Training and Orientation

1.
      Safety and Security
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            Often, a sales clerk's training commences with a five-to-10-minute video that discusses the company's policies and procedures. One of the first training concerns is safety and security. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration distributes guidelines for retail workers of small businesses to protect them in the workplace. In his training, a sales clerk may learn how to properly lift heavy items, what to do in case of an accident, or how to access items in high places, according to "What OSHA Regulations Apply to Small Business?" at allbusiness.com.
      Significance
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            Training sales clerks is essential as these individuals are often the only contact that the customer has with a retail store. Consequently, sales clerks are usually trained very quickly by other hourly employees or by the store's assistant manager or general manager. The sales clerk's training often starts with learning how to properly address customers, then moves on to mastering the various functions of the cash register. Additionally, sales clerks must be trained to process credit cards and handle cash transactions.
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      Identification
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            Sales clerks' training can also include learning about the various products in the store or in their departments. Since customers often ask questions about products before making a purchase, the sales clerk needs to learn where to locate products, the differences between certain brands of products and how to look up the prices for various products. Part of sales clerk training also includes how to handle customer complaints and returned merchandise.
      Function
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            Sales clerk training can also... [continues]

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