Sales Associate Cover Letter Example + Tips

A sales associate cover letter outlines your accomplishments and your experience in selling hospitality products or services. A hiring manager will need to see your comprehensive sales associate cover letter in order to determine if your skill set is a match for the position they have available. If you want to move up in your sales associate career, then go to MyPerfectResume and use our free services to create an impressive sales associate cover letter. We have a library of sales associate cover letter templates and samples that you can use to create a sales associate cover letter that puts your qualifications in the best possible light.
Job Description Sales associates generally work in a retail environment, like grocery stores, electronics stores, clothing stores, warehouse clubs, super centers and auto parts stores. In fact, anywhere that customers can come in to buy things, you’ll find sales associates to welcome them to the store and to help them find what they need. In addition to customer service, sales associates are expected to complete customer transactions according to company policy, which typically involves operating a cash register. They also explain warranties and other options to customers and restock shelves from the storeroom. Work schedules can change from week to week, and sales associates spend a lot of time on their feet. In addition, there may be overtime required during store promotions or busy holiday periods. Education & Training Although there are no formal education requirements, many employers prefer candidates with a high school diploma or GED. Most retail sales associates receive on-the-job training. In large stores, there are usual formal training programs, and in smaller stores, experienced employees generally train new employees. Training in specialized products, from cosmetics to computers, is usually provided. Sales associates can advance to supervisory or managerial positions, but often a college degree is required for management positions. With experience and seniority, they can be promoted to positions with higher potential earnings and commissions. Salary Range According to May 2012 figures from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median hourly wage for the top five industries in which sales associates worked were: – Motor vehicle and parts dealers: $14.73 – Building material and garden equipment supplies dealers: $12.21 – General merchandise stores: $9.73 – Sporting goods, hobby, book, and music stores: $9.46 – Clothing and clothing accessories stores: $9.24 Sales associate positions are often the first choice of recent high school graduates or individuals who have been out of the labor force for a number of years. Your resume may be scant, but your cover letter should express your willingness to do what it takes to satisfy customers and represent the store in a positive fashion. The sample cover letter below can help you identify the skills you want to highlight that match what the employer is looking for.