When it comes to first jobs and part-time lifelong employment, retail is near the top of the popularity list. Manageable hours, valued work that doesn't beat up your body and employee discounts on merchandise often draw people in.

But I think working at a store is even more important than it appears at face value. Let's be honest -- you do so much more than just stock shelves and deal change. You develop a host of skills and invaluable experience that can be used all through life. I've narrowed the long list down to four essential reasons why everyone, young or old, should do at least a short stint in retail.

1. Improved work ethic

Although retail may not necessarily be hard or physically demanding work, it's definitely still a lot of work. It teaches endurance through many hours on your feet and/or a lot of moderate to heavy lifting. The monotony of stocking shelves isn't fun, but it's good work that'll make other activities easier to bear down the road. Dedicating yourself to your job and taking pride in what you do pays off both short term and long term; it'll earn you raises now and career experience later.

2. Resume Building Experience

With work comes experience and with experience comes career advancement. Retail workers have an advantage because they do a little bit of everything (especially in smaller establishments): cashiering and accounting, stocking and inventory, housekeeping and more. Employers look for well-rounded individuals with a background in many areas, and working retail is that golden opportunity to get an edge. Start from the bottom and work your way up -- progressing from stocker to cashier to manager will build your resume exponentially with just one job!

3. People Skills

I think anyone who has worked in retail would agree that this is the biggest issue an employee might run into--people. And contrary to what you might think, it's not just the cashiers who get all the interaction. As a stocker, I've had many customers ask me to help them find things or assist them in other ways. The most important rule is this: be nice -- and that goes for both parties involved. As an employee, you are 100 percent guaranteed to encounter individuals who may not be as polite as they can or should be. Regardless of how they treat you always be as courteous and helpful as possible. Learning to handle difficult one-on-one interactions with customers will prepare you for future bosses, clients, etc. down the road. And as a side note, when you're in the role of the customer, remember that retail workers are just doing their jobs to the best of their ability and deserve the same amount of respect as anyone else.

4. It's Fun!

With so many possibilities for new experiences and meeting new people, you're bound to have fun at your job. Making your job enjoyable makes it worthwhile. Plus, when you're happy your customers likely will be too! I highly recommend checking out retail whether you're looking for your first job or you need something more for employment. Make friends with your coworkers and your boss, work hard and have fun!