10 Tips to Attracting and Retaining Top Talent

Hiring and retaining good talent in hospitality is one of the biggest challenges for the sector.
Happy and contented staff can pay huge dividends for your business. And, your customers will notice and keep coming back.

It’s safe to say that people are one of the most important cogs in the hospitality machine.

We’ve looked at the research that tells us what employees want, and how this can mutually benefit you, as a distributor or operator.

1. The allure of hospitality

The hospitality industry is a magnet for diverse talents, drawing in individuals with a passion for service, creativity, and a love for meeting new people. From the enthusiastic fresh graduate, to the seasoned professional seeking a career change, the industry's appeal knows no age or background boundaries. But it does attract a certain personality type. With unsociable hours, serving the public and constantly on your feet, energetic, vibrant and passionate individuals tend to be most attracted by the industry.

2. Understanding expectations

For the millennial workforce, meaningful work and a positive company culture are often as crucial as the paycheck. A report by Deloitte found that 49% of millennials prioritise a sense of purpose in their work. Hospitality leaders are starting to articulate more compelling narratives about their brand's mission, creating an environment where employees feel they are part of something bigger than themselves.

3. What to look for in CVs

Going through a stack of CVs can be daunting, and a big responsibility to find the right person so as not to waste time or money. So where do you start? What do you look for? Look beyond the conventional qualifications, look for CVs that tell a story. Highlighted customer service experiences, a knack for problem-solving, and adaptability are the gems you're seeking.

4. The art of the interview

CVs are just the beginning. Interviews are your window into a candidate's personality and potential fit within your team. Ask situational questions that require problem-solving and demonstrate their interpersonal skills. A report by Glassdoor suggests that a well-structured interview process can improve your ability to make successful hires by 55%.

5. Training for triumph

Investing in thorough training programs not only equips your team with the necessary skills but also fosters a sense of belonging and value. A survey by LinkedIn found that a huge 94% of employees would stay longer at a company if it invested in their learning and development. This number may come from research across the board, but the significance of this statistic cannot be understated when it comes to the hospitality industry too.

6. Leaders or mentors?

Hospitality employees - especially younger ones - seek mentors and leaders who inspire and guide. The 2021 Global Millennial and Gen Z Survey by Deloitte found that 62% of respondents believe they would be more productive if their leadership skills were better developed. Leaders are not just bosses anymore, but need to embrace the role of a mentor. Sharing professional guidance could be the key to fostering growth within your teams and also retention.

7. Flexibility matters

Work-life balance and flexibility are becoming increasingly crucial for today's workforce. A report by PwC found that 72% of employees consider work flexibility important. In the hospitality industry, where schedules can be demanding, offering flexible working arrangements or creative scheduling solutions can significantly enhance employee satisfaction and retention.

Flexibility benefits all employees, but particularly Gen X who often find themselves in a dual caring role for both their children and parents. Many people believe that flexibility in employment is the key to closing the gender pay gap, which for the hospitality industry is around 7%.

Flexibility doesn’t just benefit employees. Employers offering flexibility report higher productivity, profits, and staff retention. As well as a larger talent pool to recruit from.

8. Recognition

Acknowledging and celebrating achievements, big or small, is fuel for motivation. A study by Gallup revealed that employees who receive regular recognition are more engaged, productive, and likely to stay with their current employer.

9. Benefits Beyond Salary

Beyond the paycheck, today's employees value comprehensive benefits. A survey by Glassdoor found that 57% of job seekers list benefits and perks among their top considerations before accepting a job. Offering health and wellness programs, and unique perks can significantly enhance an employers’ attractiveness.

10. Embracing Diversity and Inclusion

Diverse teams drive innovation and creativity. A McKinsey study found that companies with diverse executive teams are 25% more likely to have above-average profitability. Embracing diversity and inclusion initiatives ensures a vibrant mix of perspectives within your team, creating an environment where everyone feels valued and heard.

In the world of hospitality, where every customer encounter is an opportunity to create magic, your team is your greatest asset.

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At Classeq, we are passionate about the growth and success of the hospitality sector. That’s why we are committed to providing you with content that explores every juncture of the hospitality journey from the distribution of catering equipment right through to the patron’s plate.

If there is a topic you’d like us to explore further, do let us know. Otherwise, view our full content library here, or speak to a member of the team today . Whether it’s a new machine you need, or technical support, our team is ready to assist.