My previous careers have always been in process engineering, research and development and sales (driving around in a car all day). Now I find myself working in retail. I haven’t done this since high school. However, I learned a long time ago that you can learn something from every experience. As I drive to and from the mall everyday, I have learned 3 important truths. Some of these are my own revelations. Some have taught to me by others more experienced than me in this industry. If you are blessed to work in retail one day (or maybe you are there now), you would be wise to remember these three truths:
1) The illusion of control
2) Micromanagement is key
3) Wealth workers
Illusion of Control
Every retailer checks employees out before they leave the establishment. Some check employees more than others. Sometimes it’s a simple look in the lunch box. Other times the coats are felt down along with a clear view of the ankles (stuffing items in one’s socks). Until retail, I had never seen this done before. I’ve worked around sensitive information, computer equipment and office supplies and never stolen anything.
Why check bags in retail? It’s about control.
If someone really wanted to steal, they could. However, checking bags, purses and other satchels is a way to show that they are being watched. It’s if the owner is saying, “Don’t even think about it. We will catch you.” This control translates beyond mere theft. It gets in the mind of the employee. If you are the manager, you want to control every aspect of the store. Even if you are not there. Opening. Closing. Shrink. Selling. Marketing. The employees will do it without your watchful eye. This is leadership at its finest: the process goes on because THEY want it to.
Micromanagement is Key
“The essence of retail is micromanaging your people’s time.” On the surface this sounds bad, but retail, like many professions, is about a process. The process of marketing your products. The process of selling. The process of connecting with your customers. Micromanagement is not watching over every minute of the employee’s day. That’s just wasteful and the sign of a poor manager. Micromanagement in retail is about having the daily, weekly and monthly goals in place and establishing a process to follow up with them.
Wealth Workers
Unless you own the retail store, working in retail will not make you rich. Working more and more hours will not substantially add to your bank account. I have worked with enough employees who think that if they could just get more hours, they will be rich. If they can just be a “key holder”, they will have the money they need. If they can just be a manger, all of their problems will be solved. Like any other job, it is not the job that is the key to wealth. Build a career. The independently wealthy in this country and any other don’t work for someone else. They do for themselves.
Cut your teeth in retail to learn the realities of BUSINESS. Then do it for yourself.
