Dan Corrigan Nordstrom Intern

There is a common refrain in the world of retail: "Nobody beats Nordstrom when it comes to customer service." This past summer I discovered the validity of this statement.

During my eight weeks as an intern at Nordstrom in downtown San Francisco, I witnessed the company philosophy in practice. Whether working on the sales floor, organizing merchandise in the stock room, or shadowing managers through their daily paces, it became crystal clear to me that customer service was the “mantra” and guiding principle throughout the store.

What stands out in my mind when I reflect on my experience is the company’s commitment and motivation to provide the most positive shopping experience possible to its customers every day. Day in and day out, employees not only meet the challenge to provide superlative service, they exceed all possible expectations. Whether it is opening the store early to waiting customers or providing a liberal return policy, everything Nordstrom does is geared toward understanding those they serve and making their shopping experience an easier one.

I found it extremely beneficial to observe the way my supervisors managed the salespeople. I learned that an understanding, supportive, and enthusiastic managerial approach empowers the staff and maximizes productivity. Hopefully, down the road, I am able to employ my own managerial style that is directed by these three qualities.

Overall, my internship experience could not have been more rewarding. I learned a great deal about the retail world and about myself in a span of eight weeks. Without a doubt, I will take the on-the-job lessons that I learned and apply them to other parts of my life.

Whether I work in retail or other areas of business in the future, Nordstrom opened my eyes to sound business principles I witnessed in action for two months. Strong relationships within the organization and with customers make the difference for this company and explain its success. My introduction and opportunity at Nordstrom will prove to be invaluable to me as I chart my professional path.

Retail Management Institute - Santa Clara University
rmi.scu.edu