Amidst the ongoing challenges faced by restaurants, including the Great Resignation and rising costs, employee retention remains a critical focus. To keep your best workers engaged and committed, consider implementing the following strategies:
Provide Flexibility and Predictability:
Give employees their schedules well in advance to reduce stress and improve work-life balance.
Eliminate "clopen" shifts (where an employee closes and then opens the next day) to prevent burnout.
Prioritize consecutive days off to ensure employees have time to recharge.
Offer Paid Time Off (PTO):
Hourly workers often hesitate to take time off due to financial concerns. Consider offering PTO to encourage employees to rest and recharge.
Even a day off can make a significant difference in preventing burnout.
Health Insurance and Retirement Benefits:
Beyond PTO, employees increasingly value health insurance and retirement benefits.
Explore options such as plans under the Affordable Care Act or third-party providers to offer these benefits, setting your business apart in terms of employee loyalty.
Promote a Cooperative Work Environment:
Sixty percent of employees cite "Getting along with coworkers" as a top reason for job satisfaction.
Foster a positive workplace culture that encourages collaboration and camaraderie.
Act on Exit Survey Insights:
Conduct exit surveys to understand why employees leave.
Use this feedback to address pain points and improve retention strategies.
Remember, investing in employee well-being pays off in the long run. By prioritizing flexibility, benefits, and a positive work environment, your restaurant can retain its valuable workforce and thrive in a competitive industry.