Working in retail and the game of football have a lot more in common than you realize. Thinking back on my first job in retail, I see several distinct similarities. 1) A CROWD. Retail is one of the few professions where there are always spectators. Whether you drop a pass (register receipt jam!), fumble the ball (wrong price!) or miss the play call (don’t remember what aisle the mops are on!), people are watching your every move. 2) UNIFORMS. I never got to don shoulder pads and a helmet, but that red vest made it clear which team I played for. A store uniform makes it easy for customers to identify you for assistance, much like a uniform helps you identify who just crossed into the end zone. 3) A COACH, A QUARTERBACK. Much like a football team, every retail store has its hierarchy and roster. In retail I worked as a register supervisor. This sort of made me like a Tight End. Sometimes my job was to block (deflecting issues before they move up the chain to management) but … [Read more...] about Why Working in Retail Is Like Playing Football – Plus Win $50
Archives for September 2013
Interview Preparation: 3 Ways to Show Off Without Bragging
Interview preparation time? Read on! Even with the economy showing signs of recovery, the job market is still tough. If you have managed to score an interview with a prospective employer, you have already beaten the odds. However, you should not rest easy. An interview provides the opportunity – and the obligation – to show off your qualifications to their best advantage. That doesn’t mean resorting to outright bragging. There are more subtle ways of demonstrating that you are the right candidate for the job. Ask Thoughtful Questions Doing your homework is a basic part of interview preparation. But how do you show off all your hard work? Nearly every interview ends with an invitation from the interviewer to ask any questions you might have. Instead of asking about vacation time and salary, use this opportunity to ask questions that demonstrate that you are in tune with the company’s vision and plans. … [Read more...] about Interview Preparation: 3 Ways to Show Off Without Bragging
5 Tips To Manage Personal Internet Use in the Workplace
The Internet is essential to the operation of most businesses today, and allowing your employees to access the World Wide Web is a necessity. However, this opens up the possibility that workers will use the Internet for personal reasons during working hours, resulting in lost productivity. By following these 5 tips for managing personal Internet use in the workplace, you can avoid lost productivity without feeling the need to stand over your employees’ shoulders. Develop a Policy Develop a clear policy for personal Internet use, and make sure everyone is aware of it. … [Read more...] about 5 Tips To Manage Personal Internet Use in the Workplace