The 2018 Rest Young Retailer of the Year Award recognises the growing talent of future leaders in the industry. This year’s award went to Louise Stephens, Coordinator for convenience stores On the Run for the Peregrine Corporation.
“I was so excited and surprised to be named the 2018 Rest Young Retailer of the Year. I aim to use the recognition to become an advocate for retail, not only within our team, but in the broader retail community as well.”
Throughout the duration of her psychology studies, Louise recognised a common thread between psychology and retail, drawing on the conclusion that retail is an industry focused on tailoring products and services to individuals.
“Treating every customer as your guest is a great way to improve the experience of everybody you interact with. Helping somebody to forget their troubles or cheering them up with a few pleasant words – these are moments that inspire you to strive for success in retail.”
Louise’s passion for retail and communications enables her to thrive in the industry, seizing every opportunity available.
“Through my work, I have always tried to show my friends and family that retail is more than just a job. Retail opens the door to a multitude of career opportunities you may never have considered. My colleagues have shown me that in retail, the right attitude can take you anywhere. If you are passionate and commit yourself, retail can be a career.”
Finding a comfortable residency in the retail sector, Louise has successfully developed the attributes required to seamlessly interact with customers and respond to customer feedback with a great deal of empathy, patience and diplomacy.
“Few industries give you the opportunity to directly improve some else’s day. Retail gives me that opportunity. Every customer I engage with is unique, so every interaction is unique. I enjoy taking the time to understand the specific needs and concerns of a customer and finding a way to create the best possible experience for them. This can be challenging, but equally rewarding. When retailers say that no day is ever the same, we truly mean it!”
With a keen eye for attention to detail and a devotion to retail, Louise is paving the way for other retail employees to step up and take the reigns of the retail future.
“The experiences you create and the relationships you build are proof that retail is one of the most dynamic and rewarding careers you can pursue. Retail opens the door to a multitude of career opportunities you may never have considered. My colleagues have shown me that in retail, the right attitude can take you anywhere.”
For more information about On the Run and The Peregrine Corporation, visit http://www.ontherun.com.au/
