Deputy managers are also known as assistant managers, serving as the right-hand of the office or store manager. Deputy managers collaborate with the general manager to plan and implement store or office initiatives, such as improving sales figures or streamlining office procedures. If you're seeking a deputy manager position or are in line for a promotion, expect to routinely assume the manager's role in her absence.
General Management Duties
As a deputy manager, you will be assigned tasks such as opening and closing in retail environments and administrative functions such as payroll. Deputy managers also take on tasks such as interviewing prospective employees, merchandising and strategic planning. You will prepare and distribute company policy and regulation procedures to new hires, and you will coach and correct existing employees. Office or store inventory levels will probably be your duty as well; employees and prospective clients will look to you make sure they have what they need when they need it.
Leadership
Deputy managers routinely roll up their sleeves to complete tasks alongside rank-and-file staff, leading by example. Deputy managers help upwardly mobile employees by demonstrating best practices and mentoring promising management candidates. Deputy managers often have more direct interaction with regular employees than upper management, meaning your effect on their attitude and performance is more directly in your hands. Remember that many companies discourage fraternization with regular employees, so it's important they don't confuse your potentially less-formal relationship as an excuse to skirt the rules. Maintain a healthy, professional detachment with your charges.
Scheduling
If you work in a retail or other scheduled environment, expect to be assigned the task of scheduling your employees. You must collaborate with your general manager to determine payroll allocation for the week and month as necessary, assigning employees their shifts based on ability and availability. Scheduling conflicts are often laid at the feet of the deputy manager. It's your job to ensure that store hours are covered with appropriate and adequate staff.
Training
Your GM will doubtlessly be busy in meetings and performing administrative tasks you may not be privy to. In these environments, you will be assigned the responsibility of bringing new hires up to speed on standards and procedures. In addition to learning rudimentary job tasks, your job as a trainer also includes promoting a positive sense of company culture. Getting new hires and old hands alike to buy into your organization's goals and beliefs is a proven way to improve performance and decrease employee turnover.
