weekends?”
đź’ˇ Pro tip: Use the STAR method to structure your answers: Situation, Task, Action, Result.
âś… 5. Dress the Part
Even if the interview is casual, dress smart and tidy—especially if applying for fashion or beauty retail. First impressions matter!
đź‘— For fashion roles: Dress like you understand the brand.
🧼 For supermarkets or discount retailers: Clean, simple, and professional.
âś… 6. Emphasise Soft Skills
Even with no retail experience, highlight transferable soft skills like:
- Communication
- Time management
- Multitasking
- Staying calm under pressure
🧠Employers hire for attitude—they can train you on tills and stock.
âś… 7. Ask Questions at the End
It shows enthusiasm and initiative. Try asking:
- “What does a typical shift look like?”
- “What’s the team dynamic like here?”
- “Are there opportunities for progression?”
âś… 8. Consider a Walk-In Approach
Some retail stores—especially independent shops or seasonal outlets—still accept CVs in person. Dress neatly, bring your CV, and introduce yourself confidently.
🗣️ Say something like:
“Hi, I saw you were hiring and I’d love to join your team. I’ve brought my CV—would you be open to a quick chat?”
🚀 Final Thoughts
Getting a job in retail isn’t just about availability—it’s about energy, attitude, and showing you’re ready to deliver great customer service. Whether you’re going for your first role or stepping back into work, follow these tips to boost your chances and land that job offer.