NCCO International Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude. In the restaurant industry, there is no better time to show appreciation for the hardworking and oft-overlooked employees who keep operations running smoothly. With their dedication to delivering exceptional service and quality, these individuals deserve recognition and thanks – at the end of the day, we wouldn’t have the restaurants, café, diners, and taverns we love without them.
Here are 10 ways to say thank you to your restaurant employees.
10 Ways to Say Thank You to Restaurant Employees
1. Offer Flexible Scheduling
Thanksgiving is a busy time in the restaurant industry – many people visiting hometown relatives who don’t want to cook the night before. Giving employees flexibility in their schedules can make a big difference in their morale. Accommodate requests for time off or adjust shifts to help them spend more time with family and friends.
2. Host an Employee Appreciation Dinner
Treat your staff to a special meal in recognition of their hard work. It could be a Thanksgiving-themed feast or simply their favorite comfort foods. A small, thoughtful gesture like this fosters camaraderie and shows you value their contributions.
3. Provide Gift Cards or Bonuses
A little extra financial appreciation goes a long way. Offering gift cards, holiday bonuses, or even small cash incentives can boost morale and make employees feel valued.
4. Highlight Their Achievements
Publicly acknowledge your team’s hard work by highlighting their accomplishments. Whether it’s through a social media post, a feature in your restaurant’s newsletter, or a mention during a staff meeting, recognition can significantly boost spirits.
5. Create a Thanksgiving Thank-You Wall
Set up a board in the breakroom where team members and management can write thank-you notes to one another. This simple but heartfelt activity fosters positivity and reinforces teamwork.
6. Give Employees a Voice
Show appreciation by actively seeking employee feedback and acting on their suggestions. Regular check-ins and opportunities to share ideas demonstrate that you value their input and care about improving their workplace experience.
7. Surprise Them with Treats
Bring in seasonal treats like pies, cookies, or hot cider to share during breaks. A small indulgence can make a busy shift feel a little more festive.
8. Offer Professional Development Opportunities
Invest in your employees’ futures by providing training, workshops, or certifications. This not only shows appreciation but also helps them grow within the industry.
9. Give Personalized Gifts
Take the time to give individual team members a small, personalized gift. Whether it’s a handwritten thank-you card, a book, or a small item tailored to their interests, the personal touch goes a long way.
10. Invest in Time-Saving Technology
One of the most impactful ways to thank your employees is by reducing their workload. Investing in automated tools like the DateCodeGenie® automated labeling system and Task Manager food safety software from NCCO can make their jobs significantly easier.
The DateCodeGenie simplifies labeling tasks with a button press, while Task Manager digitizes HACCP compliance, tracks temperatures remotely, and streamlines hygiene checklists. By automating routine processes, you not only enhance efficiency but also alleviate stress for your team.
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A Big Thank You to Foodservice Workers from NCCO
Thanksgiving is the perfect time to express gratitude to the backbone of the restaurant—your employees. From investing in tools like NCCO’s DateCodeGenie and Task Manager software to offering flexible schedules and personalized gifts, these gestures show your team how much they mean to you.
Happy employees are not only more productive but also create a positive atmosphere that guests will appreciate. This Thanksgiving, let your gratitude shine and give your staff the recognition they truly deserve.