Career agility is critical for long term success. ~ Jay Wren
The best example of the reason why is the closers of retails stores across America.
It’s tough to keep a completely up-to-the-minute list of retail closures, as the landscape is constantly shifting. However, here are some notable retail chains that have closed entirely or significantly reduced their physical presence in recent years:
Entirely Closed:
Toys “R” Us: (Though there have been attempts at revival, the original US-based chain is largely defunct)
Blockbuster: (Except for a single remaining store in Bend, Oregon)
Circuit City:
RadioShack: (Though some locations still exist under different ownership)
Sports Authority:
Payless ShoeSource:
Gymboree: (The original company)
Charlotte Russe:
Forever 21: (While they filed for bankruptcy and restructured, many stores closed)
Shopko:
Significantly Reduced Presence (Store Closures):
Sears/Kmart: (Massive closures over the past decade)
Macy’s: (Continuing store closures)
JCPenney: (Significant downsizing)
Gap/Banana Republic/Old Navy: (Closing underperforming locations)
Bed Bath & Beyond: (Numerous closures)
Factors Contributing to Closures:
Rise of E-commerce: Online shopping has drastically changed consumer behavior.
Changing Consumer Preferences: Shifting trends and a move towards experiences over material goods.
Overexpansion: Some chains overextended their physical presence.
Economic Downturns: Recessions and economic instability can accelerate closures.
Poor Management/Competition: Inability to adapt to market changes.
It’s important to note: This list is not exhaustive, and the retail landscape is always changing. New stores open, and existing ones close. It’s always a good idea to research specific chains if you’re curious about their current status.
So, what can you do to become more agile in managing your career?
Don’t take your current job for granted.
If you have a job, focus being the best employee in the company. Keep a positive attitude. Be personable. Do top notch work. Show respect for your boss, your peers, and the people who work for you. Stay off social media during the workday. Stay off personal calls during the workday. Avoid political and religious discussions and stick to discussions that will move your work forward.
Surround yourself with winners.
When you are out of the office, surround yourself with people who have successful careers. Learning how these people have become successful and remain successful can help you learn how to build you own career. They can help you network with other successful people who can lead you to greater opportunities for your career.
Make your health a priority.
When I was a young Navy officer, I noticed that the most successful senior officers were physically fit. There were not all top athletes. They did not looked ripped and shredded. However, they were trim and fit. They had a lot of energy. They had the ability to work hard year after year.
Read books and articles that will build your industry knowledge and business skills.
Because of the Internet, it is easy today to read great material. You can read almost any book online by becoming a member of your local library and using online book services that libraries offer. You can subscribe to free newsletters. You can follow business publications on LinkedIn and on Facebook. You can listen to podcast when you are in your car.
Photo by Razvan Chisu on Unsplash
