The Secret Sauce to Reducing Employee Turnover in Your Restaurant
As a restaurant owner or operator, are you tired of the endless cycle of hiring and training new staff, only to see them leave before their apron even gets its first grease stain?
Are you struggling to create a working environment where your team feels confident, comfortable, and supported? Well, grab a seat at our proverbial table, because we're about to dish out some food for thought that might just help your restaurant turn that corner.
At ExpandShare, our mission is to make restaurant employees feel comfortable and confident in their jobs. We've seen firsthand the transformative power of great staff training and efficient operational systems. Guess what? Establishments that invest in these areas see significant improvements in their staff's job satisfaction, retention, and overall performance.
So, let's break down the secret sauce to making your restaurant staff feel like they're part of a winning team.
The Foundation: Confidently Knowledgeable Staff
Imagine walking into a new job and being handed a menu the size of a novel, with ingredients you can't pronounce and dishes you've never heard of. Now imagine trying to answer customer questions and upsell items while feeling like you're fumbling in the dark.
Sounds like a recipe for disaster, right? Well, that's often the reality for new hires in the restaurant industry.
A study by the National Restaurant Association found that 31% of restaurant employees cited inadequate training as a primary reason for leaving their jobs (1). It's no surprise that a lack of training can lead to a lack of confidence, which in turn can lead to subpar performance and high turnover rates.
To combat this, invest in comprehensive staff training that covers everything from menu items and ingredients to upselling techniques and customer service skills. By providing your staff with the knowledge they need to excel, you're not only setting them up for success but also demonstrating that you value their contributions to the team.
The Next Layer: Clearly Defined Expectations
If you've ever tried to build a piece of furniture without instructions, you know how frustrating it can be to feel lost and unsure of what you're doing. The same goes for restaurant staff who are unsure of their roles and responsibilities.
Setting clear expectations is crucial for helping your staff feel confident and capable in their jobs. According to a report by Toast, 52% of restaurant professionals cite employee performance as their top challenge (2). To address this issue, make sure each team member knows exactly what's expected of them, from food preparation to customer interactions.
One way to help your staff meet these expectations is by implementing standardized checklists and procedures. ExpandShare's operational checklist software, for example, makes it easy to create custom checklists for each job role, ensuring that your staff knows precisely what they need to do to succeed.
With clear expectations and efficient systems in place, your team can focus on what they do best: providing excellent service to your guests.
The Secret Ingredient: A Supportive and Inclusive Team Culture
We've all heard the saying, "There's no 'I' in 'team,'" but have you ever stopped to think about what that really means for your restaurant staff? Feeling supported and included as part of the team can make a world of difference when it comes to job satisfaction and performance.
In fact, a Gallup study found that engaged employees — those who feel a strong connection to their team and workplace — are 81% more likely to show up to their shift 81% and 14% more productive than their disengaged counterparts (3). So how can you cultivate a team culture where everyone feels like they belong?
First, ensure that your staff has opportunities to communicate and collaborate with one another, both during and outside of work hours. This might include regular team meetings, staff outings, or even a group chat where employees can share updates, ask questions, and stay connected.
Next, recognize and celebrate your team's achievements, both big and small. A simple "great job!" or a more formal recognition program can go a long way in making your staff feel valued and appreciated. Remember, a little appreciation can be the yeast that helps your team's morale rise to new heights!
Finally, create an environment where everyone feels comfortable sharing their ideas, concerns, and feedback. Encourage open communication and listen to what your team has to say. By fostering an inclusive atmosphere, you'll not only show your staff that their opinions matter but also tap into their unique perspectives and expertise. After all, the best ideas often come from those in the trenches.
Bringing It All Together: The Perfect Recipe for a Confident and Comfortable Staff
So there you have it, restaurant owners and operators — the secret sauce to helping your restaurant staff feel confident, comfortable, and supported. By focusing on comprehensive training, setting clear expectations, and fostering a supportive and inclusive team culture, you'll not only create a happier and more efficient workforce but also set your restaurant on the path to success.
And remember, ExpandShare is here to help you whip up that perfect recipe for staff satisfaction with our restaurant training and operational checklist software. So, let's get cooking and create a work environment where your team can truly thrive!
Sources:
National Restaurant Association. (2020). State of Restaurant Employee Retention.
Toast. (2019). Restaurant Success in 2019 Industry Report.
Gallup. (2022). Employee Engagement vs. Employee Satisfaction and Organizational Culture
