Question 1

What does a boutique assistant do?

Accepted Answer

A boutique assistant provides personalized customer service in intimate retail settings, building client relationships and assisting with buying decisions. They maintain curated product displays, process transactions and help create unique looks for customers under the General Retail Industry Award.

Question 2

What award classification applies to boutique assistants?

Accepted Answer

Boutique assistants typically fall under Level 1-3 of the General Retail Industry Award 2020 (MA000004). Level 1 covers new employees, Level 2 covers those with basic product knowledge who can advise customers, and Level 3 covers those with specialist skills or additional responsibilities. See our Retail Award pay rates guide.

Question 3

What is the difference between a boutique assistant and a retail sales assistant?

Accepted Answer

A boutique assistant works in smaller, independent fashion stores with more personalized service expectations. They often build ongoing relationships with regular customers, have more autonomy in decision-making and may assist with buying, merchandising and styling. Retail sales assistants typically work in larger stores with more standardized processes.

Question 4

Do boutique assistants need fashion qualifications?

Accepted Answer

Formal fashion qualifications aren't mandatory but are advantageous. Most importantly, boutique assistants need strong personal style, understanding of fashion and trends, excellent interpersonal skills and ability to provide individualized service. Experience in customer-facing roles and genuine fashion passion are highly valued.

Question 5

What qualifications do boutique assistants need?

Accepted Answer

Boutique assistants need strong customer service skills, personal style and fashion awareness. While formal qualifications aren't required, Certificate II or III in Retail or Fashion can be beneficial. Key requirements include excellent communication, styling ability, relationship-building skills and comfort working in intimate retail environments.

Question 6

What experience should I look for in a boutique assistant?

Accepted Answer

Look for customer service experience with a focus on building relationships, demonstrated personal style and fashion knowledge, strong communication skills and ability to work independently. Previous boutique or fashion retail experience is ideal, but transferable skills from hospitality or personal services combined with genuine fashion interest work well.

Question 7

Do boutique assistants need to have a certain style?

Accepted Answer

Boutique assistants should have well-developed personal style that aligns with your boutique's aesthetic. They represent your brand and need to present in a way that resonates with your target customers. This doesn't mean matching exactly, but understanding and embodying the boutique's style sensibility.

Question 8

What ongoing training do boutique assistants need?

Accepted Answer

Boutique assistants need training on new collections, brands and designers you carry, styling techniques, customer relationship management and visual merchandising. As boutiques often carry curated selections, deep product knowledge is essential. Training on social media and clienteling can also be valuable.

Question 9

Are boutique assistants usually permanent or casual?

Accepted Answer

Boutiques typically rely more on permanent staff to maintain consistent customer relationships and service quality. Full-time or part-time permanent roles are common to ensure customers see familiar faces. Some boutiques use casual staff for peak periods, but relationship continuity is important in boutique settings. Use HR software to manage employee records and contracts.

Question 10

What hours do boutique assistants work?

Accepted Answer

Boutique assistants work retail trading hours which vary by location. Many boutiques have more limited hours than large retailers, but weekend availability is typically required. Some boutiques operate by appointment or have flexible hours, while others follow standard retail trading patterns.

Question 11

What should I include in a boutique assistant employment contract?

Accepted Answer

Key elements include: position title and award classification, hourly rate or salary, expected working hours and availability requirements, presentation and styling expectations, staff purchase or discount policies if applicable, and leave provisions. Use digital employment contracts for efficiency.

Question 12

Do boutique assistants receive commission?

Accepted Answer

Many boutiques offer commission structures to boutique assistants given the relationship-based sales model. Commission arrangements should be clearly documented and comply with award requirements around guaranteed minimum earnings. Some boutiques offer bonuses based on overall store performance.

Question 13

How should I roster boutique assistants?

Accepted Answer

Roster based on customer traffic patterns and appointment schedules, ensuring adequate coverage during key shopping times. Consider staff styling strengths and client relationships when scheduling. Use rostering software to balance coverage, staff preferences and award compliance efficiently.

Question 14

What rostering compliance applies to boutique assistants?

Accepted Answer

Boutique assistants are covered by the General Retail Industry Award which sets minimum shift lengths, break entitlements, notice periods for roster changes and penalty rates. Ensure rosters provide at least 7 days notice and minimum 3-hour shifts for casuals. Part-timers need guaranteed minimum hours.

Question 15

How do I manage solo shifts in a boutique?

Accepted Answer

Many boutiques operate with single-person coverage during quiet periods. Ensure solo staff are comfortable with all responsibilities including security, cash handling and customer service. Consider safety protocols for opening and closing, and provide support through phone access to management.

Question 16

How do boutique assistants request time off?

Accepted Answer

Staff should submit leave requests with reasonable notice given the often smaller team size. In boutiques, advance planning is crucial to ensure adequate coverage. Using rostering software helps track requests, manage approvals and adjust rosters accordingly.

Boutique assistant job description