Retail Manager (General) Onboarding Checklist

Retail Manager (General) Onboarding Process

Are you looking for help setting up a staff orientation process so that when your new Retail Manager (General) starts their role, they can learn about their responsibilities and your company as quickly as possible? Whether you’re keen to use buddy onboarding, want to automate your Retail onboarding experience or just need an onboarding checklist for your new Retail Manager (General), you’re in the right place. We’ve put together a sample Retail Manager (General) onboarding checklist below and have created onboarding templates & resources to help.

Retail Manager (General) Onboarding Checklist

1. Introduction to company policies and procedures: The new retail manager should be provided with a comprehensive overview of the company’s policies and procedures. This includes understanding the code of conduct, employee handbook, and any other relevant documents. The HR department or a designated trainer typically performs this task.

2. Familiarization with the company’s organizational structure: It is crucial for the retail manager to understand the company’s organizational structure, including the reporting lines, departments, and key personnel. This knowledge will help them navigate the organization effectively and collaborate with different teams. The HR department or a senior manager typically provides this information.

3. Store tour and introduction to staff: The new retail manager should be given a tour of the store, including an introduction to the staff members. This allows them to familiarize themselves with the physical layout of the store and begin building relationships with the team. The store manager or a designated supervisor typically performs this task.

4. Training on point-of-sale (POS) systems and other technology: As a retail manager, it is essential to be proficient in using the store’s point-of-sale system and other technology tools. Training should be provided to ensure the manager can effectively handle transactions, manage inventory, and utilize any other relevant software. The IT department or a designated trainer typically performs this task.

5. Understanding the store’s product range: The new retail manager should receive comprehensive training on the store’s product range. This includes understanding the features, benefits, and pricing of each product, as well as any promotions or sales strategies in place. The sales or merchandising department typically provides this training.

6. Learning about the store’s target market and customer base: Understanding the store’s target market and customer base is crucial for a retail manager. This includes learning about customer demographics, preferences, and buying behaviors. The marketing or sales department typically provides this information.

7. Training on store operations and procedures: The new retail manager should receive training on store operations and procedures, including opening and closing procedures, cash handling, inventory management, and visual merchandising. This training ensures the manager can effectively oversee daily operations and maintain store standards. The store manager or a designated supervisor typically provides this training.

8. Introduction to performance expectations and key performance indicators (KPIs): The new retail manager should be provided with clear performance expectations and key performance indicators (KPIs) that they will be evaluated against. This includes understanding sales targets, customer service goals, and any other relevant metrics. The HR department or a senior manager typically provides this information.

9. Training on employee management and development: As a retail manager, it is essential to have strong employee management and development skills. Training should be provided on topics such as performance management, coaching, and providing feedback. The HR department or a designated trainer typically provides this training.

10. Introduction to health and safety protocols: The new retail manager should receive training on health and safety protocols to ensure a safe working environment for both employees and customers. This includes understanding emergency procedures, first aid protocols, and any relevant safety regulations. The HR department or a designated safety officer typically provides this training.

11. Familiarization with company culture and values: Understanding the company’s culture and values is important for a retail manager to align their actions and decisions with the organization’s overall vision. This includes learning about the company’s mission statement, core values, and any cultural initiatives in place. The HR department or a senior manager typically provides this information.

12. Introduction to company communication channels: The new retail manager should be familiarized with the company’s communication channels, including email systems, intranet platforms, and any other tools used for internal communication. This ensures effective communication within the organization. The IT department or a designated trainer typically provides this information.

13. Training on customer service standards: Providing exceptional customer service is a key responsibility of a retail manager. Training should be provided on the company’s customer service standards, including how to handle customer complaints, resolve conflicts, and create a positive shopping experience. The sales or customer service department typically provides this training.

14. Introduction to company benefits and employee perks: The new retail manager should be provided with information about the company’s benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plans, vacation policies, and any other employee perks. This ensures the manager is aware of the available benefits and can communicate them to the team. The HR department typically provides this information.

15. Setting up regular check-ins and performance reviews: It is important to establish a system for regular check-ins and performance reviews with the new retail manager. This allows for ongoing feedback, goal setting, and professional development discussions. The store manager or a designated supervisor typically performs this task

Setting Up Your Employee Onboarding Process

From reading through the items in the example Retail Manager (General) checklist above, you’ll now have an idea of how you can apply best practices to getting your new Retail Manager (General) up to speed and working well in your Retail team. Scroll up to see the link to our onboarding templates & resources or get in touch to discuss getting help setting up your systems and processes in this area.