Retail Sales Associate vs. Cashier: What Are the Differences?

Working in retail can be a great way to earn money and gain customer service experience. Two common positions in retail are that of a retail sales associate and a cashier. Though these positions share some similarities, there are several key differences between them.

In this article, we discuss the differences between a retail sales associate and a cashier, and we provide additional retail positions you may be interested in pursuing.

What is a Retail Sales Associate?

Retail Sales Associates are responsible for greeting customers, providing them with assistance and product knowledge, and closing sales. They work in a variety of retail settings, such as department stores, specialty stores, and large chain stores. Retail Sales Associates typically have a high school diploma or equivalent, and some employers may prefer candidates with prior experience in customer service or retail. Retail Sales Associates must be able to stand for long periods of time and lift heavy objects, such as boxes of merchandise. They must also be able to work a flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.

What is a Cashier?

A Cashier is responsible for handling customer transactions in a retail setting. This can include ringing up sales, processing returns and exchanges, and answering customer questions. Cashiers may also be responsible for handling more general customer service tasks such as providing directions or recommendations, and resolving complaints. In some cases, Cashiers may also be responsible for tasks such as stocking shelves or cleaning the store. Cashiers typically work in retail stores, supermarkets, or other customer service-oriented businesses.

Retail Sales Associate vs. Cashier

Here are the main differences between a retail sales associate and a cashier.

Job Duties

Cashiers and retail sales associates have different duties during their work. Cashiers are responsible for scanning items that customers purchase, processing payments and helping customers who need assistance. Retail sales associates help customers find products they want to purchase, but they don’t process payments like cashiers do. They may assist customers by showing them different options or suggesting products that might interest them.

Cashiers are more likely to work with a repetitive task every day. For example, they might scan the same barcodes or process the same payments every day. Retail sales associates have a lot of variety in their jobs because they help customers in many different ways. For example, one day a retail sales associate could help a customer find a birthday present and the next day they could help a customer choose between different sports equipment options.

Job Requirements

Most retail sales associate and cashier positions only require a high school diploma or equivalent, though some may prefer candidates with some college experience. Many of the skills needed for these jobs, such as customer service and basic math, are typically learned on the job. However, some employers may provide training to teach new employees about the company’s products and services and how to use the register.

Work Environment

Retail sales associates and cashiers work in different environments. Retail sales associates typically work in retail stores, such as clothing or electronics retailers. They may also work for companies that sell products to retailers, like manufacturers of consumer goods. Cashiers usually work in grocery stores, convenience stores or other establishments where customers make quick purchases.

Retail sales associates often work during regular business hours, but they may have additional shifts available if the store is busy. Cashiers may work more irregular hours depending on their employer’s needs. Both positions can involve working weekends and holidays.

Skills

Both retail sales associates and cashiers need customer service skills. This includes being able to greet customers, answer their questions and provide them with assistance. They also both need basic math skills to be able to calculate prices and make change.

Retail sales associates need additional skills that enable them to sell products to customers. This can include product knowledge, so they can answer questions about items and recommend products. They also use active listening skills to understand customers’ needs and then match those needs with the right product. Persuasive selling techniques may also be used by retail sales associates to encourage customers to make a purchase.

Cashiers need accuracy and attention to detail when they are handling money and making transactions. They also need to be able to stay calm under pressure, as they may have to deal with irate customers. In some cases, cashiers may need to resolve customer complaints.

Salary

The average salary for a retail sales associate is $38,286 per year, while the average salary for a cashier is $30,343 per year. Both of these salaries can vary depending on the type of retail store you work for, your location and your level of experience.