Restaurants are one of the entities most affected by the COVID-19 virus. Many restaurants are currently trying to cope with forced closures, public health advice, and risk-averse customers. While these challenges are valid and concerning, there are some specific actions you can take as restaurant management to minimize the impact of COVID-19 on your business.
Crosstrain Employees
Cross-training employees can make it easier to keep operations running smoothly if someone can’t make their shift due to illness. According to McKinsey & Company, there are several areas in which you should try cross-training your employees to maximize production. While the specifics will depend on the type, size, and level of service in your restaurant, you might try: 1) training your dishwashers to cook, 2) using your servers to food prep, 3) training your kitchen staff to bus or serve, or 4) training your servers to tend the bar. These ideas will help your employees get the hours they need and maximize the productivity in your restaurant.
Mandate PPE for Employees
Requiring the proper use of gloves and masks can help prevent the spread of COVID-19. According to Creative Safety Supply, OSHA requires businesses to provide PPE to their employees without charging them for it if such equipment is required. Make sure to provide such PPE to your employees if necessary. Some employees may not follow PPE regulations without an official mandate, but you should do what it takes to keep your kitchen sanitary according to the CDC guidelines. Educate your employees on the proper use of PPE, and address any concerns they might have.
Take Good Care of Your Customers
When money is tight and uncertainty is high, it’s important to make the most out of every sale that comes into your restaurant. Raise the level of your customer service and give every customer the best experience that you can. This is a strategy that is valuable even in times of normalcy, but especially during this global pandemic, excellent customer service will help bring in more business and generate positive reviews to strengthen your reputation. Additionally, you can enhance your sales by putting effort into promoting your delivery business.
As you are proactive in working to reduce the effects of COVID-19 on your restaurant, you will be able to weather the storm. Cross-training employees, mandating the use of PPE, and taking special effort to increase the level of customer service in your restaurant are three valuable strategies you can use to make this happen.
For more tips on how to navigate your restaurant during the COVID-19 crisis, read this article next: What You Should Know Before Opening Your Restaurant Back Up