Sales Associate Onboarding Checklist

Sales Associate Onboarding Process

Are you looking for help setting up a staff orientation process so that when your new Sales Associate starts their role, they can learn about their responsibilities and your company as quickly as possible? Whether you’re keen to use buddy onboarding, want to automate your Retail onboarding experience or just need an onboarding checklist for your new Sales Associate, you’re in the right place. We’ve put together a sample Sales Associate onboarding checklist below and have created onboarding templates & resources to help.

Sales Associate Onboarding Checklist

1. Introduction to company culture and values: The task involves providing the new sales associate with an overview of the company’s culture, values, and mission. This helps them understand the company’s expectations, work environment, and overall goals. Typically, the HR department or a designated company representative performs this task.

2. Orientation and paperwork: This task involves completing necessary paperwork, such as tax forms, employment contracts, and confidentiality agreements. The HR department is responsible for providing the required documents, explaining their purpose, and guiding the sales associate through the completion process.

3. Introduction to company policies and procedures: The new sales associate should be familiarized with the company’s policies and procedures, including dress code, attendance, and code of conduct. This task is usually performed by the HR department or a designated trainer who explains the policies and answers any questions.

4. Product and service training: The sales associate needs to be trained on the products and services offered by the company. This includes learning about the features, benefits, and pricing of each item, as well as any promotions or discounts. The sales manager or a designated trainer typically conducts this training.

5. Sales techniques and customer service training: To excel in their role, the sales associate should receive training on effective sales techniques and exceptional customer service. This includes learning how to approach customers, handle objections, close sales, and provide a positive shopping experience. The sales manager or a designated trainer usually provides this training.

6. Familiarization with point-of-sale (POS) systems: The sales associate should be trained on how to use the company’s POS system to process sales, handle returns, and manage inventory. This training is typically conducted by the store manager or a designated trainer.

7. Introduction to sales targets and performance expectations: The sales associate should be informed about the sales targets they are expected to achieve and the key performance indicators (KPIs) used to evaluate their performance. The sales manager or supervisor is responsible for setting these targets and explaining them to the new sales associate.

8. Shadowing experienced sales associates: To gain practical experience and observe successful sales techniques, the new sales associate should be paired with experienced colleagues for shadowing. This allows them to learn from real-life scenarios and receive guidance on how to handle different customer interactions. The sales manager or a designated mentor typically arranges these shadowing sessions.

9. Introduction to customer relationship management (CRM) software: If the company utilizes CRM software to manage customer data and track sales, the sales associate should receive training on how to use the system effectively. This training is usually provided by the IT department or a designated trainer.

10. Store layout and product knowledge: The sales associate should be familiarized with the store layout, including the location of different product categories, departments, and amenities such as restrooms or fitting rooms. Additionally, they should be knowledgeable about the store’s merchandise, including popular items, new arrivals, and any upcoming promotions. The store manager or a designated trainer typically provides this information.

11. Introduction to company communication channels: The new sales associate should be informed about the various communication channels used within the company, such as email, instant messaging platforms, or internal communication tools. They should also be introduced to key contacts, including their supervisor, colleagues, and other relevant departments. The HR department or a designated representative typically handles this task.

12. Safety and security procedures: The sales associate should receive training on safety protocols, emergency procedures, and security measures in place within the store. This includes understanding how to handle potential hazards, respond to accidents, and ensure the well-being of customers and colleagues. The store manager or a designated trainer is responsible for providing this training.

13. Introduction to sales incentives and rewards programs: The sales associate should be informed about any sales incentives, commission structures, or rewards programs in place to motivate and reward high-performing employees. The sales manager or HR department typically explains these programs and their eligibility criteria.

14. Ongoing training and development opportunities: The new sales associate should be made aware of any ongoing training and development programs available to enhance their skills and knowledge. This may include workshops, webinars, or external courses. The HR department or a designated trainer typically provides this information and assists with enrollment if necessary.

15. Introduction to company resources and support: The sales associate should be introduced to the various resources and support available to them within the company, such as marketing materials, sales collateral, or customer support teams. This ensures they are aware of the tools and assistance they can utilize to perform their job effectively. The sales manager or a designated representative typically provides this information

Setting Up Your Employee Onboarding Process

From reading through the items in the example Sales Associate checklist above, you’ll now have an idea of how you can apply best practices to getting your new Sales Associate up to speed and working well in your Retail team. Scroll up to see the link to our onboarding templates & resources or get in touch to discuss getting help setting up your systems and processes in this area.