**Newly Opened - Support Merchandiser - North Hollywood, CA

As a Support Merchandiser at American Greetings, your core responsibilities include servicing assigned retail locations, organizing product orders, and maintaining aesthetic displays in greeting card departments. You'll also handle backroom organization and provide feedback to management regarding service schedules. Flexibility is key, as you'll occasionally assist with store resets and must effectively manage your time across different locations.

To qualify for the Support Merchandiser position at American Greetings, candidates must be 18 years or older and able to communicate in English. While no experience is necessary, a willingness to learn, technological competence, and reliable transportation to visit multiple retail locations are essential. Additionally, you should be physically capable of lifting up to 40 pounds and managing your schedule around holidays.

The starting pay for a Support Merchandiser at American Greetings is $18.00 per hour, with structured increases rewarding your commitment. After 6 months, your pay will rise to $19.00, and after one year of dedicated service, you'll earn $20.00 per hour. This performance-based structure reflects how much we value our employees and their growth within the company.

Absolutely! American Greetings understands the importance of training, especially for the Support Merchandiser role. We provide a comprehensive training program to ensure you're well-equipped for your responsibilities. No prior merchandising experience is necessary; just bring your enthusiasm, and we'll take care of the rest!

The work schedule for a Support Merchandiser at American Greetings is generally flexible, with an average of 8 hours per week, which can rise to 18 hours around major holidays. You’ll manage your routes at locations in North Hollywood, Studio City, and Van Nuys, allowing for a balance between work and personal time while meeting the demands of retail during peak seasons.

When prioritizing tasks as a Support Merchandiser, begin by assessing the needs of each location. Make a checklist of essential duties such as restocking,display maintenance, and organizational tasks. Tackle the most urgent tasks while remaining flexible for any last-minute requests from management or retail associates.

In previous roles, I utilized time management tools, such as scheduling apps, to plan my tasks effectively. I would break down my work into smaller, manageable segments and allocate specific time for each task, adjusting as needed based on priorities or unforeseen challenges that arose during the day.

Handling challenges in retail involves staying calm and proactive. For instance, if stock is running low or there’s a display issue, I would communicate with my team or management immediately, seeking assistance if needed, while also prioritizing immediate resolutions to maintain customer satisfaction.

Building relationships with retail associates involves consistent communication, friendliness, and showing appreciation for their help. I often introduce myself, engage in casual chats during visits, and ensure they feel supported by being responsive to their feedback—creating an atmosphere of mutual respect and cooperation.

Organization is vital for a Support Merchandiser. It ensures that products are displayed attractively and that inventory levels are maintained, creating a pleasant shopping experience. An organized approach also fosters efficiency, allowing me to manage my time and tasks effectively while keeping the stores stocked.

During holidays, adapting to an increased workload requires prioritization and communication. I would plan my schedule in advance, ensuring adequate time for each location. Additionally, maintaining open communication with management and team members about any adjustments helps manage expectations and workloads effectively.

During store resets, I anticipate tasks like rearranging displays, assembling products, and relocating merchandise. It's also about ensuring that new items are placed strategically to maximize visibility and maintain the overall aesthetic of the store, which reflects our commitment to excellent merchandising.

Flexibility is crucial for a Support Merchandiser as retail environments can change rapidly based on stock levels and store needs. Being open to working varied hours, including weekends or holidays, not only supports teamwork but also helps ensure the stores remain well-stocked and organized during peak shopping times.

Staying motivated while working independently can involve setting personal goals and timelines throughout my workday. I also often find inspiration in seeing the positive impact my efforts have on store displays and customer satisfaction, driving me to stay engaged and committed to my responsibilities.

One of the most rewarding aspects of being a Support Merchandiser is witnessing the positive impact of my work on customer experiences. When products are well organized and inviting, it brings joy to shoppers, and knowing I'm part of making life's celebrations easier and more special is incredibly fulfilling.