Bridging the Divide: Insights from Stores to Transform HQ Strategies

US vs THEM! 

This battle in retail has been in existence since Retail began. 

US - Stores vs THEM - Home Office. 

Why can’t they see eye to eye? 

What has hindered these two teams from establishing a mutually beneficial and successful relationship?

This two-part series - Everything Works at HQ.  Part one titled “What HQ can learn from Stores”, is a candid exploration of the oft-overlooked wisdom that our stores hold for corporate headquarters. The goal is to bridge the gap between corporate strategies and the challenges our store teams face daily.

I’ll unpack a crucial dialogue on the disconnect between HQ's drive for business growth and the on-the-ground reality of our stores. 

In this episode, I discuss the significance of effective communication, the urgent call for a human-centric approach to training and leadership, and the revelation of a leadership gap where store leaders yearn for real growth and development opportunities.

I also help HQ and stores understand the need for "safe people" over just "safe spaces," pushing for transparency in feedback and a genuine connection between employees and management. 

Lastly, l explore the "North Star" concept, aiming for that unified vision that propels Home Office and Stores towards cohesive success.

Are you a retail leader grappling with disconnection? Do you feel the stark contrast between your retail playbook and the actual game on the floor? Stay tuned as we dissect these challenges and offer actionable insights, including why external coaching may be the lifeline your team needs.

Join us for a journey into the heart of retail where it's not just about what HQ dictates, but about listening, understanding the 'why,' and recognizing the true pace and urgency that define our stores. 

This is Retail Leadership with Steve Worthy where we're speaking the unspoken language of retail success. Let's transform retail leadership together.

Chapters

• 5:50 Most people say "capex," not "CapEx."
• 10:28 Seek execution and solutions within market segments.
• 13:54 Understanding others by walking in their shoes.
• 16:16 Importance of feedback and approachability in retail.
• 18:49 Communicate with intent, discuss the "why
• 25:50 Time impact on stores: pace, tasks, focus.
• 32:48 Define success, articulate it, and win each time.
• 36:54 LMS systems lack "moments of revelation" in learning.
• 39:22 Limitations of internal executive coaching, advocate for external programs.
• 42:51 Implementing these points will enhance team synergy.