In this episode of "Tell Me Something Good About Retail," host Bob Phibbs, the Retail Doctor, and Carol Leaman discuss the post-pandemic retail landscape, emphasizing the critical role of frontline workers. Carol highlights challenges in hiring and training, revealing that 61% of frontline managers report a decline in applicant quality. They stress the importance of effective, engaging training to reduce turnover and burnout. The episode underscores the need for a supportive work environment and the potential for growth within retail careers, advocating for a more human-centric approach to managing retail employees.

1. Introduction to Carol Leaman and Axonify

- Axonify's role in supporting organizations with large frontline populations

- Industries served beyond retail

2. Post-pandemic retail landscape

- Retail's strong comeback

- Challenges in staffing and customer behavior

3. Seasonal hiring challenges

- Decline in applicant quality

- Factors contributing to hiring difficulties

4. Training challenges and solutions

- Issues with traditional training methods

- Axonify's approach to effective, bite-sized training

5. Manager burnout and its impact

- High percentage of managers considering quitting

- Importance of proper training in reducing manager stress

6. Practical ways to reduce turnover

- Examples of ineffective training methods

- Success stories with targeted, engaging training approaches

7. Future trends in retail employment

- Focus on manager support and mental health

- Emphasis on retention and career development in retail

8. Closing thoughts: The good in retail

- Retail's resurgence and opportunities

- Importance of quality customer experience

Key Quotes:

- "Retail has come back stronger than ever." - Carol Leaman

- "35 percent of managers have considered quitting in the last two months." - Carol Leaman

- "The cost of turnover is enormous for retailers." - Carol Leaman

Resources mentioned:

- Axonify's seasonal hiring survey

Call to Action:

- Rate and review the podcast

- Visit Axonify.com or SalesRX.com for more retail insights and training resources