From bustling city bistros to quaint countryside eateries, the restaurant industry in the United Kingdom continues to flourish. In this competitive landscape, the question of how many staff are required for a restaurant is paramount. Striking the right balance between efficiency and customer satisfaction hinges on having an optimally staffed establishment.
In this article, we will delve into the intricacies of determining staff requirements the types of employees crucial for a restaurant, and offer invaluable tips on the recruitment process. Let’s get started!
How Many Staff Required for a Restaurant?
Determining the right staff numbers for a restaurant hinges on a harmonious blend of factors. The correlation between the number of tables served and the staff-to-table ratio is pivotal. A rule of thumb suggests one front-of-house staff member per three to five tables and four to seven back-of-house staff members for every 50 tables, ensuring attentive service and seamless kitchen operations.
The equation becomes more nuanced with the influence of shifts. Restaurants operating across breakfast, lunch, and dinner services naturally require a larger workforce to meet demand. Leveraging technology for insights into peak hours and historical data empowers informed staffing decisions. The flexibility of cross-training staff for multiple roles further enhances adaptability during varying demands.
Read more: 10 Tips for Managing Employee Absence
What Kind of Employees Do You Need For a Restaurant?
A thriving restaurant is like a finely tuned orchestra, where each member plays a distinct role in creating a harmonious dining experience. Here’s an in-depth look at the key positions that constitute the heart of a successful restaurant:
1. Managers
The backbone of the restaurant, managers oversee a myriad of tasks. From orchestrating daily operations to coordinating staff schedules, they ensure smooth functioning. They also handle customer concerns, maintain hygiene standards, and work towards enhancing overall guest satisfaction. Effective managers balance leadership with a deep understanding of the restaurant’s ethos.
2. Chefs and Cooks
The culinary wizards in the kitchen are responsible for the magic on the plate. Head chefs design menus, sous chefs ensure seamless kitchen operations, and line cooks bring recipes to life. Their creativity, expertise, and attention to detail make each dish an unforgettable experience for patrons.
3. Bartenders
The masters of mixology, bartenders craft delightful beverages that add flair to the dining experience. Beyond mixing drinks, they engage with customers, offering recommendations and creating custom cocktails. Their expertise in balancing flavours and presentation enhances the restaurant’s overall ambience.
4. Sommeliers
For establishments with an extensive wine selection, sommeliers are indispensable. These experts possess an in-depth knowledge of wines and can guide diners through wine selections that complement their chosen dishes. Their ability to elevate the dining experience through perfect pairings enhances the restaurant’s reputation.
5. Kitchen Porters
Behind the scenes, kitchen porters play a crucial role in maintaining order and cleanliness. They keep the kitchen running smoothly by washing dishes, cleaning workspaces, and assisting the chefs with basic tasks. Their diligence ensures a hygienic environment that is essential for a successful kitchen.
6. Buspersons
Often working in the background, buspersons play a pivotal role in maintaining the rhythm of a restaurant. They swiftly clear tables, reset them for the next guests and ensure the immaculate dining area. This quick and efficient turnover of tables is crucial, especially during peak hours.
7. Hosting Staff
First impressions count, and that’s where hosting staff come in. They manage reservations, greet guests, and allocate seating. Their warm and efficient demeanour sets the tone for the dining experience and ensures a positive initial interaction.
8. Serving Staff
The faces interacting directly with customers serving staff embody the restaurant’s hospitality. From taking orders with a smile to delivering meticulously prepared dishes, they curate the diners’ experience. Their ability to navigate the menu, offer suggestions, and ensure seamless service contributes significantly to customer satisfaction.
Pro Tips on How to Hire Restaurant Staff
Finding the right individuals to join your restaurant’s team is a delicate process that can greatly influence your establishment’s success. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of essential tips to guide you through the process of hiring restaurant staff:
1. Crafting Detailed Job Descriptions
Creating precise and comprehensive job descriptions is the cornerstone of a successful hiring process. These documents outline the expectations, responsibilities, and qualifications for each role. Think of them as a first glimpse into your restaurant’s ethos. By meticulously outlining what you’re looking for, you attract candidates who align with your vision and are ready to contribute effectively from day one.
2. Casting the Net on Multiple Platforms
Today’s digital landscape offers a plethora of recruitment platforms, and using them to your advantage can significantly expand your talent pool. Posting job openings on online job boards, your restaurant’s website and social media channels is akin to putting up a “We’re Hiring” sign on a bustling street corner. This diverse approach ensures that your vacancies reach a wider audience, increasing the chances of finding the perfect addition to your team.
3. Navigating Through Interviews
Interviews are the stage where potential becomes a reality. Tailor your interview questions to assess technical skills and evaluate a candidate’s fit within your restaurant’s culture. Delve into scenarios that gauge problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and customer-centric skills. A candidate’s response to unexpected situations can provide a glimpse into how they might handle the ebb and flow of a bustling restaurant.
4. Offering Tempting Compensation
Competitive compensation is more than just numbers on a paycheck—it reflects how much you value your team. Research industry standards to ensure your offerings are attractive. Beyond basic pay, consider additional benefits such as healthcare coverage, staff meals, and growth opportunities. A comprehensive package demonstrates your commitment to nurturing a satisfied and dedicated workforce.
Read more: 10 Best Tips for Managing Restaurant Staff
5. Fostering Growth through Training
Investing in training and development isn’t just an investment in your employees—it’s an investment in the future success of your restaurant. Provide avenues for skill enhancement, workshops, and certifications. A staff that feels valued through growth opportunities will likely remain engaged and motivated, resulting in improved performance and customer satisfaction.
6. Trials and Probationary Periods
The recruitment process isn’t just for candidates to impress you—it’s also your chance to see how well they integrate into your team. Implement trial shifts or probationary periods to gauge candidates’ real-time performance and compatibility with your restaurant’s dynamics. This hands-on approach helps avoid mismatched hires and fosters a more harmonious work environment.
7. Checking References and Backgrounds
Verifying references and conducting background checks is more than a formality—it’s a safeguard. Ensuring candidates have the qualifications and experience they claim helps maintain the integrity of your team. It’s also an opportunity to gain insights from previous employers, offering a more holistic view of the candidate’s potential fit.
8. Assessing Cultural Alignment
Technical skills are essential, but cultural fit is equally crucial. Evaluate how candidates align with your restaurant’s values, work ethic, and overall vibe. A cohesive team that shares common goals and values can collaborate more effectively, leading to improved customer service and a more enjoyable work environment.
Read more: 10 Common Problems in Restaurant Management
9. Nurturing Opportunities for Advancement
Highlight potential career trajectories within your restaurant. Candidates are often more motivated to commit when they see a clear path to advancement. Whether climbing the ranks or exploring different facets of the industry, presenting growth opportunities from the outset sets the tone for a long-lasting partnership.
10. Cultivating Open Communication
Encouraging open communication from the start sets the tone for a transparent and collaborative work environment. During the hiring process, emphasise your receptiveness to feedback and suggestions. This inclusivity fosters trust and nurtures a sense of belonging among staff, contributing to overall job satisfaction.
11. Organize Job Posting and Application with Tracking Software
Using an advanced software such as Applicant Tracking System (ATS) can streamline and enhance the hiring process for restaurant staff. By incorporating an ATS into your restaurant’s hiring process, you can efficiently manage applications, streamline communication, and enhance collaboration among hiring team members, ultimately helping you build a skilled and dedicated staff.
Streamlines your Hiring Process with Applicant Tracking System
In the ever-evolving world of restaurant management, assembling the right team is just the beginning. With Staffany’s applicant tracking system, you can streamline your hiring process to find the right person in half the time.
To streamline your restaurant operations and elevate your employees management to new heights, consider embracing innovative solutions like StaffAny’s connected workforce solution. Empower your restaurant employees with the tools they need to manage their work and performance efficiently, all within a unified platform.
StaffAny’s platform offers a comprehensive solution, allowing you to schedule shifts, track attendance, and monitor performance seamlessly. Incorporating StaffAny into your restaurant’s workflow can help you simplify staff management and enhance your ability to deliver exceptional service.
Embrace the future of restaurant business with StaffAny’s connected workforce and unlock a new level of operational excellence. Contact us to learn more!
