Keep the Holiday Spirit Alive: Tackling Burnout in Hospitality
Ah, the holidays—a season of joy, cheer, and, for hospitality leaders, the occasional existential crisis. While customers bask in festive meals, we’re behind the scenes wondering if caffeine counts as a food group or when we’ll have time to enjoy the holidays.
The holiday rush is a double-edged sword for high-end establishments: packed houses and happy (or unhappy) customers with equally exhausted staff. The unique challenges of long hours, fast-paced environments, and the demands of delivering perfection can wear down the most seasoned professionals. Burnout isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a reality that impacts morale, productivity, and, ultimately, the quality of service.
While there’s no magic fix, taking these proactive steps can help mitigate the burnout effect during the year's busiest time. Here are three strategies you can implement now:
Encourage Mindful Habits for Staff: Reducing alcohol and caffeine consumption and focusing on hydration can significantly improve energy levels and cognitive function. Consider providing non-alcoholic options during post-shift gatherings and encouraging your team to prioritize their well-being.
Prioritize Basic Needs: Long shifts make it easy to skip meals, forget to hydrate, and sacrifice rest. But no one can run on caffeine alone. Make family meals or easy access for quick snacks, remind them to drink plenty of water, and invite them to sit down and relax as they eat. Encourage your team to recharge properly after their shifts, emphasizing that the basics matter most when the pressure is high.
Proactively Plan for Requests-OFF and Grant Them: During the holiday season, staff often feel left out of the celebrations, lowering performance and morale. Instead, intentionally plan with your staff in advance to allow more opportunities for requests to be granted while finding the necessary coverage. Working as a team to allow time off is as important as working as a team while on the clock.
As a leader, your team looks to you for guidance and support. By taking small but intentional steps, you’re not just managing burnout—you’re fostering a workplace that thrives even under pressure. The holidays may be a marathon, but with the right strategies, your staff can cross the finish line together, delivering the world-class experiences your customers expect.
This holiday season, don't just serve up memorable meals and services but also a culture of care for the people who make them possible.