Hello Nastya, thank you for taking the time to speak with us today about your role as Assistant Store Manager. Tell us a little about yourself and your career at Zalando.
I moved from Berlin to Konstanz for the opening of the Outlet Store in March 2021 to work as a Sales Assistant. I was able to onboard quickly and handled every challenge by continuously learning and developing my skills. After a year, I was promoted to Cash Specialist, and another year later, I became a Team Lead. Just nine months after that, I was promoted to Assistant Store Manager, a role where I can use all my experience and skills to make the team and the store successful.
How would you describe your role? What are your weekly tasks?
As an Assistant Store Manager, my role involves ensuring the smooth operation and success of the store. This includes increasing performance and analyzing KPIs (Key Performance Indicators) to identify what works well and where we can improve.
Every week starts with organizing and managing daily operations. This means creating clear and actionable work schedules for the teams, aligning tasks with the store’s goals, and making sure that every team member knows their priorities.
Supporting the team is at the heart of my work. I guide them, motivate them to achieve their goals, and step in during busy phases. In this way, I contribute to creating a well-organized and high-performing store.
What do you like the most about your job? What do you appreciate about working in the Outlet Store?
I appreciate the variety and the opportunity to make an impact the most. No two days are the same – I enjoy analyzing store performance, finding solutions to challenges, and optimizing processes. Another highlight of my job is working closely with the team and witnessing each individual’s growth and success.
What I also really like about the Zalando Outlet Store is being part of a process that gives clothes with minor defects a ‘second chance’ to be worn and appreciated.
What advice would you give to others aspiring to take on a similar role?
My advice to anyone aspiring to work in a role like mine is to stay curious and eager to learn. Success in this position requires a willingness to adapt, grow, and continuously improve. Be open to feedback, and don’t hesitate to ask questions or seek support when needed. Building strong relationships with your team is also crucial. Trust, open communication, and mutual respect are the foundation for effective teamwork and a positive work environment.
Last but not least, stay organized and proactive. Understand your store’s goals and find ways to contribute to them while supporting your team. Lead by example, and always look for opportunities to go the extra mile.
How would you describe your team culture?
Our team culture is built on trust, mutual support, respect, and open communication. We place a lot of value on creating an environment where everyone feels comfortable. In our team, you can share ideas, ask questions, and give feedback. This openness helps us solve challenges effectively, grow together as a team and achieve our goals. Whether it’s a busy day on the sales floor or tackling new challenges, we know we can rely on one another.
What does teamwork mean to you?
Teamwork means creating an environment where everyone feels valued and appreciated. Since we spend a large part of our time here, it’s important to me that work is not just a duty but also something that feels enjoyable and fulfilling. My goal is for everyone in my team to feel motivated and happy to come to work every day.
Everyone on my team knows that they can come to me anytime – whether it’s with an idea, a concern, or just a question. Open communication and mutual support are the foundation of our strong teamwork and ensure everyone feels comfortable.
What is your personal success story at Zalando, and how do you see your future?
My journey at Zalando is marked by growth and continuous learning. I started as a Sales Assistant on opening day, and now I’m an Assistant Store Manager. The many development opportunities at Zalando continue to inspire me, and I’m motivated to keep learning and actively contribute to our shared success.
Where do you draw your inspiration from?
My biggest inspiration comes from my Store Manager. The trust we have built gives me the confidence to approach her with any questions or concerns, knowing that I will receive her full support. Her open communication with every team member is a great example of how healthy and effective teamwork works.
What inspires me the most is her willingness to support every department, even on a busy Saturday. She never says no to any task, no matter how challenging. Her dedication and hands-on approach motivate me to follow her example and give my best every day.
What does it take to be successful as an Assistant Store Manager at Zalando?
The most important factor for my success is my team and the trust we have built. Trust helps us work better together and stay motivated. Open communication is also key. Honest conversations, sharing ideas, and solving challenges are vital to achieving our goals as a team. Mutual support plays a big role too. Knowing we can rely on each other makes it possible to tackle challenges and succeed together.
Together, we create a positive and productive environment where everyone can give their best.
Would you like to be part of our Outlet team? Learn more about our open positions, locations and teams.
