Online Merchandiser

Whether you’re there to browse or buy, visiting a department store is a lot like meandering through the forest during hunting season — and you’re the deer. Think, for instance, of all the mannequins, window displays, samples, and floor models. The store’s goal isn’t just selling you something you want; it’s seducing you into buying something you never even knew you needed. The store’s the Hunter, therefore, and you’re the prey as the Online Merchandiser.

Because people are easily tempted by products they can see, smell, hear, and touch, “hunting” for customers is relatively easy in a bricks-and-mortar store. In an online store, however — where shoppers’ senses are seduction-proof — it’s downright difficult. Unless, of course, you have the help of an amazing Online Merchandiser.

As an Online Merchandiser, you help Internet retailers sell products by making their e-commerce websites as seductive as department stores’ in-store displays. To accomplish that, you spend your days studying buyer psychology, then implementing strategies that take advantage of it to maximize online sales. For instance, common responsibilities include: deciding what products to sell online, in what quantities and during what seasons; designing and executing online product promotions; developing competitive online pricing strategies; addressing issues related to online search, sorting, and filtering; coordinating the visual display and layout of products on e-commerce websites, which might encompass everything from product photographs to product placement; and measuring the performance of online sales.

Basically, you’re the Manager of an online store: Instead of turning heads with in-store displays, however, it’s your job to inspire clicks with great products, irresistible prices, and well-designed websites.