Set the tone for a successful workday (or evening) with your pre-shift meeting. By taking 10 minutes to update your staff on what they need to know and prepare them for their shift, you’ll motivate them to do their best.
Check that everything is in place.
Mis en place works for the front of the house as well as the kitchen. If a server or hostess has to scramble to find a clean menu or the water glasses are not where they belong, it can throw them off, slow them down and diminish customer experience.
Make sure everyone is on time and ready.
Check that they have everything they need such as pens, tickets and bottle openers and are properly dressed and groomed. Let the team know if you expect a busy night or a slow one and whether you have adequate staff. Discuss any personnel changes that affect them. Notify them of any special events, large party reservations, or any VIPs that may be expected.
Welcome questions or suggestions.
Don’t turn the meeting into a complaint session, but listen to any concerns. Your front-line people are the best source of information on what you need to do to satisfy the customer. Solicit feedback on anything that could improve the quality of food, service, or operations.
Discuss the menu.
What specials are you running? Allow the front-of-house staff to taste the specials so they can describe them to diners. The kitchen staff should taste the dishes as well to ensure a consistent product. This is also the time to tell them what items are likely to get 86’ed.
Show appreciation.
Praise in public, correct in private is an old adage, but one that really applies to the restaurant industry. Embarrassing your employees in front of their peers is no way to start a shift. Knowing that their efforts are recognized encourages everyone to do their best.
When your people are prepared, your customers get better service and your business improves! For more ideas to increase your business and hire better, consider Horizon Hospitality. We can help you find the great candidates for your restaurant or hotel. Contact us today.