Finding Purpose in Creating a Safe Haven for Employees and Customers with SVP Rachel Shemirani

This week’s heart-warming episode of the Leading Real Change podcast, features SVP of Baron’s Market Rachel Shemirani who shares how her company managed change through the pandemic and beyond, setting a new standard of employee care. Key takeaways include:

1. Family Business Success: Rachel shared that working with family requires learning boundaries, but maintaining success is measured by still enjoying Thanksgiving together.
2. Proactive Pandemic Response: In the face of the pandemic, the business proactively stocked up on inventory, adapting swiftly to meet the community's needs.
3. Rapid Decision-Making: The pandemic forced quick decision-making, and despite the challenges, the focus remained on keeping shelves stocked and communities supported.
4. Customer Stress Management: As mask mandates created tensions, the business prioritized the safety of employees, adapting to unusual customer behaviors with a focus on maintaining a safe environment.
5. Realization of Impact: A heartfelt email from a customer highlighted that the business was not just providing groceries but creating a safe haven for the community.
6. Employee-Centric Culture: Treating employees as a priority, offering flexibility, pay adjustments, and addressing individual needs demonstrated a commitment to a people-first culture.
7. Role modeling Well-being: Rachel started taking more vacation herself to help encourage workers to take theirs.
8. Adaptation and Empathy: Understanding individual circumstances, adjusting work hours, and providing vacation benefits showcased empathy and adaptation to the diverse needs of employees.
9. Industry Influence: By adding vacation benefits for clerks and challenging industry norms, the business aimed to redefine the perception of working in a grocery store, emphasizing its value.
10. Building Employee Confidence: Open communication, support for new ideas, and encouraging employees to vocalize values and priorities contribute to building confidence, making them not just good but excellent employees.