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Attracting and retaining quality food service talent has been challenging for the food services industry since the Great Resignation began. The industry has been plagued with a labor shortage that continues to grow exponentially.
Many restaurants have begun offering higher wages, better benefits, and more flexible schedules to address this issue and attract more candidates. But still, it’s not enough. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, between April 2022 and October 2022, the food services industry lost approximately 5.8% of its workers — an average of 773,600 workers left every month — a larger increase than in any other job sector in the U.S. Despite these improvements, the “quit rate” continues to grow and has prompted hiring managers to consider more “out of the box” hiring solutions.
A more creative approach to attract qualified food services talent
A new approach to attracting qualified talent is needed to compete for the best workers. The following unique ideas may work to entice quality talent to your business, especially younger workers considering a future in the food services industry:1. Host walk-in recruiting events
Host a weekly walk-in recruiting event to get interview traffic into your restaurant. Recruiting events are traditionally large-scale, planned-out spectacles in massive banquet halls that can become overwhelming for potential candidates in the best of times. That’s why the idea to host a smaller meet and greet right in the store feels more welcoming and manageable. The idea, inspired by three Northeast business owners of several Chick-fil-A restaurants, garnered attention with their pledge to fill 250 full and part-time positions and become the region’s top restaurants. Promoting the event entailed appealing to the community in a press release that spoke to potential candidates about their philanthropic pursuits, scholarships, flexible benefits, and other perks. The primary purpose was to guarantee anyone an interview on the spot just for walking into their restaurant. Moving quickly is key when it comes to hiring, especially in food services. On-the-spot interviews are great, but also quick follow ups and consistent communication can make the difference between a new hire and one who loses interests and “ghosts” you.2. Unique perks
Experimenting with creative perks other than the standard fare like health and disability insurance may help find candidates who can become long-term employees. Many companies have successfully offered sign-on bonuses and unlimited paid time off so employees can take the time whenever needed. Here are some other perks that can entice new employees.- College or management training courses
- Same-day pay
- Generous employee discounts
- Childcare stipends
- Commuter stipends
- Mentorship/shadowing programs