What does a Personal Shopper do?

Personal Shoppers might work for boutiques and other retail establishments to assist customers. Some Personal Shoppers work independently and find their own clients. They provide advice and purchase recommendations by listening to customer requests and using their product knowledge. Personal Shoppers also help with placing orders and troubleshooting any issues.

A successful Personal Shopper helps build relationships with customers. Personal Shoppers typically promote sales and upsell customers by recommending higher-priced items.

Personal Shopper skills and qualifications

Successful candidates generally have skills related to consumer habits, products and sales techniques. Common skills and qualifications in a job description of a Personal Shopper may include:

• An understanding of industry trends

• Familiarity with the product line

• Strong interpersonal skills, including active listening

• Basic math and budgeting skills

• Excellent customer service skills

• Attention to detail to notice subtle differences between products

• Independent judgment and decision-making skills

• Computer literacy and comfort using POS and inventory management systems

Personal Shopper experience requirements

It’s common for a Personal Shopper job description to include one to two years of personal shopping experience in the requirements. However, some employers accept general retail experience or a background in fashion or another retail niche. You might look for someone who has worked in a similar type of store.

Personal Shopper education and training requirements

Personal shopping positions don’t have formal education requirements. You might choose skills-based hiring to find candidates interested in shopping or current fashion trends since Personal Shoppers can often learn on the job.

Job description samples for similar positions

This sample job description of a Personal Shopper might not align with your needs. In that case, you may explore similar roles:

• Store Shopper

• Sales Associate

Personal Shopper job description FAQs

What is the average day for a Personal Shopper?

Personal Shopper duties can vary from day to day. They may work non-traditional hours based on when the retail store is open, potentially with night and weekend shifts. A Personal Shopper usually arrives at the store and reviews their upcoming appointments.

They might also work individually with customers as they come into the store. When they’re not working directly with clients, Personal Shoppers often research products, network to find new clients and check inventory levels.

What’s the difference between a Personal Shopper and a Personal Stylist?

Personal Shoppers typically work in particular stores and help customers choose products. They figure out what the customer wants, pull several options and help them decide which options to buy. Personal Stylists help clients explore and refine their overall style.

This might include buying new pieces or using what the client already has in their wardrobe. Stylists might also serve as Personal Shoppers by taking clients to various stores or helping them find pieces online that create desired looks.

What makes a successful Personal Shopper?

Personal Shoppers should be able to consider different styles and preferences to offer personalized recommendations. Active listening skills help them determine what their clients want. They should also know how to build relationships with people from different backgrounds.

What’s the difference between a Personal Shopper and a Personal Assistant

Personal Shoppers cater to clients’ needs and advise them regarding purchases. A Personal Assistant supports aspects of daily life beyond retail, such as managing personal finances or booking accommodations.