A retail assistant, also known as a shop assistant or sales assistant, is a professional who works in the retail industry and is responsible for serving customers, arranging merchandise, and processing transactions. They help customers find products they need, restock items, and maintain the sales floor. Retail assistants also ensure that the store is clean, organized, and comfortable for customers. They may be responsible for preventing theft, ensuring stock levels are maintained, and keeping the sales floor neat and organized. Retail assistants are often the first person a customer sees when they enter a retail store, and as such, they are expected to convey a pleasant, attentive attitude. A good retail assistant is a good listener, an effective communicator, and has excellent customer service, interpersonal, and sales skills. Many retail assistants use the position as a way to gain experience in the industry before moving into a more senior role.