In Random on September 19, 2007 by Jon
I have a new favorite show.
Grete and I watched the first season of Hell’s Kitchen with Gordon Ramsey but never really followed it after that. Well, Gordon’s back with a new show.
Basically, the blunt, foul-mouthed, perfectionist chef goes into restaurants that are falling apart and turns them around. You get to watch the drama as it unfolds.
But here’s what I love. Gordon’s a change agent. On Hell’s Kitchen he just yelled a lot. At everyone. Here, he seems to realize who to reason with and who needs a few kicks to the rear.
He also knows what he’s doing. If Gordon tells you your restaurant &$(*#^s, you know it probably does. It’s in your best interest to listen to him. So whether he says your food is rotten, your kitchen is a mess, or your management style is sapping the life – and money – from the business, you’re probably going to hear him out.
It’s awesome to see a restaurant turn around and see the hope on the faces of a team that was pushed to the brink, frustrated, and hopeless. It may be just me, but that kind of progress is exciting!
So far, good show!
In Linkage on September 19, 2007 by Jon
I’ve been on a blog kick recently – reading blogs from different fields to cross-pollinate my thoughts/experiences. One I found recently is all about the restaurant business. It actually has some great leadership tips – particularly if you lead a team.
A recent post gave 16 cost-effective tips for keeping employees happy. It’s a good read for any manager.
Employees matter. No, really, think about it: Your competitors have access to the exact same resources as you—which means infinite choices exist for your customers, and for your employees as well. According to Joanne G. Sujansky, Ph.D, CSP, if you’re not seeking ways to nurture employees and meet their needs, they will seek greener pastures—and your customers will follow them over the fence.
Here are the first five tips:
1. Don’t misrepresent your culture.
2. Learn the rules of engagement.
3. Cross-pollinate your culture.
4. Be a good corporate citizen.
5. Give praise where praise is due.
So check out Building Better Restaurants. If you own one, it’ll help you out. If not, it may just convince you it’s time to open that corner cafe you always dreamed of…
