If you’re looking for a role that will enhance your creativity and challenge your knowledge of trends in fashion and other industries, Visual Merchandising might be great for you. Visual Merchandising is necessary in retail stores all around the UK, and some might even work on online merchandising as an additional challenge.
What is a Visual Merchandiser?
A Visual Merchandiser uses their creativity, marketing skills and knowledge of trends to create striking displays to attract customers into a shop. Their main goal is to increase foot traffic and drive sales with their displays, so it is important to have a creative flair and passion for the work.
However, the job isn’t only about displays, Visual Merchandisers must review sales data, plan layout changes to improve product visibility, and track trends, whether they are random popular trends, or seasonal. Not only will they deal with window displays, but they’ll also dress mannequins and design product groupings to fit a theme. They’ll work closely with store managers and marketing teams to make sure the displays align with promotions and inventory levels.
This work can be ideal for those willing to work unconventional hours, as being a Visual Merchandiser isn’t typically a 9-5 job. Some will need to start early in the morning or work after a store is closed to set up displays. This means working evenings, weekends, or even overnight shifts, depending on the retail environment you work in.
How to Become a Visual Merchandiser?
To become a Visual Merchandiser, you will need a strong creative flair and passion for the industry you’re working in. You will also need a portfolio of work, which you can accumulate with experience. It is also important to have knowledge of marketing and marketing strategies to increase foot traffic using your displays.
What to Put on a Visual Merchandiser CV
If you have any qualifications in design or marketing, these may be useful to add to your CV, though employers are usually more interested in your experience and your portfolio of work. Make sure you demonstrate your organisational skills, time management, and capabilities with design software, as these are all valuable for the role.
Similar Jobs to Visual Merchandiser
There are several jobs that share skills with the Visual Merchandiser role, especially in retail. These roles can also help you build a portfolio if you’re transitioning into the Visual Merchandiser role. You might consider becoming a Fashion Stylist, Retail Merchandiser, Brand Ambassador, or E-commerce Visual Merchandiser. These roles may have more stable working hours and offer a new perspective on your creative aspirations.
Other Jobs in Retail
Working in retail can give you the perspective and understanding of the industry that you need to progress your career as a Visual Merchandiser. This is the most straightforward way to learn about retail marketing, customer interests, and what encourages customers to buy products from the shop. Retail jobs that can help you gain experience include Shopfloor Assistant, Store Manager, Cashier, and Buyer. All these roles will offer varying skills that help with creativity, trend knowledge and marketing, so if you need something different within retail, there are plenty of opportunities.
Apply for Visual Merchandiser Jobs Near You
It is important for retail stores across the UK to have Visual Merchandisers, as this role ultimately increases foot traffic into the shop and helps the company make sales. Apply for this role if you’re ready to take your creativity to the next level and make eye-catching displays that will encourage customers to view and buy items inside the store.
Visual Merchandiser Job Description FAQ
Is a Visual Merchandiser a Good Career Choice?
If you have a creative flair and a passion for design, then becoming a Visual Merchandiser is a good career choice for you. This role offers engaging work in a dynamic work environment with opportunities for growth.
What Skills Does a Visual Merchandiser Need?
A Visual Merchandiser will need both soft skills and creativity for this role. The necessary skills include trend forecasting, creativity and design skills, teamwork, and being customer orientated.
What Are the Biggest Challenges of Being a Visual Merchandiser?
It can be challenging for Visual Merchandisers to keep on top of changing trends to make sure that they adapt appropriately and create striking visuals for these fluctuations. They also need to manage budgets and limited space for their displays.
What Personal Qualities Make a Great Visual Merchandiser?
To be a great Visual Merchandiser, you should ideally have some personal qualities including good imagination, visual/spatial awareness, attention to detail, strong time management, and the ability to give and receive constructive criticism.
