Bookseller, part-time

About the role

The Part-Time Bookseller provides a welcoming and warm reception to store customers and is responsible for providing an exceptional level of customer service and promoting sales. The Bookseller engages with each customer individually and provides accurate and insightful assistance to customers based on the bookseller's broad knowledge of the books carried at William Stout Architectural Books (Stout Books) and the location of books and products in the store.

A Bookseller has a functional understanding of Architecture, Architects, and design culture. The Bookseller will assist with tasks such as engaging with social media. They will work with other employees to process sales transactions, turn over displays, and keep the shop stocked, tidy, and organized on the sales floor and in the storage areas.

Key Responsibilities

• Customer Service and Sales
  • Greet and assist visitors with a friendly and courteous manner.
  • Actively approach and advise customers to make sales and create a welcoming environment.
  • Provide accurate and clear information on merchandise, events, and the story of Stout Books.
  • Complete financial transactions, including sales, returns, credits, and applicable discounts, efficiently and accurately.
  • Provide wrapping service.
  • Provide customer service in person and via phone.
• Stout Operations and Maintenance
  • Tidy books throughout the day and keep the store and storage areas organized and clean.
  • Ensure that displays are fresh and well-composed.
  • Complete opening and closing procedures.

Required Education, Skills, Abilities And Competencies

• Education in architecture or design practice or history, or an equivalent combination of training and/or experience is a plus.
• 1-2 years of retail experience.
• Selling skills.
• Ability to share enthusiasm for merchandise and store.
• Interpersonal communication skills.
• Ability to communicate problems and ensure constructive problem resolution.
• Exhibit initiative, sound judgment, and a positive attitude.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Ability to process sales transactions, work with a POS system, and a basic understanding of retail inventory and accounting (particularly Shopify) preferred.
• Accurate work and attention to detail.
• Demonstrated punctuality and dependability.
• Interest in and commitment to Architecture culture and the spirit and legacy of Stout Books.
• Computer literate and internet savvy.
• Experience with word processors, spreadsheets, Shopify, and the Google Suite preferred.
• Flexible schedule. Able to work evening and weekend events.

Essential Functions

• This position is expected to be primarily onsite at the San Francisco bookstore, working approximately 2-4 Saturdays per month and may include additional event support outside of the regular 1 day per week schedule as needed.
• Frequent use of hands for typing, writing, and handling office equipment.
• Ability to lift and carry books and equipment weighing up to 20 pounds.
• Prolonged periods of sitting, standing, walking, bending, crouching, or reaching within the retail environment.
• Regular use of vision abilities, including close vision, color vision, and the ability to adjust focus.
• Ability to communicate effectively with others in person and via phone.
• May require occasional travel between Richmond Fulfillment location and San Francisco bookstore.