Retail salespersons and sales clerks assist customers with purchases of merchandise or rental arrangements in person and through Internet-based electronic commerce, provide information / advice on merchandise, estimate and quote prices, credit terms, trade-in allowances, warranties, and delivery dates, prepare sales, rental or leasing contracts and accept cash, cheques, credit cards, and automatic debit payments.

You may need a high school diploma. You often need to demonstrate sales ability and product knowledge when selling complex or valuable merchandise such as automobiles, antiques, and computers. You may also need a university degree or college diploma, as well as specific subject matter courses or training. Employers may also provide technical or sales training programs. With experience and additional training, you may move up the ranks to a retail supervisory position. Many recent entrants have a high school diploma, and almost 3 in 10 have a trade / vocational certificate or community college diploma.