Visual merchandiser

You could:

• design product displays and floor plans, or follow plans from head office
• draw designs and plans by hand or on computer
• use space and lighting creatively
• source materials like models, props, signs and equipment
• arrange displays and dress dummies
• teach sales staff how to display goods
• produce brand guidelines so all stores have the same look and feel

• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• the ability to work well with others
• the ability to come up with new ways of doing things
• to be flexible and open to change
• the ability to sell products and services
• the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
• customer service skills
• excellent verbal communication skills
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

You can get into this job through:

• a college course
• an apprenticeship
• working towards this role
• applying directly
• a specialised distance learning course

With experience, you could progress to team leader, then visual merchandising manager.

You could also move into retail, exhibition or interior design, or set up your own business creating one-off displays.

You could become a freelance visual merchandiser and work for lots of different companies on a consultancy basis.