A personal shopper is a professional advisor specializing in fashion and clothing, dedicated to helping clients find the perfect garments to match their style and body type. This role combines an eye for trends with exceptional customer service. Here you’ll find a complete job description with all the necessary information about the role: duties, required education, expected skills and average salary…
- Primary missions: Advising clients on fashion choices, keeping up with trends, managing purchases
- Live-in or live-out
- Salary: $30,000 – $100,000 a year
- Type of job: Domestic staff
A personal shopper is the embodiment of sartorial wisdom and personalized attention, ensuring clients look their best and shop smartly.
Key duties and responsibilities
- Understanding client needs: Assessing the taste, style, and requirements of clients.
- Trend analysis: Keeping abreast with current and future fashion trends.
- Shopping expertise: Selecting clothing and accessories, managing budgets, and purchasing items.
- Relationship building: Developing strong connections with clients for repeat business.
- Portfolio management: Creating and maintaining a portfolio of contacts and designer connections.
- Fashion show attendance: Staying ahead by attending fashion shows and designer showcases.
How to become a Personal Shopper?
Education and training
Prospective personal shoppers can pursue courses in fashion merchandising, personal styling, and customer service. Renowned institutions like the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) in New York or London College of Fashion in the UK offer relevant programs.
Required experience
Experience in retail, fashion, or a related customer service field is highly beneficial.
Required human qualities and skills
Empathy, patience, excellent communication skills, and a passion for fashion are crucial.
Work environment
Where can a Personal Shopper work?
Personal shoppers can work in various environments including department stores, boutiques, or freelance, with flexible working hours depending on client needs. They can be employed by retail stores, fashion houses, or work independently serving private clients.
Life of a Personal Shopper: Eva’s Story
One illustrative anecdote about the life of a personal shopper comes from Eva, a New York-based professional recruited by Morgan & Mallet International for a high-net-worth individual. Eva recounted the time their client was set to attend a prestigious film premiere at the last minute. The client needed a gown that was not only designer but also unique and unseen.
“I remember receiving a call at 6 PM for a premiere that was happening the next day. My client needed something extraordinary and off-the-runway. Most stores were closing or had closed, but I managed to call in a few favors and got an upscale boutique to stay open just for us. We found a stunning just-released dress, and I stayed up all night with the tailor to make sure it was adjusted to perfection. Seeing my client step onto the red carpet looking flawless—and knowing I had a hand in that—was incredibly gratifying.”
Eva, Personal Shopping in NYC recruited by Morgan & Mallet International
This anecdote underscores the fast-paced, responsive, and often high-pressure environment in which personal shoppers thrive, highlighting their commitment to going above and beyond to satisfy their clients’ needs.
Salary
A personal shopper’s salary is highly variable, influenced by geographical location, clientele, and experience level, typically between $30,000 and $100,000 a year.
Example of a typical Personal Shopper job description
Here’s an example of a job description for a personal shopper we could publish in our jobboard for Personal Shoppers.
We are seeking a dynamic and fashion-forward personal shopper for a single gentleman. The ideal candidate will have a keen eye for style and a passion for delivering exceptional service to the client. You will assist the client in selecting and purchasing wardrobe items that reflect their personal style, fit their body type, and meet their budget requirements.
Key responsibilities
- Conduct one-on-one meetings with the client
- Stay informed on the latest fashion trends and new arrivals
- Curate customized shopping experiences for the client
- Facilitate the buying process from selection to checkout
- Assist the client in building a comprehensive wardrobe
- Build and nurture long-term relationships with the client
- Seek client feedback on purchases and overall experience
Qualifications
- Proven experience as a personal shopper, stylist, or in a similar role in the fashion retail industry.
- Strong understanding of different body types and how to dress them effectively.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build rapport with clients quickly.
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Ability to work flexible hours, including weekends and evenings, to accommodate client schedules.
Education
Degree or certification in Fashion Merchandising, Fashion Design, or related field is preferred.
Salary
Based on experience, between $40,000 and $65,000 per annum, with opportunities for bonuses and commission.
Personal Shopper resume example
The following cv will provide you an example of the typical type of profiles we usually are looking for Private Personal Shopper positions.
Jane Doe
Janedoe@example.com
(248) 123-7654
linkedin.com/in/jane-doe
Personal Shopper
Energetic and trend-savvy personal shopper with a passion for fashion and a track record of creating satisfied, loyal customers.
Work Experience
Senior Personal Shopper
Chic Boutique, Los Angeles (May 2021 – Present)
- Curated personalized shopping experiences for high-profile clients
- Managed exclusive shopping events and private viewings
Fashion Consultant
Trendsetters Inc., New York (August 2018 – April 2021)
- Provided style consultations and assembled lookbooks
- Assisted in seasonal inventory management
Retail Sales Associate
Glamour Garments, Miami (June 2016 – July 2018)
- Excelled in customer service and sales targets
- Received ‘Employee of the Month’ for outstanding performance
Skills
- In-depth knowledge of fashion trends
- Strong networking and negotiation skills
- Exceptional interpersonal and communication abilities
Courses, Certifications, and Diplomas
- Diploma in Fashion Merchandising, Fashion Institute of Technology, 2016.
Possible interview questions for a Personal Shopper position
How do you stay updated on the latest fashion trends?
Discuss your passion for fashion, sources of inspiration, and continuous learning.
Example: “I regularly attend fashion shows, follow industry influencers, and read fashion publications like ‘Vogue’ to stay ahead of trends. This ongoing research allows me to offer clients current and forward-thinking style advice.”
Describe a time when you had to manage a difficult client’s expectations
Highlight your communication skills and ability to handle challenging situations diplomatically.
Example: “I once assisted a client who was fixated on a sold-out dress. I acknowledged her disappointment, promptly provided alternatives, and arranged a special preview of an upcoming collection. She appreciated the effort and became a repeat client.”
Can you provide an example of how you have tailored a shopping experience to a client’s unique style and needs?
Share a specific story that illustrates your ability to personalize your service and demonstrates your understanding of individual client preferences.
Example: “For a new mother seeking a wardrobe update, I sourced versatile and low-maintenance pieces that matched her casual-chic style. I arranged our sessions around her schedule, leading to a personalized and convenient experience that she greatly valued.”
Common titles for a Personal Shopper
Luxury Personal Shopper
A luxury personal shopper specializes in providing high-end shopping services to an affluent clientele. This type of personal shopper often works for luxury department stores, exclusive boutiques, or may operate independently. Their focus is on offering a bespoke and highly personalized service that caters to the tastes and demands of clients who are looking for luxury items, including designer clothing, rare collectibles, high-end jewelry, and other opulent goods.
Online Personal Shopper
An online personal shopper provides similar services to a traditional personal shopper but operates primarily through digital platforms. This role has become increasingly popular with the rise of e-commerce and the demand for personalized online shopping experiences. Proficiency with digital communication tools and e-commerce platforms is essential.
Related lobs
Related jobs include private hair stylist and personal stylist, each with distinct focuses and responsibilities.
Private Hair Stylist
A private hair stylist focuses on hair care and styling, while a personal shopper focuses on clothing and fashion advice.
Personal Stylist
A personal stylist may provide broader style advice including overall look and wardrobe planning, while a personal shopper typically focuses on selecting and purchasing items.
Personal Shopper job outlook
The demand for personal shoppers is growing, especially in luxury retail and online shopping sectors.
With experience, personal shoppers can take on more high-profile clients and larger accounts, becoming a go-to expert in their field.
Frequently Asked Questions about Personal Shopper Job
What skills are essential for a Personal Shopper?
Strong fashion sense, customer service, and interpersonal skills are key to be an excellent personal shopper.
Can Personal Shoppers work remotely?
Yes, personal shoppers can work remotely, especially as online personal shoppers.
Is there a demand for personal shoppers?
There is a growing demand for personal shoppers as more people look for personalized services and as the luxury market expands. The rise of online shopping has also increased the need for virtual personal shopping services.
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