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What Makes a Great Restaurant Manager
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Billy Giordano . 2 minute read
HIRING TECH

What Makes a Great Restaurant Manager? Key Traits to Look For

A great restaurant manager is the backbone of any successful hospitality business. They juggle customer satisfaction, employee management, and operational efficiency—all while keeping their cool under pressure. In an industry where turnover is high and competition is fierce, having the right person in this role can make all the difference.

But what exactly makes a great restaurant manager? Here are the key traits to look for when hiring your next leader.

1. Strong Leadership & Communication Skills

Great managers don’t just give orders—they inspire their team. According to a study from Cornell University’s School of Hotel Administration, effective leadership in hospitality directly correlates with higher employee engagement and lower turnover.

What to look for:
✔ Ability to resolve conflicts calmly and fairly
✔ Encourages teamwork and motivates staff
✔ Communicates clearly with both employees and guests

2. Deep Understanding of Restaurant Operations

A restaurant manager should have a strong grasp of front- and back-of-house operations. From inventory control to food safety regulations, their knowledge ensures smooth day-to-day functions.

Look for candidates who:
✔ Have prior experience in multiple hospitality roles
✔ Understand financial reports and cost management
✔ Can adapt to industry trends and challenges

3. Problem-Solving Under Pressure

No shift is ever predictable in a restaurant. Whether it’s a kitchen mishap, an overbooked dining room, or an unhappy guest, a great restaurant manager can handle unexpected challenges with grace.

According to Harvard Business Review, the ability to make quick, strategic decisions is a key trait of high-performing leaders in fast-paced environments.

4. Customer Service Excellence

Hospitality is all about creating memorable experiences for guests. A great manager ensures that service standards are consistently met, leading to repeat customers and positive reviews.

✔ Handles guest complaints professionally
✔ Understands the importance of online reviews and reputation management
✔ Leads by example in delivering top-tier hospitality

5. Hiring and Retaining Top Talent

A restaurant is only as good as its staff. The best managers know how to hire the right people, train them effectively, and keep them engaged.

This is where StaffedUp can help. Our platform simplifies the hiring process by allowing hospitality businesses to find, track, and onboard top talent with ease. If you’re looking for the next great restaurant manager, let StaffedUp streamline your search.

Ready to build a winning team?

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