A Proven Blueprint for Success

Are you ready to take your career to the next level and become the top-performing store manager in your company? You don’t have to settle for being in the middle or bottom third of your company rankings. If you want to be #1, it’s within your reach—and I’m here to help you get there.

Let me introduce myself: I’m Rachel Williamson, founder and principal of Running Great Stores. Years ago, as a new District Manager at Bath & Body Works, I found myself surrounded by experienced leaders with years of expertise. Despite this, from my second year through my fifth, I consistently ranked as the top-performing District Manager within a multi-billion-dollar brand with over 1,600 stores. How did I do it? What was my secret?

I achieved this without changing districts or inheriting fresh opportunities. I worked with the same team, improved their training, and upgraded their skills to create a winning culture. If you want to replicate this success, here’s a practical guide to get started.

3 Steps to Becoming the Top Store Manager

1. Evaluate Your Store

Stand outside your store and take a hard look. What do you see? More importantly, what do your customers see?

• Does your store need a fresh coat of paint?
• Are fixtures outdated or improperly placed?
• Are there broken or faded signs that need replacing?

Make a detailed list of what you need to fix, refresh, or improve to create a visually appealing and inviting space. Your store’s physical appearance plays a significant role in attracting customers and encouraging them to shop. Even if you need corporate approval for some changes, start by identifying what’s necessary. A well-maintained store tells customers you care about their experience.

2. Evaluate Yourself

Next, look in the mirror and reflect on your own performance.

• What habits or behaviors do you need to start, stop, or keep doing?
• How do you show up for your team every day? Are you positive, focused, and motivated?
• What’s your approach to hiring? Are you bringing in the right talent?
• How do you train your team to engage with customers effectively?

Ask trusted colleagues—store managers, former team members, or mentors—for feedback on what they believe you stand for. Be open to their insights, write them down, and use them to guide your personal growth. Your leadership sets the tone for your store’s success.

3. Evaluate Your Team

Finally, take a close look at the team you’ve built around you. Ask yourself:

• Are they aligned with your vision of being #1?
• Are they driven, motivated, and eager to grow, even if retail isn’t their long-term career goal?

Surround yourself with people who are hungry, humble, and smart. These are the individuals who will help you achieve your goals and elevate your store’s performance. Create an environment where everyone feels inspired to contribute their best.

Ready for the Next Step?

Once you’ve completed these three steps, reach out to me directly and I’ll provide you with the next level of strategies to continue your journey toward being the top store manager.

Success is a journey, and I’m here to guide you every step of the way. Let’s make this year the one where you rise to the top and lead your team to greatness.

Let’s go!