What is your best experience at the Big Show?

Elizabeth: “I enjoyed the networking lunch. I feel that FIT is a very involved chapter and I am happy to be a part of it.”

Alicia: “I liked NRFSA meeting with other colleges and hearing what they have done throughout the year.”

What are you most looking forward to?

Elizabeth: “I can’t wait to see Bill Clinton speak as well as to network and walk through the Expo Hall.”

Alicia: “I am also looking forward to walking around the Expo Hall. I am excited to see the new technologies.”

Did you get anything out of attending the Big Show?

Elizabeth: “I would love to get an internship that can lead into a future job opportunity by attending the show, especially since I just graduated.”

Alicia: “I was most looking forward to learning about the new technologies and the information sessions that can only be learned or seen at the Big Show.”

 Fashion Institute of Technology students and faculty members gather at their booth in the Javits Convention Center at Retail’s BIG Show

In addition to meeting other students, from other colleges across the U.S., I was excited to meet Jessica Wilson, a senior recruiter for Walmart Stores. After meeting her at the NRFSA Retail Talent Networking Lunch, I was honored to have the opportunity to ask her a few questions about her career.

What was your first paying job? Any retail store experience?

“My first job was at a grocery store in Oklahoma.”

Why do you like working in retail?

“I enjoy retail due to it is a fast paced environment.”

What is the best career advice you would give to a student?

“I would say, don’t be strict to your career path. Change is always good; you never know what new doors can open into a career.”

Great advice. I enjoyed speaking with Jessica and I hope to see reacquaint with her at next year’s BIG Show!

Why do you want to work in retail?

I want to work in the retail field because it is fast paced and constantly changing. No matter where I end up I will never become complacent or bored in my career.

What has you most excited about this industry?

What thrills me about the retail industry is that innovation and creativity are highly sought after resources. This creates situations where some of the most unique people are brought together. They combine experience with novelty, operations with creativity, and excitement with passion. This is what drives not only the retail industry but the advancement for all industries around it.

Can you share what retail experience you have so far?

I am eager to start my journey of retail outside of the classroom setting as soon as possible. I am beginning the latter half of my sophomore year and the professors that I have had so far have given me a glimpse into the world of retail. The unique opportunities that come from the Walton College of Business as well as from the vendor community of Fayetteville are unsurpassed and I cannot wait to get involved with the companies that have been supporting the university. I hope to obtain an internship for this summer and begin my retail experience.

What are you most looking forward to at NRF’s BIG Show, and your visit to New York City?

During the National Retail Federation’s Big Show I am most looking forward to the NRFSA portion. The chance to represent the University of Arkansas during this portion is very exciting. But what I see to be even more engrossing is the chance to meet other students from different NRFSA groups. These are the students that are truly going above and beyond the academic sphere. Having a gathering of these students will be an enormous source of creativity, critical thinking, and chattering. I hope to build long-lasting friendships with the other students of the NRFSA and to build a tradition with them for maintaining excellence for all NRFSA groups.

I am looking forward to seeing the city for the first time since I was 13. New York has always held a certain magnetic quality which attracts some of the most vivacious personalities to the city. I am excited in particular to truly see this uniqueness shine forth in so many different avenues. I plan on trying to absorb and create as many memories as possible from my time in this mesmerizing city.

What’s your dream retail job?

My dream retail job is still in the creation stages. My mentor, Jim Cartwright, from Saatchi & Saatchi X, is helping my find me niche. Currently describing the qualities of my dream job would be much easier. I would like to be in a job where I am constantly challenged to think outside of the norms. I like to find how small changes can have such a large impact on market share and target consumers. The psychology behind the shopper’s mind has always been intriguing to me. I would either like to go into the creative side, store layouts, strategic planning, or even account management. I am actively searching out new paths every time I come into contact with another career perspective.

Please share something else about your background, your experience, your achievements that we wouldn’t know.

I have always enjoyed participating in service to others. I am a Gold Award Girl Scout and was in Girl Scouts for 12 years. In high school I was for fortunate enough to be elected captain of my high school swim team and led them to a 10th straight state championship as well as being an All American swimmer. In college I have had the privilege of being the Girl Scout Chair of Kappa Delta where I have continued my work with Girl Scouts. I have been an active part of both the Center for Retailing Excellence Student Advisory Board and on the executive team for the NRFSA. I have also been an active member of Leadership Walton and the secretary of Gamma Beta Phi, the service fraternity on our campus. It has been a privilege to be in leadership positions in college and I hope to grow into these positions as I continue to strive for academic excellence.

NRF’s Student Association (NRFSA) represents the future talent of the retail industry. Look for more “Future Faces of Retail” features as we lead up to NRF’s BIG Show in New York City.

Why do you want to work in retail? What has you most excited about this industry?

I will receive my BBA in Marketing with an emphasis in Fashion Merchandising this upcoming May. I will be able to utilize my business skills and my fashion knowledge by working in retail. Retailing is perfect for my personality. I love giving great customer service and providing customers with the right products at the right time. I’m excited to work in retail because it is fast paced and there are many opportunities for advancement. Everyday is different and will allow for me to stay challenged. To top it all off, working in retail is fun!

Can you share what retail experience you have so far?

This past summer I completed the Retail Sales Internship at Nordstrom. Since the internship I continue to work there as a sales associate during my school breaks.

What are you most looking forward to at NRF’s BIG Show, and your visit to New York City?

I am absolutely excited about attending NRF’s BIG Show! It will be an amazing opportunity for someone like me just starting my career. I am looking forward to networking with many like-minded business individuals and employers. I am also anxious and excited to meet my fellow team members from this year’s NRF and American Express’s Aspire2Retail Intercollegiate Challenge. We had a great time working together and I would love to meet them face to face.

It will also be nice to see New York City in a new light! I grew up in Philadelphia and used to travel to NYC all the time. I never have been to Times Square though!

What’s your dream retail job?

• Brand Marketing Manager
• Director of Marketing or Merchandising
• Multi-Channel Buyer

I would love to do something that combines my business skills and my knowledge of fashion. I want to be able to grow in both areas and having a job which allows me to do so is important.

Please share something else about your background, your experience, your achievements that we wouldn’t know.

I am a creative individual. I have an online portfolio and fashion blog. I also do personal styling for males and females of any age. I did styling for a magazine at Georgia Southern University. I was a fashion designer in the Night of Spectacles, a fashion charity event in Atlanta, GA. I also was a dresser for Vogue’s Fashion Night in Savannah, GA. I am also apart of Delta Sigma Pi, a professional business fraternity. I am a Student Government Association senator for the College of Business Administration. During the academic school year I work as a Community Leader or Resident Advisor.

NRF’s Student Association (NRFSA) represents the future talent of the retail industry. Look for more “Future Faces of Retail” features as we lead up to NRF’s BIG Show in New York City.

Our first feature is Lindsay Godbout, a junior at University of Arizona. Watch out Terry Lundgren, Miss Godbout has her sights set on becoming a CEO of a major retailer.

Why do you want to work in retail? What has you most excited about this industry?

I am excited for my future career in retail, because retailers function at the epicenter of our U.S. consumer-driven economy. Retailers operate at the intersection of consumer demand and manufacturer supply, providing comprehensive insight into today’s business challenges. A career in retail offers a window into multiple business disciplines including marketing, supply-chain management, buying, business management, and a host of other activities. Finally, I find the retail industry thrilling as it is face-paced, energetic and ever-changing.

Can you share what retail experience you have so far?

I have been a Sales Associate at White House Black Market for nearly two years. My experience at WHBM has been invaluable as it has taught me sales, customer service, and the basics of store economics and management.

What are you most looking forward to at NRF’s BIG Show, and your visit to New York City?

The agenda for this year’s NRF’s BIG Show is amazing. I look forward to all of the information sessions particularly the ones involving new trends and digital retailing. I know the opportunity to listen to leading retail CEOs and other senior professionals will be both informative and rewarding. I also look forward to meeting new people and networking with other retail professionals.

What’s your dream retail job?

My eventual dream retail job is to be the CEO of a major national retailer. Obviously, that is an “eventual” dream, and I am hopeful to start my retail career in buying and planning or sourcing. I know this industry offers many opportunities as well as many challenges and I look forward to the hard work and dedication a successful career will demand.

Please share something else about your background, your experience, your achievements that we wouldn’t know.

I grew up on the East Coast in the Washington, D.C. area and was fortunate to move to Arizona to attend the University of Arizona. The U of A offers a premier Retailing and Consumer Sciences Major and houses the amazing Terry J. Lundgren Center for Retailing. I am currently a junior and serve as the Vice Chair of the Student Advisory Board for the Center. I am also a founding member of the U of A’s NRFSA group and the Arizona Sales and Marketing Club. I am a proud member of the Arizona Ambassadors Honorary and the U of A’s Honors College. I chose the University of Arizona because of its stellar retail program and I am extremely grateful for the knowledge and experience it has provided me.

Look for more “Future Faces of Retail” features in the coming weeks.

Why do you think retail provides attractive career opportunities for young people today?

The dynamic, fast pace of retailing is very exciting. Every day is unique. Since you are always focused on beating last year’s sales numbers, you must bring optimism, entrepreneurialism, and analytical skills to this career.

Two of our university’s seven core values emphasize leadership and service to others. This makes Aggies a natural fit for workplace environments that require teamwork and customer service. For the student who describes himself as a “people person,” retailing offers constant, professional interaction with vendors, customers, and colleagues. Since promotion is based on achievement, careers in retailing can progress very quickly for top performers offering substantial financial compensation and responsibility.

You are the advisor for the Center’s internship program and you’ll be co-moderating a panel at NRF’s BIG Show titled “Lessons Learned from Internship Challenges and Triumphs.” Can you tell us why internships are important and how they shape a student’s professional development and career?

The percentage of companies that hire fulltime candidates from the intern pool has soared in recent years.

For students, internships provide essential workplace experience that encourages a more successful transition to professional employment. This goes beyond exposure to tangible skill building like exploring software programs, practicing retail math, or replenishing merchandise. To be successful in the workplace, students must carefully observe and adapt to fit the culture of their employer. This means learning to communicate in your boss’s preferred style and practicing appropriate “business casual” dress, which can range from jeans to simply no tie. Internships allow students the opportunity to fit into workplace expectations, understand office politics, build relationships, and assume a professional persona, rather than one of a student. By the end of a summer, students will know if retailing –with its hours, difficult customers, and culture of constant change – is for them. This is crucial to their personal career success, and their employers’ goal of long-term retention.

These are skills not taught in text books, but learned through the hands-on experience in that internships uniquely provide.

Maybe you can give us another sneak peek at the upcoming internship panel? Internships are competitive. How can students make themselves stand out?

To stand out, students must approach the job search as a three-step process. Simply loading your resume online won’t cut it.

First, do your research. Approach a recruiter able to discuss his company’s internship program with details that show you understand the requirements and opportunities it offers, such as weekly rotations, designated mentors, or special projects. Then articulate how your experience or skills can contribute to the organization. If serving as sorority president built leadership and public speaking skills, say so. If you miss last semester’s marketing research class because you enjoyed its emphasis on analysis and problem-solving, suggest that you are eager to use these critical thinking skills in a numbers-driven buying role.

Start early. As companies seek to build long-term relationships with students, they may offer multi-year internship programs. Imagine what an asset you would be after graduation if you have already completed an internship in corporate and in stores. Begin visiting career fairs during freshman and sophomore years, and focus on establishing a relationship with potential employers. Don’t forget, many companies complete their summer internship hiring prior to Thanksgiving. Waiting until you need an internship increases stress. Students may have to settle for a less-desirable position, or simply spend summer at home.

Follow-up. Send the recruiter a hand-written thank you note. This is a very personal gesture that takes time and shows initiative.

The Center for Retail Studies wrapped up its annual Retailing Summit in October. Can you share one or two highlights from the conference?

Companies that offer a higher purpose beyond profits are reshaping the face of retailing. No longer is it good enough to only offer products and services. Customers want to know what a company stands for. They want to be part of something bigger.

TheRetailing Summit’s timely discussion of Conscious Capitalism addressed how companies can generate emotional, social and financial value when they abandon outmoded operational structures that emphasize shareholder profits above all else. Whole Foods Market CEO John Mackey delivered this message when the Occupy Wall Street Movement was gaining momentum in early October, and Occupy Dallas protesters even walked past the conference hotel. Attendees applauded when Mackey said capitalism and business have lifted billions of people out of poverty, but that businesses have an obligation to do good in the world.

Your Center has partnerships with more than thirty top companies. What role do your industry partners play in the development of your students? What examples can you share that demonstrate the value of these partnerships?

Undoubtedly our corporate partners enhance the educational experience of our undergraduates. Each year we welcome almost three dozen executives into over fifty classes across multiple disciplines. Each guest speaker consults with his/her faculty host to craft presentations that complement the syllabus with case studies. This moves academic theory into real-world practice. For example, recently we hosted Jody Hall, Director of Global Sourcing for H-E-B. Students had discussed market segmentation. Hall then demonstrated how the grocery chain researched consumer trends to stock Texas shelves with premier food and wine. H-E-B then invited renowned chefs and wine makers from Spain into the store to teach its people about the products, and engage customers with the new culinary delights, not to mention the store and its brand.

Following class lectures, our top retailing students, the Zale Leadership Scholars, enjoy lunch with executive guests. In a casual setting, they inquire about career paths, hobbies, and families, and start building their professional network. This high-value learning experience teaches comfort and confidence interacting with retailing professionals. The Zale Scholars serve one year as the “ambassadors” for Texas A&M’s retailing education program. They leave with innumerable contacts and conversation starters like, “When I had lunch with the Neiman Marcus CEO…”

Any retail experience in your background? How did retail become an area of interest for you?

I worked a summer in juniors in a department store. However, I always aspired for a university career. The interaction with young people and the constant exchange of ideas exhilarates me. After graduate study, I joined Texas A&M’s division of student affairs, then moved to CRS. My passion for retailing came with this position. Whether selling toys, diamonds, tires, or apples, our corporate partners analyze human behavior to deliver goods and services that make life more fun, stylish and comfortable. It’s my privilege to work with many of the nation’s leading companies.

What else should retailers and others know about your Center’s upcoming programs and plans?

Our mission is to help retailers be great by connecting them with top talent, continuing education, and research resources that enhance their success. With an almost thirty-year tradition of excellence, the industry knows it can count on Texas A&M’s Center for Retailing Studies to be a thought leader and reliable academic partner.

Three ways NRFSA members should start getting involved right now:

1. Join the NRF Student Association LinkedIn Group.

Create a profile, share your areas of expertise and experience, and connect with other talented students who are also interested in retailing as a career. The LinkedIn Group is also open to NRF Foundation’s Employer Partners and NRFSA sponsors, making this an unique networking opportunity for all participants.

2. Make plans to attend the NRFSA student events, held in conjunction with NRF’s BIG Show in January.

Only members of NRFSA are eligible for the discounted student rate. The tentative agenda includes the second annual Retail Talent Networking Luncheon, a panel discussion on internships, and the NRFSA business meeting.

3. Sign up for Retail Careers Facebook and Twitter updates.

By following Retail Careers on Facebook and Twitter, you’ll have access to the latest news and announcements about which retailers are hiring, interviews with retailers who know what it takes to succeed in the industry, and other career advice resources.

At the launch of the association, the following fifteen colleges committed to offering members of their campus retail associations the opportunity to join NRFSA. (Read the press release for more information.)

• FIDM/The Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising
• The Fashion Institute of Technology
• Florida State University Center for Retail Merchandising and Product Development
• Georgia Southern University Center for Retail Studies
• Fashion School at Kent State University
• LIM College
• Longwood University
• Ohio University
• Retail Management Institute at Santa Clara University
• The University of Florida David F. Miller Center for Retailing Education and Research
• University of Arizona Terry J. Lundgren Center for Retailing
• University of Arkansas Center for Retailing Excellence
• University of North Texas School of Merchandising and Hospitality Management
• University of Tennessee
• University of Wisconsin-Madison The Kohl’s Center for Retailing Excellence

Interested in joining but your college isn’t listed? Colleges and universities offering a degree program with a focus in retailing, marketing, fashion, product development, finance, supply chain management, real estate or related fields should consider becoming a College Partner of NRF Foundation and taking advantage of the opportunity to join NRFSA.

Sandels Building, Florida State University’s Center for Retail Merchandising & Product Development

FSU’s Retail Center has a number of corporate partners such as Chico’s, Macy’s, Kohl’s and HSN.  What role do your partners play in the development of your students? What examples can you share that that demonstrate the value of these partnerships?

Our Center members play a very active role in our program. They speak in our classes on topics that are related to the course and share “real world” experiences with the students. They provide input for developing our curriculum so that our students are properly prepared to enter the workforce. Members give the students workshops and advice on resumes and interviewing techniques, as well as recruit our students for internships. Center members provide scholarships and speakers for our fall scholarship dinner as well as speakers and contacts for our annual spring Retail Summit.

Your center’s mission is to shape tomorrow’s retail leaders and advance retailing. Why do you think retail provides attractive career opportunities for young people today?

The students that choose our program here at FSU do so because they have already developed an interest in the retail industry. Once here, they soon discover they have made the right choice because of the exciting and abundant careers retail has to offer. What other industry will give them the opportunity to move up so quickly based on their performance and experience. This industry is so diverse and allows students to progress at a personal pace; there is no “glass ceiling” in retail!

You’ll have students graduating in May, what advice do you share with them as they apply and interview for jobs?

Throughout the students coursework we focus on “Executive Presence” working on proactive, professional and positive behavior so that they are properly prepared for their job search.  We make sure that our students understand the importance of a strong work ethic. Their first job may not be their dream job, but they can build on that experience. Two pieces of advice that we always pass on to our graduates is to “ABN” (Always be Networking) and never burn your bridges — the retail industry is surprisingly small!

There is a general misconception that retail is not a lifelong career.  What programs, classes or activities does FSU have in place that help dispel this myth, and communicate the multitude of diverse career paths available in the retail industry?

We begin at the sophomore level by acquainting our students with the many career opportunities to be had in the retail industry. Students become familiar with the numerous industry resources that are available and begin identifying and developing the skills that are necessary to succeed. Throughout their coursework they are exposed to the variety of careers to choose from in the retail industry and we encourage them to do summer internships to give them a chance to explore different types of professions. There has been a required internship in place for over 40 years and this gives the students an opportunity to research and find an internship in the retail arena that interests them and many lead to full time employment. During our annual Retail Summit, we invite our alumni back to give retail advice concerning their careers and successes and it gives the current students a chance to network and find out more about the careers of these young professionals. Right now we have four groups of students that are involved with the Florida Retail Federation Retail Masters Class in a team competition to determine the most effective, creative way to inform and excite a cross section of today’s university students about the enormous career opportunities in retail and we hope to make this an annual competition!

You recently held your Retail Summit and featured executives from JCPenney, Disney, Sports Authority and Cotton Incorporated.  Can you share some highlights of the event? What did the students learn from these retail professionals?

The Retail Summit is held in the spring and we have over 250 students attend. Our goal is to expose them to a variety of executives in an array of retail careers. One of the favorite speakers was from Disney who shared the product life cycle of Disney’s “Vinylmation” and then the students were given the actual product! The EVP from JCPenney shared her career path with the students and advised them to learn the business from the “ground up.” Sports Authority pointed out the power of the customer in this millennium; how you have to define and listen to your customer and how much social networking has affected the retail industry. Cotton Incorporated educated the students with their “dirt to shirt” concept and provided a grant that allowed the students to compete in recycling and reusing their cotton apparel. This is the second time that the students were able to participate in “speed networking” with the executives and FSU Alumni. One of the best pieces of advice an alumni shared was to always “dress and perform for the job you aspire to have.”

What else should retailers and others know about The Retail Center and your upcoming programs and plans?

HSN CEO Mindy Grossman at 17th Annual Scholarship Dinner

We will be holding our 17^th annual Scholarship Dinner in the fall. Last year Mindy Grossman, CEO and President of HSN, inspired our students with her “Eight Life Lessons.” This fall’s event will also include a special speaker and a ribbon cutting for our new labs and classrooms, featuring the Macy’s Merchandising Lab, The Office Depot Technology Lab and the yet-to-be-named Product Development Lab. We are always looking for new partners in the industry, and some of the benefits of joining the Retail Center include: providing input into a dynamic curriculum, creating an employer of choice strategy, and creating a visibility strategy for their companies.

We’re thrilled to introduce the following students, who you’ll be hearing from over the next few days.

Nekiya Covington
Florida State University
Graduation Year: 2011
Major/Degree: Retail Merchandising and Product Development
Twitter Account: @nec72288

Why are you attending NRF’s BIG Show?
As a participant in the NRF’s 2011 Aspire2Retail Intercollegiate Retail Challenge, I was provided the opportunity to attend the BIG Show this year. I am excited about attending the NRF’s educational sessions, exploring the expo’s floor, and being able to attend the largest retail conference in the world. I am honored to be one of few students to represent my university here at the convention.

What are you most looking forward to?
I am most looking forward to exploring the EXPO Hall. I have never been to a retail expo before, so I am ecstatic about seeing the new technologies and innovations that will be presented on the expo floor.

What’s your dream retail job?
My dream is to become the CEO of my own chain of children’s wear boutiques.

Jena Glick
LIM College
Graduation Year: 2013
Major/Degree: Fashion Marketing
Twitter Account: @jenaleslieg

Why are you attending NRF’s BIG Show?
To learn, to network, to be up-to-date in the retail news, and to educate others who couldn’t attend by blogging.

What are you most looking forward to?
Hearing what everyone has to say about the generation of techies. The big focus seems to be about mobile devices and their use in the retailing industry.

What’s your dream retail job?
Run a retail blog. I’m working on it, I currently write for Racked NY, a blog about retail and fashion in the New York City area.

Tatsiana Yafremava
Fashion Institute of Technology
Graduation Year: 2010
Major/Degree: Fashion Merchandising Management
Twitter Account: @Tatsiana_Y

Why are you attending NRF’s BIG Show?
It is an honor to represent my school, FIT, at the Big Show and raise awareness about its outstanding academic program and instructors. I also look forward to attending NRF’s educational session about the innovations and the current trends in the retail industry.

What are you most looking forward to?
As a recent graduate pursuing a career in fashion, I definitely look forward to networking opportunities. Attending the Big Show is a also a great chance to learn about the future of retail directly from some of the most prominent industry leaders.

What’s your dream retail job?
My dream is to become a Buyer for a specialty retail company.

Maria Roberts
Fashion Institute of Technology
Graduation Year: May 2010
Major/Degree: Fashion Merchandising Management (FMM)
Twitter Account: @mariarobertsFIT

Why are you attending NRF’s BIG Show?
I am always looking for extra curricular activities to better myself. Attending the NRF conference is a great opportunity to listen to those that have earned the right to be listened to and I believe that is the best way to learn.

What are you most looking forward to?
I am looking forward to hearing from some of the greatest individuals in the industry so that I can be up to date with the changes that are occurring, as well as networking with as many retailers as possible.

What’s your dream retail job?
I aspire to work with a recognized company that has an admirable history that I can learn from, as well as a positive potential future that I can contribute to so that I can make a measurable difference within the company to create a win-win-win for the customer, company, and myself.

Maddi Weinstein
University of Arizona
Graduation Year: 2012
Major/Degree: Retail and Consumer Sciences
Twitter Account: @maddiweinstein

Why are you attending NRF’s BIG Show?
I am attending NRF’s BIG Show as a representative of the University of Arizona’s Retail and Consumer Sciences program, as well as a member of the Student Advisory Board for the Terry J. Lundgren Center for Retailing. I am here to not only network and listen to guest speakers, but to learn from the best of the best in the Retail industry.

What are you most looking forward to?
I am looking forward to gaining insight to the industry as a whole from the people whose actions affect it daily, as well as being able to learn something new from each person I have the opportunity to speak with and get to know.

What’s your dream retail job?
My dream retail job is becoming a Buyer for a national, retail department store.

Adena Stein
University of Arizona
Graduation Year: 2011
Major/Degree: Retailing and Consumer Sciences
Twitter Account: @adenastein

Why are you attending NRF’s BIG Show?
I am attending NRF’s BIG Show as a Student Advisory Board Ambassador or the Terry J. Lundgren Center for Retailing and NRF Collegiate Blogger. I am here to broaden my professional network and represent the Retailing program for the University of Arizona.

What are you most looking forward to?
I am looking forward to meeting all of the people who paved the road I am taking toward my career. I am eager to watch, listen, and learn, while also networking and broadening my horizons.

What’s your dream retail job?
My dream retail job would be in Marketing and Event Coordination for retailers in American and European metropolitan venues.

Kip Tindell, CEO of The Container Store Kicks Off the First Annual Retail Talent Networking Luncheon

After the welcome message, the students were assigned a specific table with approximately seven to eight other college students. No time was wasted once everyone finished eating. The speed networking began right on time with the retailers starting at a designated table. Eight-minute intervals were given for each retailer to speak about their company and background before opening up the discussion for specific questions from the students.

Some companies that were present include: J. Crew, Macy’s, L’Oreal, The Container Store, Five Below, Sears Holdings Group, H&M, Toys “R” Us and Sleepy’s. By the end of the session, each table of students was able to hear from six different companies. Resumes were exchanged for business cards and everyone walked out of the conference room with more knowledge than when they came in. This speed-networking event was incredibly beneficial for both the students and the retailers.

Retailers Speed Network with Students from NRF Foundation’s Partner Colleges

NRF Foundation has added a new feature – a retail talent networking luncheon – to this year’s NRF BIG Show to honor the 100th anniversary. We have invited more than 100 students, from the best U.S. universities for programs in retailing and related areas of concentration, to join us at the 100th Annual Convention to represent NRF’s and retailing’s next 100 years.

We are also inviting retailers to send two recruiters to represent their company and “speed-network” with the students at the luncheon.

NRFF will hold the networking luncheon for students and retail recruiters on Sunday, January 9, from 12:00 noon – 1:30 pm, at the Jacob Javits Center in New York City. After lunch the recruiters, working as a team, will have the opportunity to meet with eight students at a time. There will be seven rounds of networking, giving recruiters a chance to meet and talk with 56 students. In addition, we will provide resumes of *all* students who attend the event after the Show concludes. This event is not officially part of the convention program, so recruiters do not have to register for the Show to attend. (If you are interested in attending, learn more about registering for the Show.)

Following the luncheon, NRF Foundation is excited to hold the inaugural meeting of the new NRF Student Association (NRFSA) where the students will work in groups to share ideas and make recommendations for the governance and activities of the new NRFSA. This group of “charter members” will work with NRFF staff in the coming semester to get the program ready to roll out to other U.S. colleges and universities that offer relevant programs to retailers in time for the Fall semester. The association will be the only one of its kind and will provide opportunities for retailers, students and academics to engage to help NRFF deliver a passionate, knowledgeable and committed next generation of retail talent to the industry. The NRFSA meeting will take place from 1:45 – 3:00 pm. If you plan to attend the luncheon event, you are welcome to stay for this event and see the students in action!

There is no cost for our Employer Partners to attend the networking luncheon, but for those retailers who have not had an opportunity to become a partner the cost to attend this event is $500.00 for two company representatives. Should your company decide to become an NRFF Employer Partner within the next six months, we will apply this fee toward the one-time, $5,000.00 partnership fee. (For more information about our Employer Partners.)

Student attendance at the luncheon is reserved for our College and University Partners. (For more information about our College Partners.)

Retail recruiters, we hope you, or someone from your company, will attend this exciting event to meet retail’s future talent! For those interested in participating, please RSVP to Sarah Conrad at conrads@nrf.com.

UW-Madison has a long lasting relationship with China. Over 1,200 current students are from China – more than from any other country. There are over 1,600 alumni currently live in China.  Tell us about the presentation delivered by your alumni, Mr. and Mrs. Fang. What did you learn about retail brand management?

Mr. and Mrs. Fang gave an awesome presentation on the retailing industry in China and what needs to be considered by companies trying to enter the market. A large part of launching and expanding a brand in China relies on the background and cultural issues of the country. For example, the ratio of males to females continues to grow. With the past history of the “one child policy,” there are many more boys/men than girls/women. This is important to keep in mind when merchandising and determining a product assortment. The Fangs also focused on the geographical differences within the country of China. Almost all major cities are located along the coast, specifically the Eastern coast.

Jeffrey and Christine Fang, UW alumni, deliver a presentation about retailing in China

Retailers need to consider this when choosing a location to launch in. Moving further inland is likely to hurt their chances of gaining market share and establishing a stable brand reputation with the Chinese consumer. The luxury market and its domination is something the Fangs mentioned. China’s social statuses are very divided from poor to affluent.

What did you learn about retail operations in China that differs from the U.S.?

I really noticed that many sales associates at clothing retailers wear uniforms. There is also a lack of visual merchandising as compared to in the United States. The level of customer service was also very different and de-emphasized. The language barrier might have been what lead to this, but when I would observe associates interacting with Chinese consumers, there wasn’t that much of a difference.

Tell us about opportunities you became aware of for/about retailers in China that you did not know about before?

The middle class is somewhere that I think retailers can attempt to expand on. We learned that that the luxury market in China is extremely successful, yet when you look at the breakdown of social statuses, there are really only polar opposites-poor vs. affluent. However, many presenters throughout our trip emphasized the growing middle class.  This may be an area for retailers to capitalize on.

After this trip, can you picture yourself living and working in retail in Hong Kong or Shanghai?

Personally, I cannot see myself working in Hong Kong or Shanghai, but I definitely see myself working with companies and partners in the East.  This trip has made me realize how global the retailing industry has become, and I value the importance of keeping relationships in countries, like China.

What’s your most memorable experience from the trip?

My most memorable moment of the trip was the last night in Shanghai.  Our group was invited to join UW’s Chancellor Biddy Martin for an alumni reception. Chancellor Martin was in China connecting with universities and spreading the “Wisconsin Idea.” I thought it was a great event, as it really wrapped up the entire trip. At the reception, there were alumni that live in China, parents of current and future students, faculty, and students. The event emphasized the role UW can, and does, have on a global scale.  I realized that being a student of the University of Wisconsin I am capable of many things beyond our state and nation.

University of Wisconsin-Madison is one of NRF Foundation’s college partners.

UW-Madison has more than 1,200 students from China, more than from any other country, and its 70 Chinese faculty are believed to be the most at a single institution in the U.S.  The university also boasts more than 25 projects, programs and partnerships involving UW-Madison and China.  Tell us more about this relationship.  What can be said about the importance of studying China as it relates to the future of the retail industry?

Yes, China and the UW have had a long standing relationship.  As a matter of fact while we were there, the UW Madison Chancellor, Biddy Martin was traveling with a group to further develop the relationship.

As the country, where a majority of goods for U.S. retailers are sourced, it is critical that our students have an understanding of China in order to understand U.S retail.  And the trip allowed our students to really develop a global view of the retailing industry.

The students’ enthusiasm for Chinese culture was evident as they detailed their experiences on the SOHE blog.  They visited the Tian Tan Buddha statue, Victoria Harbor, and sampled the food from Hong Kong’s most popular restaurants.  What can be said about your students’ eagerness for adventure?  How does it relate to their future retail career?

Our students continually demonstrate an enthusiasm for new experiences and learnings.  They really are fearless, rather than see obstacles they see opportunities.  They are so open to gathering other view points and to rethinking paradigms they’ve lived with all their lives.  This attitude will be a great advantage to them in their careers in retail.  They see the global community as a huge opportunity not something to be feared and they are willing to look for new ways to do things.

What was significant about visiting Li & Fung Corporate Headquarters?  How did learning about their retail operations contribute to the students’ curriculum?

Li and Fung is the premiere sourcing company in the world.  They have a developed an operational model that is truly unique and really is global.  The opportunity to visit their headquarters and hear from their leaders was invaluable.  The discussions were so broadening.  You could actually see the students thinking differently.

UW Students gather in the Li & Fung showrooms

What’s your most memorable experience from the trip?

I was actually thrilled to see the students grow.  We spend a lot of time in class discussing globalization, and emerging markets.  This trip brought all this to reality.  It was amazing to see the students and how prepared they were to absorb the experience.

On a personal level, the history in China is amazing.  We visited a 1,200 year old Buddhist temple that is still serving worshipers.  That kind of history is mind boggling for those of us in the U.S.

The students climbed hundreds of steps to visit the Buddhist temple.

What role did Kohl’s Department Stores and your other corporate partners play in making this trip possible?

The Center would not exist with out all of our Corporate Partners.  Kohl’s is amazingly generous in their support of our students.  Kohl’s suggested we look into the trip.  They funded the trip and helped us coordinate with Li and Fung.

Kohl’s simply provided a life changing opportunity for the students.  We could not be more grateful.  And all of our partners benefit from students who were afforded the opportunity to go on the trip.

Will you be returning to China with a new group of students in Spring 2011?

It’s too early to say for sure but it is certainly something we need to explore.  The trip was amazingly valuable.

What’s next for the Kohl’s Department Stores Center for Retailing Excellence?  Were you able to attend the NARMS Annual Conference last month?

We did in fact attend the NARMS conference.  And our students were exposed to an aspect of the industry that get’s very little attention on our curriculum.  NARMS was so generous in funding the trip for 12 of our students and allowing them to attend all of the educational and networking events.   As is always our goal it proved to be a great way to expand our definition of retail and to open new opportunities for our students.

Anything else you’d like to share?

Our center is so fortunate to have a great list of partners providing educational and career opportunities for our students.  We get to visit corporate headquarters, tour stores, and bring top leadership from each partner to campus to share their perspectives.  Our partners should be proud of their contribution to the education of the next generation.

There is no more important endeavor than education.

Learn more about the Kohl’s Center for Retailing Excellence, and follow them on Twitter.

As Director of the Terry J. Lundgren Center for Retailing at the University of Arizona, you collaborate with 30 industry corporate partners to expand resources available to faculty and students to support education, outreach and research. How have these partners contributed to the development of your students? Can you share an example?

The partners in the Lundgren Center are essential to our success. We strive to build a bridge from the classroom to industry and we do this by involving our partners. In this past year we have hosted executives in the classroom, sponsored professional development workshops, coordinated field trips and study tours. The Lundgren Center provides an entry point for our partners to reach out to students, build relationships and hopefully successfully recruit tomorrow’s retail stars.

PetSmart is an excellent example of a partner who contributes a great deal through the Lundgren Center, and in return reaps numerous benefits. We offer a career development class we call the “Career Wise Cats” where students develop a resume, perfect their interviewing skills and identify a career path that interests them. Petsmart executives regularly present in class and offer interviewing tips and career guidance. The students in the class are also eligible to interview for Petsmart summer internships, academic scholarships or part time peer-to-peer mentoring positions.  Both PetSmart and the Lundgren Center consider the program a great success – students develop their professional skills and PetSmart identifies talent for internships and training programs.

Your center is named after Macy’s President & CEO. What roles does Mr. Lundgren play in the center? How has he helped retail careers?

Mr. Lundgren is a 1975 graduate of the University of Arizona and as an alumnus of this great university he is a role model for our students and resource for faculty. He has been invaluable in helping us shape our vision for the Lundgren Center for Retailing. He visits campus once a year and provides our students with a strong perspective on what it takes to lead a successful organization like Macy’s. He supports our belief that centers like the Lundgren Center for Retailing are critical in highlighting opportunity and building interest among students in retailing careers.

Tell us why internships are important and how they shape a student’s professional development and career.

Our academic program encourages all Retailing and Consumer Sciences students to complete an internship between the junior and senior year. We structure the internship so students can earn up to nine units of academic credit with a 10 – 12 week internship. The experience is an important balance to the classroom. We know that students hoping for placement in an executive development program with a retailer when they graduate must demonstrate some level of real world knowledge about the industry. The internship provides this exposure and builds knowledge of the company. Students who graduate with our academic major and a structured internship are in high demand by the retailing industry. Many already have a job offer waiting for them when they graduate.

Do you have any stellar graduates making a name in retailing you’d like to mention?

We are very proud of the accomplishments of our graduates. We have many working today for department, discount and specialty retailers in buying, planning, visual merchandising, marketing and human resources. Many have also chosen to work in manufacturing as sales managers. It is rewarding to see where how the careers of our alums unfold, many stay in the industry while some have returned to get law degrees, MBA’s or PhD’s.

What does the Lundgren Center offer retailers and related employers that is different from other schools? Tell us about the program’s collaboration with the Eller College of Management and why that is significant.

The University of Arizona has an enrollment of 38,000 students and an excellent Career Center that serves the needs of several hundred employers who recruit on our campus. What is often difficult for recruiters is finding the connection with the right student groups, clubs or classrooms in order to meet candidates. The Lundgren Center offers the opportunity for partnership and a place to connect with outstanding students and faculty. Every partner in the Lundgren Center has a student ambassador to assist with recruiting. Our faculty invite retailers into class and we sponsor an award winning SIFE Team. The Lundgren Center represents all retailers and promotes retailing careers to all students at the University of Arizona.

The McClelland Park Building, a 72,000 square foot new building, is the home for John and Doris School of Family and Consumer Sciences and your center. Talk more about this building, the classes you offer and how it benefits efforts to recruit more students to retail programs.

Our building has brought excellent visibility on campus to the retailing program. In our bright, light-filled building students can enroll in over 14 courses that focus on all elements of the retailing industry such as retail strategy, brand management, marketing strategy, global retailing and consumer behavior. With this new visibility has come significant growth in our retailing program – over 500 students are now majoring in Retailing and Consumer Sciences. To manage this growth and improve the overall quality of our graduates there are rigorous academic and GPA requirements. Our students must complete accounting, statistics, business math, economics and research methods courses before they can declare themselves retailing majors. In this way we are assured that incoming students have the strong quantitative skills our companies are seeking.

There are some star retailers headlining the Global Retailing Conference this year – executives from Macy’s, The Home Depot, Walmart, Kohl’s, JCPenney and fashion designer Rachel Roy to name a few. What or who are you looking forward to the most? What do your students gain from attending the conference?

Our conference this year is at the new Dove Mountain Ritz Carlton and offers a very strong lineup – an unbeatable combination. Personally I am looking forward to learning more about the innovative strategies in place among all the successful companies represented. I can’t say there is one speaker I am looking forward to over another, I usually get at least one good piece of information from every speaker. We make a point of opening the conference to our retailing students, and they turn out in high numbers. The students get exposure to some of the brightest minds in the industry today and they are offered an unparalleled networking opportunity.

What else should retailers know about the Terry J. Lundgren Center and your programs and plans?

I am always looking for partners who share our enthusiasm and commitment to the development of tomorrow’s retail stars. If you would like more information about partnering opportunities please contact me at mburke@ag.arizona.edu. You can also find the Center on Facebook and Twitter.

University of Arizona’s Lundgren Center for Retailing is one of NRF Foundation’s College Partners. Melinda Burke also serves on NRF Foundation’s Board of Directors.

Katie Loftus and Abby Kessler, co-owners of Smak Parlour

I read that over the past 5 years, Philadelphia has developed its own fashion community, marketing the city’s potential for an even bigger fashion scene.  How is your store contributing to this new focus of retail and design?  What do you think of the Philadelphia fashion scene?

Old City, Philadelphia is an awesome location to have an independently owned business. All of our neighbors do creative things, Philadelphia has a very DIY (do it yourself) feel and we’re proud to be a part of it. We contribute to this by designing and making our clothing in Philadelphia, thus creating jobs and being able to offer special, limited-edition items to our customers who love looking unique. We also support local artists by selling their jewelry and accessories.

The store design of Smak Parlour includes pinks, reds, blacks, stripes, polka dots a dozen chandeliers hanging from the ceiling. And, you design clothing based on what you want to wear. From where do you draw your inspiration?

We’re actually up to 16 chandeliers at this point!  We really draw inspiration from each other. We love looking back at different eras of fashion and getting inspired (pin- ups, 80’s, old Hollywood and more)! We love bouncing ideas off each other, we can get very imaginative!

You design clothing based on what you want to wear, so obviously you wear a lot of things from your own line. What are some of your favorite items? And, where are some other places you like to shop?

You might spot at least one of us wearing our signature ruffle hoodie. It is a long zip-up sweatshirt made of the softest baby french terry with luxurious gathered ruffles around the hood. We also love our over-sized sparkly turtlenecks that are sewn on to tanks, tees and tunics. We order styles from other vendors that we want to wear in addition to our own line, and ordering all of those items is a total shopping spree for us. Since we have such a broad range of items from jackets to shoes, for the most part, we really do only shop here!

Who is your typical customer?  Describe the “girl” who shops at Smak Parlour.

Our customers love fun, rock ’n roll, retro, girly, glam, 80’s, pin-up, vintage-inspired styles! It’s a lifestyle, not an age.

Smak Parlour’s store design.

Not too long ago, you doubled the size of your store and included other items such as housewares. Where do you see Smak Parlour business 5 years from now?

Five years is a long time so you never know! We are driven and open to whatever opportunities come our way! We know one thing for sure, we’re going to continue to design & produce our clothing locally and seek out even more unique things to keep getting fuller and fuller… with more and more to offer.

You started your business 5 years ago and have survived one of the most challenging economic times in retail history.  How did you prepare and overcome these challenges?

With our expansion, we brought in more brands of clothing, jewelry, lingerie, accessories, gifts and most OF ALL DIFFERENT PRICE POINTS! In troubled times like these, people always need a pick-me-up (some shopping therapy)! There’s something here everyone can afford.

Can you give us specific examples of items you’re selling at specific price points?

We have dangling chain earrings, carved lucite rose rings, heart compact mirrors, undies, picture frames, gloves, books, and retro oven mitts for $12 or less. For $25 or less, we have sunglasses, hair accessories, scarves, hats, many styles of earrings and bracelets, tank tops, tees, leggings, wallets, piggy banks, umbrellas, candles, baby onesies, ice cube trays, coaster sets, and eyemasks. In the $45-$100 range, we have dresses, jackets, cardigans, skirts, tunics, tops, blouses, lingerie, shoes, curtain sets and vases.

How is your business doing? What makes it most successful?

Overall, our business is doing great. Of course, we feel the economic challenges but we are offering affordable price points and we get new things almost every day. We genuinely enjoy what we do and are truly happy to be “at work.” We are often told that our shop has an uplifting, friendly, upbeat vibe… we love that our customers leave smiling and in a good mood. Perhaps that’s part of why they keep coming back.

Jewelry and accessories were an important component to Smak Parlour’s expansion.

Tell us about the wholesale business you created while at Drexel University.

Our line was SMAK by Abby & Katie, deconstructed, embellished, silkscreened t- shirts. It was in hip, cool boutiques across the country.

Drexel awarded you the Entrepreneurial Award recognizing your use of education, initiative and innovation to create a new business.  Tell us how they’ve supported you through your venture.

Drexel’s been so supportive of our shop! They awarded us an Entrepreneurial Award and continue to send students our way. Many professors bring their classes into our shop for a meet and greet. We love speaking to eager students and answering their questions.

What role does e-commerce play in your business?

We have a website with gifts, house-wares, baby clothes, jewelry, and accessories for sale. Stay tuned for more!

What’s currently the best selling item in your store?

Our new burn-out tees are hot sellers! They’re great… they come in all different colors, they are $22 and you can layer them on top of each other. They’re long enough to wear with leggings!

Starting a retail boutique business with your best friend (since the age of 15) sounds like something of a dream, but also something that could turn out to be a nightmare.  Tell us how you make the partnership (and friendship) work and how you share decision-making.

Katie – It’s absolutely a dream come true to work with Abby! I can’t imagine doing this without her. We always want to make sure the other one is happy, no matter what, so sharing decisions and getting along effortlessly comes easy to us.

Abby – We never fight. It sounds like a lie, but it’s true.

As store owners, you’re in charge of design, inventory, finance, and hiring. What criteria do you look for when hiring an employee?

Experience, personality and drive are important but, most of all, they should have an interest.

What advice do you have for a student looking toward a career in retail?

You must be passionate about fashion – it’s a lot of hard work and long hours so it requires dedication. It is absolutely worth it if you love what you do!

Name: Stephanie Olinski

College/University: University of Arizona

Graduation Year: 2012

Degree: B.S. in Retail and Consumer Sciences, General Business Minor

Why did you attend NRF’s BIG Show?

I attended the NRF Big Show to expand my knowledge of the industry I am passionate about. I thought it would be a fantastic chance to network and meet some of the most powerful people in retail. Plus, it was in New York. How could I not go?

What was your favorite Super Session and why?

My favorite Super Session was the New Luxury Paradigm with Tory Burch. It was great to hear the affects of social media today as a blogger and Twitter-er myself.

What was the most exciting thing you saw or learned?

The most exciting thing was the whole BIG show itself. I especially like the Design studio since my career interests are in visual merchandising and fashion marketing.

What other fun things did you do while in New York City?

I met up with a friend that had recently moved there and explored the magnificent 5^th Ave. I literally could have spent hours in all those stores just staring at everything. I also went shopping at Uniqlo after hearing so much about it.

What’s your dream retail job?

My dream retail job would be being CEO of a fashion and design magazine while living in New York.

Check out other student profiles from Dartmouth, the University of Wisconsin-Madison, and the University of Michigan.

Students from the University of Wisconsin-Madison at their exhibit booth
in the Expo Hall at NRF’s BIG Show in New York City, January 2010.

Name: Treena Nicole Fischer

University: University of Wisconsin-Madison

Graduation Year: 2010

Degree: BA in Art History, Business minor

Why did you attend NRF’s BIG Show?

After deciding to enter the retail industry as a graduating senior, I realized that my academic opportunities are limited in terms of the number and variety of courses I can take concerning the field. Having the chance to listen and learn from industry executives at the NRF’s BIG Show was an amazing opportunity that allowed me to gain real world experience in a very open, welcoming setting. I also participated in the American Express Aspire2Retail Student Challenge, and although my team did not win the competition, I attended to cheer on my fellow Univeristy of Wisconsin teammate.

What was your favorite Super Session and why?

My favorite Super Session was Sustainability in Retail – Increasing Profitability and Impacting the World. The speakers focused on leading strategies that retailers can take in order to profit by holistically managing the environmental and economic aspects of their business. Peter Graf of SAP focused on energy management and compliance and on really understanding a business’s environmental and social impact. The overall shift in recent years toward more sustainable industry behavior has led to reductions in carbon output, material waste and electrical usage. Matt Kistler, senior VP of sustainability for Wal-Mart Stores, highlighted the idea of the entire company being involved in making the necessary changes, including top buy-in from executives, because sustainability is bigger than making a bunch of money. It triggers more intelligent consumption and preserves resources for future business. What else is good? Often planning operations in more sustainable methods also leads to cost reductions, more efficient management of resources, and creates an integrated momentum throughout the entire market channel (from manufacturer to final consumer) of a single market force that is driving down waste and pollution while empowering an exciting “cultural change.”

What was the most exciting thing you saw or learned?

I was really excited to visit the Design Studio. I’m majoring in Art History because I don’t have the hands of an artist, just her eyes. I was bewildered and entranced by some of the visual merchandising presentations, and meeting with different retail design companies was like taking a walk through Alice in Wonderland. It was exotic, expressive, and truly inspiring. While the world of retail is one of sales and costs, like any business, it is also a visual playground which, from stores to catalogs or ad-campaigns, makes the experience of being a consumer so much more beautiful.

What other fun things did you do while in New York City?

Since I traveled to New York with the Kohl’s Center for Retailing Excellence at University of Wisconsin-Madison, my group got to visit the Kohl’s Design Studio, Macy’s, and Li & Fung. I also got to meet renowned designer Vera Wang and sit front-row for a mini fashion show at her studio. I will never forget the experience! I love you, Vera!

What’s your dream retail job?

I love so many aspects of the retail industry that it’s hard to narrow down a dream job. I’d have to say that I’d love to be a liason between design and merchandising for a luxury brand. I love looking for trends and putting together creative ideas for new fashions, but I also like the analytical side of the business, the organization, planning and after-sale evaluation. I just want to help make retail more aesthetically pleasing, environmentally and socially responsible, and get to work with fashion and communications on a daily basis.

Check out other student profiles from Dartmouth, the University of Arizona and the University of Michigan.

Being in New York City is reason enough to write this, but as an added bonus (or should I say main reason for coming) I am attending the NRF Big Show. As a college student, this is a glimpse into the world I hope to be fully submerged into within the next couple years.  

I attended a super session called “The Power of Retail Design” by Joseph Bona and John Wilkins. “Take the product out of the store, and you should still be able to tell what the store represents.” This is a quote that took me by surprise; the design of retail embodies everything from the clothes itself, to the walls and flooring acting as a backdrop to sell the clothing. It’s about creating an atmosphere overall, that creates a good shopping experience. At Ben Sherman stores, they take an anti-retail design approach. The store is plastered with British flags anywhere from the floors to the walls. In one room there is wooden table and thick leather studded chairs, with a chandelier hanging above. Supposedly this pays tribute to when Ben Sherman himself, swung from a chandelier at a party. In this scenario, the clothes are the backdrop, while the focus is on creating a sense of loyalty and leisure. It’s almost like an odd version of your own house, except your house filled with fashionable clothing, who wouldn’t want that?  

I love New York City, I love being at this convention and I love working and being student within the retail industry.  All three of these reasons confirm I am on the right track, unlike many other unsure college students.

Maybe one day, you will be seeing me at the NRF Big Show, not as a student, but representing a company and coming to find the latest and greatest within retail. See you there!

Kalie is a junior at the University of Arizona, one of the Foundation’s college partners.

To better share the exciting programs and activities of our College and University Partners, we’re going to start profiling them here, on our Retail Careers Blog. To kick things off, I interviewed Paul Barrett, Dean at Longwood University, to hear his perspectives on challenges facing the retail industry and the importance of continuing education.

When NRF Foundation met with you and other faculty members from Longwood University a month ago, there was discussion about “professionalizing” the retail industry. Can you share your thoughts on that?

Today’s retailing ranges from small locally owned/operated to large, international stores with massive annual sales.  Retailers face a challenging environment – economic, technological, global and demographic changes mean they need to develop their skill sets in order to thrive.  They must be analytical and possess the business savvy to turn information into useful insight.  Tomorrow’s retail leaders must be professionals who are well grounded  in sales, logistics, customer service/relationships, human resource management, multi-channel marketing, international relations, government affairs…and more.

Are these reasons why someone should have an advanced degree in retail? What are other benefits?

The world is a knowledge-based economy – a place where data is typically available; however, the skills of interpretation, strategic application and plan execution become the differentiators of success.  Undergraduate degree programs can develop great managers, but exposure to advanced thinking and results driven analysis through a Retail MBA program will take the industry to the next level.  “All things are never equal”, but an advanced degree in retail can equip tomorrow’s thought leaders with the tools of global leadership.

Longwood University is currently enrolling candidates for its online Retail Management MBA. Is the future of education online?

Education likely will always offer various learning method however, we believe that advanced learning needs to fit the lifestyle and mobility requirements of tomorrow’s retail leaders who will be based all over the world.  So, our program is principally an online MBA offering combined with three required long-weekend residencies on Longwood’s campus.

Students will meet on campus once at the beginning, middle, and end of their program.  This allows them to meet each other and the faculty, to be introduced to the content they will encounter during the MBA program, and to understand the passage they will be undertaking as a class.

In addition, students will benefit from working with visiting retail practitioners during each residency. The on-campus residencies enable the students to develop a sense of community and support – an important aspect as they work together through this rigorous program.

The rest of the MBA program will be done from the student’s home location on the Internet.  The combination of online classes and on-campus residencies gives students flexibility, while at the same time providing students with a sense of belonging to the Longwood MBA community.

You’ve discussed Longwood’s concept of infusing ethics in all business courses, rather than just offering a course in ethics. Can you talk more about that?

In the past almost all business schools offered or required ethics as a single course.  Longwood is integrating ethics into all of its business courses through instruction, case work, guest lectures, and more.  And, because we believe we have a responsibility to model ethics for our students, the College of Business and Economics has adopted its own Values statement.  Our 7 Values guide our conduct in areas such as integrity, accountability, respect, communication, and teamwork.

Logistics and supply chain are crucial aspects of retail. I understand Longwood has a strong logistics and supply chain program. Can you share some highlights of this program?

Actually, we are developing two more supply chain / logistics courses to complete a concentration in logistics in our online MBA program. We expect this new concentration to be open for business in the summer of 2011.  Supply chain management is one of the underpinnings of any successful retail operation.  Global supply chain management for the successful retail operation is marketing, engineering, management information systems and operations management.  Our program will interweave all of these disciplines into a common process for professionals who are working hard in today’s complex world of supply chain management.

Our online MBA in logistics will provide a unique focus on “green,” and LEED and bottleneck-reducing programs. Our modeling and simulation research will become a terrific platform for the future success of both government and commercial stakeholders.

Can you share more about your background? Any retail experience there?

Sure. I am a past CEO/Principal of a company specializing in computerized accounting systems for the fast food industry. Client firms included Burger King, Kentucky Fried Chicken, Roy Rogers, Taco Bell and Boardwalk Fries. I am also a past Business Development Manager/Principal for one of the largest Hewlett Packard dealers in the U.S.  Both of these entrepreneurial experiences were laced with retail selling activities.  And after these experiences I had my first book published entitled “Business $ense – The Practical Guide to Business Success” and entered the world of business consulting. For more than 15 years I worked as an Executive Coach and Business, Financial and Tax Counselor to a wide variety of Commercial and Professional / Executive Clients. If all of this wasn’t enough, for some crazy reason I went back to school and completed my PhD in Organizational Leadership in 2006.  I wanted to teach a little and give back to the next generation some of the lessons I had learned.  And here I am at the Business School at Longwood University.

What is your favorite retail course to teach, and why? If it isn’t ethics, we won’t hold it against you.

Without a doubt, my favorite class is the consulting practicum that our students complete during their last semester. This course prepares our students for the real world by providing an opportunity to apply the technical and professional skills learned in the classroom to a real life retail situation.  It is more than just an internship though.  As students consult with their client organization, the faculty and client business executives collaborate to enhance the educational experience.  As a result of this course, our students graduate understanding how to apply the theories learned in the classroom to their jobs.

“If you are thinking of retailing for a career, look no further!”

We’ve got more great stories to share! This last feature covers students who worked for Sears, Mattress Firm, Tires Plus and Build-A-Bear Workshop. The below excerpts are taken from the university’s newsletter The Retail NaviGator.

Student: Allen Jackson

Interned at: Sears (an NRFF Partner Company)

What I Did: I had the opportunity to work in every department the store had to offer which provided new and unique challenges every day. I worked directly with store managers to help implement new policies and processes. I even had the opportunity to travel to Chicago to interact with high-ranking senior executives including the CEO… I also had the opportunity to present both a competitive and operational analysis. The competitive analysis afforded me the opportunity to gauge my store’s competitiveness within the retail market. Looking both internally and externally, I analyzed the electronics department strengths and weaknesses. With the operational analysis, I had an opportunity to make a difference in the operational effectiveness of the loss prevention department which helped improve both customer service and operational efficiency.

What I Learned: In addition to the general management skills I acquired, I learned the importance of associate relations. I learned the importance of inspiring and motivating associates so they can grow alongside the company. One thing that sets Sears apart from other companies is that they reward those who work hard. An associate who grows alongside the company can literally work their way up to management in a few years.

In Closing: Contrary to popular belief, there is much more to retail then simply buying and selling of merchandise. The entire store works as a cohesive unit in an effort to serve the customer as efficiently as possible. Read the full recap…

Student: Brittany McLaughlin

Interned at: Mattress Firm

What I Did: I trained for five weeks in the stores. In my sixth week of training, I went to Houston, Texas, and trained in their corporate office… Mattress Firm moved me through several different stores during my internship. I even had the opportunity to work as a store manager. While doing this, I gained confidence in my selling and customer service skills. I felt supported throughout the experience.

What I Learned: At Mattress Firm, training varies almost daily. My district manager took a serious interest in me and took me on field trips so I could better understand our advertising and how other retailers compete. I often shared lunch with other area managers to understand more clearly how Mattress Firm works to offer excellent customer service and how the company takes excellent care of all associates.

In Closing: My summer with them has led me to love retail even more. I have huge respect for specialty retailers and how the relationship with the customer is so important. If you are thinking of retailing for a career, look no further! Read the full recap…

Student: Jackie Phanamath

Interned at: Tires Plus

What I Did: I was given more responsibility then I expected in this internship. My manager taught me how to run a store and manage a team. This is incomparable to any experience I could have imagined. I was given full control of the store when it came to marketing and daily operations. I especially enjoyed the entrepreneurial spirit of the company. It was satisfying to see that I could implement changes within the store and see the outcome of my decisions.

What I Learned: I expected my internship with this company to be very challenging because I did not know a single thing about automobiles… Vehicles are a huge investment in people’s lives, so it is important to have knowledge about them. I was teamed up with a master mechanic who taught me what I needed to know to help out customers. With him by my side, I was able to understand the workings of an engine. I performed oil changes, mounted tires and completed test drives. I took this very seriously and worked hard to earn the trust from associates and customers.

In Closing: I learned about my strengths and weaknesses thanks to the real world business experience. Tires Plus helped me fine tune my skills and prepared me for my career. Read the full recap…

Student: Multiple Students

Interned at: Build-A-Bear Workshop

What They Did: As interns for Build-A-Bear Workshop, we focused on promotional events to help drive sales. About every two weeks, Build-A-Bear introduces, or “launches,” a new animal to its wide selection of furry friends. Our job as interns consisted of finding ways to promote these new animal launches to provide our guests with a fun introduction to the new animal as well as to increase our store traffic and sales of the animal. For every new launch we planned, organized and executed, a theme party was held about the specific animal.

What They Learned: With our combined creative spirits, we were able to keep our projects interesting while learning how to work together effectively. We learned the value of teamwork, effort, leadership and communication. Beyond just events and projects, our combined internships at Build-A-Bear allowed us to embrace our inner child to truly make each new animal launch exciting and special.

In Closing: Our internship was a positive, rewarding and practical experience that will undoubtedly inspire our future retail endeavors. Read the full recap…

“…There is much more to retail then simply buying and selling of merchandise.”

Through their internships, University of Florida students were able to see the diversity of career opportunities in retail. Inevitably, they gained a new respect for the importance of sales and good customer service, but they were also exposed to the business side of retail — creating marketing promotions, offering operational analysis and developing crucial management skills.

Great job UF students! We hope that after graduation, you’ll report back and let us know if any lucky retailers hired you!

Part two features students who had internships at JC Penney, Macy’s, Target, Walgreens and Dillard’s. The below excerpts are taken from the university’s newsletter The Retail NaviGator. Read on to hear about why interns say that retail is “way more than just checking out customers” and “since I was doing what I love, it simply didn’t feel like work!”

Student: Breanne Greer

Interned at: JC Penney (an NRFF Partner Company)

What I Did: From the first day of my internship, I was told I was not going to be a glorified associate, but a member of the management team. I was paired with a Sales Manager who served as my mentor throughout my experience. I learned everything there is to know about running a department store for one of America’s most well-known retailers. I spent each week in a different department where I became knowledgeable about the different merchandise and lifestyles JC Penney captures with their private brands. I was also able to assist in the set execution for the back to school season and even merchandised the entire men’s athletic department.

What I Learned: I learned that retail is way more than just checking out customers…. At the end of my internship, I was given an assignment to complete a SWOT analysis on customer service, merchandise and store environment for JC Penney and four of its competitors. This assignment allowed me to apply what I learned to determine what sets JC Penney apart from its competition. After I concluded my findings, I made a presentation on them to the store management team and gained important feedback.

In Closing: After my ten short weeks, I knew retail is more than a [cash] register and that it was an industry for me. I am glad I chose JC Penney to get my career started in the retail industry. They provided me with opportunities I would not be able to gain elsewhere and taught me leadership skills that I know I can take with me into my future endeavors. Read the full recap…

Student: Ankit Bavishi

Interned at: Macy’s

What I Did: My training included shadowing almost every position available with Macy’s at the store level. I was very impressed with this because I was able to see how members of the Macy’s team inspire each other and how important such energy can be when serving our customers. Macy’s gives its associates many opportunities to grow in any way they choose. This is a part of the whole concept of “MyMacys,” which is a program recently introduced. I learned how quickly one can climb the corporate ladder in a number of career paths available within the company.

What I Learned: As an intern, I was given the opportunity to explore any detailed aspect about Macy’s; I chose to delve a bit deeper into the company’s private label brands. These brands are important to Macy’s because of the benefits they have for the consumer, as well as the company. My most cherished experience was being able to present my research about the private labels to a room full of executives, including the chief private brands officer (and a former CEO), as well as the regional vice president of Macy’s. I am excited even writing about this!

In Closing: Macy’s offers careers to progressive-thinking students across the nation. Macy’s provides the best in training and really prepares students for growing within the company. Even as an intern at the store level, I was able to learn the operations of a Macy’s store, but I was also given the training to continue to grow with the company. Read the full recap…

Student: Keri Waldron

Interned at: Target

What I Did: After completing my second internship with Target as an advanced executive intern… This summer, my project focused specifically on the training and development of team members… I worked side by side, day after day with associates, because I truly cared about their development. This approach helped in the development of our team. I am so thankful for the time I had with all the members!

What I Learned: The toughest challenge I faced was creating a new culture that emphasizes how important it is for team members to develop enough to be able to do the work of their team leaders. I approached the team with the assumption that being genuine would gain me more creditability and respect than “selling” them on a culture. This was tricky because many of the team members have worked for Target for many years, and in order for me to prove I was not just “the intern trying to be their boss,” I had to work hard to learn my responsibilities and help whenever they needed support.

In Closing: I enjoyed each and every day of my internship. Target provided me a supportive environment where I learned and applied excellent retail practices. Read the full recap…

Student: Michelle Russell

Interned at: Walgreens

What I Did: My Walgreens internship prepared me to run a business. Ten weeks in the role of “Business Management Intern” proved that I had the essential skills needed to function proficiently on the job. The store manager, along with a team of dedicated assistant managers, helped to mold me into a manager in hyper speed timing. I was able to see the gist of the store in a nutshell, learning from my own experiences, and from the guidance of my management team.

What I Learned: I also experienced out-of-store training by visiting other stores to understand how every manager runs their establishment differently based upon what was necessary. This demonstrated the Walgreens policy of recruiting its leaders based on those who display entrepreneurial ability. During my internship, I was privileged to travel with my store manager to Gainesville at the opening of a new store. All store managers within my district came to help get the new store ready for the grand opening. Their knowledge, skills and experiences were apparent in how they directed activity, set the shelves and worked together to create “the perfect store.” The visit was invaluable for me, working hand-in-hand at a store manager-only affair.

In Closing: The greatest part of the internship was the “District Manager’s Ride Along.” It was interesting to see alliances created with other institutions through business relationships. Our DM concluded the session with a nugget of advice: “Never pass up opportunities, be patient and always be ready for a greater responsibility.” Read the full recap…

Student: Jessica Smith

Interned at: Dillard’s

What I Did: My internship with Dillard’s was exciting. I was rotated throughout the store and experienced so much in what seems like a short time! [I] worked in the executive office… home department… with an area sales manager in shoes… in accessories… and ready to wear.

What I Learned: My experience in ready to wear was wonderful! We creatively developed some of the floor displays and brainstormed ways to feature new clothing, follow company policies and make it all inviting for the customer. I helped develop two window displays where I made a case of Antonio Melani merchandise in shades of brown and orange and a Nygard case in shades of black and white. This was so rewarding. I really enjoyed the merchandising aspect. It was fun to be a part of the corporate mentality to ensure that the stores maintain the atmosphere of excellence for our customers.

In Closing: When I was deciding upon an internship, I considered Dillard’s because I have an interest in fashion. I thought retail would be an interesting way to incorporate this interest into work and I was right. Since I was doing what I love, it simply didn’t feel like work! Read the full recap…

Still to come! We’ve got more internship experiences to share. In part three, we’ll hear from students who interned at: Mattress Firm, Tires Plus, Build-A-Bear and Sears.