Business Skills

Many of the topics presented in May at the Retail Dietitian Exchange have relevancy for a broad audience within the profession, and RDBA is pleased to announce that two of the event sessions are now available on video. Descriptions of and access to the videos are provided here:

As retailer’s expand their grocerant options, dietitians are developing and taking on culinary roles at retail. This provides insight from a panel of retail RDs who are working on culinary initiatives.  Panelists include Ashley Martinez, MFN, RD, LD, Kroger Health, Jessica Seigel, MPH, RD, Gelson’s Markets, Shelbi Thurau, RD, Wakefern Food Corp, and Emily Parent, RD, LD, Coborn’s. Moderated by Phil Lempert.

Technology is impacting the retail industry in ways we never dreamed – from farm to form, it’s impacting the way shoppers are choosing their foods and retailers are communicating. This one-on-one discussion with Phil Lempert and Sylvain Perrier will explore real examples of how retailers are utilizing block chain, artificial intelligence, machine learning, robotics and the next evolution of e-commerce and delivery as well as their impacts and opportunities for retail dietitians.  

There may not be a hotter topic for retail dietitians than return on investment. Being able to calculate a positive ROI and presenting the findings to senior retail leadership are essential to show the value of RD services, gain approval for new programs, and support additional RD head count. Read on for tips for developing and communicating ROI here.

We’ve all heard the saying, “two is better than one.” Turns out this has proven true in the retail space as well. Pairing nutrient-rich foods in a retail promotion, such as good fats from walnuts (2.5g/oz omega-3 ALA) with an array of nutrients from fresh produce, not only shows shoppers how to enjoy nutritious foods, but can provide value from a business standpoint, too. 

I sat down with Joy Petty, Director of Marketing Operations, to better understand her typical day and how retail dietitians can be a good partner with the marketing department. 

If you’re looking for a critical skill to help you excel in business as a leader, you may want master the ability to be empathetic. Experts agree that empathy can boost your influence and impact as a professional, because understanding the emotions of your team members and the customers you serve allows you to become a better communicator and problem solver. In addition, you will build trust, rapport and relationships that can lead to greater success. Practice these simple steps to help hone this important leadership skill:

Estimates suggest 75% of people don't believe advertisements, yet more than 90% believe recommendations from friends. In fact, people are four times more likely to make a specific purchase when recommended by a friend. These statistics make word of mouth marketing campaigns essential for retail dietitians looking to increase use and purchase of their programs and services.

As a retail RD, every day includes a long list of “to dos.” It can be easy to get stuck in a pattern of hammering out these daily tasks. To be most effective in leading and executing larger projects, it’s essential to step back from the day-to-day and drive against the overall project.  Whether it’s launching a new attribute shelf tag program or getting organized for a new cooking class you are offering in-store, project management skills are important at all levels of retail dietetics.

The continued hype surrounding online shopping has put pressure on traditional grocers to expand their shopper offerings, with options like click-and-collect on the rise. But the broader way to compete with online giants like Amazon is to ensure true omnichannel shopper engagement.