Monitor Retail Team Performance

Course Excerpt

Performance standards are benchmarks or expectations set for tasks, responsibilities, and outcomes within a retail environment. They align with overall business goals and are essential for measuring success. For example, a standard might be “achieving 95% customer satisfaction in-store surveys.”

Setting Clear Goals Using SMART Criteria

SMART goals are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. For a sales associate, a SMART goal might be “Increasing monthly sales by 10% over the next quarter by upselling products at the checkout.” These clear parameters provide focus and direction.

Using the ‘Sandwich Method’

The “sandwich method” is a popular technique used in providing feedback, particularly in management and leadership contexts. It’s designed to cushion the impact of constructive or negative feedback by “sandwiching” it between two positive statements.

Here’s how it works:

Start with a positive feedback.
Insert constructive feedback.
End with positive feedback.

Common Causes of Poor Performance

Performance isn’t just about numbers; it’s intertwined with motivation, resources, and personal circumstances. As a leader, it’s important for you to determine the root cause of the performance issue so that you can provide the appropriate approach.

Assess the following:

Unclear expectations.
Lack of Resources or Training
Personal issues or conflicts