Written by Jake Keiter and this is our featured piece for out September 13th, 2023 Print Edition
In the heart of Jonestown, where the community gathers to share stories and laughs, one store stood as a silent witness to ridicule. The Dollar General in Jonestown had seen its fair share of ups and downs, but a change was on the horizon, and its name was Michael Dechert. With an unwavering commitment and a vision to rebuild not only the store but also the community’s trust, Michael Dechert stepped into the role of General Manager, ready to embrace the challenge that lay ahead.
Michael Dechert: Breathing New Life into Jonestown’s Dollar General
“I never knew anything about this DG or the ridicule about the store until after the old manager left,” Michael Dechert admits candidly. During the interview process, his focus was clear – he was here to be trained and to help a store in need. The Dollar General store in Jonestown required assistance, both in terms of personnel and management.
While some might have shied away from a daunting task, Michael’s attitude was one of determination. “I’m a bull in a China shop,” he chuckles, “and I refuse to fail.” It was this indomitable spirit that led him to take on the challenge, a challenge not just to manage a store but to revitalize it and make it a thriving hub for the community.
A Transformational Leader Takes Charge
Upon assuming the role of General Manager, Michael Dechert quickly realized that the team he inherited was a capable one; they just needed the right leader to guide them. “The team was good but needed to be led,” he explains. It was here that Michael’s leadership qualities came to the forefront.
“I came in with a drive to tackle anything I set my mind to,” he states confidently. But it wasn’t about imposing change for the sake of change; it was about proving to the team that he wasn’t there to clean house or be a pushover. Instead, he was here to be a leader who listened, motivated, and worked alongside his team.
Positive Changes Emerge
Since Michael took over, the response from the community has been overwhelmingly positive. While it’s still early days, approximately 2 months since his appointment, the initial signs are promising. “Right now, I look at this as the honeymoon time for my customers,” Michael explains. They have begun to notice positive changes – a cleaner store, welcoming smiles from the staff, and an overall improved shopping experience.
However, Michael is keenly aware that this is just the beginning. “In 6 months to a year, the real test begins,” he acknowledges. By then, he aims to have not only maintained but elevated the store to his standards, Dollar General’s standards, and most importantly, the community’s standards.
The Role of Leadership in Transformation
When asked about the key factor in implementing these changes successfully, Michael doesn’t hesitate. “Leadership,” he states with conviction. In his eyes, proving to his team that they are twice as important as he is forms the cornerstone of his approach. “There are no excuses,” he emphasizes. Michael backs up his words with actions, setting an example for his team every day.
From taking out the trash to working long hours or stocking shelves, Michael leads by example, a testament to his belief in the value of hard work, strong leadership, and honesty in his team.
Consistency and Efficiency: A Simple Plan
The plans to maintain consistency and efficiency are straightforward in Michael’s eyes. Dollar General has established time frames for product placement every week. The key, he believes, lies in teamwork – a cohesive unit of individuals working together for a common goal. There will be times when Michael can’t be the one stocking shelves due to his managerial responsibilities. At those moments, he places his trust in his assistant manager and the rest of the team.
But trust doesn’t mean turning a blind eye. “Not a chance,” Michael states emphatically. He holds his management team to high standards, expecting more from them than anyone else. Trust is given until it’s broken, and at that point, he becomes the manager no one wants to cross.
Michael Dechert’s Message to the Community and Team
In conclusion, Michael Dechert has a few key messages for the community and his team:
“Please know this is a work in progress for the next few months,” he begins. He doesn’t promise perfection, but he does promise unwavering effort.
“I have very high goals for the store and myself,” he continues. His ambition is to move up in the company.
“My drive to bring people back is not just for the store,” Michael reveals. He envisions the store as a central part of the community and wants to give back by hosting events like the upcoming race night on the 31st. Future plans include toy drives, military dog donation drives, and more.
“I am willing to say hi to anyone,” he assures. No one should feel that he’s too busy, but he acknowledges that he’s working diligently to achieve a lot in a short time.
“Last but not least,” he concludes, “If you come into the store, welcome. If you come in to steal, remember we will catch you, and you will be prosecuted.”
With Michael Dechert at the helm, the Dollar General in Jonestown is not just a store; it’s a symbol of transformation, a place where a community rebuilds trust, and a beacon of hope for the future. As Michael’s journey unfolds, it’s a reminder that with the right attitude, determination, and leadership, even the toughest challenges can be turned into opportunities for growth and renewal. The story of Michael Dechert and Jonestown’s Dollar General is one of encouragement, inspiration, and belief in a brighter tomorrow.
