Havinga passion for a concept is what makes Hot Topic such a successful retailer. Musicis the passion that drives Hot Topic while Torrid embeds itself in fashion. Thishelps Hot Topic employees in their ability to connect with crowds or customers towhom they sell to. Hot Topics employees average age is around 25 years of age.
This is the age range that is into trends and innovative styles. Employees arefiercely loyal to the firm because of the great working environment where theyfeel they can fit in (and be appreciated for what they contribute to the organization.One example of how Hot Topic encourages fitting in is its concert reimbursementprogram. Employees can attend a concert and bring someone with them, fill outan expense report, and be reimbursed for the cost of their tickets. The only requirementfor this benefit is to submit a fashion report. The culture also valuescollaboration, open communication, and empowerment, and is perpetuated by alack of walls and doors in the corporate headquarters. Everyone works in one spaciousroom and shares space taking emphasis off hierarchy and promoting collaborationand open communication.
Hot Topics can keep their success going because oftheir involvement with the community and their social responsibilities. HotTopic recognizes the importance of providing their customers with products thathave been produced in a legal and socially responsible manner. In addition to requiringcompliance with applicable local and federal laws they require allmanufacturers and product providers to agree to adhere to strict standards toproduce the merchandise they sell. These are the minimum standards by whichthey expect each manufacturer and product provider to conduct business withthem and they are founded on the principle that all individuals are oweddignity and respect. The standards include prohibitions of child labor orforced labor treating workers with respect and without discrimination andensuring fair wages. Included in these standards they require all manufacturersand product providers to ensure that there shall not be any use of forced laborwhether in the form of prison labor, indentured labor, bonded labor orotherwise. The idea of no walls and no doors in the corporate headquartersencourage the culture Hot Topic is trying to perpetuate because the valueensure cohesion communication and openness to share innovative ideas.
After allthe company encourages risk taking decisions when taking care of the needs ofcustomers. Although i do see myself as a time player and love being among otherto collaborate and share my thoughts and ideas for feedback i would not preferto work in such an atmosphere. I do my best work when I’m alone and have timeto think out most of my thoughts and ideas before collaboration.
