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
New Market, New Manager
You've recently been promoted. You’re a new leader in a new market. Are you really ready for this major change?
Listen in as we discuss the challenges and tips for new leaders in a new market, emphasizing the importance of assessing the market, understanding competition, building relationships, simplifying communication, and creating a positive culture!
Key Highlights:
[01:45] It’s a big deal when you get promoted into another market.
[03:01] Dealing with fear and imposter syndrome as a new leader in a new market
[05:35] The assessment process starts well before you take over the market
[07:27] Assess yourself from a market standpoint as it relates to your competition
[12:12] Even though you are promoted, you are not the new leader in influence
[14:54] Keep your messaging & communication simple
[21:36] You have to assess your team quickly!
[31:23] Create a plan before you enter the market & adjust if necessary
[36:51] Be adaptable as a retail leader
[41:50] What does it look like when I'm being successful?
Notable Quotes:
- In retail, your competition is probably one or two blocks down. Sometimes they're in the adjacent shopping center!
- Influence is gained. It is earned. It is not given.
- Listen more than you talk. Ask a question, wait for the response.
- You're not going to change the world in your very first 30 days.
- The worst thing that you can do is to have a number of people on your team that are just like you.
- If you stay plateaued and your team plateaus, you're doing your team a disservice.
- Be water, my friend. Change before it's necessary.
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MEET STEVE!