Any successful business leader knows one thing is certain: customer service is king. Whether you’re a jobseeker or a manager seeking to recruit the best talent for your business, understanding the nuances of customer service is crucial. In this blog post, we want to have a quick look at this subject, offering practical advice for both jobseekers and employers.
The Importance of Customer Service in the Catering Industry
The catering industry is a competitive landscape, with new restaurants popping up on every corner. According to a IBISWorld report, there are over 43,000 full service restaurants in the UK, employing over 500 thousand professionals, and the number is growing (even accounting for all the businesses closing their doors). In such a crowded market, customer service can be the differentiator that sets your business apart.
If you’re looking for a job in the Catering Industry
For jobseekers, excellent customer service skills will make you an attractive candidate. Employers consider customer service skills one of the most important skills in their hiring decisions. Experience is very important but if you’re not able to demonstrate how to delight customers you will find it difficult to be the one to get the job.
How to Excel in Customer Service
Whether you’re a barista, waiter, waitress, or chef, here are some tips to help you excel in customer service:
Understand Your Customers’ Needs: The key to excellent customer service is understanding what your customers want and need. This involves active listening and empathising with their concerns.
Communicate Clearly: Clear communication is crucial in the catering industry. Whether it’s explaining the menu to a customer or relaying information to the kitchen staff, your ability to communicate effectively can make or break the customer experience.
Stay Calm Under Pressure: The catering industry can be fast-paced and stressful. Staying calm under pressure and maintaining a positive attitude can help you provide excellent service, even during peak hours.
Employers: How to Foster a Culture of Excellent Customer Service
As an employer, fostering a culture of excellent customer service can help you attract and retain top talent. Here are some tips:
Hire for Attitude: Skills can be easily taught, but attitude is more difficult to do so. When recruiting, look for candidates who are positive, empathetic, and passionate about the catering industry.
Provide Ongoing Training: Regular training can help your staff stay up-to-date with the latest customer service techniques and industry trends. Consider investing in workshops, online courses, or in-house training programs.
Recognise and Reward Excellent Service: Recognising and rewarding your staff for excellent customer service can boost morale and encourage a culture of excellence. This could be as simple as a ‘Employee of the Month’ award or a small bonus for exceptional service.
Conclusion
In the competitive world of the catering industry, excellent customer service will set your business apart. For jobseekers, honing your customer service skills will make you a more attractive candidate. For employers, fostering a culture of excellent customer service will help you attract and retain top talent.
Trends come and go but something that remains it’s the customer’s expectations of good customer service.
At Marshall Agency, we understand the importance of customer service in the catering industry. Whether you’re a jobseeker looking for restaurant jobs or an employer seeking to recruit the best talent for your business, we’re here to help. Get in touch with us today to learn more about our recruitment services. You can find us at www.marshallagency.co.uk
