Bookseller

Job description

These individuals make accessible and sell books of all kinds (novels, dictionaries, guides, essays, etc.). They work in independent or commercial bookstores and in school-based cooperatives.

Environment

  • Controlled ambient temperature

Main tasks

  • Advise clients about available books by consulting a computerized database.
  • Set up and maintain book displays.
  • Maintain in-store inventories.
  • Order and return books
  • Receive, sort, and ship merchandise.
  • Manage staff.

Training and requirements

Formation

No specific training

Sometimes required

  • A college diploma or university degree in Literature, Documentation, or other field related to the occupation may be required.

WAP

This occupation is targeted by a Workplace Apprenticeship Program

Main skills and characteristics

Skills

  • Data collection
  • Persuasion
  • Active listening
  • Oral expression
  • Service oriented
  • Negotiation
  • Social perception
  • Critical thought
  • Information processing
  • Active learning
  • Reading comprehension
  • Coordination
  • Result evaluation
  • Written expression
  • Time management

Abilities

  • Verbal skills
  • Oral comprehension
  • Speech clarity
  • Speech recognition
  • Awareness of issues
  • Written comprehension
  • Written expression
  • Information organization
  • Near vision

Knowledge and attributes

  • Capacity to establish and maintain interpersonal relations
  • Diplomacy
  • Knowledge of the French language
  • Knowledge of customer and personalized services
  • Capacity to work in a team
  • Intermediate knowledge of the English language
  • Vitality
  • Impeccable appearance
  • Patience
  • Open-mindedness

Interests

  • Work in sales or client service
  • Work in the arts, culture, music, or leisure
  • Carry out research
  • Assist and advise

Personality profiles (RIASEC)

Enterprising
People with this profile prefer having responsibilities, influencing others and responding to challenges.
Social
People with this profile prefer to be in contact with others, in particular to entertain, help or teach them.
Investigative
People with this profile prefer relying on theoretical knowledge before acting. They like observation, analysis and problem solving.

Appellation d’emploi liée (à traduire)

Retail salespersons and visual merchandisers  (CNP 64100)

Skill type

Sales and service

Last update: January 29, 2026

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