Working in hospitality is known for often coming with long hours and busy shifts, so it’s easy for staff to feel worn out and quickly become overwhelmed and switched off. Employee engagement is vital to the success of any business, as it has a knock on effect on everything from customer service to team morale. So how can you keep a tight grip on it?
Rotaready users love how we help them streamline operations and boost employee engagement through efficient rota management. We’ve worked with countless businesses to prevent staff from switching off and impacting your bottom line. In this article, we’ll take a look at the importance of employee engagement in the hospitality industry and give some ideas to foster motivation in your workforce.
The importance of employee engagement in hospitality
Naturally, engaged employees are the backbone of any thriving business, especially so in the hospitality industry. When your team feels like they’re part of something special, they’re more likely to make your guests feel special too.
Studies have shown that businesses with high employee engagement see a 10% increase in customer satisfaction, and it may seem obvious, but engaged employees are more likely to deliver a memorable experience for guests, resulting in positive reviews and word of mouth recommendations. A 5% increase in employee engagement leads to a 3% increase in customer loyalty.
It doesn’t just improve customer satisfaction either. Engaged employees are more productive, more loyal and contribute to a positive workplace. For industries like hospitality, where staff turnover can be high, keeping your staff engaged makes a massive difference in your retention.
Best strategies to keep employees engaged
1. Recognition and reward programs
One of the simplest ways to keep employees engaged is by recognising their hard work and achievements. Implementing a recognition program that acknowledges both, whether it’s an employee of the month scheme or celebrating a job well done, can boost morale and encourage a sense of belonging. The easiest way to recognise a job well done is simply thanking your staff, and encouraging them to do the same for their colleagues. These simple things can really build a positive culture.
2. Development opportunities
Working in hospitality can often be seen as a stop-gap, but offering opportunities for personal and professional growth can shift that perspective. Creating clear training and development programs not only benefits your business but shows your staff that you’re invested in their future. These programs should ideally include transferable soft skills that give your staff the opportunity for personal as well as career growth.
3. Open communication
Creating an environment where employees feel heard is crucial. Regular team meetings, one-to-ones and encouraging anonymous feedback can help ensure that your team knows they’re being heard. This kind of communication fosters trust and makes employees feel like a valuable part of the business.
4. Work-life balance
Long, irregular hours can take a toll on hospitality workers, leading to burnout and despondency. Supporting a work-life balance, whether through flexible scheduling or ensuring adequate time off, can go a long way in retaining your staff and keeping them happy.
Increase employee engagement with Rotaready
Keeping your teams engaged often comes down to better management, but when you’re running a busy venue, we know this can be a challenge. That’s where Rotaready’s hospitality rota software can make a difference. By simplifying rota planning and automating shift scheduling, Rotaready hands your employees more control over their work schedules, making it easier to manage work-life balance.
Rotaready’s software encourages better communication through instant updates and notifications, meaning everyone stays informed without the need for lots of emails, phone calls or messages. The platform’s built-in reporting tools helps track employee attendance, performance, and engagement levels—allowing you to identify any issues before they impact morale.
For employees, the software enhances communication and improves visibility of their upcoming shifts. It also promotes flexibility and accountability. Employees can also use the mobile app swap shifts and request time off, helping to improve their work/life balance. This leads to higher engagement and satisfaction in their roles.
If you’re ready to enhance employee engagement in your hospitality business, try our award-winning hospitality rota software today.