Celebrate the unofficial end of summer with Labour Day festivities that show your team how much you value their work! As traffic and sales increase for many operators and labour challenges persist, staff may be tired, stressed, and overworked after a busy summer season.
Restaurants experienced an average turnover rate of 76.3 per cent in 2023. Operators who focus on improved culture, staff support, and employee development could improve performance, increase retention, and attract new talent.
Here are a few suggestions to show your staff some love and appreciation for all their hard work:
Give them a break
Offering your team a little more work-life balance is sure to get attention. You might grant them extra time off, rotate shifts for holiday days or long weekends, or create your own staff appreciation day. You could schedule fun activities, offer a free meal, celebrate with an awards ceremony, or get together to just enjoy each other’s company.
Though it may not always be possible, if you can close the restaurant for this, even better, so your entire team can be part of the fun.
Get with the program
As more employees focus on balance and workplace happiness, implementing a more formal staff appreciation program can help you stay consistent. This could include performance-based recognition, celebrating milestones, a monthly star program, training and development, soliciting feedback, and more.
Beyond motivating your teams and showing that you recognize their contribution to your business, an appreciation program can act as a selling point for potential employee candidates.
RELATED: Side projects boost engagement and retention for your restaurant staff
Ask and answer
The easiest way to find out how best to appreciate your staff is to ask them! Let them know you would like to show your support and get their feedback. Not only will this show that you value their opinion, but they are more likely to be enthusiastic if they have a hand in creating the outcome.
And this goes for many other aspects of your business, too. The age-old suggestion box is a great way to stay on top of your team’s thoughts, and scheduling regular one-on-one or small group meetings will help you brainstorm and collaborate. Similarly, create a culture where open dialogue means your team can come to you with suggestions, ideas, and concerns as you work together to better your business.
Labour Day highlights how important your team is to your restaurant’s success. Take the time to show your staff what they mean to you to create a happier, healthier, and more productive workplace.
