Key Holder

Little Words Project; Skokie (IL); On-site; USD 22,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

Little Words Project in Skokie, IL is seeking a Key Holder to help lead our store team, guide guest interactions, manage the bead-your-own experience, and partner with the Store Manager to create a welcoming, inspired space.

You will open and close independently, host events, manage beading appointments, train Sales Associates, and ensure smooth operations from inventory to checkout. A passion for beading and kindness helps you connect with guests and teammates daily.

Qualifications

• 2+ years of retail or customer service experience.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Passion for beading and Little Words Project mission.
• Able to work weekends and holidays.
• Customer-focused and positive attitude.

Responsibilities

• Lead and motivate the team alongside the Store Manager.
• Open and close independently.
• Host bead-your-own appointments, events, and parties.
• Assist with in-store events and partnerships planning.
• Monitor inventory, assist with backstock, and support visual merchandising.
• Train Sales Associates and share best practices.
• Introduce new products and make personalized recommendations.
• Assist guests with transactions and resolve issues with positivity.
• Support at the bead bar and fulfill custom orders.
• Oversee inventory intake and store KPIs to keep operations smooth.

Skills

Guest service

Team leadership

Retail experience

Communication

Job description

We're looking for a Key Holder to help lead the way at our Old Orchard store! This role is perfect for someone who thrives in a team environment, loves engaging with guests, and is passionate about sharing Little Words Project's mission. As a Key Holder, you'll play a huge role in bringing our brand story to life—helping guests find the perfect bracelet, guiding them through our bead-your-own experience, and supporting the team to create a welcoming, inspiring space.

What you'll do:

• Work alongside the Store Manager & Assistant Store Manager to inspire and motivate the team. You'll help set the tone for amazing guest interactions!
• Open and close independently, ensuring everything runs smoothly.
• Host and manage in-store beading appointments, events, and parties, making every visit special.
• Help find partners to do events with, and assist with planning in-store events
• Monitor inventory levels, assist with backstock, and help with visual merchandising to keep our store looking and feeling its best.
• Help train and develop Sales Associates, sharing best practices to enhance guest connections.
• Introduce new products, personalize recommendations, and create moments that leave a lasting impression.
• Answer guest questions, assist with transactions, and handle any in-store issues with positivity and care.
• Assist at the bead bar, tie bracelets, and fulfill custom orders.
• From inventory intake to clienteling and KPIs, you'll play an important role in keeping things running smoothly.

What You Bring to the Team:

• 2+ years of retail or customer service experience.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills—you love connecting with guests and teammates!
• Passion for beading, styling, and even capturing fun content in-store.
• You stay cool under pressure and find solutions with a positive attitude.
• Ready to jump in, support the team, and help wherever needed.
• Able to work weekends and holidays.
• You believe in Little Words Project's mission and are excited to spread kindness every day!