each other. Saying the phrase “Behind You,” lets the cook know you are
where they can’t see and it prevents a collision. What a sight to see a tray
full of dinners served late drop on the floor because someone forgot to
say, "Behind You."
Likewise, leaders are visionaries and see the big picture. Others only focus
on getting to the end of their shifts. It is our job to tell our team that we
are behind them and engaged in their concerns, ideas, and goals. We
should get behind our team members and understand their strengths and
weaknesses.
Such as, putting the first-day cook on the grill for Friday night’s dinner
service. It would be disastrous for a kitchen on a busy Friday night. The
cook most likely will not return to your establishment to work.
It’s our job to foresee possible collisions, not only for the company but
also for the team member. So many times in our industry we convey
that we just need a “hot body” (someone living) to do the job. Yet, we
must remember in our industry, most are using it as a temporary stop for
income.
Leaders must recognize workers who are temporary and guide them into
their true professions. Also, groom workers with a true passion for our industry to be better cooks, chefs, and servers. We can assist them to work
towards their individual goals. Zig Ziglar said, “The quickest way to reach
your goal is to help someone else reach theirs first.”
12