Proven Tactics for Navigating What’s Next in Labor Challenges
Controlling what you can control to bridge the labor gap and win.
THE MONEY MAGNET
Higher wages – even if only marginally so – plus good quality benefits are a powerful differentiator.
Take direction from the team via one-on-one discussions or surveys to reveal which benefits will make the most impact and best demonstrate your commitment to their health, wealth and job satisfaction. Think modest but meaningful performance bonuses, free parking and meals, and tailored perks and benefits that make good use of finite resources.
Knowing your average is a good thing. The idea is simple: Identify servers with higher-than- and lower-than-average checks. Use this information to learn about and motivate your staff. By doing so, you’ll increase revenue and profits with the customers you have today, and set a common goal for your staff.
RETAINING A WINNING CREW:
It’s as mission critical as ever, but as labor shortages persist, so do the challenges.
Here are some expert strategies for creating an attractive workplace and a rock-solid operation that makes the most of every dollar and every day.
BEYOND FLEXIBILITY, GIVE THEM AUTONOMY
Scheduling apps like 7shifts, HotSchedules and When I Work let staff choose their shifts, simplify shift trades and ensure coverage. Empowering employees with more control over their schedules has been proven to boost retention and attendance while reducing burnout. Consider rotating weekends or three consecutive days off to create the work-life balance your team will truly value.
OFFER CAREERS, NOT JUST JOBS
Incorporate simple yet structured career pathing and pay close attention to high-potential MVPs you most want to retain. “It’s about building lasting relationships with employees and turning them into long-term partners in your business,” says Mary McVoy, Shamrock Foods Restaurant Consultant, California. “The key is to include an educational aspect in every role, from the dishwashers to the managers. Everyone in the business should feel they have the opportunity to grow.”
“Have a vision, share the vision, and lead by example to fulfill the vision.” - Karim Refaey, Shamrock Foods Restaurant Consultant, Idaho
CULTURE CLUB
Shaping an environment where employees feel safe, seen, valued and empowered starts and ends with leadership.
Regular one-on-ones, engaging team meetings, and open communication foster trust and give employees a voice and a stake in the business. Manageable workloads and the right tools also fend off burnout and keep the collective happy and hungry for success.
DO LESS, BETTER
Pare down to core menu items that cross-utilize high-quality ingredients to reduce complexity without compromising on craveability. Seasonal and limited-time offers keep guests engaged with fresh choices, while a well-engineered core menu stays easy to execute. Tools like Menu Wizard provide data-driven analysis to identify the most profitable items versus those that are less popular or resource-intensive.
LEVERAGE AI WHILE STAYING HUMAN
AI has a place in providing data insights, but not replacing human roles. Platforms like Dryver and Popmenu capture visit frequency, purchase history and other guest details to personalize marketing and sweeten their experience. Similarly, TouchBistro or SpotOn integrates data analytics for targeted scheduling and promotion to meet the moment and build loyalty.
OUTSOURCE AND UPGRADE
“Focus on what you do well and let the rest go.” - Kelli Daniels, Shamrock Foods Restaurant Consultant
Using a third party for non-core functions like deep cleaning, food delivery and administrative functions can save time and resources for fundamentals like guest service, menu innovation and overall efficiency. Outsourcing accounts payable in particular can yield significant time savings and efficiency, while solutions like MarginEdge can intuitively reduce admin hours and free managers to do what they do best.
CUT THE PREP
The quality of products that reduce risky chopping and help staff work more efficiently have advanced to the level of matching or surpassing what you could do in-house.
Chef favorites include pre-portioned proteins from Gold Canyon Meat CO.® and Pier 22 Seafood CO.®, plus Markon Ready-Set-Serve® produce: washed, chopped and ready to go. Though often overlooked, using Jensen Foods XTREME® oil for extended fry life and ProClean® cleaning products saves maintenance time and allows staff to focus on quality service.
Share this Post
Get Rewarded Like Never Before
Get more great menu ideas and great savings on items you already purchase. Enjoy exclusive offers, rebates and promotions, and the chance to win great prizes, including trips to some amazing destinations with Shamrock Rewards.
Continue Reading
LET’S OPTIMIZE YOUR OPERATIONS
Check out our resources to help give your menu edge, make your kitchen more efficient and put our team of experts to work for you.
MyShamrock
Your online portal to place orders, track your deliveries and access your transaction history.
Profit Calculator
Maximize profitability with this simple, powerful tool that helps calculate your operation’s break-even point and more.
Menu Resources
Exclusive to our customers, an easy way to manage purchase tracking, inventory and menu costs.
Talk food to us.
Our team of seasoned professionals is ready to help you choose the right products for your business, and put our deep knowledge of the industry to work for you.