The Secret to a Committed Retail Team By Marcela Primo, CEO of LEEM PRO STAFFING A committed retail team not only improves the customer experience but also helps reduce turnover and strengthen company culture. However, creating this sense of belonging goes beyond simply offering a job; it involves building an environment where employees feel that they are an integral part of the organization and that their work has a significant impact. Creating a Sense of Belonging: Mentors Foster Unity The mentoring program is one of the most effective strategies for achieving this. Assigning mentors to new emplo- yees facilitates their adaptation and creates bonds between team members. These types of programs foster a culture of mutual support and allow experienced employees to share their knowledge, which strengthens team cohesion. In turn, it allows natural leaders to be identified within the team, who can be considered for roles with greater responsibility in the future. The Importance of Motivation Implementing a recognition program is another pillar for fostering a sense of belonging. In retail, where routines can be demanding, regular recognition of individual and collective achievements and efforts boosts team motivation and morale. In addition, many companies have found that delegating this task to a specialized human resources team ensures the effective implementation of these programs, allowing manage- ment to focus on key operations. Inclusion and Understanding Finally, an organizational culture that values open communication and inclusion contributes to employee retention. When staff feel that their voice is heard and their ideas are valued, their commitment increases. This is where human resources experts can provide a solid, professional structure that supports effective communica- tion and engagement at all levels of the team. USEFUL ADVICE 90 JULY / AUGUST 2025 ABASTO.COM