by Delaney Consulting | Jul 12, 2013 | Managing, Managing Projects, Merchandising
How do you REALLY stack up? Recently a client with three stores asked for help to create a strategy for the next 5 -7 years. They routinely talked to their customers and employees; there was even a customer survey two years ago. They concluded: 1) They were the best... 
by Delaney Consulting | May 22, 2013 | Managing Projects, Merchandising
Last week, I outlined ways to evaluate expense reductions against a retail strategy when tough cuts need to be made. Let’s look at the other side where sales are above budget and there is the opportunity to purchase more than expected. Again, there has to be the same... 
by Delaney Consulting | May 3, 2013 | Communication, Managing, Managing Projects
Let employees know the outcome you expect and why it is important. There is nothing more demoralizing than being given a task with no sense for why it matters. Many managers spoon-feed projects instead of giving employees the perspective of the work they are doing. ... 
by Delaney Consulting | Apr 30, 2013 | Communication, Managing, Managing Projects
Delegating begins for an employee the first day on the job. Show them how to clock in, check the opening checklist for tasks to complete, demonstrate how to complete the tasks and then explain that you expect them to complete the same steps the next day. Review their... 
by Delaney Consulting | Apr 26, 2013 | Communication, Managing, Managing Projects
Great managers know how to focus on what is important. They stay focused, not just busy. I like to advise mangers struggling with delegation to use this simple 2X2 grid to map out their TO-DO list. Items that are in the upper right quadrant should get a manager’s... 
by Delaney Consulting | Apr 23, 2013 | Managing, Managing Projects, Merchandising
Many managers simply will not slow down enough and take the time to explain and document how to complete a task. Caught in a situation where time is tight and there are limited opportunities, the manager will continually complete the task on his own and then sulk...