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#1. It Is Not A Popularity Contest
It goes without saying that you should always show employees mutual respect. But there are certain boundaries too, given your different positions. This is why - as the retail manager - you have to take the initiative. It is up to you to set these boundaries and be an example.
Ultimately, everyone is there to do a job. And if you are too focused on making friends instead of being an effective leader, you will not hold the position for very long. As for moments when employees need to be disciplined, make sure it happens in a private setting. The truth is some people struggle to handle criticism, and giving it to them in front of an audience is not considered effective.
Read more about life as a branch manager in Plumbing and Heating careers.
#2. Trust And Share
Responsibility
When you are passionate about your job, you obviously want to be in control of everything - all the time. But when you spread yourself too thin, how effective can you really be? A big part of being a manager involves trusting the right people with certain responsibilities.
In addition to reducing the stress and pressure that comes with the job, you build a healthy relationship with your team. Keep in mind that employees want to develop and reach for better positions at some point. But they can't do this if they do not gain valuable experience.
A good way to start delegating is by listing and assessing responsibilities. Which of these require top-priority attention from you? And which of these can you afford to leave to employees? From there you want to determine which employees are best suited for the job, as well as giving them clear instructions on what needs to be done.
#3. Keep Up With
Technology
There is no getting past the challenge of technology. In fact, retail companies consider technological innovations as imperative for survival. This is because customers are always looking for the most comfortable and convenient ways to handle their shopping.
At the same time, technology helps to run the business more effectively. Areas like inventory, sales, and even purchase orders have to run smoothly all the time. But if you are struggling with out-of-date systems, it is unrealistic to expect the business to perform at its full potential.
And what about creating an online presence for more exposure? Digital solutions and promotions via the internet can do wonders for any business while keeping marketing expenses low.
#4. Defuse The
Conflict
When people work together on a daily basis, issues are bound to arise. And these issues can eventually lead to bigger problems that negatively influence the business. But this is why business owners want effective managers at the helm. They expect you to get to the problem and solve it as quickly as possible.
How do you handle conflict between employees without making things worse? Start by speaking to the people involved and do it separately. Get their sides of the story and keep an objective mindset. Then try to find a solution both employees can agree on. Alternatively, ask for solutions from employees if you feel it could be better.
This is going to test your negotiation skills, but it is worth developing if you want to be a good retail manager.
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