Buyer

Who employs buyers?

Buyers

Buyers work for national chains, discount chains, wholesale outlets, and large/small retail stores.

In large retail stores that sell a variety of goods and services, there may be assistant buyers who focus on a single department or a particular type of merchandise.

Harley Morgan

Smaller stores and specialty shops typically have just one buyer.

What does the job involve?

• Seeking the highest quality products at the lowest possible cost
• Decide which products will appeal to consumers
• Choose suppliers for the product
• Negotiate with suppliers for the lowest price
• Award contracts to the suppliers they choose
• Makes sure that the correct amount of the product is received at the agreed-upon time

What are the qualifications?

• A Bachelors degree including business courses
• Computer skills including knowledge of word processor and spreadsheet software
• Ability to anticipate consumer preferences within a chosen market
• Ability to make decisions quickly and take risks
• Math skills are needed to analyze data in suppliers' proposals and to review financial analyses
• Strong negotiating and communication skills

How do you get started?

A good way to start is to become aware of consumer tastes and buying trends for products that interest you. Look for part-time or summer retail sales jobs that provide customer contact. Identify products that sell well and possible reasons for their popularity.