The food service industry sees a lot of employee turnover. How do you plan to handle a disengaged or upset employee?
"I believe one way to handle a disengaged employee is to have them set their own performance goals, alongside their supervisor or manager. When a person feels focused and responsible for their performance, they are often more engaged. As a leader, I will also make it a habit to say thank you to my team. I think that an 'attitude of gratitude' goes a long way."
Some reports say that the average turnover rate in the casual food-service industry is over 40%. Considering turnover rates are high, and that turnover costs an employer countless dollars, the interviewer would like to know what you plan to do to combat this issue. Ensuring that you address your employees' concerns quickly and with care is just one way that you can help to reduce turnover.
"As an experienced manager in the food-service industry, I have learned a few ways to keep conflict at a minimum. Either way, conflict does arise at times, and it's key to address it immediately. I ask my team to give important input, to give feedback on my performance, and when I see them withdraw, I will task them with a special mission to re-spark their interest in their job."
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Anonymous Answer
Everyone is motivated differently, while most people I talk to in the past said they want a pay increase; this is not possible due to the bargaining unit. I often have a chat with them on a one-one level to see how best I can support them. Reiterate the goals and outcome of the role and how we can work together to best attain this.
Marcie's Feedback
Nice! You're right that not everyone is motivated in the same way. When you chat with them do you try to see if they are motivated by any non-financial incentives like verbal or written praise or social recognition? Also, can you include an example of a time when you successfully handled an upset or disengaged employee? Explain the steps you took to uncover what was bothering them and what you did to resolve the issue. Good job!
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