Retailers today are grappling with labor shortages and high churn rates, which are exacerbated by a reduced availability of skilled workers. To maintain high-quality retail experiences and service levels, retailers need to offer more attractive employment packages and significantly automate processes.

Associates, once trained for specific areas such as in-store or backroom operations, now need to be versatile and capable of handling various workflows across the business, adding value at every touchpoint. Recruiting, training, and onboarding new workers is a significant cost burden and adds risk in a volatile economy. Improving the employee experience is crucial for retaining staff and reducing the costs associated with learning curves.

Challenges impacting job satisfaction and employee performance

Retail employees face numerous challenges that affect their job satisfaction and performance. High workloads and stress, especially during peak seasons, can lead to burnout. Repetitive and physically demanding tasks contribute to fatigue and decreased job satisfaction. Inadequate training and limited career advancement opportunities result in low confidence and high turnover. Communication gaps can cause inefficiencies and errors, while balancing multiple roles can be overwhelming.

Addressing these challenges requires a comprehensive approach that includes better training and development programs, effective communication tools, supportive management practices, and the adoption of technologies that enhance efficiency and reduce the burden on employees. By improving the overall employee experience, retailers can boost job satisfaction, reduce turnover, and create a more productive and engaged workforce.

Ways to improve employee experience using technology

Honeywell understands the multifaceted challenges retailers face in transforming their businesses, enhancing customer experiences, improving associate productivity, and harnessing innovation—all while maintaining sustainability goals. Here’s how Honeywell’s solutions can address workforce operations and improve the employee experience:

1. User-Friendly Technology:



Honeywell helps retailers attract and retain talent by providing user-friendly technology that drives productivity and efficiency. Our solutions are designed to be intuitive and easy to use, reducing the learning curve for new employees and making their work more enjoyable and less stressful.

2. Automation and Robotics:



Honeywell’s robust portfolio of automation and robotics solutions guides associates through tasks based on business priorities. By digitizing repetitive tasks, these technologies free up employees to focus on more complex and value-added activities. This not only improves efficiency but also enhances job satisfaction by reducing mundane tasks.

3. Seamless Voice Technology:



Honeywell Guided Work voice technology helps optimize picking workflows, enabling associates to perform tasks more accurately and efficiently. With real-time instructions and feedback, associates quickly move through assigned tasks and reduce errors from manual workflows. Additionally, Honeywell Smart Talk enables high-quality voice and data communications over Wi-Fi and cellular networks, ensuring seamless and unfragmented communications for your retail environments.

4. Identifying Workflow Bottlenecks:



Honeywell Operational Intelligence is designed to help retail leaders in identifying and addressing workflow bottlenecks. By analyzing operational data, Honeywell’s solutions pinpoint areas where processes can be streamlined, leading to more efficient operations and a smoother workflow for employees.

5. Optimizing Mobile Device Usage:



Honeywell’s mobile devices, like the CT37 mobile computer, are designed to enhance employee productivity. The CT37 and other Honeywell mobile computers provide real-time access to inventory data, customer information, and task lists, enabling associates to perform their duties more effectively. The integration of mobile technology into daily operations helps employees stay organized and responsive.

6. Smart Pay for Frictionless Checkout:



Honeywell’s Smart Pay solutions enable frictionless checkout experiences, reducing wait times and improving customer satisfaction. By streamlining the payment process, these technologies also reduce the workload on employees, allowing them to focus on other important tasks.

Conclusion:

In an era of labor shortages and high employee turnover, enhancing the workforce experience is more important than ever. Honeywell’s comprehensive suite of technologies—from automation and voice-guided work to improved communication tools and smart payment solutions—empowers retailers to create a more efficient, productive, and satisfying work environment. These innovations not only help retain staff but also reduce operational costs and improve service quality.

We invite you to join us at NRF 2025 to explore how Honeywell’s cutting-edge technologies can transform your retail operations. Visit us at booth #3538 to see live demonstrations, speak with our experts, and discover tailored solutions that can help you thrive in an increasingly competitive market.

Don’t miss this opportunity to learn more about how Honeywell can support your business transformation. Book a meeting with us today and take the first step towards a seamless, sustainable future in retail.

We look forward to seeing you at NRF 2025!