Department Store Personal Shopper Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the modern retail environment, the focus on Department Store Personal Shoppers has become increasingly paramount.

Consumer preferences evolve, and with each shift, the demand for skilled professionals who can curate, personalize, and enhance our customers’ shopping experiences escalates.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a Department Store Personal Shopper?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager conceptualizing the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the intricate dynamics of personalized retail shopping,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Department Store Personal Shopper job description template, created for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s get started.

Department Store Personal Shopper Duties and Responsibilities

Department Store Personal Shoppers provide personalized shopping services to a variety of clients.

They have a deep understanding of their store’s inventory, sales, and current fashion trends, and use this knowledge to assist clients in finding and purchasing items that meet their needs and preferences.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Consulting with clients to understand their personal style, preferences, needs, and budget
• Researching and staying up-to-date with the latest fashion trends and product availability
• Identifying and selecting items that are suitable for the client, based on their needs and preferences
• Coordinating and assembling multiple outfits, accessories, and other items
• Providing exceptional customer service, including personal styling advice and product knowledge
• Processing purchases, returns, and exchanges on behalf of the client
• Building and maintaining relationships with clients through follow-up communication and personalized service
• Working with store management and staff to ensure inventory needs and customer satisfaction
• Meeting sales goals and targets while providing an excellent shopping experience for clients

 

Department Store Personal Shopper Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a professional and customer service-oriented Department Store Personal Shopper to help our clients select items that fit their personal style, needs, and budget.

The Personal Shopper responsibilities include understanding client preferences, recommending items that meet the client’s needs, and providing personalized attention to customers to ensure they are satisfied with their purchases.

Our ideal candidates are knowledgeable about different product categories and current fashion trends, have excellent communication and interpersonal skills, and a keen eye for style.

Ultimately, the role of the Department Store Personal Shopper is to ensure our customers leave our store satisfied and will return again in the future.

 

Responsibilities

• Help clients shop by providing personalized advice and suggestions.
• Stay up-to-date with current fashion trends and the product inventory.
• Identify customer preferences and select items they will enjoy.
• Provide high-quality customer service to all clients.
• Ensure that customers are satisfied with products and services.
• Follow store policies and procedures regarding payment, exchanges, and returns.
• Handle customer complaints professionally.
• Assist in inventory management.
• Build and maintain relationships with customers to encourage repeat visits.

 

Qualifications

• Previous experience in a retail or customer service role.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Knowledge of current fashion trends and styles.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including weekends and holidays.
• Professional appearance and demeanor.
• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Experience with point-of-sale systems is a plus.

 

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Employee discount

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Department Store Personal Shopper
• Work Environment: Indoor retail environment. Must be able to stand for extended periods and lift up to 25 pounds.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Store Manager or Supervisor.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $25,000 minimum to $40,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Department Store Personal Shopper Do?

Department Store Personal Shoppers often work for large retail companies, providing personalized shopping experiences for customers.

They interact closely with customers to understand their needs, preferences, and budget.

Based on this information, they select items they believe the customer will like from the department store’s inventory.

Their job is to create a hassle-free shopping experience by selecting, coordinating, and presenting a variety of clothing and accessory options tailored to each customer’s individual style and needs.

Some Personal Shoppers may also provide fashion advice and suggestions to customers, helping them find the right clothing and accessories for specific events, seasons, or current trends.

In addition, they are often responsible for managing customer relationships, keeping track of their preferences, and updating them about new arrivals or promotions.

In some cases, Personal Shoppers may also assist with purchases, returns, and exchanges, ensuring a high level of customer satisfaction.

 

Department Store Personal Shopper Qualifications and Skills

A proficient department store personal shopper should possess the following skills and qualifications in order to provide personalized and efficient service to customers:

• Excellent communication skills to understand the customer’s preferences, style, and needs, and to provide clear and convincing suggestions.
• Strong interpersonal skills to establish rapport with customers, helping them feel comfortable and valued during their shopping experience.
• Deep knowledge of fashion, brands, trends, and styles to provide accurate and up-to-date advice to customers.
• Good time management skills to efficiently serve multiple customers and perform tasks within designated timeframes.
• Problem-solving abilities to handle customer concerns and complaints, and find suitable solutions to meet their needs.
• Detail-oriented to ensure a thorough understanding of the customer’s preferences and the store’s product offerings.
• Ability to work in a team environment to effectively collaborate with store staff and management.
• Sales and customer service skills to encourage purchases, up-sell products, and ensure customer satisfaction.
• Physical stamina for being on their feet throughout the day, carrying clothing items and moving around the store.

 

Department Store Personal Shopper Experience Requirements

Personal shoppers often start their careers in the retail industry, gaining experience in various roles such as sales assistant, customer service representative, or assistant buyer.

This gives them a solid foundation in understanding customer needs, product knowledge, and store operations.

Entry-level personal shopper roles usually require 1 to 2 years of experience in the retail industry.

This experience can be gained through part-time jobs or internships in retail stores or boutiques.

In addition, experience in fashion, marketing, or related fields can also be beneficial.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience in retail, fashion, or customer service are usually more desirable.

These candidates may have developed their skills in trend forecasting, wardrobe consulting, and customer relationship management.

Those with over 5 years of experience and a proven track record in sales and customer service may be ready to take on more responsibilities such as managing a team of personal shoppers, training new hires, or overseeing store-wide personal shopping services.

They may also have the opportunity to work with high-profile clients or luxury brands, which require a higher level of expertise and discretion.

In addition to work experience, successful personal shoppers often have a passion for fashion and excellent interpersonal skills, which are invaluable when building long-lasting relationships with clients.

 

Department Store Personal Shopper Education and Training Requirements

Department Store Personal Shoppers typically have a high school diploma or equivalent.

They should have a strong background in customer service, which could be gained through prior retail or sales experience.

Knowledge of fashion trends and designer brands is highly beneficial for this role.

Personal Shoppers should be able to identify the styles and sizes that best suit their clients’ needs.

Therefore, some personal shoppers may choose to pursue a degree in fashion merchandising or a similar field to deepen their understanding of the fashion industry.

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills are also essential, as Personal Shoppers need to build strong relationships with their clients to understand their preferences and shopping needs.

Some personal shoppers may choose to get certified by a professional organization like the Association of Image Consultants International (AICI) to demonstrate their competence and dedication to the role.

In addition, some department stores may offer their own training programs to help personal shoppers understand the store’s specific inventory, customer service policies, and sales techniques.

Overall, the role of a personal shopper is more skill-based rather than education-based, so most of the necessary skills are often gained through hands-on experience and on-the-job training.

 

Department Store Personal Shopper Salary Expectations

A Department Store Personal Shopper earns an average salary of $37,440 (USD) per year.

This salary can fluctuate depending on experience, client base, the store’s location, and the specific retailer they work for.

 

Department Store Personal Shopper Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Department Store Personal Shopper need?

A personal shopper should have excellent communication skills to understand their clients’ needs.

They need a keen eye for fashion and style trends to give the best advice.

Other essential skills include organization, negotiation, and sales skills.

They should also be customer-oriented and able to build and maintain relationships with clients.

 

What kind of training does a Department Store Personal Shopper need?

There are no specific education requirements to become a personal shopper, although having a high school diploma is generally required.

Many personal shoppers have a background in retail, customer service, or fashion.

Some choose to pursue a degree in fashion merchandising or a related field.

Training is usually provided on the job, and it’s beneficial to have knowledge of current fashion trends and styles.

 

What should you look for in a Department Store Personal Shopper resume?

When evaluating a resume for a personal shopper position, look for experience in retail or customer service roles.

Knowledge of fashion and trends is a plus, as is any sales or negotiation experience.

Good interpersonal skills are a must, so any evidence of relationship-building or communication skills should be highlighted.

 

What qualities make a good Department Store Personal Shopper?

A good Department Store Personal Shopper is empathetic and listens carefully to clients’ needs and preferences.

They have an eye for style and can make suitable clothing and accessory recommendations.

They are also organized, capable of managing multiple clients and appointments simultaneously.

Good personal shoppers are also persuasive, able to convince clients to try new styles and purchase items.

 

How challenging is it to hire a Department Store Personal Shopper?

The level of difficulty in hiring a Department Store Personal Shopper can vary.

It could be challenging if you are looking for someone with extensive experience or a background in fashion.

However, as the role primarily requires excellent customer service skills and a good sense of style, there are likely many qualified candidates available.

Offering competitive salaries and benefits can help attract top talent.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve unlocked the secrets of what it means to be a department store personal shopper.

Surprise!

It’s not just about picking out clothes.

It’s about curating an individual style, one outfit at a time.

Armed with our comprehensive department store personal shopper job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to spring into action.

But why stop there?

Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your stepping stone to creating ultra-precise job listings or fine-tuning your resume to the nth degree.

Remember:

Every outfit is a part of someone’s personal style story.

Let’s create that story. Together.

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