A sales clerk job description always includes customer service. Treating customers with efficiency and respect while answering their questions about products or services is a responsibility of sales clerks no matter what type of store they work in. A sales clerk should also sell products or services to the customer rather than thinking of himself or herself as merely an order taker or cashier.

Many sales clerk positions involve cashiering. For example, sales clerks in stores that sell home appliances speak with customers and give them information about products. When customers buy the products, a clerk who is also a cashier is responsible for taking and processing the customers' payments through the cash register. Being able to use computerized cash register systems and give accurate change are important skills for sales clerk cashiers. Of course, understanding the product or service being sold is also crucial.

Just as informative packaging on products can help customers to choose them over competing brands, knowledgeable salespeople can also increase sales. It's not just the knowledge alone, but how the sales clerk explains the benefits of a product to the customer. For instance, when a customer is looking at a selection of office furniture, to help initiate a sale, the sales clerk could ask the person whether he or she is finding everything all right. Chances are the customer will mention a particular feature or type of desk or office chair he or she wants. Even if the store doesn't carry or can't order that particular item, the clerk may be able to show the customer other furniture that has similar features or will serve the same purpose.

Communication skills are important for sales clerks because they have to be able to make the customer feel comfortable and not under pressure to buy something. People who work in retail stores usually must have good computer and phone skills. Patience, a calm attitude and the ability to make good judgment calls in stressful work situations are necessary. For example, if a sales clerk is helping a customer in the store and no one is answering the phone that seems to be ringing off the hook, the clerk must calmly handle the situation without annoying the customer by leaving him or her to wait. The clerk could page another employee to answer the phone, for instance.

Other than selling, cashiering and customer service, sales clerks may do tasks such as tracking inventory, stocking products on shelves and keeping the store clean. Creating displays of merchandise is another duty a store clerk may have as enticing displays can help increase sales. A lead or head sales clerk supervises other clerks and may be responsible for closing the store at times.