1. Developing a career path in retail

2. Introduction to Harrods
Probably the most well-known store in the world
In business for over 162 years
5,000 employees from 86 nationalities
Up to 100,000 customers per day
Has built a unique reputation supported by its brand values
British; Luxury; Innovation; Sensation; Service

3. The importance of training and development
Training – on or off-the-job
Improves performance in a specific role
Increases employee motivation
Development
Enhances and extends personal capabilities,
e.g. problem-solving, decision-making
Enables Harrods to meet business goals

4. Development at Harrods
Comprehensive Learning & Development programmes for all employees
Linked to Business Competencies
Competencies mapped to recruitment process
Suitable candidates need right attitude to sales, customer service and decision-making
Variety of levels, tailored to needs
Short workshops and self-help guides
‘Bite-size’ learning

5. Developing a career path
Development programmes:
Enable retention of effective managers
Drive improvements in sales and business performance
Raise employees’ self-esteem
Provide competitive advantage for Harrods

6. Training and development options - Sales
Harrods Welcome – induction course for all
Your Theatre – sales techniques and customer awareness
Harrods Fashion programme – follows product from design to sale
Voice, body language and presentation skills workshops
Harrods Sales degree – the first and only globally recognised 2-year programme

7. Training and development options –High Potential programmes
Harrods Management Programme – aimed at developing future leaders and senior managers
The Business Academy - supports managers as they move into more senior roles
The Buying Academy - develops Assistant Buyers into Buyers of the future
The Oxford Summer School - academic learning opportunity to highlight the problems, decisions and challenges of running a retail business

8. Retaining talent Retaining employees:
Keeps recruitment costs down
Retains key skills and abilities in the business
Improves staff loyalty and commitment
Harrods strategies include offering improved conditions and benefits:
Competitive pay, employee discounts, commission and sales bonuses for individuals and teams
Regular appraisal, clear targets and two-way communication
Improved work schedules - help to give a better work-life balance

9. Careers at Harrods A career in retail is very diverse
Three key levels of staff
sales employee
department managers
senior managers
Harrods offers a clear career path for all employees, whatever level