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Merchandise Displayer

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AVG. SALARY

$33,000

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EDUCATION

High school preferred +

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JOB OUTLOOK

Stable

What To Learn

High School

What high school courses should you take if you're interested in this career? Get your answers from the Marketing cluster Professional Sales pathway, Merchandising pathway.

Beyond High School

Here's a list of programs that you should consider if you're interested in this career:

Education Level

Education training and experience are required at different levels for success in different occupations.

High school preferred, plus short term, on-the-job training

Merchandise displayers generally have a high school diploma or equivalent and receive some form of on-the-job training.

Insider Info

Additional Information

"A good merchandiser has flair, an eye for color, a love of the product and the ability to get along well with people," says merchandiser Louise Reeves.

If you think you've got what it takes, here's how to get started. Ask around at your favorite stores to find out who does their merchandising. Find out what they do, how they got started and what they'd recommend to you.

There's no better introduction to the world of retail merchandising than working in retail stores. You'll get a feel for what goes on, and you may even get to try your hand at some displays.

"There's nothing like experience to teach you what sells and what doesn't," says merchandiser Jeremy Moore. "Working in a store gives you an opportunity to get a feel for the product and to practice."

Some formal training is an asset. Courses in visual merchandising and design are available at several colleges in the U.S.

"Experience is the best teacher, but courses may help you get hired," says Reeves. She has a diploma in interior design. "They definitely can't hurt."

Courses in visual merchandising and design range from about 10 months to as long as four years.