The BEGIN team is seeking a part-time Retail Assistant to support the Store Manager and the Creative Director as they refine and build the next layers of the company’s growth.
A little bit about us:
BEGIN is a jewelry gallery in the heart of Ballard Ave’s historic district. We proudly feature a range of collections from small artisanal makers, renowned designers, one-of-a-kind hand-sourced pieces, and our own house-made collections. We are a small, woman owned business dedicated to our community. We see our space as an environment for meaningful connection and beauty which happens to sell jewelry (rather than a retailer simply aiming to sell! sell! sell!).
Each team member represents us as a whole. Showing up for each person who comes through the door with thoughtful conversation and attunement to what they might be looking for are core tenets of our operating philosophy. Everyone who visits our space is treated with the utmost respect and we provide them with full service, regardless of whether they are looking for a small gift, an investment piece, or stopping by to browse and play a dress up.
We believe everyone is a teacher and everyone is a student. We are all here to learn and grow and, in that process, we welcome each team member’s individual voice. At the same time, we are here to work together towards our common goal and understand the ways we need to collaborate and support one another for the health of something greater than ourselves: this very special shop in our cherished neighborhood.
For this position, you can expect to:
primarily support the Store Manager and, on occasion, the Creative Director with day-to-day tasks to keep the store running efficiently;
keep all displays inviting, glass surfaces spotless, and the space tidy;
provide a welcoming space and memorable experience for all customers;
build sincere connections with customers;
complete opening and closing duties during scheduled shifts;
maintain cleanliness and organization of all workspaces;
adhere to all safety and security policies outlined by the Store Manager; and
learn introductory jewelry-making skills, specifically wire wrapping techniques.
To succeed in this environment, you will be:
familiar with working in a retail environment and have at least 1 year of experience;
committed to clear, honest, and prompt communication in all facets of your role;
content with regular set tasks for the majority of your workload, but also a willingness to learn new skills if and when it’s needed;
able to take and apply feedback provided by the Store Manager and Creative Director;
capable of completing delegated tasks independently;
adaptable and flexible as the flow of retail often changes depending on the day and/or the needs of the store; and
comfortable with dogs — we have a beloved shop dog who is here most days.
Compensation:
Compensation will depend upon and be determined by experience.
Position Structure:
Schedule commitment will be 16 - 24 hours per week (2 - 3 days); the workday starts at 10:00AM and finishes around 6:30PM.
An initial training period will take place during which the Retail Assistant will be expected to confidently understand:
the fundamentals of their role;
the day-to-day expectations;
the general flow of the space;
designers and materials;
how to speak to features and benefits of all styles; and
how to effectively guide customers through the shop.
Once training concludes, the Retail Assistant will complete an evaluation of the above to ensure they fully understand the scope of their role and duties.
Upon successful completion of the evaluation, the Retail Assistant will be eligible to learn jewelry-making techniques.
TO APPLY, PLEASE SEND RESUME AND COVER LETTER TO WE@BEGINONBALLARD.COM
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