I’m back on the road. Over the last couple of months, the switch has been flicked and bookings are flooding in for keynotes and training.
And with that comes travel and hotels.
It’s no secret that the hospitality industry is having a staffing crisis.
I talked to a restaurant manager last week who was overseeing a disastrous breakfast service.
There was only her and one other member of staff to look after the whole dining room.
At the end of service, I thanked her for doing her best under very difficult conditions. She explained the reasons why there was no hot food (other than tomatoes and scrambled eggs), how they had no bread or brown sauce and ran out of coffee.
The only chefs they could get were agency and they changed daily.
The waiting staff were also housekeeping.
But the worst thing?
‘My customers are angry.’
She finished by sharing that this was her last day. She couldn’t stand the pressure any longer.
Yes, there’s a crisis in hospitality…
…but please don’t take it out on the front-line staff.
The reason why you’re waiting longer is possibly that smaller teams are trying to do more.
The reason you’re not getting as many smiles could be because staff are feeling stressed.
The reason some things need a little maintenance could be the three-month waiting list to get a decent tradesperson.
I’m not a fan of excuses, but I understand the reasons.
During these difficult times in hospitality, there is something we can all do to help.
Be kind.
I’d love to know your experience and thoughts.
Be Brilliant!
Michael
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