Jill Baran’s Post

🥂 Another 'first' ticked off last night - The Casual Dining Awards! 🎉 A huge thank you firstly to the The Restaurant Group for inviting us & being such great company! A massive congratulations to all the winners - we love to see some of our beloved Yumpingo Customers getting that well deserved recognition ❤️ Reflecting on this experience, I am reminded of the importance of checking in on my own career aspirations and accomplishments. With over 15 years in Client Services, and 6 of those dedicated to hospitality technology, anyone that has worked with me will know that I forge strong client relationships based on my commitment to deliver (yes tooting my own horn a little here for a moment), my dedication to drive results with transparency, whilst sharing my knowledge and guidance. Perception & reputation has always been incredibly important to me and that means working hard & being the best I can be in my role. Admittedly, I've previously bypassed events, citing time constraints—an oversight I now recognise. Over the last year or so, I've had the opportunity to 'get out there' more and that's allowed me to become so much more rounded as a professional - Some of the most meaningful conversations happen over a glass or two of vino! Walking into industry gatherings now, I'm greeted by familiar faces, we pick up on our last conversations, check in on life - genuine connections beyond business matters. In summary, while delivering results remains, to me, the foundation of a building a strong personal brand, investing time in forging connections outside 'office hours' is equally essential. It's it's an empty shell of a house if you don't dedicate the time to share life experiences, celebrating success, and forget about the day to day stresses together! 🙌 Note to future self though - Take more photos! 😅

Last weekend, I popped into a local Olive Garden after an afternoon of shopping to grab a bite to eat. As a Brooklynite with hundreds of culinary options at my doorstep (I enjoy those, too!), I often get teased by my friends when I visit a chain restaurant. In this case, it's worth every breadstick. Attentive and friendly staff indicate a well-trained workforce and makes for a pleasant dining experience. However, it's what I saw behind the scenes that struck a chord with me. While sitting at the bar, I noticed a large sign at the entryway of the kitchen. It was a thank you sign expressing appreciation of the employees' hard work and excellent service. #EmployeeAppreciationDay (March 1st) had taken place a couple of days earlier but the restaurant continued to proudly display the sign (and from what I heard, they weren't planning to take it down anytime soon). While hanging a sign seems like a small gesture, it appeared to go a long way. Even the smallest act of recognition can help boost morale and make employees feel recognized. In the case of Olive Garden, it showed - not just with customer interaction but among the employees themselves. When the bartender began getting busy, one of the servers immediately went behind the bar to assist her. Other servers were also quick to lend a hand, making sure diners had everything they needed while lightening the load of a short-handed colleague. Managers also made the rounds, checking in with staff and customers alike. It was truly a team effort, creating a nice atmosphere to ensure a bevy of repeat customers. Salute, Olive Garden! From a client perspective, I was pleased to see companies I work with acknowledge their staff across the board on Employee Appreciation Day last week. One CEO distributed a heartfelt email to his team that he wrote himself, expressing gratitude for his staff's commitment to the organization during a period of change. Social media posts were also in abundance across all platforms (I enjoyed writing, designing, and posting several of them). It's apparent that companies - both big and small - are getting it. If you want to build and retain a great workforce, you need to show that you care. It's a simple and effective way to spread good vibes and create a positive company culture that fuels a winning work environment where people can grow and thrive. #EmployeeEngagement #Workplace #EmployeeRecognition #CorporateCommunications

As we gear up for a thrilling 🏈 Super Bowl weekend followed by the romance-filled ❤️ Valentine's Day, the restaurant industry is poised for an exhilarating challenge. With these two major events occurring within a mere three days of each other, the pressure is on for full-service dining chains and independent operators to handle the anticipated traffic influx. #Hooters, a 410-unit chain, is strategically focusing on the Super Bowl, which stands as their busiest day of the year. However, they recognize the importance of not overlooking Valentine's Day. Bruce Skala, Hooters CMO, emphasizes the need to capitalize on the Super Bowl crowd, turning it into a bounce-back opportunity for the upcoming romantic celebration. Hooters is employing various promotional tactics, including bag stuffers and in-store merchandise, to encourage customers to return for Valentine's Day. Their emphasis is on staffing, ensuring there are enough hands on deck to greet customers, fill orders promptly, and create a seamless flow to prevent long lines. "It’s all about staffing and making sure we have enough to greet the customers, fill their orders on time … It’s a nice flow to make sure there are no lines out the door," says Skala. The increased staffing leading up to the Super Bowl reflects their commitment to handling a surge in orders efficiently and ensuring a positive customer experience. Restaurants that are planning and engaging with technology can depend on #Gigpro to deliver in these tight squeezes when the need for talent surges during these busy, dining out stretches. 💎 Consistent Quality: Your repeat clients choose you for a reason – your team's exceptional skills and the consistent quality of your service. Keep that winning streak alive by ensuring the same professionals are at the heart of every event thanks to Gigpro. 💎 Efficiency in Planning: Save time on recruitment and training by sticking with a team that already knows the ropes. Gigpro allows you to schedule events with trusted professionals efficiently, giving you more time to focus on the finer details that make your catering services exceptional. 💎 Build a Consistent Dream Team: With Gigpro, you have the power to curate and maintain a roster of reliable and skilled professionals. Say goodbye to the stress of finding new faces for each event and hello to the confidence of working with a team you can count on. As restaurants navigate this dynamic marketing calendar, the key lies in strategic planning, effective staffing, and engaging promotions to turn this dual challenge into a rewarding opportunity. #SuperBowl weekend and #ValentinesDay are not just about scoring touchdowns and spreading love but also about orchestrating a seamless dining experience for your patrons.  #RestaurantPreparedness #SuperBowlValentineChallenge #StrategicPlanning #EffectiveStaffing #EngagingPromotions #restaurants #hospitality

“Your failure to plan does not constitute an emergency on my part.” Michael McGeary shared this nugget of wisdom with our team many years ago and it was a game changing perspective for me. (Thanks Mike!) Until that moment I was putting a lot of pressure on myself for not being able to fulfill all the last minutes requests that were landing on my desk. Having been a waitress and bartender through my 10+ years of university, I was used to working on demand and rearranging those demands continuously to ensure everyone got what they wanted on time. But restaurants have an obvious capacity. Once all the seats are full, there are no new people let in. The kitchen doesn’t stay open a minute longer than closing time. And there are no other duties besides attending to the requests of those in the dining room. That system is only sustainable because of those limits. When Mike said those words, a lightbulb went off. It wasn’t my fault that last minute requests were coming in. It was a failure of the requester to plan ahead. But it was also a daily reality that would involve effort on my part if I were to expect change. Because without a visible line outside a full restaurant, there was no indicator to that requester that I was at capacity. Setting limits, putting systems in place, and managing expectations play a huge part in running a business smoothly. And having these processes in place don’t just help in shipping projects out the door, they make for a much more pleasant work environment, reduce employee turnover, and improve client satisfaction. #BusinessDevelopment #LeadershipDevelopment

Are you ready for an exciting day filled with delicious pizza, fruitful networking, and boundless opportunities for collaboration? Look no further than our exclusive Pizza Friday event hosted in the vibrant atmosphere of the Roslyn Room at Kinsella HR Solutions. 🕒 Date and Time: Friday, 23 February 2024, from 09:00 to 16:00 📍 Location: Roslyn Room, Kinsella HR, Unit 11 Currock Road Trade Centre, Currock Road, Carlisle, CA2 5AD! 💼 What to Expect: Pizza Galore: Indulge in a mouth-watering selection of pizzas at lunchtime, guaranteed to satisfy your taste buds and keep you energised for networking. Networking Bliss: Connect with like-minded professionals, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders in a relaxed and welcoming environment. Forge valuable connections, exchange ideas, and discover new opportunities for growth and collaboration. Collaborative Atmosphere: Experience the power of collaboration as you engage in meaningful conversations, share insights, and brainstorm innovative solutions to common challenges. Together, we can achieve greater success and make a lasting impact in our respective fields. Fantastic Amenities: Enjoy complimentary amenities including free Wi-Fi, ample parking, and a refreshing selection of tea, coffee, and biscuits to keep you fuelled and focused throughout the day. 🌟 Benefits of Networking and Collaborating: Expand Your Network: Networking allows you to expand your professional network, opening doors to new career opportunities, partnerships, and mentorship. Exchange Ideas: Collaborating with others provides fresh perspectives and insights, sparking creativity and innovation in your work. Build Relationships: Cultivating genuine relationships through networking can lead to long-term partnerships, referrals, and support from peers. Professional Growth: Engaging with diverse professionals exposes you to new skills, knowledge, and experiences, facilitating personal and professional growth. Community Engagement: By networking and collaborating, you contribute to a vibrant community of professionals, fostering a culture of support, camaraderie, and shared success. Don't miss out on this exciting opportunity to enjoy delicious pizza, network with industry peers, and unlock the endless possibilities of collaboration. Join us at the Roslyn Room, Kinsella HR, for an unforgettable Pizza Friday extravaganza! Use the link https://lnkd.in/emAhXqQq to book your hotdesking space see you there. #hotsdesking #pizza #networking #collaborating

Mastering Table Manners: A Key to Professional Success Early in my career, I faced a crucial business dinner that made me realize the importance of table manners. Nervous about making a good impression, I dedicated time to learning proper dining etiquette. Here are a few tips I found invaluable: 1. Arrive on Time: Shows respect and sets a positive tone. 2. Wait for Everyone: Begin dining only once all are seated. 3. Use Proper Utensils: Follow the outside-in rule for each course. 4. Keep Elbows Off the Table: Maintains formality. 5. Chew with Your Mouth Closed: Ensures a professional demeanor. 6. Engage in Polite Conversation: Contribute thoughtfully and listen actively. 7. Use Napkins Properly: Place it on your lap and use it discreetly. 8. Handle Accidents Gracefully: Address mishaps calmly. 9. Express Appreciation:Thank your host and staff. 10. Observe Cultural Norms:Respect regional dining customs. Mastering these details not only boosted my confidence but also left a lasting positive impression. Remember, the little things can make a big difference in your professional interactions.

Ever wondered why some banquet halls are always buzzing while others seem to host tumbleweeds rather than events? Spoiler: It's not just about the chandeliers. Let's talk strategic thinking in team management, the unsung hero behind the scenes. Picture this: A banquet hall, grand and glorious. But the real magic? It's not in the decor. It's in the strategy simmering in the manager's office. Here's where it gets cheeky - it's all about playing chess, not checkers. First off, understanding your team's unique talents is like having a secret sauce. Imagine your head chef is a whiz at exotic cuisines, but you only let them cook roast dinners. Madness, right? By strategically aligning skills with tasks, you're not just managing; you're orchestrating a masterpiece. Then there's the art of anticipation. Ever seen a banquet hall team handle a last-minute crisis as if they had a crystal ball? That's not luck. It's strategic foresight. They've played out every scenario in their head, from food allergies to surprise plus-ones. But here's the kicker: communication. In the world of banquet halls, silence isn't golden; it's a recipe for disaster. A team that talks is a team that ticks. It's about creating an environment where the word 'problem' is just another way of saying 'let's get creative.' So, while guests marvel at the seamless service and Instagram-worthy setup, remember, it's the strategic thinking behind the scenes that makes it all happen. It's chess moves, anticipation, and a whole lot of chit-chat. Ready to transform your banquet hall team from good to legendary? Start thinking strategically. And maybe, just maybe, let the head chef experiment with that new dish. Engage below if you're ready to make strategic thinking your team's secret ingredient!

I just had one of THE BEST customer service experiences! Wow! Employee: "Welcome to our River District Hotel, [in Prairie du Chen, Wisconsin]. You must be Paulette [they anticipated my arrival and clearly are demonstrating appreciation I'm here]." Me: I hear this beautiful instrumental music as a fireplace is burning. It's been a long day and the warmth and ambiance along with the genuine greeting are exactly what I needed! This is the second time I've returned to the area to facilitate training workshops and I will definitely be back! Employee: "Here's your complimentary bottle of water. We just wrapped up our cheese and crackers and are about to have an ice cream sundae bar. I'd love to send you with cheese and crackers; what's your favorite of our options? Would you also like some peanut butter? Organic or Jiffy? [Talk about personalized service]. Your room # is XXX; it's one of our most requested favorites [I feel like an honored guest]. Here are the amenities you can enjoy...of course we can accommodate a late check out, as requested. Would you like any recommendations for area restaurants?" Me: I absolutely love when I get examples I can incorporate into customer services workshops for businesses. A five minute exchange made my day! I can't wait to meet the Breakfast Omelet Chef in the morning. For now, I'm headed to the pool and hot tub. #MemorableCustomerService #MakeaDifference #CorporateTraining

I can’t recommend this book enough Setting the Table by Danny Meyer No matter what industry you are in his philosophy of Enlightened Hospitality is pure gold Here are some takeaways: 1. Prioritize Hospitality - **Recommendation**: Focus on making guests feel valued and cared for. - **Example**: At Union Square Cafe, Meyer trained his staff to remember regular customers' names and preferences. For instance, if a customer always orders a specific wine, the staff would ensure it's available for their next visit, creating a personalized experience. 2. Constant Gentle Pressure: - **Recommendation**: Continuously apply gentle pressure to improve and innovate. - **Example**: At Gramercy Tavern, Meyer implemented a system where staff could suggest small changes during daily pre-service meetings. This led to continuous improvements in service and menu items, such as refining the presentation of a dish based on customer feedback. 3. Mistake Handling: - **Recommendation**: Acknowledge errors quickly, sincerely apologize, and overcompensate to turn a negative experience into a positive one. - **Example**: When a diner at The Modern received an overcooked steak, the staff not only replaced the steak promptly but also offered a complimentary dessert and a glass of wine. This approach turned a potentially negative experience into a memorable, positive one, ensuring the customer left happy. 4. Employee Empowerment: - **Recommendation**: Empower employees to make decisions that benefit the guest experience. - **Example**: At Shake Shack, employees are encouraged to give complimentary items if they feel it will enhance the customer experience. For instance, if a customer looks undecided or is having a difficult day, an employee might offer a free ice cream cone to brighten their visit. 5. Community and Culture: - **Recommendation**: Invest in the team's growth and well-being to create a positive atmosphere. - **Example**: Meyer introduced an employee recognition program at Union Square Hospitality Group where staff members could nominate each other for going above and beyond. Winners received rewards such as extra paid time off or gift certificates, fostering a supportive and motivated team environment. https://lnkd.in/expx6cug

When I bring on a new client, I wait... And won't budge. There is nothing you can do to talk me out of it. I am waiting until... That one perfect account manager is available. The one who doesn't just deliver excellent service, but goes the extra mile to make clients feel truly valued. Sure, all account managers on my team are top-notch, arguably the best in the industry. But there's always that one standout individual. The one who adds that special personal touch every time, making clients feel like VIPs and leaving them excited about their new service. As a seasoned sales professional, I've learned the value of that extra touch. Good vs. exceptional. It's the "Daisy in a Dixie Cup" moment. (Ask me if you don't know about this yet!) Now, think about the results in your restaurant. This used to happen all the time. Servers that guests specifically request servers so often, you need to plan shifts around it. 👊 The phone rings nightly to see if Joe is working or has room in his section. 👊 Reviews are shared only to shout out a team member. 👊 It's not about discounts or faster service. It's first-class treatment that boosts egos and leaves a lasting impression. And makes each guest feel valued. And most importantly - appreciated for choosing your restaurant today. It's not always easy. Your team needs some killer salesmanship and interpersonal skills to nail it. And consistency is key. 👊 But I am here to help! 👊 ✌️ Psst... I am on a mission to bring great service back to the forefront of our industry.  If you are with me, here is what to do: Follow me Julie Schor Ring the 🔔 on my profile for updates Let's connect – I'm always up to learn more about your goals 🤝 #salesskills #revenuegrowth #restaurants #beawesome