Tips for Elevating Store Team Engagement

The Evolving Role of Store Associates

In an era dominated by self-checkouts, consumers increasingly seek human interaction in their shopping experience. According to PwC, 27% of respondents ranked access to knowledgeable and helpful store associates as a top factor for enhancing their in-store shopping experiences, a preference even more pronounced among baby boomers, with 50% ranking it as the leading factor.

For Retail Operations Managers, elevating store team engagement is crucial not only for customer satisfaction but also for staff retention, development, and overall profitability.

Understanding What Workers Want

Employee experience in retail is complex, influenced by various factors. USA Today’s analysis revealed that the retail industry ranks No. 8 in terms of employee frustration over pay. However, wages are just one piece of the puzzle. A Harvard Business Review poll showed a significant disconnect between what retail employers think their staff want and what actually motivates them to stay. 64% of retail workers cited greater convenience in getting to work as the top reason for changing jobs, ahead of pay (43%) and support from team members (41%).

Top 5 Benefits Employers Think Are Important:

1. Stable and predictable pay
2. Stable and predictable hours
3. Job security
4. Supportive supervisors
5. Level of pay

Top 5 Reasons Low-Wage Workers Left Their Last Job:

1. Convenience of getting to work location
2. Level of pay
3. Job security
4. Stable and predictable pay
5. Control over work location

Artificial Intelligence (AI)

Employers often overlook the empowering feeling of job proficiency. Competence and mastery are crucial for fostering employee engagement and satisfaction. Integrating AI can enhance productivity, reduce errors, and open up possibilities for value-added tasks.

Flexibility and Mobile Solutions

Flexibility is a key differentiator in attracting and retaining store staff. Store managers can achieve flexibility through technology, offering flexible shift scheduling, cross-training opportunities, and on-demand shift-swapping.

Perfecting the Art of Learning and Development

Learning and development (L&D) are powerful retention motivators. A Harvard Business Review report found that store teams who received pay raises and promotions were more likely to engage with learning and mentorship opportunities. The World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report reveals that nearly half (48%) of companies identify improving talent progression and promotion processes as key business practices.

Disconnect in Learning Opportunities

Despite the importance of L&D, 33% of retailers report being unaware of any opportunity for progression within their organisation, placing additional pressure on already-squeezed mid-level managers (source: Harvard Business Review).

Conclusion

Elevating store team engagement is a multifaceted challenge requiring a comprehensive approach. Cegid Retail Store Excellence is uniquely positioned to provide Retail Operations Managers with the tools and insights needed to create a more engaged, productive, and satisfied workforce. By understanding what workers want, leveraging AI, ensuring clear communication, and investing in learning and development, retailers can cultivate a thriving work environment that drives both team satisfaction and store profitability.

Ready to elevate your store teams’ engagement? Discover how Cegid Retail Store Excellence can transform your retail operations. Contact us to learn more!