Personal Shopper

FACTS:

• Some personal shoppers offer their services as freelancers, building up their own clientele
• Tech-savvy personal shoppers create Web sites to attract customers.
• Many celebrities use their own personal shoppers (called stylists) to pull outfits for award ceremonies and movie premieres.

THE JOB:

A personal shopper assists customers with a level of individualized attention and service beyond what a retail associate would offer. A shopper can help a customer pull together an entire season’s wardrobe based on his or her needs, budget or style, or find just the right gift based on a client’s suggestions. Personal shoppers usually work in upscale department or specialty stores; some work on commission, while others are salaried.

SKILLS:

Employers look for candidates possessing a strong understanding of fashion and product knowledge. Also critical are patience, tact, good communication skills and the ability to build relationships and trust with clients relying on the personal shopper’s best judgment.

EDUCATION:

There are no formal education requirements for this position, but a background in fashion and retail is especially helpful.

OUTLOOK:

Demand for retail salespersons tends to decline during economic downturns. Employment depends upon significant numbers of people preferring individualized attention while shopping. Because there are no education requirements, competition for these positions can be stiff.

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