Nio DiPietrantonio, a seasoned hospitality leader and mental health advocate, shares insights from over seventeen years in the industry. As a champion for mental health awareness, Nio is dedicated to empowering hospitality professionals with the resources they need to thrive.
I distinctly remember the whiff of air and the scent of freshly ground cloves as a cheap, commercial-grade pot holder slapped me in the side of my head.
It didn't hurt, and it wasn't the first time something had been thrown in our kitchen. I had long grown used to our Sous-chef’s temper as a stocky, blond man barreled past me, cursing up a storm. It's important to note that the pot holder hadn't been thrown at me, I just unfortunately happened to be in its path. I held still as my Sous-chef blew past me out the back door, lighting up a cigarette before he even got to the back door.
The reason for his anger was apparent. I glanced over at his workstation to see that the cakes he was working on had sunken during baking. The cakes were meant for one of our holiday celebrations meant to feed 250 people, and in an already sparsely employed kitchen, it meant trying to make up for lost time we just didn't have. We had already been there, preparing for the meal for days, and the small kitchen crew we had were all feeling really edgy.
Sometimes, the holidays bring out the best–and worst–in us.
For those who have never worked in commercial kitchens, interactions like this aren't uncommon. I have learned from many accomplished chefs to which I am very grateful, and Back Of House life can get pretty brutal in fast-paced environments.
My relationship with my Sous-chef was also an amazing one, even if he did toss the occasional object I had eventually learned to dodge.
The other side of our pot-holder tossing story is our Executive Chef had walked out one day and never came back. The duties of running the kitchen had fallen to my Sous-chef. At a time that was already particularly stressful, having to balance inventory, scheduling, staffing, event management, as well as running the line with us was starting to wear him down.
About ten minutes later, he returned, growled an apology at me, and kept working. For all of his outbursts, my Sous-chef taught me a lot about dedication and hard work.
That is a life of leadership in a kitchen–and it's time to start focusing on ways we can support not just our front line workers, but also our leaders.
The hospitality industry and the holidays
The holiday season is a bustling time for the hospitality industry, filled with both opportunities and challenges. With the current economic pressures, including increased labor and food costs, and a reduced workforce, it's crucial for industry leaders to effectively support their teams. This is often easier said than done, such as the case with my Sous and our sparsely-staffed kitchen: What do we do for support when there’s no support from up above?
In these situations, fostering a sense of community and teamwork becomes crucial. Encouraging open communication among staff can help identify creative solutions to manage workloads and stress. It's about building a network of support within the team itself, where everyone feels valued and heard. Holiday rushes can hit like a freight train whether you’re in the restaurant business, hotel and lodging, entertainment venues, or retail spaces.
Implementing small, manageable changes, like rotating shifts to ensure everyone gets adequate rest or organizing brief team meetings to discuss daily challenges, can make a significant difference. It's also essential to recognize and celebrate small victories, boosting morale and reminding everyone of their collective strength. During the holiday rush, empathy and understanding can go a long way in sustaining the well-being of our workers and leaders.
Understanding the holiday stressors
Our sector is facing significant challenges this holiday season. Rising costs and a decrease in available workers are squeezing businesses, especially in the Northeast, where a lack of snow has affected seasonal tourism for several years now. These factors add stress for both workers and business leaders. Understanding these stressors is the first step in creating a supportive environment.
To navigate these turbulent times, it’s crucial for industry leaders to adopt a proactive approach. This can include investing in training programs that enhance the skills of existing staff, thereby increasing efficiency and reducing the burden of understaffing. Additionally, exploring partnerships with local schools and community organizations can help tap into a new pool of potential workers, while also fostering community ties.
Moreover, embracing technology to streamline operations can alleviate some of the pressure. For example, using scheduling software can help optimize staff availability and ensure fair distribution of hours. Encouraging a culture of flexibility and adaptability will not only help manage current challenges but also prepare teams for future uncertainties. Some other effective strategies to implement are:
1. Proactive scheduling & work-life balance
Consider creating flexible schedules that allow workers to balance their personal and professional commitments. Offering options like shift swaps or flexible start times can make a big difference. This can sound like a difficult task, especially during the holidays–but by giving industry workers the opportunity to rest and recuperate between hectic shifts, businesses can significantly enhance employee well-being and productivity. Implementing structured break schedules ensures that staff have the time to recharge, reducing burnout and maintaining high service standards.
Additionally, offering flexible scheduling options can accommodate personal needs and promote a healthier work-life balance. Encouraging employees to take advantage of mental health resources, such as counseling or stress-relief workshops, can also be invaluable during this demanding period.
By prioritizing the well-being of their teams, businesses not only show their commitment to their staff but also create a more positive and motivated workforce. This approach ultimately leads to a more harmonious workplace, where employees feel supported and valued, even in the busiest of times.
2. Fostering a supportive environment
Maintain open communication between staff and management to address concerns promptly. Regular check-ins and feedback sessions can help identify and resolve issues early. These interactions not only build trust but also empower employees to voice their needs and suggestions, fostering a collaborative atmosphere.
Creating an open-door policy encourages transparency and ensures that staff feel comfortable approaching management with any concerns. This proactive approach allows for the swift resolution of potential problems, preventing them from escalating and affecting morale or productivity.
Furthermore, involving employees in decision-making processes, such as scheduling or workflow adjustments, can enhance their sense of ownership and commitment to the organization. By valuing their input and recognizing their contributions, management can cultivate a culture of respect and mutual support, which is especially crucial during the high-pressure holiday season.
Related article: Holiday Mental Health Focus
3. Recognizing & rewarding hard work
Recognize and reward staff for their hard work during the holiday season. This could be through bonuses, gift cards, or public acknowledgment of their efforts. Such gestures of appreciation not only boost morale but also reinforce the value of each team member's contribution to the overall success of the business.
In addition to traditional rewards, consider organizing team-building activities or small celebrations to foster a sense of community and camaraderie. These events provide an opportunity for staff to unwind and connect with colleagues outside of the work environment, strengthening team bonds.
Personalized recognition, such as handwritten notes or tailored rewards based on individual preferences, can make employees feel uniquely valued and appreciated. By celebrating achievements and acknowledging the dedication of your team, you create a positive work culture that motivates staff to continue striving for excellence, even during the busiest times.
Self-care tips for workers & industry leaders
As the holiday season ramps up, both hospitality workers and industry leaders face increased demands and pressures. Balancing the insanity with personal well-being can be challenging, yet it's essential for maintaining productivity and morale. Embracing self-care practices is crucial for navigating this busy period with resilience and energy. Whether you're on the front lines or managing from behind the scenes, these self-care tips are designed to help you recharge and thrive during the holiday rush.
1. Mindful breaks
Even if time off isn't possible, take mindful breaks throughout the day. A few minutes of deep breathing or stepping outside for fresh air can help reset your mindset. Incorporating simple practices like stretching or a quick walk can also rejuvenate your body and mind, providing a much-needed pause from the day's demands.
Consider using mindfulness apps or guided meditation sessions to enhance these breaks, offering a structured way to relax and refocus. Encouraging staff to engage in brief, mindful activities not only promotes individual well-being but also contributes to a more positive and productive work environment.
2. Delegate responsibilities
Delegation is a vital leadership skill that fosters growth and development within your team. By assigning responsibilities, you provide employees with opportunities to showcase their skills and take ownership of their roles.
Empowering staff through delegation builds confidence and encourages initiative, as team members feel trusted and valued. It also creates a more collaborative environment, where everyone contributes to the collective success of the business. This approach can lead to innovative solutions and improved efficiency as team members bring diverse perspectives and expertise to the table.
3. Set boundaries (and stick to them)
Setting these boundaries is essential for maintaining a healthy work-life balance, especially during the demanding holiday season. It allows you to recharge both mentally and physically, ensuring you're at your best when on the job.
During these personal hours, prioritize activities that bring you joy and relaxation, whether it's spending quality time with loved ones, indulging in a favorite hobby, or simply enjoying a quiet moment of reflection. Establishing a routine that includes regular self-care practices can help reinforce these boundaries, making it easier to disconnect from work-related stress.Related article:
4. Connect with peers
Reach out to fellow industry leaders for support and advice. Sharing experiences can provide new perspectives and reduce feelings of isolation. Building a network of peers who understand the unique challenges of the hospitality industry can be incredibly valuable. These connections offer a platform for exchanging ideas, discussing best practices, and finding innovative solutions to common problems.
Participating in industry forums, attending networking events, or joining professional associations can facilitate these interactions and open doors to collaborative opportunities. Engaging with others in similar roles not only broadens your knowledge but also strengthens your support system, reminding you that you're not alone in facing the demands of leadership.
5. Encourage physical activity
Regular physical activity is a proven stress reliever and can be particularly beneficial for hospitality industry workers during the holiday season. Encouraging staff to incorporate even short bursts of exercise into their daily routine can help reduce stress levels and boost overall well-being.
Simple activities like stretching exercises, a quick walk during breaks, or even organized group activities like yoga or light aerobics can invigorate the body and mind. Exercise releases endorphins, which are natural mood lifters, helping to combat feelings of stress and fatigue.
Employers can support this by providing resources or space for physical activities, or even partnering with local gyms to offer discounted memberships. By promoting an active lifestyle, businesses not only enhance the physical health of their employees but also improve mental clarity and energy levels, leading to a more dynamic and resilient workforce.
6. Set realistic expectations
Setting realistic expectations during the holiday season can help reduce stress and prevent burnout for hospitality workers. Encourage both staff and management to acknowledge the limits of what can be achieved during this busy period and to prioritize quality over quantity.
Leaders can play a key role by clearly communicating goals and adjusting workloads to reflect the heightened demands of the season. This might involve streamlining processes, simplifying menus, or temporarily reducing service offerings to ensure that quality standards are maintained without overwhelming the team.
On a personal level, setting realistic expectations for yourself is equally important. Recognize that it's okay not to do everything perfectly and that taking care of your mental wellness should be a priority. Allow yourself the grace to say no to additional commitments if they become too burdensome, and focus on what truly matters to you during this time.
Building resilience starts with you
As the holiday season approaches, the hospitality industry faces unique challenges that require thoughtful strategies and a supportive community. By implementing these practical approaches—ranging from fostering open communication and prioritizing self-care to setting realistic expectations—industry leaders and workers can navigate this busy period with resilience and grace.
Remember, the well-being of your team is paramount, and taking steps to ensure they feel valued and supported will not only enhance their performance but also elevate the overall guest experience.
Take these strategies to heart and implement them within your own teams. Share your experiences and insights with fellow industry leaders to continue building a network of support and innovation. Together, we can create a more sustainable and thriving hospitality environment, not just during the holidays but throughout the year. Let's commit to making well-being a priority—because a strong, healthy team is the key to success.(For those left wondering about the ill-fated cakes, we were able to quickly pivot and make some lovely trifle cakes from them. They were still just as delicious with a bit of custard and jam.
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Nio DiPietrantonio, Leader & Mental Health Advocate
Nio DiPietrantonio is a seasoned professional with over seventeen years of experience in the hospitality industry, having held roles from the front lines to director positions. As the Founder and Board President of Serving Up Support: Maine, Nio is a passionate advocate for mental health awareness among hospitality workers. As well as embracing her role as an ambassador for The Burnt Chef Project, her work focuses on breaking the stigma surrounding mental health and providing essential resources to empower industry professionals. Through her leadership and dedication, Nio aims to create a supportive and inclusive environment for all hospitality workers.
