Chefs and restaurateurs come from all types of backgrounds and subscribe to many different work environment theories. One approach that seems to be taking a lead is the family approach. As family-owned businesses thrive and survive in the face of hardship, many are left wondering just what their secret is. Part of that secret is the sense of family unity ingrained in each member of the team.
The family approach emphasizes trust and values among staff members. Everyone has each other’s back and there are no judgments. A family-style kitchen celebrates individual and group opportunities, transparency, and the opinions of all to cultivate diversity of thought. If that sounds like the atmosphere you want to create in your kitchen, here are some ways to get started.
- Instill values to enhance trust. Develop specific procedures so everyone knows exactly what is expected in any given process. Define performance standards based on what the restaurant stands for. Reinforce staff roles so each person is confident in what they can do on their own. Handbooks, procedure manuals, and hands-on training will help keep these goals consistent even as new staff enter the kitchen.
- Develop a succession plan for each team member. Help your staff get excited about the next stage in his career by establishing a clear road map. If everyone knows where they stand and where they can end up, it will create less tension and confusion among the staff. Encourage staff to celebrate each other’s victories and progressions to further create a family atmosphere.
- Encourage people to speak up. Keeping an open-door policy and holding regular team meetings can help staff feel comfortable stating their opinion. Hearing each different voice allows for the discovery of opportunities previously unseen as well as an opportunity to find the strengths of each member and utilize them.
- Provide staff members with a sense of ownership they can take pride in. Establish boundaries before spreading responsibility to help elevate the sense of purpose each team member has. Simple gestures like handing out embroidered chef coats with each person’s name on it can go a long way. Involving staff in the decision-making process for what the uniform looks like, what colors are selected, and what phrases or logos get embroidered is another simple option.
- Protect one another the way you would with your family. Chefs who lead with kindness and intention often garner better long-term results that those who lead with fear.
The family approach to a kitchen work environment will build a foundation of hard work and perseverance. A tight-knit team can reduce turnover, increase efficiency, and make a chaotic kitchen much more tolerable.
