I manage retail stores for a living which a home brew store basically is. I would say that customer service skills, ability to operate a standard POS system, up-selling and active selling skills are all needed. A background in brewing would put you ahead of the game a bit but its not a necessity as it can all be learn as you go. There is going to be general theories, likes and dislikes that the store will already have set that you will need to adhere to.
a frontal lobe, and the ability to lift 60 pounds as needed.opposable thumbs?
If the information was over simplified i would have started sooner..
opposable thumbs?
Or free beer.HaHa...
I would add "willing to work for minimum wage"
A salesperson who says that you want a big yeast starter, should worry about fermentation temperature, or ought to give it 3 weeks in primary isn't likely to be a good LHBS employee (even if they're a good brewer).
Knowing kids these days, it's surprising to see one so helpful and intuitive. I might be insulting him just now, but I don't think he was old enough to drink!
So, most important would be a good attitude and genuinely nice and helpful personality. Everything else could be learned on the job.
I hate it when I go into a homebrew store (and I do whenever I travel) and I'm ignored by some snooty shop owner/worker. Or worse, when they are patronizing to me- "Hey little lady, are you looking for something for your boyfriend?"
"Can I help you" is a great way to start. If you're busy with a customer, or talking with someone, make eye contact or nod to acknowledge someone's presence! I've actually walked in, purchased something, been rung up and paid- without a worker even speaking to me because he was on the phone or chatting at the counter with someone else!
Not a big deal, but I haven't gone back. And I've spent $5000+ on brewing stuff. Just not at your store. Maybe saying "Can I help you" would have been a good idea.
Anything beyond that -- specifically knowledge of homebrewing -- is going to add significant value to the store, because you're selling to a niche market where customers either are very knowledgeable or expect to rely on the employees for knowledge.
Enter your email address to join: