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August 4, 2025 14 mins

 With host retail coach Wendy Batten

 

https://wendybatten.com/podcast-intro/

 

In This Episode:

Ready to transform your team from task-doers to strategic thinkers?

In Episode 272 of the Creative Shop Talk Podcast, I’m answering a question from one of my Mastermind members, Dan Haynes: How do we flip the mindset of management-level team members from task-oriented to strategic thinking? 

I’m diving deep into nurturing effective leadership and fostering genuine team buy-in. You’ll discover how to empower your employees, cultivate ownership, and build the culture you've always envisioned. I’m tackling the common challenge of getting your team to think strategically and guide the operation, rather than just completing tasks.

Key Takeaways on Leadership and Culture:

  • Clarify Your Vision: Ensure your team understands the business vision and their role within it.

  • Provide Tools & Nurture: Equip your team with necessary training, like time management and prioritization, and offer ongoing support.

  • Empower Decision-Making: Foster strategic thinking by asking "what" and "why" questions, encouraging them to think proactively.

  • Utilize KPIs and Explain the "Why": Help your team understand the ripple effect of their actions by connecting their efforts to key performance indicators and overall business goals.

  • Celebrate Wins & Give Feedback: Encourage growth through constructive feedback using the "start, stop, continue" framework, and acknowledge their successes.

Your Next Steps:

  1. Reflect on your current delegation style. Where can you let things go and trust your team more?

 

  1. Pick any of the takeaways above and get to work: 

    1. Begin using the “stop, start, continue” framework

    2. Start using “what” and “why” questions/interactions with your team.

    3. Celebrate employees’ wins and give them feedback.

 

  1. Join the Retailer’s Inner Circle
    Join me inside the Retailer’s Inner Circle—our signature coaching community where retailers like you get tools, coaching, and lead your team with more confidence

Related podcasts we think you’ll like: 

 

Episode 153: Recipe for Success: 4 Leadership Lessons We Can Learn from Erin French of The Lost Kitchen

Episode 223:Behind the Counter: Buying an Existing Business with Shop Owners Dan & Robin Haynes

Episode 244: Behind the Counter: From E-Commerce to Brick and Mortar with Chris Waddy



About your host, Wendy Batten

 

In case we haven’t met yet, I’m Wendy Batten, retail business coach and founder of the Retailer’s Inner Circle. With over 30 years of experience running successful businesses, I now help independent shop owners grow profitably and sustainably—with more confidence and joy.

I’ve had my own business columns in featured magazines, such as What Women Create and other top publications, worked with some of the top industry brands as retail care manager, and I’ve supported hundreds of retailers through coaching, speaking, my programs, and this podcast.

For more support from Wendy

 

Join Wendy’s CEO Planning Session for Retailers

Retailer’s Inner Circle - Join Wendy inside the best retailer’s community

Free resources for shop owners  

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