Administration, Commerce and Computer Technology (01)

Code: 5821 / 60 credits / Diploma of Vocational Studies

The Professional Sales program prepares students to practise the occupation of retail sales consultant.

Sales consultants work in retail establishments, selling a range of products and services, such as furniture, household appliances, electronic equipment, clothing, horticultural products and automobiles. They work directly with consumers to determine their needs and provide appropriate advice regarding the products and services that may meet these needs.

The aim of a sales consultant’s work is therefore not just to sell products or services, but to offer solutionsthat correspond to their customers’ needs, to provide advice, establish a climate of trust and build customer loyalty by offering personalized service that meets customer expectations. In addition to consulting and sales-related tasks, sales consultants may also manage and display in-store merchandise and provide after-sales service.

Sales consultants are employed in various types of retail establishments such as chain stores, specialty stores, department stores, independent and discount stores, and big-box stores. They generally work 35 to 40 hours a week on a full-time basis, and 15 to 20 hours a week on a part-time basis. However, their working hours may increase considerably during peak seasons.