#Gettingalong#Restaurantteams#TeamsTeamwork Sep 11, 2023

In the intricate dance of managing a restaurant, daily challenges emerge. A line cook clashes with a server, a bartender crosses boundaries, and a tardy dishwasher adds to the mix. As the owner, these scenarios demand your attention. Conversations are not merely a necessity; they are the lifeline preventing your business from unraveling.

Navigating the Complex Landscape of Communication

Communication, the cornerstone of any thriving team, poses a significant question for business owners: Are you a communication expert? The common sentiment echoes through entrepreneurial circles – the dream of business ownership tainted by the complex realm of employee management. Yet, employees are the heartbeat of your establishment, entrusted not just with tasks but with the essence of your brand. Can you effectively impart your vision to those who embody the face of your business?

In the presence of effective communication, a team unlocks immense value. Harmony prevails, and tasks seamlessly align.

Unraveling the Tale of Conflict

Let’s delve into the frequent narrative of a contentious line cook and server. The plot remains consistent—a stressed and disrespected cook, a server channeling frustration from demanding customers, culminating in a post-service confrontation. It’s an extreme case, but it highlights the absurdity of an industry where two distinct groups, the Front of House (FOH) and Back of House (BOH), approach their roles with disparate perspectives yet must collaborate intricately.

This chasm, responsible for the great divide, is deeply rooted and complex. From wage disparities to underlying issues of race and gender, even seemingly united teams may harbor tensions. Addressing this requires cultural shifts, significant transformations within the industry.

The Transformative Power of Communication

In this interim period of industry evolution, communication emerges as a powerful tool for bridging divides. What can you bring to these crucial conversations that will make a difference? How can you, through communication, shape a team that functions seamlessly, embracing differences and working towards shared goals?

Concrete Steps for Effective Conversations:

1. Crafting the Ideal Work Environment: Regularly engage your team in discussions about the best possible work environment. Whether through pre-service meetings or informal gatherings like family meals, continuously explore this question, transforming it into a living possibility.
2. Personal Sacrifices for Team Presence: Prior to each shift, initiate a huddle where team members share what they are putting aside to be present for their colleagues. Acknowledge their personal lives, then collectively envision the evening ahead. Satisfied customers, prepared cooks, knowledgeable servers, and reliable managers are the envisioned outcomes.
3. Defining Accountability: Similar to players on a sports field, every team member should be aware of their role and what their colleagues bring to the table. On-board training, weekly team meetings, and monthly all-hands gatherings contribute to fostering clarity regarding expectations.
4. Breathing Room for Conversations: Amidst the relentless ticking of the clock in the restaurant business, allocate time for crucial conversations. An additional five minutes dedicated to peaceful dialogue can substantially enhance the work environment.
5. Injecting Fun into the Equation: In the pursuit of a cohesive team, remember that not every setback requires a significant response. Learn from deviations without harboring grudges or succumbing to unnecessary drama. A lighthearted approach can significantly contribute to team morale.

Fostering Unity Across the Entire Team

Implementing these strategies transcends the dichotomy of front and back of the house, bringing the entire team together as a unified force. Skepticism regarding the industry’s capacity for meaningful change is understandable. Yet, transformative shifts often commence with a single individual. As team members carry these practices to new environments, a ripple effect is set in motion, paving the way for substantial change.

A Forward Gaze: Nurturing a Sustainable Work Culture

Establishing a work culture founded on effective communication and shared values is an ongoing journey. It involves creating an environment where each team member feels not only heard but also valued. Alignment with the overarching goals of the business becomes not just a directive but a shared commitment.

The Continuous Journey

In conclusion, building a successful team is a continuous commitment. By investing in open and honest communication, addressing challenges proactively, and nurturing a culture of unity, your restaurant can not only weather industry complexities but emerge stronger. This journey, marked by resilience and continuous effort, ensures that every team member plays a pivotal role in the shared success of the establishment.