While people are doing more and more of their shopping online, there will continue to be a place for the physical store. Many people's first job is as a sales assistant in a store and it is a position that can introduce you to many of the personalities of working life.

Many working in stores are just passing through, with no intention of making a career in the area. Management roles and speciality areas, such as car sales or higher end clothes stores offer a career for those with talent and the required skills. As with all sales roles, it can be pressurised, and you will have sales targets to meet and be on your feet most of the work day. 

Some physical stores have been affected more by the rise of online shopping than others. Record stores and movie stores have gone into sharp decline. However, people still do most of their food shopping in stores and, perhaps surprisingly, book stores are thriving.

Many people still value handling a product themselves and discussing their choice with a knowledgable sales assistant before making the decision to purchase.