Your restaurant staff can never be too prepared. So, if you’re running the ship in your restaurant this year then read on. We have some great tips for you and your staff! (Plus, if you’re working this season and feel like you’re running around like a headless turkey, this could work for you and your team!)
Here are some tips for you to get prepared for the Christmas rush craziness.
Communicate
Communication is so important during the entire year. But, if there's an increase in demand during the holidays, there should be an increase in communication too. Let your restaurant staff know to make customer aware of any delays as soon as possible.
Although it isn't ideal, customers won't mind as long as you let them know beforehand. It’s a jolly time with work night outs and family dinners on the go. So, people won’t mind having to chat a bit longer between courses. Especially if there’s a good environment and some nice drinks to pass the time
Check-in
Though checking in on each table through their meal can be tricky when the restaurant is as full as Santa’s belly (I couldn’t help myself), it’ll always be worth it to check that everyone’s happy and that the food is good. It also means your waiting staff can give your chefs a boost of confidence knowing that their hard work is bringing lots of festive smiles!
Speaking of communication, you need to talk to your staff to see if there’s anything that can help them through this busy time. Perhaps changing hours a little to alleviate any stress they may be feeling? You could also ask them if they’d feel better having a little more reinforcement with temp staff to help out.
Your staff will be working extra hard and have the responsibility of keeping everyone happy. So, give them some autonomy and remind them that you’re thankful for their hard work!
Keep an eye on the inventory!
This is super important because ‘tis the season of food and drink, so you need to have enough! Hopefully you’ll have records of last years sales, which means you can forecast what you’ll need on a weekly basis.
However, if you notice increase of demand of some items, then try to order a surplus of ingredients so that you definitely don’t run out. And with apps like Too Good To Go, you don’t need to worry about wasting or risking to waste any food. Using the app as you can give the leftover items away!
And lastly, have fun.
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It can be hard to enjoy the season working in a restaurant. Especially with the increase of demand, heightened emotions and customers enjoying their nice drinks more than ever. However, smiles are contagious! So, if your customers leave the place happier than they came, then your staff have really worked their magic. In the end, it'll reflect upon your restaurant staff and everyone will have a merry time!
If you feel like you want to be part of the fun working in a restaurant have a look at some of the opportunities on our website!