The Restaurant Franchising & Innovation Summit held in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina last month featured leaders from Eggs Up Grill, Jeff’s Bagel Run, and Hot Palette Holdings discussing essential leadership skills in the restaurant industry. The event, organized by Networld Media Group, brought together industry experts to share insights on building successful teams, fostering authentic connections, and cultivating a strong sense of community among restaurant staff.
One of the key sessions at the summit, titled “Building Authentic Connections with Your Restaurant Team,” underscored the importance of prioritizing the human element in the restaurant business. Panelists, including Wesley Epstein, Troy Hooper, Stacey Kane, and Jeff Perera, emphasized the significance of authentic leadership, mentorship, and celebrating individuality to create a thriving team culture.
Stacey Kane highlighted the significance of operational excellence and the role of charismatic leaders in fostering a sense of connection among team members. Jeff Perera stressed the importance of vulnerability and authenticity in leadership, encouraging leaders to connect with their teams on a personal level. Troy Hooper emphasized the need to create “raving fans” among employees, who serve as cultural ambassadors for the brand.
The panelists also discussed strategies for welcoming new hires and ensuring they feel included and valued from day one. Wesley Epstein emphasized the importance of investing in new employees’ training and creating a sense of belonging through shared experiences like sit-down breakfasts. Stacey Kane shared a unique approach taken by a French bakery client to engage overnight employees and foster a sense of community.
Maintaining a strong connection to the brand culture beyond the initial onboarding process was another key focus of the discussion. Panelists stressed the importance of aligning brand values with actionable statements and creating opportunities for team members to live out those values in their daily work.
Mentorship and growth were also highlighted as crucial aspects of building a successful team. Wesley Epstein emphasized the need for clear vision and consistent training to ensure team members feel invested in the brand’s success. Jeff Perera emphasized the importance of understanding employees’ goals and providing the necessary support and training to help them achieve their aspirations.
Looking ahead, Networld Media Group has upcoming events, including the Pizza Leadership Virtual Summit in July and the Fast Casual Executive Summit in October. These events provide opportunities for industry professionals to continue learning and networking in the dynamic restaurant franchising and innovation landscape.
In conclusion, the Restaurant Franchising & Innovation Summit provided valuable insights into building successful teams, fostering authentic connections, and cultivating a strong sense of community in the restaurant industry. By prioritizing the human element and investing in leadership development, brands can create a positive and thriving work environment that drives success and growth.
