The Playbook Behind LIDS’ Aligned Part-Time Teams

“When I need to reach a weekend associate or a part-time team member, I can send a message instantly from my phone and know they received it. That kind of communication goes a long way.” – Roxanne Zazueta, District Manager at LIDS 

Key Takeaways

• Direct mobile communication keeps part-time and weekend associates aligned 

• Leaders can instantly send updates about promotions and priorities 

• Store teams walk into shifts prepared and informed 

• Messaging from district leadership strengthens engagement and accountability 

• Using the tools available builds more agile and connected leaders 

Background 

Lids operates a large fleet of specialty retail stores with a high mix of part-time and weekend associates. In this environment, communication speed and clarity directly influence execution. 

District leaders often oversee stores with team members they may not regularly see in person, especially seasonal or weekend-only associates. Ensuring those employees receive timely updates about promotions, priorities, and expectations is essential to driving consistent performance. 

To strengthen communication and leadership effectiveness across the field, Lids leaned into the real-time messaging capabilities within StoreForce. 

Instant Mobile Messaging Strengthened Field Communication 

Retail schedules are dynamic. Associates work varied shifts, and many team members are part-time or weekend-only employees. Traditional communication methods such as email or in-store conversations do not always reach these employees in time. 

By using mobile messaging within StoreForce, district leaders can instantly connect with any associate across their region. Messages are delivered directly to employees’ phones with alerts, ensuring visibility before they even step into the store. 

This capability allows leaders to: 

• Share promotion details ahead of major sales weekends 
• Reinforce expectations before high-traffic events 
• Recognize teams or individuals with direct messages 
• Maintain connection with associates they may not see regularly 

When communication is immediate and direct, stores begin shifts aligned on priorities. Associates arrive prepared with knowledge of current offers and operational focus areas. 

Reaching Part-Time Associates Improved Preparedness 

Many retail stores rely heavily on weekend associates who may not work during the week when most updates are shared. Without real-time communication, these employees can arrive uninformed about promotions or operational changes. 

With centralized messaging tools, leaders ensure that even employees working limited hours remain informed. Messages about buy-one-get-one promotions or seasonal campaigns are delivered before the shift begins. 

This proactive communication improves: 

• Associate confidence at the start of each shift 
• Consistency in promotional execution 
• Customer experience during peak traffic 
• Overall sales readiness during weekends and holidays 

Prepared associates create smoother store openings, stronger customer conversations, and fewer missed sales opportunities.

Using the Tools Built Stronger Leaders 

Beyond operational benefits, embracing available tools supports leadership development. District managers who actively use real-time messaging and visibility features build habits rooted in speed, clarity, and accountability. 

Instead of relying on reactive follow-ups or delayed communication, leaders operate with agility. They can respond to changing business needs, send updates instantly, and maintain visibility into how information flows across the fleet. 

This approach encourages a culture where: 

• Communication is consistent and intentional 
• Expectations are reinforced from the top down 
• Leaders stay connected to every level of the organization 
• Associates feel seen and supported, even in part-time roles 

When leaders fully use the tools in front of them, communication becomes a strategic advantage rather than an afterthought. 

In LIDS’ Own Words… 

“Being able to communicate instantly with every associate in my district, even the ones who only work weekends, has changed how we operate. They walk into their shifts knowing exactly what promotion is running and what the focus is for the day. It keeps everyone aligned, accountable, and ready to execute before the doors even open.” – Roxanne Zazueta, District Manager at LIDS 

Connect with StoreForce Today 

If you want the same communication speed, leadership visibility, and field alignment that Lids achieved, it is time to see StoreForce in action. Whether you are managing part-time teams, driving weekend promotions, or working to strengthen district-level leadership, StoreForce gives you the tools to stay connected and in control. Join leading retailers using StoreForce to improve communication, increase execution consistency, and support store teams at every level. Book a demo today and see how real-time messaging can elevate your retail operations.