A Merchandiser is a professional whose task is to create an appealing display of products at the point of sale. His or her job is to ensure quality branding of products, targeting customers within a geographical region. Beyond the products, the Merchandiser also manages the display of retail points such as supermarkets, fashion stores, Computer sales, and outlet shops, amongst others. A major function of the Merchandiser is to create an enabling environment to drive sales and enhance customer experience at every point of engagement.
Merchandising at Home Depot
Home Depot Merchandising is done at different levels and requires different levels of expectations and expertise. At the first level is the Merchandising Executive Associates (MEA) who perform in-store design and branding activities ranging from planogram design and maintenance to design and display of signages. The MEA focuses on general review and repairs as well as product resets while maintaining health and safety measures on the other hand. An MEA is known for accuracy, and efficiency, while maintaining a strong relationship with other workers.
Another interesting Merchandising position at the Home Depot is the Merchandising Services Specialist (MSS). The MSS is responsible for the standardization of designs, appearances, and arrangements. He performs routine inspections and visits assigned locations to ensure that Merchandising services provided are in line with the planned flow, especially as regards customer interaction.
At Home Depot, Merchandising teams are divided into the Day Team Merchandising Execution Associates (MEAs) and the Night Team Merchandising Execution Associates (MEAs).
The Day Team Merchandising Execution Associates spend 80% of their work hours performing and providing general maintenance services. Their role is to maintain stocks in an orderly manner and support customers in the best possible way to locate products off the shelf and have the best shopping experiences. Another function they perform is executing special outlay projects, which are designed to improve product display.
On the other hand, the Night Team Merchandising Execution Associate (MEAs) spend most of the working hours executing specific design outlays that introduce new ways of displays, re-organizing and resetting categories for customers’ convenience. Other activities of the Night Team Merchandising Execution Associate are building displays and servicing fixtures with simple hand tools. S/he is also responsible for refreshing/replacing display material/signage/brochures. Sometimes s/he may get involved in general bay maintenance during working hours, and may also be required to travel to different locations and stores close to the store location, usually within a 30-mile radius. The travel expense is borne by Home Depot.
Service provided by a Home Depot Merchandiser.
At Home Depot, Merchandisers execute different types of projects requiring different skill sets. These projects include;
Product Merchandising: This includes all forms of promotional activities executed to improve sales of both physical and digital products. Retail Merchandising: This focuses on Home Depot sale outlets where the products are displayed. Activities of a retail Merchandiser include maintenance of physical display points, shelves, and signages for customer satisfaction. Visual Merchandising: This involves graphic designs, packaging, and display techniques and strategies for Home Depot products. Digital Merchandising: This is very crucial to Home Depot, as it provides an online sales and advertising platform. Home Depot Merchandisers are not limited to any one of these categories, their service is usually a combination of two or more skill sets.
Skills and qualifications required to be a Home Depot Merchandiser
Skills to become a Home Depot merchandiser are not limited to the following;
Creativity – The ability to visualize a unique display of products or locationGood organizational skillsAbility to work and think independentlyExcellent Communication skills as s/he will interact with a wide range of clients and customerComputer literate – The ability to work with MS Office and Graphic design tools is key to succeed in this role. Knowledge of the product and market – Commercial awareness Good Time management skills
A Merchandiser is also required to have the following educational qualifications;
A minimum of a high school DiplomaA professional certificate in design, retail, branding, and advertising is important to build a career in this line. Experience in retail is also key and this will build customer relation skills and market awareness.
Benefits of merchandising for Home Depot
Salary: An Associate is paid between $21 to $37 ($40,320 – $71,040 per year) with an average hourly pay of $29. The pay variation is predicated on work experience, skills, level of employment, and location, amongst others. Health benefits: Employees and members of their families are enabled with medical facilities to take care of themselves, reducing the distractions that may affect an employee’s productivity. Financial Planning: Associates who are willing to create a long-term investment plan for education, housing, and other forms of investments, are supported through the Home Depot college planning, tuition reimbursement facilities, and scholarships for Associates. Associate Discount: As an Associate, Home Depot offers a discount on products such as phone plans, products, Gym, Electronics, Food, and Groceries. These are not Home Depot products, however, in partnership with other retail outlets, the company avails staff the opportunity to buy goods at a discounted price. This offer extends to services needed by the home, such as also extends to tutors for mathematics, sciences, and other subjects. Protection against health and safety hazards: In a bid to reduce occupational hazards, Home Depot ensures that all staff is provided with protective gear, and also ensures a safe work environment secure.
Additional benefits for Home Depot Merchandisers are paid parental Leave and adoption support for families, and College Prep support for employees who are willing to further their education in college. A maximum reimbursable amount of $5,000 for staff is provided for adoption processes.
Merchandising tips that will help you stand out in Home Depot:
Good merchandisers have to maintain a healthy balance between trends and risks. As a merchandiser, it is advisable to follow new trends, know the customers you are targeting for a product, and observe how quickly they accept changes in products.
Conclusion:
Overall, Merchandising is a role that pushes you to be energetic, creative, and tactful in the delivery of your job. It is always satisfying products, display settings, and designs that successfully drive sales. So, if you ever consider this role, look through the skills required, learn to work in a team, and you will be effective in the job.
