Consistent Staff - Consistent Quality - Consistent Customers

One of the toughest aspects of running a restaurant is finding and keeping great staff. We have all heard of establishments where the same cooks and servers have been working for decades. The benefit of having the same cook making a particular signature dish is that not only will the dish be of high quality, it will be so consistently.

Having the same servers will not only give your regular guests a sense of familiarity and comfort, it will assure them that their particular needs will be attended to by someone who understands those requests without being prompted. A server who greets guests by name and remembers their preferences helps create a sense of hospitality that is the hallmark of all great restaurants.Vision: It's Contagious! The first step in attracting.

Vision: It's Contagious!

The first step in attracting great employees is to have a clear vision of your standards. What do you believe in and how do you run your business? Are these standards easily identified and can you communicate them to your employees? Hospitality workers are usually people pleasers. Try to find employees who have a natural tendency to be helpful and pleasant. Hire people with a great disposition and winning personality. This is as important for back of house employees as it is for front of house employees. If you have a nucleus of good people, they will attract other good people.

Put up a Reward!

Your best source for finding great new staff is your current employees. If you have happy, motivated staff, then they will be happy to let their friends know about job openings. Offer your staff a "bounty" for each new staff member that they recommend. The amount can be the equivalent of the cost of running an ad in the newspaper.

Go to the Source!

Hospitality schools are filled with dynamic young people who are committed to the foodservice industry. Visit the school and post job openings. Talk to the instructors about the "shining lights" in their classroom. Get involved with the school in an advisory capacity and they will return the favor by steering the best students your way.

Network with Other Operators!

Other operators in your area will usually have one or two employees who are ready to move on to more challenging work. If they come out of an establishment that you admire, you can be assured that they are likely to have what it takes to be successful in your restaurant.

Suppliers Can Help!

When you are in need of staff, be sure to let your suppliers and sales representatives know about it. They will know who is available and who is looking for a change of scenery. They will also have a good idea of the capabilities, strengths and weaknesses of the individuals they recommend.