Element

Performance Criteria

Elements describe the essential outcomes of a unit of competency.

Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. Where bold italicised text is used, further information is detailed in the required skills and knowledge section and the range statement. Assessment of performance is to be consistent with the evidence guide.

1. Assess effects of economic trends.

1.1.Monitor economic trend information from a variety of reliable sources.

1.2.Identify emerging economic trends that may directly or indirectly affect organisational retail operations.

1.3.Research possible effects of identified economic trends on organisational retail operations.

1.4.Consult on findings with relevant organisational personnel.

1.5.Select and prioritise economic effects requiring actions that fall within scope of role and responsibilities.

2. Engage and motivate staff during adverse trading conditions.

2.1.Inform staff of economic trends and encourage participation in identification of strategies for managing effects.

2.2.Reinforce selling skills and opportunities for optimising outcomes of events, offers and programs.

2.3.Negotiate adjustments to key performance indicators and discuss strategies for achieving expectations.

2.4.Identify and implement strategies for boosting staff morale and maintaining optimism.

3. Assess strategies for managing effects of economic trends.

3.1.Review past organisational information to identify effectiveness of strategies for managing the effects of economic trends.

3.2.Review industry information to identify innovative strategies for managing the effects of economic trends.

3.3.Assess applicability of identified historical and innovative strategies to current organisational operations and economic circumstances.

3.4.Communicate and negotiate with landlords, centre managers and local retailer groups to identify options for local action to attract customers.

4. Manage costs to reflect variable trading conditions.

4.1.Review infrastructure and service costs and identify manageable cost-reduction strategies in consultation with relevant personnel.

4.2.Review administration and service delivery costs and identify strategies to maintain service levels with reduced costs, in consultation with relevant personnel.

4.3.Review product range and supply arrangements and identify strategies to maximise sales and reduce costs in consultation with suppliers and relevant personnel.

4.4.Implement and monitor cost-management strategies and introduce refinements in consultation with relevant personnel.

Required skills

communication and interpersonal skills to:

ask questions to identify and confirm requirements

consult with relevant personnel regarding research findings

negotiate changes and communicate details of implementation plans through clear and direct communication

report information and communicate recommendations

use and interpret non-verbal communication

use language and concepts appropriate to cultural differences

literacy and numeracy skills to:

document plans and reports

evaluate economic trends and forecast effect on business

negotiation skills to consult with landlords, centre managers and local retailer groups to identify options for local action to attract customers

planning and organising skills to:

collect and organise information

plan and propose changes

presentation skills to present research findings to staff and relevant personnel

Required knowledge

emerging trends and changes in retail technology and resources

market needs and marketing opportunities

methodologies for analysing efficiency and effectiveness

methodologies for assessing alternatives in areas of change, including contingency planning

resource use and costs to the organisation

store policies and procedures in regard to:

applying relevant legislation and organisational rules

initiating and implementing change

financial analysis techniques, including:

cost and benefit differential

risk analysis

workplace procedures for quality assurance and control

The evidence guide provides advice on assessment and must be read in conjunction with the performance criteria, required skills and knowledge, range statement and the Assessment Guidelines for the Training Package.

Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit

Evidence of the following is essential:

assesses economic trends and prioritises those requiring action

implements cost-management strategies

motivates staff to maintain optimism and maximise sales potential

reviews and assesses strategies for managing effects of economic trends, and considers and consults on options for attracting customers.

Context of and specific resources for assessment

Assessment must ensure access to:

a retail work environment

economic trend information

current industry and market data

relevant organisational information, including:

organisational values and objectives

relevant human resources policies

relevant financial data

key performance indicators

sales plans

staff planning and employment data

stock management and control data.

Method of assessment

A range of assessment methods should be used to assess practical skills and knowledge. The following examples are appropriate for this unit:

observation of performance in the workplace

a role play

customer feedback

answers to questions about specific skills and knowledge

review of portfolios of evidence and third-party workplace reports of on-the-job performance.

Guidance information for assessment

Holistic assessment with other units relevant to the industry sector, workplace and job role is recommended.

The range statement relates to the unit of competency as a whole. It allows for different work environments and situations that may affect performance. Bold italicised wording, if used in the performance criteria, is detailed below. Essential operating conditions that may be present with training and assessment (depending on the work situation, needs of the individual, accessibility of the item, and local industry and regional contexts) may also be included.

Strategies for boosting staff morale and maintaining optimism may include:

being a good role model

giving positive feedback

introducing new rewards

keeping staff informed and reassured

organising social events.

Infrastructure and service costs may include:

building maintenance services

cleaning services

equipment servicing and maintenance

gas and electricity supply

rent and rates

telecommunications

waste disposal services

water supply.

Cost-reduction strategies may include:

adjusting heating and cooling levels

decreasing store or storage area

delaying store and visual merchandising refurbishments

phone limitations

reducing frequency of services, such as:

cleaning

equipment servicing and maintenance.

Strategiesmay include:

altering staff numbers, types and shift arrangements

reducing postage and printing costs.