Alexandra has been working part-time as a store associate at a big American fashion brand for over a decade. However, lately, she has been feeling disconnected and checked out. She mentioned that she takes shifts partly for the employee discount, to pad her savings, and to afford occasional splurges with friends, as her work as a media consultant covers her bills. Despite these benefits, there are downsides to being a part-time worker in the fashion industry.
As a part-timer, Alexandra struggles to get as many hours as she would like and often misses important meetings where new policies or procedures are discussed. This lack of communication results in her being reprimanded for breaking rules she was unaware of. She expressed frustration at the lack of support from corporate to address issues that arise in the stores, leading her to only work four hours a week and not putting in the effort to resolve issues.
Alexandra’s experience sheds light on the challenges faced by part-time workers in the fashion industry. The reliance on part-time employees is a common practice due to the seasonal nature of the industry and the cost-effectiveness of hiring part-time staff who are often paid less and do not receive benefits like health insurance. However, this model is starting to show its limitations as the labor market tightens and fewer people are willing to take on part-time roles.
Experts suggest that retailers need to create a compelling value proposition for their part-time workforce to address these challenges. Part-time employees have different needs and priorities compared to full-time workers, such as valuing peer relationships and company culture over benefits like health insurance. It is essential for retailers to recognize and cater to these differences to improve the overall employee experience.
Customer experience is also impacted by the satisfaction of part-time employees. Unhappy and undervalued employees like Alexandra may provide subpar service, affecting the shopping experience for customers. Therefore, prioritizing the well-being and engagement of part-time workers is crucial for maintaining profitability and customer satisfaction.
Retailers can improve the experience of their part-time employees by including them in team-building activities, providing outlets for feedback, and offering training and development opportunities. It is important to ensure that part-time workers have access to the same resources and information as full-time employees to perform their jobs effectively and feel included in the company culture.
Utilizing technology platforms and applications can also help streamline communication and training for part-time workers, ensuring they have the necessary tools to succeed in their roles. By investing in the development and engagement of part-time employees, retailers can create a more positive work environment, reduce turnover, and ultimately enhance the overall shopping experience for customers.
