what is a store manager?

A store manager is responsible for overseeing a retail store's operations, including managing staff, meeting sales targets, and ensuring customer satisfaction. In this role, you are accountable for the store's profitability, ensuring that it remains financially viable. Your role involves many responsibilities, including hiring and training employees, managing inventory, setting sales targets, and developing marketing strategies to attract and retain customers.

You have excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills. You use these skills to motivate your team and maintain a positive work environment. You also make decisions quickly and efficiently, especially in situations where customer service is required.

If a career as a store manager sounds like it would suit your organisational and leadership skills, keep reading to find out more about this profession, including the skills and qualifications you need to succeed.

store manager jobs
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average salary of a store manager

According to Payscale, the average salary of a store manager is ₹450,000 per year. This figure falls on the lower end of the overall pay scale for store managers in India. That scale starts at around ₹325,000 per year for inexperienced store managers and can reach as high as ₹900,000 for the most experienced store managers.

One potential reason for the average salary being towards the lower end of the pay range is that it is common for successful store managers to move on to more senior roles.

factors that affect store manager’s pay

The level of experience you have as a store manager plays a significant role in determining your salary. Store managers who have been in the retail industry for a longer time and have more experience managing a store's operations tend to earn higher salaries than those who are just starting out.

Having advanced skills, such as financial management, merchandising, and marketing, can also help you earn higher salaries. With these skills, you are more valuable to your employers, as you can bring more to the table in terms of driving the store's profitability and success.

The location of the store you work in also plays a role in your potential earnings. Store managers working in larger cities or metropolitan areas tend to earn more than those working in smaller towns or rural areas. This is because the cost of living in larger cities is generally higher, and employers need to offer higher salaries to attract and retain top talent.

Man and woman sitting at table having a chat, while woman working on a tablet.
Man and woman sitting at table having a chat, while woman working on a tablet.
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types of store managers

While the basic role of a store manager is the same, regardless of the circumstances surrounding the job, there are different types of store managers. Each type has certain unique qualities and responsibilities. Here are some of the most common types of store managers:

  • department store manager: department store managers oversee the operations of a single department within a larger retail store. In this role, you are responsible for managing your department's sales, inventory, and staff. You work closely with other department managers to ensure that the store operates efficiently and meets its sales targets.
  • retail chain store manager: as a retail chain store manager, you manage multiple stores within a retail chain. You are responsible for ensuring that each store meets its sales targets, maintains inventory levels, and operates efficiently. You oversee the store managers of each location, providing guidance and support as needed.
  • boutique store manager: You oversee the operations of a smaller, independent retail store. You often have a more hands-on role in the store's operations, working closely with customers and staff to ensure that the store succeeds.
  • franchise store manager: franchise store managers are responsible for managing a retail store that operates under a franchise agreement. You work with the franchise owner to ensure that the store hits any targets it needs to meet as part of its franchise agreement. You are also responsible for ensuring that the store meets the franchisor's standards and guidelines.
  • flagship store manager: flagship store managers are responsible for managing a store that represents the brand's image and values. In this role, you work closely with the brand's marketing and merchandising teams to ensure that the store's layout and design reflect the brand's identity.
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working as a store manager

Store managers are necessary for all levels of retail, from small boutique stores to global franchises. Your job focuses on increasing sales and meeting sales targets. Below we will look at some of the more specific duties you have as a store manager.

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education and skills

While it may be possible to reach the level of store manager by working your way up within an organisation, most employers prefer at least a bachelor’s degree. Some of the academic qualifications for store managers include:

  • bachelor’s degree: a bachelor’s degree in a relevant topic, such as business management or retail management, should be considered a minimum requirement if you are looking to become a store manager.
  • master’s degree: a master’s degree is not necessary to become a store manager. However, it can help during the hiring phase, as well as improve your potential earnings. Having a master’s degree is also valuable if you are looking towards career progression beyond store management.
  • experience: employers are highly unlikely to hire someone as a store manager if they have no experience working in a retail setting.

store manager skills and competencies

Some of the qualities of a store manager include:

  • leadership: store managers motivate and lead their teams effectively. You delegate tasks and provide feedback to your staff.
  • communication: effective communication is essential in a store manager's role.
  • problem-solving: you are able to make decisions quickly and efficiently, especially in situations where customer service is required. You resolve conflicts and make decisions that benefit the store and its customers.
  • customer service: store managers need to be customer-focused and ensure that their staff provide excellent customer service. You handle customer complaints and resolve issues quickly and efficiently.
  • organisational skills: you are highly organised and able to manage multiple tasks simultaneously. This includes prioritising tasks and managing your time effectively.
Smiling man sitting behind his desk.
Smiling man sitting behind his desk.
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FAQs about working as a store manager

Here, you will find the answers to the most frequently asked questions about the profession of a store manager.

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