What’s it like working in luxury retail?

We’ve connected numerous candidates with global brands in the luxury, fashion and beauty sector. In this new content segment, we chat with successful applicants so you can get a sneak peek into the retail world.

To kick start January’s edition of “What’s it like working” we caught up with Joy. It has been about 9 months since her interview and Joy is now currently working at a luxury timepiece brand.

1) Tell us a little about yourself! And what do you work as?

Hi, my name is Joy and I’m originally from China, I have been in Singapore for about 10 years. I started my career in retail and was with a company that deals in fashion watches. Today I am a sales associate for a Swiss luxury brand.

2) Share with us what goes on a typical day at work.

My workplace boutique is located in Marina Bay Sands and my role is to develop a portfolio of clients. For me there isn’t a fixed routine. Mainly, I attend to walk in customers we have in the boutique and the rest of my time I spend it between events in order to network. I feel in the luxury line, building a relationship with clients is important.

3) What sparked the reason for a career switch?

I was at my previous job for 6 years, although I really enjoyed working in fashion watches. I felt that it was time to move on and was interested as to what the luxury industry could offer. I can say now that it’s a totally different ball game, every aspect from understanding the product, mannerism and sales etiquette. Even though the learning curve was steep initially, I feel that this is something my previous job could not offer

4) What is the most fulfilling thing about this job and what is your greatest takeaway from being in the luxury retail industry?

The most fulfilling thing about this job would be building a relationship with my clients. Through our conversations such as food and travel, it has certainly broadened my perspective. As I get to interact with a very different set of clientele from my previous job, the key takeaway would be attention to detail and tailoring a unique buying experience.