Assistant Manager-ANN - job 2 of 2

The Assistant Manager at LOFT in Wilmington, NC, is responsible for supporting customer experiences, fostering a strong team culture among associates, and leading on the sales floor. You'll engage with customers, mentor associates, and help create an inclusive environment. Additionally, you'll assist the Store Manager with recruitment and management while driving operational excellence through data analysis.

To apply for the Assistant Manager position at LOFT, candidates ideally should have at least one year of retail management experience. Proficiency in technology, a strong business acumen, and the ability to connect with both customers and team members in a hospitable manner are also essential qualifications for this role.

LOFT is committed to supporting the professional development of its Assistant Managers. The company offers opportunities for growth within their family of brands, providing resources that contribute to your career advancement. You'll also receive support to enhance your skills and progress in your retail management career.

The work culture for an Assistant Manager at LOFT is one of positivity, inclusivity, and support. You'll be part of a team that prioritizes creating an inviting atmosphere for both customers and associates, where collaboration, creative input, and genuine connections are valued for success.

As an Assistant Manager at LOFT, you'll enjoy a comprehensive benefits package that includes up to 50% off regular-priced merchandise, medical, dental, and vision insurance, a 401(k) plan, paid time off, and an incentive bonus program. These benefits are designed to support your personal and professional needs.

To cultivate a customer-focused environment, I prioritize active listening and empathy. I ensure that our team is trained to understand customer needs and provides personalized service that aligns with LOFT's culture and brand values. I also foster open communication within the team to continually improve our service based on customer feedback.

I believe in leading by example. Engaging positively with my team and offering consistent support creates a collaborative setting. I highlight individual strengths and encourage my team members to voice their ideas and concerns, ensuring everyone feels valued and motivated to contribute to our store's success.

In handling difficult customer situations, I stay calm and composed, actively listening to the customer's concerns. I empathize and validate their feelings while working towards a practical solution. By demonstrating a genuine desire to help, I aim to turn a negative experience into a positive resolution.

In a previous role, we implemented a new point-of-sale system, and I took the initiative to organize training sessions for my team. I communicated the benefits of the changes clearly and provided support during the transition, ensuring everyone felt comfortable and adequately trained, which facilitated a smooth implementation.

Motivating my team involves setting clear, achievable goals and celebrating milestones. I use regular check-ins to provide feedback and recognition of hard work, fostering a sense of achievement. Encouraging personal and team development through incentives also helps maintain motivation and drive performance.

I have recruited and developed talent by identifying potential strengths in candidates during interviews and focusing on their growth in the role. Once hired, I ensure new associates receive proper onboarding, mentoring them closely while providing opportunities for ongoing training and professional development.

To create an inclusive environment, I advocate for diversity training and open-dialogue sessions. I encourage associates to share their perspectives, and I actively promote an atmosphere where everyone is respected and valued, which translates into exceptional service for our diverse customer base.

Technology plays a vital role in streamlining operations and enhancing customer experiences. As Assistant Manager, I utilize retail management tools to analyze sales data and customer behavior, which helps me make informed decisions. Moreover, I train associates to effectively utilize technology, ensuring a seamless omnichannel shopping experience.

Balancing store operations and customer service requires proactive time management. I prioritize tasks based on urgency while ensuring the team remains focused on customer engagements. By delegating responsibilities and continuously communicating, we can successfully manage operations without compromising customer satisfaction.

The most important quality for an Assistant Manager at LOFT is the ability to inspire and connect with people. Whether it's coaching associates or engaging with customers, creating genuine relationships based on trust is key. This quality drives both team morale and customer loyalty, ultimately leading to success in the store.