House of Fraser is a uniquely fashionable department store group established over 150 years ago. Since 1849 it has expanded from its original drapery store in Glasgow to an impressive 62 stores throughout the UK and Ireland.
With 6,500 House of Fraser employees and a further 10,000 concession staff, Linda Summerell, HR manager for the company, tells us about the exciting myriad of professional retail careers that can be carved out at this well-known brand and, most importantly, she tells us how you can make an impression, get noticed and get in.
Q: What’s the history of your retail career and what do you love about your job?
A: After getting the taste for retail as a Saturday girl in Woolworths, I embarked on a retail management career before moving into resourcing 10 years ago. Although I enjoyed working in an agency environment, I’ve always loved being part of a strong brand that is passionate about customers and people. In my role as Resourcing Manager, the thing I enjoy the most about my role is meeting inspirational candidates who join us and establish exciting and successful careers with us.
Q: What’s the best thing about working for HoF?
A: To be part of a hugely successful business that isn’t afraid to take risks and push the boundaries to be the best in the marketplace.
Q: What do you look for in your employees?
A: Obviously the skill set differs for each role but regardless of the part you play, we always look for passionate, inspirational individuals who have the customer at the heart of what they do.
Q: What are some of the most common mistakes you see from applicants?
A: In a highly competitive market, we look for candidates who have gone the extra mile and stand out from the crowd. Candidates often let themselves down by not preparing well enough for the interview, whether that is around researching the company or having a good understanding of the role.
Q: What qualities and competencies do aspiring visual merchandisers need?
A: We look for visual merchandisers who go the extra mile for our customer, maximising sales opportunities through demonstrating high levels of customer service at all times. They will work well with their team and brand partners, have strong communication skills and have the ability to translate their knowledge of the business and local market into a compelling in store environment.
Q: What makes an applicant stand out and impress you?
A: Those that have a drive and passion for what they do, as well as being able to draw on their experience and bring it to life, whether that be in an interview or a practical situation.
Q: What advice would you give aspiring visual merchandisers and other retail professionals, such as buyers and designers?
A: Regardless of the area of the business you specialise in, if you are starting out in your career the best thing you can do is get as much experience as possible within the industry, ask lots of questions and then ensure that you draw on all of your experience through the recruitment process.
Q: What’s your advice for giving a good interview?
A: Ensure you prepare well – do your research, think about the key competency questions you may be asked and prepare some examples so that you can demonstrate your skills for the role. Think about your body language, build a good rapport with your interviewer, ensure you prepare some key questions to ask and most importantly relax and be yourself!
Q: What is the key to a successful professional career at HoF?
A: To demonstrate a positive attitude and passion for what you do, have the stamina to thrive in a fast moving dynamic environment, have the ability to adapt, demonstrate a strong work ethic and most importantly have fun!
Q: What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learnt in your retail career?
A: To use every opportunity to learn and develop and no matter what you’re trying to achieve, never lose sight of the big picture.
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