Your First Job Could Be the Start of Something Big
Leadership isn’t about having a fancy title. It usually starts much earlier, in everyday moments that most people don’t notice.
A casual or part-time retail job might seem like “just a job”, but it could be the beginning of something much bigger.
How can a casual or part-time job in retail be a stepping stone to leadership?
At The Sussan Group, many careers begin in-store. Team members often start as Group Casual Team Members, building confidence and learning the foundations of retail. From there, they can move into part-time or full-time roles, take on more responsibility, and gain real hands-on leadership experience.
As you grow in confidence and capability, you’re trusted with more. Those added responsibilities often become the building blocks for future leadership roles.
What everyday skills help someone stand out early on?
Leadership shows up in small, consistent behaviours.
Team members who manage their time well, show initiative, communicate clearly, and support their teammates naturally stand out. On the shop floor, that might look like keeping shifts and breaks on track, stepping in during busy periods, staying on top of deliveries, and consistently delivering great customer service.
It’s not about being the loudest voice. It’s about being reliable, proactive, and setting the standard through your actions.
Can students step up before they’re officially managers?
Yes.
Team members sometimes step into a supervisory role when a manager isn’t on the floor, often during weekends or late-night trade. That might mean overseeing the store, handling opening and closing procedures, supporting the team, and keeping things on track.
The Sussan Group also supports leadership development through online learning, on-the-job training, and short-term leadership contracts. These opportunities allow you to trial a leadership role, build confidence, and understand what it involves before committing long-term.
Growing Your Skillset
Leadership isn’t something you suddenly “have”. It’s something you build over time.
What training or development opportunities are available?
At The Sussan Group, development starts from day one. Before your first shift, you’ll complete online learning covering topics like workplace respect, diversity and inclusion, fundamentals of selling, cultural awareness, and health and safety.
Once in store, you’ll receive hands-on training with your manager and follow a structured induction plan, including a one-month check-in to support your progress.
As you continue growing, there are ongoing development opportunities through online courses, face-to-face and virtual workshops, and programs delivered both internally and by external experts.
How can students learn from managers on the floor?
A lot of learning happens in real time.
Managers act as mentors, offering guidance and feedback as you build your skills. They’ll coach you on interacting confidently with customers, developing product knowledge, supporting fitting-room experiences, and understanding how the store operates as a team.
The key is curiosity. Ask questions. Observe experienced team members. Stay open to feedback. That’s how confidence develops.
Tips for building confidence and people skills
Confidence grows with practice.
Take opportunities to speak with customers. Volunteer to try new tasks. Step in when things get busy. Every shift is a chance to strengthen your communication and teamwork skills.
Managers support career conversations and progression planning, helping you explore future opportunities within The Sussan Group if you’re ready to take the next step.
Visualising the Path to Leadership
What does a day in the life of a store supervisor look like?
Store supervisors play a central role in keeping everything moving.
Their day might begin with setting the team up for success, supporting people on the floor, and solving problems as they arise. They balance customer service with operational priorities like coordinating breaks, managing busy periods, and maintaining visual and service standards.
Most importantly, they lead through their actions. Staying positive, approachable, and focused on creating a strong experience for both customers and the team.
What qualities do managers look for?
Managers look for reliability, initiative, and a team-focused mindset.
Strong communication, a positive attitude, and staying calm under pressure are key. Leaders don’t need to know everything. They show a willingness to learn, accept feedback, support others, and take responsibility when trusted with more.
Consistently demonstrating these behaviours is often what signals leadership potential.
How can students prepare now?
Start with simple habits.
Show up on time. Take ownership of your tasks. Be open to learning. Support your teammates, especially during busy or challenging moments. Ask for feedback and express interest in taking on more responsibility.
Leadership develops step by step. Every shift is an opportunity to build the skills and confidence you’ll need later.
Try Out a Real-Life Leadership Scenario
It’s a busy Saturday afternoon, and the manager steps off the floor.
You check in with the team to clarify priorities. You jump into the fitting rooms, manage a delivery, and adjust tasks as needed, all while staying calm and focused.
A customer has a question. You find a solution and follow up to make sure they leave happy.
By the end of the shift, the store is operating smoothly, the team feels supported, and customers have had a positive experience.
That’s leadership in action. Taking responsibility. Supporting others. Setting the tone. Even without a formal title.
Your first job could be the start of something bigger. Learn how you can begin and grow your career with The Sussan Group here.
