When Jordan Hertel first walked into a DICK’s Sporting Goods store as a cashier in 2009, she never imagined it would become the foundation of a 16-year career, or that it would shape the leader she is today.
Fresh out of high school and looking for a job to get her through college, Jordan’s goals were simple: work, learn, and move on. But as she balanced full-time work with school, something unexpected happened. Retail didn’t just pay the bills, it sparked purpose.
“I started realizing this was something I actually loved,” Jordan said. “I liked being on my feet, helping people, and being part of moments that mattered.”
That realization launched a career path that took her from cashier to footwear manager, operations leader, and eventually store manager. Along the way, Jordan found much more than professional growth, she found mentors who believed in her, teammates who challenged her, and even met her husband.
Jordan credits a former store manager for shaping her leadership philosophy. “She taught me everything I know,” Jordan shared. “One day, I hope I can be that person for someone else.”
Today, the tables have turned. The same leader Jordan once leaned on now comes to her for advice, something Jordan laughs about but also views as a full-circle moment.
“It’s proof of growth,” she said. “And it reminds me how important it is to invest in people early.”
That people-first mindset is central to Jordan’s leadership style. She believes great leaders don’t just manage tasks they coach, communicate, and create space for others to grow.
For Jordan, retail leadership started with understanding the impact of customer service, especially for young athletes experiencing their “firsts.”
“There is nothing better than helping a kid get their first baseball glove or bike,” she said. “Those moments stick with them forever.”
Jordan still sees retail as deeply human work. Whether it’s engaging a nervous parent, calming a frustrated customer, or creating small moments of joy, like handing out cards to kids while their gloves are steamed. Jordan says she believes the little things create the biggest impact.
“Retail isn’t just about what you sell,” Jordan explained. “It’s about how you make people feel.”
When it comes to students and early-career professionals, Jordan offers straightforward but powerful advice:
Ask questions and understand the ‘why.’
“There’s a reason behind every decision,” she said. “The sooner you start asking why, the faster you’ll grow.”
Be coachable and adaptable.
Retail is constantly evolving—from supply chains to technology to customer expectations. “Things change every day,” Jordan said. “You have to be willing to change with them.”
Put yourself out there.
Volunteer. Try something new. Get hands-on. “You learn more by doing than watching from the sidelines,” she emphasized.
When hiring high school students and first-time job seekers, Jordan looks less at experience and more at personality and potential.
“I’d rather hire someone who’s personable and eager to learn than someone with years of experience who won’t engage,” she said. “Skills can be taught attitude is harder.”
After nearly two decades in retail, Jordan has seen firsthand how technology, AI, and innovation continue to reshape the industry. From bulky scanner guns to sleek handheld devices, from inventory systems to RFID, the pace of change has never slowed.
Her advice? Stay curious.
“Pay attention to where companies are investing and what’s coming next,” she said. “Retail is evolving fast, there’s opportunity in that.”
Even on the hardest days, Jordan remains grateful for a career she once never planned to have.
“There are more good days than bad,” she said. “And the good days helping a kid, supporting a teammate, building confidence in someone who doesn’t see it yet, those are what make it all worth it.”
Jordan’s story reflects the heart of retail: opportunity, growth, and meaningful human connection. From a college job to a lifelong profession, her journey is proof that retail careers can be impactful, fulfilling, and full of unexpected possibility.
