Building Resilient Teams in High-Turnover Industries
The restaurant industry is no stranger to high turnover. With constantly shifting schedules, long hours, and the pressure of meeting guest expectations, it’s no surprise that retaining staff is a common challenge. However, building a resilient team is possible with the right approach. By focusing on thoughtful recruitment, comprehensive training, and fostering a supportive workplace culture, you can create a team that sticks with you for the long haul.
Here are things to think about:
1. Hire for Attitude, Train for Skills
Hiring someone with a great attitude and a willingness to learn can often outweigh prior experience. A team member who is eager, dependable, and enthusiastic will be much easier to train and integrate into your restaurant culture than someone with experience but a negative mindset.
Key Takeaways:
During interviews, ask behavioral questions like, “Tell me about a time you worked under pressure” to gauge attitude.
Look for candidates who express a genuine interest in hospitality and guest satisfaction.
Don’t be afraid to hire people with limited experience if they show enthusiasm and a team-player mentality.
2. Prioritize Training and Development
Training isn’t just for onboarding—it’s an ongoing investment in your team. A strong training program not only equips employees with the skills they need to succeed but also shows them that you’re invested in their growth. When staff feel confident and valued, they’re more likely to stay.
Key Takeaways:
Standardize your onboarding process with clear training manuals and hands-on shadowing opportunities.
Conduct regular refresher training, especially when new menu items or policies are introduced.
Offer cross-training opportunities so employees can gain new skills and feel more versatile.
3. Foster a Positive and Supportive Culture
Your workplace culture directly impacts staff retention. A positive environment where team members feel appreciated and supported can make all the difference. Regular recognition, clear communication, and open-door policies can foster loyalty and camaraderie.
Key Takeaways:
Recognize accomplishments, whether it’s a public shoutout during a team meeting or a small reward for exceptional service.
Schedule regular check-ins to give employees a chance to voice concerns and feel heard.
Create a supportive atmosphere by encouraging teamwork and celebrating milestones.
4. Prevent Burnout With Smart Scheduling
Scheduling can make or break your team’s morale. Burnout is one of the most common reasons employees leave, but thoughtful scheduling can help alleviate stress.
Key Takeaways:
Rotate shifts fairly to avoid overburdening certain team members.
Take employee preferences into account where possible, balancing flexibility with operational needs.
Plan ahead for busy periods and holidays to ensure adequate coverage and avoid last-minute staffing issues.
5. Provide Growth Opportunities
One of the biggest reasons staff leave is the lack of growth potential. If team members don’t see a future with your restaurant, they’re more likely to seek opportunities elsewhere. By providing a clear path for advancement, you can keep ambitious employees engaged and motivated.
Key Takeaways:
Create a transparent system for promotions, raises, and career development.
Mentor employees interested in management or leadership roles.
Offer professional development opportunities, such as certifications or workshops.
Final Thoughts
Building a resilient team in the restaurant industry isn’t just about hiring more people—it’s about creating an environment where employees feel valued, supported, and empowered to grow. When you prioritize your team, they’ll prioritize your guests, leading to a stronger, more successful restaurant.
