B2 – Upper Intermediate
In many cases, employees who work in retail establishments have to deal with unpredictable work schedules. Studies show that such scheduling affects both workers and companies negatively.
Discover how fair scheduling practices improve employee well-being and retail sales.
Read the article below and be ready to answer the questions that follow.
Vocabulary Questions:
1. How do you understand the phrase “to make ends meet”? Use it in a sentence.
This intense variation in work time can often lead to retail employees not making ends meet.
2. What does the phrase “ebb and flow” mean in the sentence below?
Sophisticated algorithms designed by operations management researchers are used to schedule workers to match the ebb and flow of customer traffic.
3. Define “clopening“. What comes to your mind when you hear this word?
Discussion Questions:
1. Do you know anyone who works in a retail store? What kind of timetable does this shop follow?
2. Consider the reasons for unpredictable work schedules in many retail establishments. Do you see it happening in your country?
3. According to the article, 19 Gap stores in Chicago and San Francisco increased sales after adopting responsible scheduling practices. What are your thoughts on this?
4. Talk about your work schedule. Are you satisfied? If not, what would you like to change?