Author: Jeremy Phillips

Hiring Trends in the Midwest Hospitality Space

Posted on by Jeremy Phillips

The Midwest hospitality industry is experiencing a dynamic shift in hiring trends, driven by evolving guest expectations and technological advancements. As businesses in this region strive to attract and retain top talent, understanding these trends is crucial for staying competitive.

Embracing Flexibility

One of the most significant trends in Midwest hospitality is the emphasis on flexibility. Job seekers today prioritize work-life balance, and offering flexible scheduling options can make your positions more attractive. Consider implementing four-day workweeks, flexible start times, or job-sharing arrangements to meet employee expectations.

Focus on Employer Branding

In a competitive market, your company’s reputation matters more than ever. Prospective employees research potential employers extensively, so maintaining a strong online presence is crucial. Showcase your company culture on social media and highlight employee success stories to attract top talent.

Upskilling and Internal Growth Opportunities

Today’s candidates are looking for more than just a job; they want career development. Offering training programs, certifications, and clear pathways for advancement can set your business apart. This not only attracts high-quality applicants but also improves retention by fostering loyalty among current staff.

Inclusive Hiring Practices

Diversity, equity, and inclusion remain central to attracting a wide talent pool. Emphasize unbiased hiring practices and provide inclusivity training for management. Diverse teams enhance creativity, problem-solving, and customer satisfaction—key drivers of success in hospitality.

Technology Integration in Recruitment

The use of artificial intelligence (AI) and applicant tracking systems (ATS) continues to grow. These tools streamline hiring processes by automating resume screening and scheduling interviews. Integrating technology into your recruitment strategy can help you stay ahead of the competition.

Real-World Impact: Success Stories from the Midwest

Many Midwest hospitality businesses have already experienced the benefits of these hiring trends. For example, a popular hotel chain in the region saw a significant reduction in time-to-hire and an improvement in the quality of hires after implementing flexible scheduling and upskilling programs. By leveraging technology and inclusive hiring practices, they were able to create a more efficient and diverse workforce.

Conclusion

In conclusion, staying updated with the latest hiring trends in the Midwest hospitality space is essential for attracting and retaining top talent. By embracing flexibility, focusing on employer branding, offering upskilling opportunities, promoting inclusive hiring practices, and integrating technology, your business can thrive in this competitive industry.

For more insights on how technology can enhance your hiring process, check out this resource.

Advancing in the Restaurant Industry: Expedite Your Timeline

Posted on by Jeremy Phillips

Advancing in the restaurant industry can be an exhilarating journey. If you’re already working in a restaurant and looking to climb the ladder, there are strategic steps you can take to expedite your career timeline. In this blog, we’ll explore key strategies to help you move up to a better role in the restaurant industry.

Master Your Current Role

To advance in the restaurant industry, it’s essential to excel in your current role. Show initiative by taking on additional responsibilities, assisting colleagues, and maintaining a positive attitude. Consistently delivering exceptional performance will demonstrate your commitment and readiness for a higher position.

Gain Additional Skills and Certifications

Investing in your education and skills can significantly enhance your career prospects. Consider obtaining certifications in areas such as food safety, culinary arts, and hospitality management. Take advantage of training programs and workshops offered by your employer or external organizations. Platforms like Coursera and Udemy offer courses that can boost your knowledge and credentials.

Seek Feedback and Mentorship

Constructive feedback and mentorship can be invaluable for career growth. Seek feedback from your supervisors and peers to identify areas for improvement. Find a mentor within the industry who can provide guidance, support, and insights. Mentorship can help you navigate challenges and make informed career decisions.

Network Within the Industry

Building a strong network within the restaurant industry can open doors to new opportunities. Engage with colleagues, attend industry events, and join professional associations. Networking can lead to job referrals, mentorship opportunities, and valuable insights. Use social media platforms like LinkedIn to stay connected with industry professionals.

Showcase Your Leadership Potential

Leadership skills are crucial for advancing to managerial roles in the restaurant industry. Demonstrate your leadership potential by taking initiative, solving problems, and supporting your team. Volunteer for leadership roles and projects that highlight your capabilities. Effective communication and the ability to motivate others are key traits of successful leaders.

Stay Updated with Industry Trends

The restaurant industry is constantly evolving, with new trends and technologies emerging regularly. Staying informed about the latest developments can give you a competitive edge. Subscribe to industry publications and follow influential blogs to stay updated. Being knowledgeable about trends like sustainable dining, digital innovation, and customer preferences can make you a valuable asset to any restaurant.

Express Your Career Goals

Clearly expressing your career goals to your supervisors can lead to new opportunities. Communicate your aspirations for advancement and discuss potential career paths within the company. Demonstrating your ambition and commitment can make a positive impression on your employer.

Conclusion

Advancing in the restaurant industry requires a combination of mastering your current role, gaining additional skills, seeking feedback and mentorship, networking, showcasing leadership potential, staying updated with industry trends, and expressing your career goals. By following these strategies, you can expedite your career timeline and achieve your goals faster. For more insights and resources on advancing in the restaurant industry, explore our blog and join the community of professionals dedicated to career growth.

How to Check in with Employee Happiness

Posted on by Jeremy Phillips

In today’s fast-paced work environment, maintaining employee happiness is more crucial than ever. Happy employees are more productive, engaged, and loyal, leading to better overall business performance. But how can employers effectively check in with their team’s happiness? In this blog, we’ll explore actionable strategies to ensure your employees feel valued and satisfied in their roles.

Understanding Employee Happiness

Employee happiness goes beyond job satisfaction. It encompasses overall well-being, including emotional and mental health. According to a study by Harvard Business Review, happy employees are 31% more productive, which highlights the importance of prioritizing happiness in the workplace. To truly foster employee happiness, employers need to take a holistic approach.

Regular Check-Ins

Frequent check-ins are essential for gauging employee happiness. These can be one-on-one meetings, team huddles, or even casual conversations. Make these check-ins a safe space for employees to share their thoughts and concerns. Regular check-ins help identify potential issues early and address them promptly.

Anonymous Surveys

Anonymous surveys provide employees with an opportunity to express their opinions without fear of repercussions. Use these surveys to ask targeted questions about job satisfaction, work environment, and overall happiness. Analyze the results to identify trends and areas for improvement. Platforms like SurveyMonkey and Google Forms can facilitate these surveys effectively.

Employee Recognition

Recognizing and appreciating employees’ efforts goes a long way in boosting their happiness. Implement a recognition program that highlights individual and team achievements. Publicly acknowledge milestones and successes to make employees feel valued and appreciated.

Providing Growth Opportunities

Career growth and development are key drivers of employee happiness. Offer opportunities for professional development through training, workshops, and mentorship programs. Encourage employees to set and pursue career goals within the organization. When employees see a clear path for growth, their engagement and satisfaction increase.

Work-Life Balance

Promoting a healthy work-life balance is essential for maintaining employee happiness. Encourage employees to take breaks, use their vacation days, and disconnect after work hours. Consider implementing flexible work arrangements to help employees balance their personal and professional lives better.

Open Communication

Fostering open communication is vital for a happy workplace. Create an environment where employees feel comfortable voicing their opinions and suggestions. Implement open-door policies and encourage feedback. Listening to employees and acting on their input demonstrates that their voices matter.

Wellness Programs

Investing in employee wellness programs can significantly enhance happiness. These programs can include fitness challenges, mental health resources, and wellness workshops. Promote a culture of health and well-being by providing resources and support for employees’ physical and mental health.

Conclusion

Checking in with employee happiness requires a proactive and holistic approach. By implementing regular check-ins, anonymous surveys, employee recognition programs, growth opportunities, promoting work-life balance, fostering open communication, and investing in wellness programs, you can create a positive and supportive workplace. Prioritizing employee happiness not only enhances their well-being but also drives business success.

For more insights on fostering employee happiness, explore our blog and join the community of professionals dedicated to creating a positive workplace environment.

Creating an Inclusive Hiring Process

Posted on by Jeremy Phillips

Inclusive hiring is a vital aspect of building a diverse and successful team. By focusing on inclusive hiring practices, businesses can foster a work environment that welcomes and supports individuals from various backgrounds. In this blog, we’ll explore key strategies for creating a hiring process that can help your organization attract top talent and drive innovation.

Understand the Importance of Inclusive Hiring

Inclusive hiring goes beyond meeting diversity quotas. It involves creating a fair and equitable hiring process that gives all candidates an equal opportunity to succeed. According to a report by the Harvard Business Review, diverse teams are more innovative and perform better financially. This highlights the significance of an inclusive environment for the overall success of a business.

Craft Inclusive Job Descriptions

The journey to inclusive hiring begins with the job description. Ensure your job postings are free of biased language and focus on essential skills and qualifications. Use gender-neutral language and avoid jargon that may deter potential candidates. For example:

  • Instead of: “We’re looking for a rockstar developer.”
  • Use: “We’re looking for a skilled software developer.”

Implement Blind Hiring Practices

Blind hiring is an effective strategy to reduce unconscious bias in the hiring process. This involves removing identifying information such as names, gender, and age from resumes during the initial screening. By focusing solely on candidates’ skills and experiences, you can make more objective hiring decisions.

Diversify Your Recruitment Channels

Utilize a variety of recruitment channels to reach a broader audience. Partner with organizations that focus on underrepresented groups and attend diversity-focused job fairs. Additionally, leverage online platforms and social media to promote your job openings to diverse communities.

Train Hiring Managers on Unconscious Bias

Unconscious bias can significantly impact the hiring process. Providing training for hiring managers on recognizing and mitigating these biases is crucial. According to the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), continuous training and awareness can help create a more inclusive environment.

Standardize Interview Processes

Standardizing your interview process ensures that all candidates are evaluated based on the same criteria. Use structured interviews with predefined questions and rating scales. This reduces the likelihood of bias and allows for a fair comparison of candidates’ abilities and fit for the role.

Foster an Inclusive Work Environment

Creating an inclusive hiring process is just the beginning. Once you’ve hired diverse talent, it’s essential to foster an inclusive work environment where all employees feel valued and supported. Implement policies and practices that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace.

Conclusion

Creating an inclusive hiring process is a continuous journey that requires commitment and effort. By crafting inclusive job descriptions, implementing blind hiring practices, diversifying recruitment channels, training hiring managers on unconscious bias, standardizing interview processes, and fostering an inclusive work environment, you can attract and retain top talent from diverse backgrounds. Embracing inclusive hiring not only enhances your organization’s innovation and performance but also reflects your commitment to building a more equitable workplace.

For more insights and resources on inclusive hiring, explore our blog and join the community of professionals dedicated to fostering diversity and equity in the workplace.

Elevating the Hospitality Experience with Strategic Staffing

Posted on by Jeremy Phillips

In the fast-paced world of hospitality, creating an unforgettable guest experience goes beyond plush interiors and gourmet menus. It’s about the people who bring these elements to life. As the co-founder of StaffedUp, I’ve seen firsthand how the right staffing strategy can transform a hospitality business. This article dives into why strategic staffing is crucial for success and how it can elevate your business to new heights, as featured in the Hospitality Business Review.

The Heartbeat of Hospitality: Your Team

Your staff is the heartbeat of your hospitality business. From the host stand to housekeeping, every interaction is a touchpoint that can make or break a guest’s experience. According to the Hospitality Business Review, investing in well-trained, motivated employees leads to higher guest satisfaction and repeat business. This is where strategic staffing comes into play.

Why Strategic Staffing Matters

Strategic staffing isn’t just about filling positions; it’s about finding the right fit for your team culture and business goals. A well-thought-out staffing plan ensures that you have the right number of staff with the right skills, at the right time. The article highlights that businesses with a strategic approach to staffing see improved efficiency, reduced turnover, and enhanced guest experiences.

Building a High-Performance Team

Creating a high-performance team starts with recruitment. At StaffedUp, we emphasize the importance of clear job descriptions and thorough screening processes. This helps ensure that candidates not only have the necessary skills but also align with your company’s values and culture. HBR suggests that businesses should also invest in continuous training and development programs to keep their staff engaged and up-to-date with industry trends.

Leveraging Technology for Staffing

Technology can be a game-changer in the staffing process. Platforms like StaffedUp provide tools that streamline recruitment, onboarding, and employee management. By leveraging these technologies, hospitality businesses can save time and resources while ensuring they hire the best talent available. The Hospitality Business Review underscores the importance of using technology to stay competitive and responsive to changing market demands.

Conclusion

In the ever-evolving hospitality industry, the importance of strategic staffing cannot be overstated. By focusing on hiring the right people and investing in their development, businesses can create memorable guest experiences that drive loyalty and growth. As highlighted in the article, the right staffing strategy is a key differentiator in a competitive market.

By implementing these practices, your hospitality business can not only survive but thrive. Remember, your team is your greatest asset—invest in them wisely.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How does StaffedUp find applicants for me?

    StaffedUp leverages our extensive talent networks, optimized SEO, external automated job board posting such as Indeed and Google Jobs, social media integrations, QR code scan to apply marketing, and by leveraging your website and brand to drive genuinely motivated applicants for hire.

  • Can I customize StaffedUp to hire the way I need to?

    100% your can. We offer complete customization to fit your exact needs. Create custom company recruitment pages, company culture, jobs, application questions, and customized automated or one click messaging to expedite engagement.

  • How long does it take to get set up?

    How's a few minutes sound? Our quick startup tools are the easiest thing you'll use all year! We provide pre-drafted job descriptions & application questions, & even wrote your application responses for you! Need a hand? We'll teach you everything you need to know in 10 minutes. Did we mention it's easy?

  • Can I cancel anytime?

    Yep! For paid accounts we simply ask for 15 day notice before you next bill. Need to chat with us? Use the help desk in your account or email us at support@staffedup.com.

  • What is the WOTC (Work Opportunity Tax Credit)?

    WOTC (Work Opportunity Tax Credit) is a federal tax credit available to business employers, both large and small. The credits are designed to offset Federal income tax liabilities. When the WOTC program is executed the right way, employers can capture enough tax credits to significantly reduce, or even eliminate, their Federal income tax liabilities. (And if your business was formed using a flow-through-entity, like a S-corp or LLC, then the credits could flow-through to the owner’s K-1).

  • How can WOTC impact my business?

    Executing the WOTC program is simple and easy with the right provider. We’ll screen your applicants to determine if they satisfy one of nine qualifying criteria. If so, our team of tax credit experts work with specific government agencies, behind the scenes, to capture the tax credits for you. Once captured, tax credits can be used to eliminate Federal income tax liabilities and thus improve cash flow for stakeholders and the business.

  • DID WE JUST BECOME BEST FRIENDS?

    Duh! We built this for you, because we are you! Your success in hiring is the only thing we care about. Anything you need, any time, we're always here, we'll always listen!