Christian Vlotman

Dear Reader

I hope this letter finds you in high spirits. I am writing to share an extraordinary journey that has led me to discover an unexpected passion for the retail industry. It is a tale of overcoming reservations, personal growth, and an unyielding desire to excel in this vibrant field.

For the longest time, I hesitated to enter the retail industry due to my lack of knowledge and an unfounded fear of the unknown. It seemed like a daunting world, and I believed it to be mundane and predictable. Little did I realize that life has a way of surprising us and transforming our outlook on things.

However, destiny intervened, and I found myself in a position where I had no choice but to embrace the retail industry. To my astonishment, the most peculiar thing happened - I fell head over heels in love with it. Every aspect, from the customers - both the good and the challenging ones - to the intricacies of the retail environment, captivated me in ways I could not have anticipated.

Engaging with the wide array of customers presented me with daily puzzles to solve and opportunities to make a meaningful impact. It became a source of great satisfaction to assist customers in finding what they needed and creating a positive shopping experience for them. Witnessing their satisfaction and appreciation was a constant reminder of the significance of service and the value of connection.

What struck me the most was the way the dynamic nature of the retail industry kept my mind invigorated and prevented it from slipping into a monotonous state. The fast pace and ever-evolving challenges demanded quick thinking, adaptability, and problem-solving skills. I discovered a newfound sense of resilience and creativity within myself that I never knew I possessed.

Driven by my newfound love for the retail industry, I am now resolute in my goal to enter a store manager training program. My aspiration is to someday run my own store, where I can create an exceptional shopping atmosphere and curate a selection of products that truly resonate with customers. I firmly believe that enrolling in a comprehensive training program will provide me with the necessary skills and knowledge to make this dream a reality.

I am wholeheartedly committed to acquiring expertise in store operations, inventory management, effective marketing strategies, and staff development. I understand the challenges that await me, but my determination to succeed and make a positive impact in the retail industry fuels my relentless drive.

Thank you for taking the time to read my story and share in my journey. It has been an eye-opening experience, and I am grateful for the opportunities that have come my way. I firmly believe that sometimes, the path we least expect can lead us to our true passions and purpose. I am excited for the prospects that lie ahead and embrace them with unwavering dedication and enthusiasm.

Wishing you continued success, and looking forward to the future.

Warm regards,

Christian Vlotman

n my four-year retail journey, I began as a bag packer and quickly progressed to a General Merchandise Department (GMD) position. As a Various Time Employee (VTE), I oversaw GMD and delegated tasks to permanent staff members. I then advanced to become a Fruit and Veg Supervisor, although Pick n Pay denied me the title of Floor Supervisor despite having my name on an occupation bag indicating that role. When two management positions became available, I asked which department was the most challenging to run. This led me to apply for the Deli Manager position, aiming to prove myself in what was perceived as one of the most difficult departments. However, I found that it did not live up to its reputation, as I missed the vibrant atmosphere of working in groceries.

I have chosen to pursue online courses through Saylor Academy for three compelling reasons. Firstly, due to financial constraints, this platform offers an affordable option for gaining knowledge and skills. Secondly, to successfully complete each course, one must achieve a minimum grade of 70%, ensuring a thorough understanding of the subject matter. Lastly, Saylor Academy's monitored exams provide credits that are recognized by universities and colleges in America, offering an additional benefit for future educational pursuits.

Thus far, I have successfully obtained certificates in various courses including Business Law, Principles of Management, Customer Service, Elements of Ethical Leadership, and Organizational Culture, Diversity and Ethics. My next objective is to convert these certifications into college credits, enabling me to further my academic journey.