Commentary

Why teens don't want to work for your restaurant

Some restaurants are still using bulletin boards in a break room to share information. Are you?

December 25, 2018

By Joshua Ostrega, COO, WorkJam

Known as "GenTech," this is the first generation to be raised in front of a screen; they're attached to their smartphones. They're using mobile devices at home, school and work, so if you're not communicating with your frontline workforce via mobile devices you aren't reaching them. Some restaurants are still using bulletin boards in a break room to share information. Are you?

Attracting teen workers
Restaurant brands can attract teen workers by modernizing their communications strategy. This means using digital messages, social media-like communication and applications that workers can access from their mobile devices. Another way to appeal to younger generations is by providing opportunities for career growth. Gen Y and Gen Z employees share similar expectations when it comes to working hourly restaurant jobs — both are looking for career advancement opportunities. It's important to remember that while the teen worker may only be managing the register today, he could be in a position to buy his own franchise tomorrow, which is why it's essential to nurture young talent.

Using a digital workplace solution, restaurant brands can seamlessly engage with employees on topics such as scheduling, task management and training. In addition to providing a modern means of communicating, these consistent interactions between management and team members that is made possible through a digital workplace platform can be foundational in helping young workers continue their career progression.

There’s also a major cost benefit for restaurateurs. Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that the majority of workers between the ages of 16 to 19, stay with their employers for less than two years. The high turnover among hourly workers can cost employers up to $4,000 per worker. And, that's not including the impact on customer experience, which can significantly impact sales growth. By prioritizing staff availability and flexibility in the scheduling process, facilitating interactive training, and forging closer relationships between management and the frontlines, employee engagement technology can help companies save a lot of money, increase satisfaction, and retain great staff.

Photo: iStock

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