You might’ve taken a retail job for the paycheck, the flexibility, or just to get by, but what if it could lead to something more?

Having the opportunity to grow in your retail career is about being present, taking initiative, and spotting opportunities to rise.

This is all possible at Sayat Nova, a beloved Armenian restaurant on Chicago’s Magnificent Mile. 

Since 1969, owner Roupen Demirdjian has quietly been building a workplace where employees can build careers, find purpose, and grow into leaders. 

His journey is packed with steps to help you grow your retail career from the ground up.

1. Say Yes to the Next Step

If you wait until you feel completely prepared for a promotion or a new responsibility, you might wait forever. Roupen once had a team member who was hesitant to move into a server role because of a language barrier. Instead of letting that hold him back, Roupen gave him a push.

 “You move up to waiter or you’re fired…. I wasn’t going to be here, work with you your whole life and not see you move up,” says Roupen. 

That moment became a turning point for that employee’s job and his confidence. 

You might think you’re not ready to level up. When opportunity comes knocking, it can feel scary and intimidating, but you’re allowed to be unsure and still take the next step. Saying yes is one of the most important steps to help you grow your retail career.

2. Build Trust by Taking Initiative

Trust is earned through consistency and effort. Roupen doesn’t micromanage his staff because he knows they take their roles seriously. His team handles challenges, solves problems, and keeps things running smoothly without waiting for orders. Roupen knows that this kind of initiative doesn’t happen everywhere. It results from a culture built on trust, dedication, and responsibility. 

If you notice something that needs to be done, do it before being asked. Being proactive helps you stand out as an employee that your boss and team can rely on. Over time, you’ll build a trustworthy reputation, making it easier for higher-ups to think of you when looking for someone to fill an open role. 

3. Learn the Culture, Not Just the Role

Sayat Nova prides itself on cultivating a cultural experience. Roupen has made it his mission to properly teach his staff about the importance of Armenian traditions and dishes. Even though most of his staff didn’t grow up with his background, they’ve learned it and now share it with pride. 

The result? A team that’s connected to something larger than the job itself.

Your workplace might not be driven by ethnicity or heritage, but it has its own unique culture. Learning the “why” behind what you do deepens your connection to your role and shows you care. It can also help you speak more confidently about the products and services you’re selling, proving that you’re ready to move up. 

4. Be Open to Teaching and Learning

Roupen doesn’t expect his son to follow in his footsteps. Instead, he gives him space to try new things and bring fresh ideas to the table. His son runs social media and manages the point-of-sale system, which keeps the restaurant up to date. Roupen continues to learn from him, creating an environment where growth moves in every direction.

You may already be someone others turn to for help in your role. If so, offer what you know while staying open to new perspectives. Sharing your knowledge creates trust, and being curious shows that you’re invested in your job. This exchange of ideas is a key part of growing your retail career.

5. Keep Showing Up

Sayat Nova hasn’t lasted more than 55 years by accident. Roupen credits its longevity to consistency and care. He and his team show up, stay focused, and pay attention to the small things. It doesn’t matter if they’re prepping food or interacting with guests; everything is done with intention.

In retail, your attitude and effort are always on display. Managers and teammates notice how you handle pressure, interact with customers, and deal with unexpected challenges. Keeping a steady and positive approach shows that you’re ready for more.

6. Let Passion Fuel the Hard Days

When Roupen was younger, he worked because he loved earning money and staying busy. As time went on, he realized that passion kept him going. Today, even after decades in the business, he still puts heart into every recipe and interaction. His energy is rooted in purpose, making him a better leader and teammate. 

Finding passion in a retail position might be difficult for you. Try looking for the part of the job that gives you the most satisfaction and invest your time there. True passion will give you the spark you need to stay motivated and the strength to keep going when things get tough.

7. Think Long-Term

Roupen doesn’t hire based on experience alone. He promotes from within and invests in the people already on his team. His goal is to help them build lasting careers in the industry. Because of this, many employees have stayed at Sayat Nova for years and continue to grow.

Even if retail isn’t your forever plan, there’s still value in doing it well. Use your time to sharpen your skills and show that you’re dependable. You might not realize how much experience you’ve gained until it’s time to take the next step. Every role adds up, and those years of experience will help you grow your retail career.

Conclusion

A retail job can be the beginning of a long career, especially when you approach each shift with a mindset for growth. You don’t need to run the store to make an impact. How you show up, contribute, and take initiative at any level will be valuable steps to help you grow your retail career.

At Sayat Nova, growth is about learning, caring, and becoming someone others want to work with. These habits create lasting success beyond any workplace.

Want to hear more powerful retail stories? Learn from retail owners across Illinois who are making a difference.

If you loved learning about Sayat Nova’s story and know a retailer who deserves recognition, Nominate A Retailer to submit your nomination!