The title of this blog likely gives away where I’m heading with this posting. But, think about it for a moment. What have you actually taught them about how to manage the store?
Yes, you’ve likely trained them on a multitude of paperwork related tasks, how to build a schedule (including the essential, ‘don’t you dare go over on hours’ module), merchandising and other basic store requirements. All good and essential stuff to be certain.
But, ask any Manager what the toughest part of their job is and they’ll almost universally tell you it’s dealing with their staff. We know that’s true because we surveyed almost 700 Managers a couple of years ago and that’s what they told us.
It only makes sense. Paperwork, merchandising and other tasks are very much an “A + B + C = D” process. Whereas when it comes to staff, what we’re really talking about is human beings. We all know how unpredictable they can be! It’s not easy getting them to work for you, work hard, work smart and work together.
Now, step back for a moment and think about the elements of a store’s success that a Manager can actually influence.
Pricing? NO.
Product Selection? NO.
Location? NO.
Marketing? NO.
Staff? YES!
I say it all the time … front line Managers and staff are more important today than ever before. If you’re going to run a brick and mortar business, you better provide a great shopping experience through your staff. Otherwise, roll up the carpet and make way for someone else.
Take a good hard look in your training cupboards and ask yourself how well you’ve trained your Managers on the following:
- How to recruit staff, develop talent and reduce turnover
- How to prioritize your time so the most important things always get done
- How to maximize the productivity of every associate
- How to be a Leader that your staff will want to follow
- How to deal with all of those problem performers and turn them around
- How to achieve compliance on store standards and run the store the right way every day
- How to motivate and engage your staff every day of the year
- How to drive the metrics that determine store success
- How the business of the business works and how they can improve it
When you consider the list above, you’ll likely discover that those are the things you really need your Managers to do better at. Your staff needs them to do those things better too. And so does your company.
So, have you taught your Store Managers how to manage the store, or just the paperwork?
If you’ve discovered the training cupboard is a little bare, don’t fret, but don’t hesitate either. Pick up the phone and call us today at 905-842-1275. Or email [email protected].
We’re here to help.
