Some things I've learned

Since working at the restaurant, I continue to replay things in my head. There are a few things I have learned that I am sure are invaluable. Most of the things I have learned were directly from great managers who I have worked for, some of the things I had to learn/invent myself. Nothing new to the world really, but I hope that I carry these things with me in life and never get so tired or jaded that I forget how important they are. I’ll probably post them every now and then to document so I can’t forget.

Some things I have learned about staff management:

1. You are probably only as strong and able as your staff, so make sure you helping them to stay strong.
2. Offer explicit instructions and expectations. Then continue to train and complement.
3. Make sure the last thing you say when offering suggestions or criticism is positive. Everyone knows how terrible and insecure you can feel when your supervisor, the person to please, tells you that you need to improve to you made a mistake and leaves it at that. Always thank them and point out something they have done well.
4. Walk the walk. Do as you say. Make sure your staff sees you doing all manner of responsibilities and even sweat sometimes. They will trust your advice and direction if they know that you know how hard it might be to do.
5. Don’t PLAY POWER GAMES. If you divide staff against other staff or have “favorites” you will loose authority and respect.
6. Unconditional respect can only be expected by a supervisor during the first week, maybe two. After that it is earned both ways and I believe you can only expect 5-10% respect from a staff person simply because you are their supervisor. 90-95% of respect has to be earned by you…So be professional, explicit, offer rewards or encouragement when appropriate, and be fair.
7. Only criticize in private. You do not have to make an example of someone to educate others. This will only alienate your staff and place fear in them.
8. Don’t make your staff fear you. They will probably be less likely to trust you and bend over backward for you when you need them most.
9. You cannot break the rules of communication and expect appropriate responses. Your staff will usually respond to you in an equal or lesser form of communication. If you make unwarranted accusations, come in blaring, or hysterical, how can you expect calm, thought-through, professional responses?
10. Keep the vision strong, but don’t require that your staff be the visionaries. Make sure each person does what they are good at. Don’t put your quarterback on the defensive line. And always, always, say thank you for a job done, and especially a job done well.