Verkäufer

Verkäufer is a person whose primary role is to sell goods or services to customers. In German-speaking countries the term denotes both a general job title and a functional position within retail and commerce. A Verkäufer may work in small shops, supermarkets, department stores, or markets, and can specialize by product category or sector (fashion, electronics, groceries, etc.).

Typical duties include greeting customers, assessing needs, providing product information, demonstrating features, and advising on suitability. They may present alternatives, upsell or cross-sell, and process transactions at the point of sale, handle payments, issue receipts, and manage returns or exchanges. They often assist with stock replenishment, shelf presentation, pricing accuracy, and inventory checks, as well as handling customer inquiries and complaints with professionalism.

Training and qualifications: In German-speaking countries, many Verkäufer begin with on-the-job training or complete vocational training programs such as Kaufmann im Einzelhandel or Verkäufer/in. Requirements usually include basic numeracy, communication skills, customer service orientation, and reliability. Further advancement can lead to senior sales roles, department leadership, or store management.

Work environment: The role typically involves standing for long periods, shift work including evenings and weekends, and interacting with a diverse customer base. Language skills and cultural sensitivity can be important in multicultural settings.

Terminology: The masculine form is Verkäufer, the feminine form Verkäuferin. The plural Verkäufer includes mixed or unspecified gender; Verkäuferinnen denotes the feminine plural.