Managers may also oversee the remodeling of a store, plan store layouts and design displays, decide selling strategies, and represent the store in negotiations with manufacturers. Sometimes, managers may be required to stock shelves or racks, take inventory, supervise employees, or do sales work. In small stores, managers are likely to perform most of these duties, while in large stores they may direct others in these tasks. Working conditions may include a considerable amount of walking and standing since the duties of managers may take them to every part of the store. Frequent involvement with a variety of people, both staff and shoppers, is a part of every manager's job.
Some managers cite long hours and continued pressure for higher profits as hardships.
However, most managers agree that after the rigorous first years in retailing, the work is rewarding in terms of job satisfaction and money. Advancement Potential managers gain retailing experience through a series of progressively responsible assignments. Depending on the ability of the management candidate and the openings available, a typical career path may include work as a salesperson, assistant buyer, buyer, and ultimately, part of the management team. Once in management, such positions as branch and division manager may be offered. In stores such as grocery and retail outlets, the competent department manager is likely to be in line for the job of store manager.