How to Be Circus Merchandise Clerk - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Apr 28, 2020 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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The demand for Circus Merchandise Clerks has been steadily increasing in recent years. This is due to the fact that more and more people are attending circuses, resulting in the need for increased staffing. Circus Merchandise Clerks are responsible for managing the merchandise sales of the circus, which includes setting up displays, stocking shelves, and providing customer service.

They must also be knowledgeable about the various products offered, as well as any promotions or discounts available. they must ensure that all items are properly stored, inventoried, and accounted for. With their hard work and dedication, Circus Merchandise Clerks help to make sure that circuses run smoothly and efficiently.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a high school diploma or equivalent. A high school diploma or GED is the minimum educational requirement for obtaining a position as a circus merchandise clerk.
Get training in basic computer skills. Many circus merchandise clerks use computers to input customer data, keep track of inventory, and print receipts.
Become familiar with basic business principles and customer service techniques. Understanding the basics of running a business, such as accounting, pricing, and customer service, will help you perform your job better.
Seek out employment opportunities with a circus or carnival. Many circus merchandise clerks are hired on a seasonal basis, so be sure to check local job postings to find out when openings are available. You may also need to network with other circuses and carnivals in your area to find out about available positions.
Interview with the hiring manager. Be prepared to discuss your educational background, computer skills, and customer service experience.
Complete on-the-job training. Many circuses and carnivals require new employees to complete a brief training period to learn how to use the equipment, handle customer transactions, and ensure all merchandise is properly stocked.
Perform your job duties. As a circus merchandise clerk, you will likely be responsible for stocking shelves, helping customers locate items, taking inventory, and processing payments. You may be required to work long hours, especially during peak seasons or special events.

Staying ahead and competent in the role of a Circus Merchandise Clerk requires dedication and an eagerness to learn. To stay ahead, it is important to stay up to date on the latest trends in circus merchandise and to keep an eye out for new products and services. staying ahead requires knowledge of customer service techniques, such as providing a pleasant shopping experience, demonstrating product knowledge, and resolving customer issues.

Furthermore, staying competent requires strong organizational and time management skills to ensure that shelves are stocked with merchandise and the store is kept in good order. Finally, it is important to maintain a positive attitude when interacting with customers and to strive to exceed customer expectations. By applying these skills, Circus Merchandise Clerks can stay ahead and remain competent in their field.

You may want to check Circus Aerial Rigging Technician, Circus Troupe Leader, and Circus Juggler for alternative.

Job Description

Greet customers, answer questions, and provide information about merchandise.
Receive and unpack merchandise, stock shelves, and restock as necessary.
Ensure that all merchandise is properly labeled and priced.
Process customer payments and issue change and receipts.
Arrange and display merchandise in an attractive manner.
Maintain and update inventory records.
Operate cash registers and other sales equipment.
Assist with loading and unloading of merchandise deliveries.
Move merchandise to other locations as needed.
Notify management of any theft or suspicious behavior.
Perform general cleaning duties as needed.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of circus merchandise and products
Experience with Point of Sale (POS) systems
Cash handling skills
Ability to use basic math
Excellent customer service and communication skills
Ability to work in a fast-paced environment
Ability to stay organized and multitask
Attention to detail
Working knowledge of computer applications, such as Microsoft Office
Ability to lift and carry items weighing up to 25 lbs.

Good customer service skills are essential for a Circus Merchandise Clerk to have. This is because customers need to feel appreciated and respected when they come to buy items from the circus merchandise shop. Good customer service helps build trust and loyalty with customers, and having a friendly attitude can help encourage people to come back to the store and purchase more items.

Furthermore, good customer service also encourages customers to recommend the store to their friends and family, which can help increase sales. Good communication skills are also important for a Circus Merchandise Clerk, as they need to be able to properly explain items and answer questions that customers may have. Being able to properly communicate with customers creates a better experience for them, and makes them feel valued.

Finally, organisation and multitasking skills are key for a Circus Merchandise Clerk, as they need to be able to efficiently manage inventory, keep the store tidy and organised, and process payments quickly and accurately. Having these skills will help ensure that the store runs smoothly and customers have a great experience when they visit the circus merchandise shop.

Circus Publicist, Circus Barker, and Circus Social Media Coordinator are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have working in customer service?
Describe your experience working with point-of-sale systems.
How do you handle customer complaints or concerns?
What do you consider to be the most important qualities of a successful circus merchandise clerk?
How do you stay organized when working with a high volume of merchandise?
Describe a time when you successfully upsold a customer on a product.
What strategies do you use to keep customers happy and engaged?
How do you handle difficult or angry customers?
What methods do you use to ensure accuracy when stocking and selling merchandise?
How do you keep up with the latest trends in circus merchandise?

Common Tools in Industry

Cash Register. A device used to process sales transactions, including counting change and providing receipts (e. g. Verifone VX520).
Point of Sale (POS) System. A computerized system used to process sales transactions (e. g. Square POS).
Stock Management Software. Software used to track and manage inventory levels (e. g. Lightspeed Retail).
Merchandising Display Racks. Racks used to hold and display merchandise (e. g. slatwall display racks).
Price Tags. Labels used to indicate the price of merchandise (e. g. adhesive price tags).
Scanner. A device used to scan barcodes on merchandise (e. g. Honeywell Voyager 1202g).
Credit Card Reader. A device used to process credit card payments (e. g. Intuit GoPayment).

Professional Organizations to Know

International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA)
Circus and Variety Arts Network (CVAN)
European Circus Association (ECA)
United States Institute for Theatre Technology (USITT)
International Association of Fairs and Expositions (IAFE)
International Association of Venue Managers (IAVM)
International Attractions Management (IAM)
American Specialty Attractions and Fairs Association (ASAFA)
International Association of Assembly Managers (IAAM)
International Association of Exhibitions and Events (IAEE)

We also have Circus Cook, Circus Tent Maintenance Worker, and Circus Fire Breather jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Clowns. Clowns are entertainers who wear colorful costumes and distinctive makeup, and perform comedic skits.
Acrobats. Acrobats are performers who perform physical feats of agility, balance, and dexterity, often on a raised platform.
Juggling. Juggling is the performance of manipulating objects for entertainment purposes.
Trapeze. A trapeze is a swinging apparatus suspended from a high point, from which acrobats can perform aerial stunts and maneuvers.
Animal Trainer. Animal trainers are professionals who teach animals behaviors, commands, and tricks that they can perform in shows.
Ticketing. Ticketing is the process of selling tickets for admission to events, typically at a theater or circus.
Concessions. Concessions are food and beverage items sold at an event, like a circus or carnival.
Merchandising. Merchandising is the process of selling products related to a particular event, such as circus memorabilia and souvenirs.
Customer Service. Customer service is the practice of providing assistance and support to customers before, during, and after a purchase.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary role of a Circus Merchandise Clerk?

The primary role of a Circus Merchandise Clerk is to manage the sale of goods and services related to the circus, such as souvenirs, tickets, food, and beverages.

What qualifications are needed to become a Circus Merchandise Clerk?

To become a Circus Merchandise Clerk, one needs to have excellent customer service skills, strong organizational and interpersonal skills, basic accounting knowledge, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment.

What are the typical working hours for a Circus Merchandise Clerk?

The typical working hours for a Circus Merchandise Clerk can vary depending on the circus schedule and hours of operation. Generally, they may work late nights and weekends during peak times.

What is the average salary of a Circus Merchandise Clerk?

The average salary of a Circus Merchandise Clerk is approximately $15.00 - $20.00 per hour.

What is the job outlook for Circus Merchandise Clerk positions?

The job outlook for Circus Merchandise Clerk positions is expected to remain steady in the coming years as circuses remain popular attractions for people of all ages.