The holidays create a fantastic opportunity for many restaurants. They present a chance to host large events, cater to new customers, host holiday parties, and prepare promotional specials or special menus for a specific holiday. Here are some tips we suggest that will help aid your restaurant in preparing for the major holidays coming up.
There is a lot that goes into a successful event. Restaurants must make sure that their staff is prepared for all scenarios. To start planning we recommend producing a lucrative plan, starting with setting some goals for revenue that you would like your restaurant to reach. Then produce a simple advertising plan for specials and or your special menu. Also make sure to buy decorations for the space, so that it reflects a holiday atmosphere!
The next step we recommend is creating a prep list, the more detailed the better. You want to start this prep list early on the earlier the better this will ensure that everything is ready to go and well organized when the holiday arrives. Your preparation list should include all tasks that must be completed, including inventory, decorations, food preparation etc. This will ensure that nothing is missed when the day arrives.
Continuing with our suggestions. It is imperative that you clearly layout what will be expected from staff ahead of time. Especially since holidays tend to be family-based and many of your employees will be giving up that family time to work. This is something that is important to address way ahead of time so any conflicts or concerns can be shared before the holiday arrives.
Being transparent and communicating with your employees on what they should expect is also important. We suggest that you have a staff meeting to talk about and address any questions or concerns employees may have. Allow your staff to share thoughts on how to improve service, work as a team and ensure that all customers have an excellent dining experience.
It may also be helpful to reiterate training procedures with your staff. In fact, it is a great excuse to review what-if scenarios. Also, this would be the perfect time to address any changes that are holiday specific, so all employees are informed and on the same page.
Having a backup plan is always a good idea. There is never such a thing as being over prepared. Cross training staff is a great way to be extra prepared or even hiring a few fresh staff members may end up being super helpful. Having extra staff around to run to the store if the kitchen runs out of a main ingredient or to have around to help bus tables or lend a helping hand may end up being your saving grace.
Lastly it is important to make sure to show appreciation for your employees. For your success and their own it is important to recognize their hard work and show them that it has not gone unnoticed or unappreciated. A straightforward way of saying thank you in a written card, cash, gift certificate, present or a staff holiday party. All these simple gestures can go a long way towards showing your gratitude and appreciation for their demanding work and effort. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to say Happy Holidays!
Reference:
Schwartz, rachel (2021). 8 ways to Prepare your Restaurant for Major Holidays. Retrieved from https://www.jesrestaurantequipment.com/8-ways-to-prepare-your-restaurant-for-major-holidays
