Ragtrader catches up with Nra young retailer of the year award 2011 nominee Stephanie Nighfind.
What attracted you to a career in retail?
I’ve always had a passion and talent for great things in life. What girl doesn’t like shopping and what a fantastic job! Especially being around beautiful jewellery all day. I love serving people and making people happy. The interaction with customers and seeing a smile on their face is a beautiful thing.
How did you get to where you are now?
In 2005 I studied to be a hairdresser. After being qualified in 2006 I worked in the hairdressing industry up until 2009, but I was getting tired of the long hours for nothing in return. I then started with the Kazazz jewellery store as a junior salesperson. I found here that I had a passion for jewellery and soon worked my way up to full-time employment, completed Certificate 4 in Retail Management in 2010 and then, in 2011, I was offered to manage a store and have been working hard ever since.
What was your biggest achievement in retail?
Receiving a management role in a well-known company on the Gold Coast.
What was your biggest challenge in retail?
The biggest challenge would have to be the holiday period. We have people queuing out the door and everyone wants it now!
What keeps you motivated about working in fashion retail?
Jewellery is always changing and at Kazazz we are lucky enough to get new products in regularly. It excites me every time I see something new and I usually know which of our customers it will suit. What did each of these involve and what was your strategy? 5: Over the years I have always watched our visual merchandiser set up the stores. I have successfully completed a few courses in merchandising as well and now I am able to make the store look smart and well presented.
What are you working on currently?
Currently managing Kazazz at Pacific Fair and looking at training to move further within the business.
Where would you like to be in two years?
I can see myself managing a bigger or multiple store with more employees.
What are you plans for the short-term?
A Diploma in Retail Management and other visual merchandising courses.
What is your ultimate career goal?
Owning my own retail store.
What advice would you give to those who want a career in retail?
Definitely start and work in retail first, see how everything works, then get your course achieved.
Are you at all concerned about the future of retail?
Customers don’t always want the less expensive or online shopping. They want the experience and the joy of purchasing one on one. The store must have appeal, lure and feel welcoming. I believe if you have what the consumer wants, have excellent customer service, Retail will always survive! It's all about the customer experience.
