1. Have Intense Focus on Key Strategies and Activities
Highly effective restaurant managers are able to distinguish and delegate their time between problems and priorities. There are everyday fires – real problems – that need to be addressed. The downside is, they pull managers away from the real work.
Effective restaurant managers are proactive and disciplined in their planning and focus to make sure they minimize the issues and execute day in and day out.
2. Set the Speed of the Team
Effective restaurant managers aren't scared of being tough. They have goals, command high standards and expect results. At the same time they are sensitive to the human dynamic, relationships and needs of their people.
They also set the tempo for the team. They lead by example, hustling when it's time to hustle. Jumping in when it's needed and reacting and resolving problems with immediacy and tact. Like many good leaders, they are the first one at the restaurant and the last to leave.
3. Develop The Team and Delegate
Unfortunately, restaurant managers find themselves in “lead by crisis” mode, which can seriously dampen a team's energy.
Effective restaurant managers, on the other hand, clearly define each team member's role, empower each team member, hold each team member accountable and know how to swiftly navigate the team through challenges.
They recognize that delegating some of the day-to-day duties to trustworthy team members frees them up to focus on bigger issues, like grooming the next general manager.
4. Celebrate the Wins … and are Accountable to the Occasional Loss
Highly effective restaurant managers know how to celebrate a win and take responsibility for those less than stellar failures. They encourage their team members and provide positive reinforcement when something great happens.
When something doesn't go as planned, effective restaurant managers don't point fingers. Instead, they focus on solutions and build positive momentum. They nip bad attitudes in the bud and don't tolerate constant complaining. They also take ownership for their occasional slip-ups and use it as an opportunity to grow as a leader.
5. Promote Company Values
Effective restaurant managers know that they're actions are always on display. They support the overall goals of the company and promote the culture and core values.
They also know how to keep it real. Today's workforce believes in transparency and want to feel like they understand what's going on in the business. Effective restaurant managers open the line of communications with regular staff meetings, constant shift communication and positive encouragement.
6. Are Focused on Excellent Customer Service
Effective restaurant managers know that without their customers they aren't in business. They know who their regulars are and make a point to remember their names and their drink preferences. They are also receptive to their customers' needs and requests – even when they seem absolutely ridiculous.