The holiday season can be both exciting and challenging for restaurant owners. With two-thirds (63%) of adults planning to dine out and nearly half (48%) planning to order takeout or delivery during the holidays, having a reliable staffing plan in place is crucial to meet these expectations.

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Whether you’re a small café or a high-end dining establishment, the right strategy can ensure smooth operations and high customer satisfaction. Here are some key tips to help restaurant owners effectively manage holiday staffing:

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1. Start Early with Hiring and Planning

The earlier you begin planning, the better prepared you'll be for the holiday rush. The National Restaurant Association reports that many restaurants are struggling to fill positions due to a competitive labor market, making getting a head start essential.

Start your recruitment process a few months in advance to identify potential gaps, onboard new staff, and allow ample time for training.

• Tip: Use a mix of temporary and part-time workers to ensure flexibility in your scheduling.
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2. Offer Competitive Wages and Holiday Perks

With staffing rates in high demand and hourly wages under pressure, flexibility and early wage access (EWA) are becoming key differentiators. A recent study found that 57% of hourly employees want early access to their pay, a benefit that can help alleviate financial stress during the holiday season.

Additionally, given that turnover costs can exceed $2,000 per employee, providing small perks like bonuses, holiday meals, or gift cards can go a long way in retaining staff.

• Tip: Consider offering extra incentives like bonuses for working on peak days or seasonal staff appreciation events.

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3. Implement Smart Scheduling Practices

Efficient scheduling is crucial during the holiday season. Use scheduling software to map out shifts in advance, allowing your team to plan their availability. Since 51% of restaurant operators cite staffing as their top challenge, having a clear, well-communicated schedule can make a world of difference (Toast POS).

Offer flexibility to balance your employees’ needs and the restaurant’s demand.

• Tip: Rotate holiday shifts fairly and establish an alternating schedule for major holidays so the same staff members aren’t always working during key days.

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4. Cross-Train Your Staff

Cross-training employees allows them to handle multiple roles, making it easier to cover shifts if someone calls out or there’s an unexpected surge in demand. It also fosters teamwork and helps employees appreciate each other’s contributions.

• Tip: Hold brief training sessions on managing different roles and have new hires shadow experienced staff to get up to speed.

5. Prioritize Communication

Clear communication is vital during the holiday season. Make sure your staff knows what to expect regarding shifts, responsibilities, and peak hours. Use group messaging apps to inform everyone of last-minute changes or important updates.

• Tip: Regular pre-shift meetings can help align expectations and daily goals.

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6. Create a Positive Work Environment

The holidays can be stressful, so creating a positive and supportive environment for your staff is essential. Research shows that when employees feel supported, they’re more engaged and likely to provide better customer service.

Encourage teamwork, celebrate small wins, and ensure your team has the tools and resources it needs to succeed.

• Tip: Offer flexible scheduling options, and encourage your team to take breaks as needed.

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7. Have an Emergency Staffing Plan

Despite your best efforts, unexpected challenges like sudden illnesses or weather disruptions can impact staffing levels. Having a contingency plan in place is critical. Nearly 40% of foodborne illness cases are caused by restaurant employees working while sick, making it essential to have a strategy for managing unexpected absences.

• Tip: Create a network of past employees or “holiday helpers” familiar with your restaurant and can be called upon for extra shifts.

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8. Keep an Eye on Customer Service

Maintaining consistent service quality can be challenging with busier schedules and new staff on board. Ensure new hires are trained in your restaurant’s service standards, and remind your team to stay patient and focused, even during rushes. A well-trained and motivated team can improve your customers’ holiday dining experience and help avoid common issues.

• Tip: Empower your employees to handle minor customer complaints or issues on the spot so small problems don’t escalate during busy hours.

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By following these tips, restaurant owners can ensure they are well-prepared for the holiday rush. With proper planning, competitive perks, and a focus on staff well-being, you can create a positive environment that attracts top talent and keeps your restaurant running smoothly throughout the holiday season.

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Sources:

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fsrmagazine.com
modernrestaurantmanagement.com
toastpos.com
openai.com

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