Success is the result of design, not chance.
I learned that in the trenches of retail. I launched stores, managed teams, and saw the same problems popping up again and again.
That’s why I designed AIM (Action Item Management): a simple and effective approach to retail management that lays the foundation for long-term success.
Retail is stressful. That will always be the reality. It demands a lot from its employees, but structure, consistency, and true leadership can make all the difference.
While retail may be perceived as an industry that lives or dies by its product launches, AIM focuses on what is really essential: daily execution. That’s where retail truly wins or loses.
Radically Reliable Retail results.
Everyone knows what’s expected and delivers.
Managers are trained to identify execution gaps and address them in real time.
Structure breeds confidence, and confidence fuels results.
No more guesswork. The team is aligned.
I didn’t plan on a career in retail. I fell into it after switching majors and landing a summer internship. But from my first store experience at Macy’s, I was hooked. Decades later, after leading teams at Gap, Bank of America, and Travelex, I learned one truth: success comes from relentlessly executing the basics. That’s what I teach today: Radically Reliable Retail.
I’ve created presentations specifically tailored to increase the effectiveness of your team and enable your managers to optimize their strengths.
Would you like to book me for your next speaking engagement or to lead a workshop?
I’m ready to redirect your AIM!
I’ve chronicled all the lessons I’ve learned from decades in retail management in my books. Want a deep dive into my methods? Look no further!
A must read for anyone in retail.
Well written and organized. Easy to read. Great ideas and tips. Very user friendly. A must read for anyone in retail.
Many Great Ideas!
I really enjoyed Jon Dario's organization and prioritization of his management concepts. I was a retail manager for a number of years and wished I had this book when I first started out. He takes 'learning from hard knocks' out of many of the trials and tribulations that retail managers go through. The easy to read and logical organization of this book make it a great resource for any manager, or anyone who wants to become a manager.
Fantastic Book
I hope this book finds its way to many other retail managers. It truly is a guide to effective management. No unnecessary fluff.
As part of my consulting work, I bring organizations a proven tool for unlocking consistent frontline performance: AIM, or Action Item Management. AIM is not just a theory; it is a system built from real-world leadership experience across big box, specialty retail, financial services, airport retail, self-storage, and more. It works because it is made for the realities of frontline management. Through AIM, I help leaders create clarity, drive follow-through, and deliver results with relentless consistency.
