Retail Leadership with Steve Worthy
You’ve earned your position. Now let’s make sure you lead like it.
Retail leadership isn’t what it used to be.
And if you’ve been doing this long enough, neither are you.
The job gets bigger. The expectations get louder.
But the guidance? That usually disappears right when you need it most.
And most leaders are left figuring things out quietly while still being expected to have all the answers.
This podcast is for experienced retail leaders who’ve already proven themselves
and know there has to be a better way to lead than just carrying more.
I’m Steve Worthy. I’ve spent over 30 years working across retail — from boardrooms to regional and district markets, through restructures, reinventions, and the parts of leadership no one really prepares you for.
I’ve coached thousands of retail leaders and advised teams that support the retail industry, and this podcast exists for one reason:
To give you the perspective and clarity most leaders are expected to figure out on their own.
Now let’s make sure how you lead actually matches it.
Retail Leadership with Steve Worthy
Three Reasons Why Leaders Don't Get Promoted - Part I
Have you ever missed out on a promotion? Ever wondered why your management hasn't noticed your efforts? Before you jump to conclusions, listen in as we look at the reasons why leaders don't get promoted. You might learn a thing or two!
Key Highlights
[00:01] Getting passed over for a promotion
[02:07] Why many retail workers are looking for new jobs right now
[04:52] Are you ready for the promotion?
[05:33] The importance of focused time in doing your role
[08:28] Why do you want to get promoted? Know the 3 Main Fs!
[10:00] Do you lack strategic vision?
[13:16] How to improve your strategic vision
[17:54] Developing and exporting great talent
[21:40] Resistance to change is a kiss of death!
[27:48] The best leaders are curios and ask questions
[30:41] Why understanding why you want to get promoted is important
Notable Quotes
- Time, experience, and capacity are certain things that you need within retail.
- It's not just experience that helps you; it's evaluated experiences.
- When you are getting promoted, it's not just about you. It's about those other people that you have actually helped.
- We get so fixated on the day to day that we don't think outside of our box.
- You won't get promoted if you don't have a better understanding of embracing and dealing with change.
- When you have a seat at the table, you're feeding yourself. When you don't have a seat at the table, people are feeding.
- The best leaders I know ask questions that they don't have the answer to, and they ask the questions and hope that you have the answer.
- The best leaders, the ones who are getting promoted, have a good idea of who they are and where they want to go.
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