Restaurant Training Tip: Train in Person

…and do it over and over again.

Many multi-location restaurants rely on one-time video training during employee orientation. That doesn’t make sense.

Wait staff have a tremendous responsibility to wow your customers and create a memorable experience. That’s why a consistent, in-person training program is vital for any restaurant looking for long-term success.

A great approach to training is through the buddy system. For example, pair each new employee with an experienced employee and create a way to test progress. Low marks in improvement should result in a thorough investigation into both the trainee and trainer.

How Houston’s Does It Right

The best restaurants train staff in person at the start and then continue with ongoing training. The restaurant Houston’s is the example we like to give because they don’t let a single person hit the floor until they have memorized the menu. Houston’s knows the importance of planning and setting standards that every one of their employees must stick to. It’s this kind of consistency that keeps all members of the team on the same page and ensures the best possible customer service.

Restaurant Training Should Be Constant

Educate whenever you can. For instance, there will always be tasks that your team will be able to improve on, so hold a training session! Also, be sure to schedule in-depth training whenever the menu changes so your wait staff can continue to impress with their extensive knowledge. The result will be an efficiently run restaurant and happy customers.

It’s logical. If your customers have a stellar experience with superb service, of course, they’ll want to come back. Wouldn’t you?

Signs Of A Well-Trained Server

It’s immediately obvious when you walk into a restaurant that invests in training quality staff. A good server…

• is attentive
• knows the menu
• is present (not distracted by a cellphone or other device)
• has just the right number of tables
• knows how to address a customer and problem-solve
• wears hair back, has clean shoes, and doesn’t smell like cigarette smoke
• can pair wine, beer, and cocktails with any menu item
• doesn’t gather at the host stand or anywhere else visible to guests
• has the savvy to up-sell with appetizer and dessert orders

Why Invest In Restaurant Staff Training?

There are many reasons to invest time and money into staff training. The biggest ones as we see it:

1. Help your staff members be successful and enjoy their work. Who knows, maybe they’ll stick around longer with the right support!
2. Run your restaurant as efficiently as possible.
3. Ensure customers have a consistent experience, from seating, to plating, to paying the bill.

What would you add to the list?