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What does a Merchandising Specialist do?

Photo of Brenna Goyette
Brenna Goyette
Certified Professional Resume Writer, Career Expert

Published 4 min read

A merchandising specialist is responsible for planning and executing promotional and merchandising programs in order to increase sales and profits. They work closely with marketing, sales, and product development teams to ensure that programs are aligned with company objectives. In addition, they develop point-of-purchase materials, plan store layouts, and train retail staff on proper product placement and promotion techniques.

Merchandising Specialist job duties include:

  • Research and develop merchandise concepts in line with customer needs and company objectives
  • Create prototypes or samples of proposed merchandise
  • Select materials, fabrics, colors, or trims
  • Developing sales strategies to increase profitability
  • Analyzing past sales data to make future purchasing decisions
  • Coordinating with marketing, sales, and production teams
  • Negotiating with vendors to secure the best possible prices for merchandise
  • Creating style boards or look books to present merchandise concepts to clients or upper management
  • Keeping up with current fashion trends and predicting future trends

Merchandising Specialist Job Requirements

A Merchandising Specialist is responsible for planning and executing promotional and marketing campaigns for products and services. They work with internal and external teams to develop strategies, create content, and track results. To be a Merchandising Specialist, you need a bachelor’s degree in marketing, advertising, or a related field. You also need experience working in marketing or a related field. Some companies may require you to have a certification in marketing or a related field.

Merchandising Specialist Skills

  • Strong communication skills
  • Good organizational skills
  • Ability to multitask
  • Strong attention to detail
  • Ability to work well under pressure
  • Good time management skills
  • Strong negotiation skills
  • Excellent customer service skills
  • Good computer skills
  • Knowledge of fashion trends
  • Creative flair
  • Ability to work well in a team

Related: Top Merchandising Specialist Skills: Definition and Examples

How to become a Merchandising Specialist

A career as a merchandising specialist can be both exciting and rewarding. As a merchandising specialist, you will be responsible for planning and executing promotional and marketing campaigns for retail stores. You will work closely with store managers and other retail personnel to ensure that campaigns are executed effectively and efficiently. In order to become a successful merchandising specialist, you must have excellent communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills.

As a merchandising specialist, you will be responsible for creating and implementing promotional plans. You will need to be able to identify target markets and develop strategies to reach those markets. You must also be able to develop creative and effective marketing materials. In addition, you will be responsible for monitoring campaign results and making necessary adjustments to ensure that objectives are met.

Excellent communication skills are essential for success as a merchandising specialist. You must be able to clearly and concisely communicate your ideas to others. You must also be able to listen attentively to others in order to understand their needs and objectives.

Organizational skills are also important in this career field. As a merchandising specialist, you will be responsible for managing multiple projects simultaneously. You must be able to prioritize tasks, meet deadlines, and stay within budget constraints.

Interpersonal skills are also important for success as a merchandising specialist. In this career field, you will be working closely with store personnel, vendors, and customers on a daily basis. It is important that you are able to build positive relationships with all of these individuals in order to achieve success.

Related: Merchandising Specialist Resume Example

Related: Merchandising Specialist Interview Questions (With Example Answers)

Editorial staff

Photo of Brenna Goyette, Editor

Editor

Brenna Goyette

Expert Verified

Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

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