In the dynamic world of retail, where success hinges on a top-performing team, the quest for exceptional employees can be challenging. Having worked in this industry for over 25 years, I’ve noticed that truly remarkable retail staff are a rare find. Unfortunately, mediocre performance has become a detrimental factor to traditional retail. Retail work is demanding, with long hours, physical exertion, inventory management, and the constant need to serve customers all the while having to achieve various KPI’s. So, how can you ensure your team stays motivated and performs at their best? The answer lies in showing a little appreciation.
The Impact of Appreciation:
Recent data reveals the profound impact of appreciation, or the lack thereof, on employee satisfaction and performance. Astonishingly, 81% of unappreciated employees feel trapped in their jobs, compared to only 20% of those who feel appreciated. Furthermore, 58% of unappreciated employees experience physical discomfort at the mere thought of going to work, while this figure drops to 18% for appreciated workers. Clearly, creating an environment of appreciation is essential for fostering a high-performing team.
Practical Tips for Fostering Appreciation:
1. Provide more positive feedback:
Instead of fixating on your team’s mistakes, make a conscious effort to focus on their strengths. Take a few seconds out of your day to acknowledge and highlight their accomplishments. A few simple words of encouragement can go a long way in boosting morale and reinforcing positive behaviours.
2. Show genuine interest:
Allocate time to connect with your team members on an individual basis. Though time challenging, it holds significant value. By genuinely inquiring about their well-being, you demonstrate care and concern. This simple gesture creates a powerful bond, enhancing their sense of appreciation and belonging within the team.
3. Offer assistance:
Initiate conversations with your team to determine if they require any support to fulfill their job responsibilities. It could be as straightforward as lending a helping hand during busy periods, relieving them of overwhelming tasks, or providing additional training. Being proactive in assisting your team members prevents them from feeling overwhelmed, fostering a sense of support and gratitude.
By implementing these three simple steps, you can significantly contribute to your team’s overall sense of appreciation and motivation. Remember, a team that feels valued and acknowledged is more likely to go above and beyond, propelling your retail business toward success. So, make a conscious effort to show appreciation, and watch as your team thrives in a culture of positivity and high performance.
Roger Simpson – CEO, The Retail Solution and Author of “The Ultimate Retail Sales Experience” With over 35 years’ industry experience, Roger Simpson is recognized as Australia’s #1 Authority on customer ROI in the retail industry and as a global expert on staff coaching, customer service, and selling skills.
