Unfortunately, restaurant staff shortages are common, in fact 93% of all operators are in need of help. With Covid being the culprit, many past and potential employees have left the restaurant trade for other industries, education, and opportunities.
Although technology has filled some vacancies, there is a desperate need for qualified personnel that view foodservice not just as place holder, but as a long term and meaningful career. I can speak from personal experience, knowing many friends and associates that have gone from waiting on tables, cleaning dishes, working the line to now leaders, executives, mentors, and entrepreneurs in the foodservice industry.
The challenge for the operator today is to not only attract but to maintain and retain the staff. Many have implemented higher wages, benefit plans and other forms of both short and long-term incentives, these must continue in order to populate the proper staffing levels. But with limited time and tight budgets, operators are now looking to their key suppliers for unique incentives and programs to help with the staffing situation.
With such a vested interest in the success of the business and the industry, suppliers should step up to support their clients. Not with an “off-the-shelf” staff promotion, but one that is tailored to the specific needs and opportunities for all participants-this is a must. The custom approach does take due diligence, determination of common objectives, and mutual agreement regarding the program mechanics and methodology, but the results are worth the effort.
This is how Stir can HELP.
As an experienced foodservice marketing specialist we have developed and executed many successful staff incentive programs on behalf of the supplier and the operator. There are many short-term tactics and long-term strategies that can be implemented to excite and incent all staff from the hostess team to the dishwashing crew. The critical criteria is keep it simple, obtainable for ALL, and to leverage as an effective tool to reward the staff for their on-going efforts and continued employment loyalty.
Do you WANT HELP with staff recognition, rewards, and retention?
Contact Scott Moore at Stir: scott@stircommunications.ca.
Scott Moore, President of Stir Creative Communication Inc., has been helping foodservice and hospitality suppliers and operators increase sales for over 30 years. For innovative and revenue-increasing programs, marketing and promotional campaigns and much more, contact Scott at 905-484-3094, scott@stircommunications.ca, or visit www.stircommunications.ca.