If you’re looking to pick up a job over the summer holidays, the retail hiring season is about to kick off.
This summer, Sportsgirl is recruiting over 160 seasonal casuals across both metro and regional stores right around Australia. Whether you’re trying to balance work with study, or simply looking for your very first retail role, these seasonal positions are designed to help teams manage the busy Christmas period.
We spoke with Grace Walls from the Sussan Group to get the details on how the hiring process works, what to expect in the interview, and why you don’t need a long resume to get started.
The myth about prior experience
One of the most frustrating parts of looking for work is finding out that even entry-level roles require years of experience. Sportsgirl takes a different approach for their summer intake.
“Retail experience is not necessarily required to secure a role as a seasonal casual,” Grace says. “These roles are created to assist the stores during the really busy period over Christmas. Having some transferable skills is an advantage, these could be customer service skills from working in fast food or hospitality, but for many who have no prior job experience, they apply for these roles as it is a really great first job in retail.”
If you enjoy working in a team environment, have a positive attitude, and like helping people, you already have the foundational skills needed to apply.
Inside the 30-minute interview
Applications open at the end of August on the Sportsgirl careers site. If your application progresses, a store manager will invite you into your local store for an in-person interview.
The session lasts about 30 minutes and focuses on simple customer service scenarios, team culture, and your interest in the brand.
“I recommend going over to our Sportsgirl website and having a read through to understand who we are as a brand and what we stand for beyond the clothing,” Grace suggests. “Then have a think about what you love about Sportsgirl and why you can see yourself working with us. Secondly, and most importantly, come as your most authentic self. Showing your passion, enthusiasm, and positive attitude is what Sportsgirl is all about.”
What your first week looks like
Once you cross the finish line and land the role, you’ll get access to some initial online learning modules to help you understand the daily operations of the store before your first shift.
During your first week, you’ll be rostered onto training shifts to work directly alongside your store manager. You will learn how to use the point of sale register, manage gift cards, keep the visual merchandising standards looking tidy, and work in the fitting rooms to help customers style outfits.
“You’ll work closely with your store manager to learn our customer service standards, so greeting customers, letting them know of the promotions, as well as fitting room service where you can help style them to find that perfect outfit,” Grace says. “The learning doesn’t stop there, we are offering support throughout your whole time at Sportsgirl to ensure that you thrive in your role.”
A summer casual role is so much more than just earning extra cash over the holidays. It’s a chance to grow your confidence, learn the retail industry from the ground up, and lay a strong foundation for your future career. If you are ready to bring a positive attitude and learn something new, this is the perfect time to get your start.
Applications officially open at the end of August. You can head over to the Sportsgirl Careers Portal to set up your profile and get notified the moment roles go live.
