Employee experience is a critical component of creating a successful customer experience in the restaurant industry. Danny Meyer, founder of Shake Shack and Union Square Hospitality Group, emphasizes the importance of prioritizing employees in order to deliver exceptional service to customers. During a keynote at the Qualtrics X4 conference in Salt Lake City, Meyer highlighted the direct relationship between employee happiness and customer satisfaction.
Meyer believes that happy employees are essential for creating consistency in the customer experience. While employees may be able to fake positivity temporarily, sustained excellence requires a team that is genuinely passionate about their work and the people they work with. Strong restaurant teams, according to Meyer, are built on mutual respect, trust, and a shared commitment to delivering the best service possible. When employees are happy and engaged, customers are more likely to have a positive experience.
In addition to creating a positive work environment, Meyer emphasizes the importance of financial incentives in taking care of employees. Raises and promotions are key ways to show employees that their hard work is valued. However, Meyer acknowledges that shareholder approval is necessary for making these investments in employees. Executives can support the employee experience by holding team members accountable for their actions and fostering a culture of teamwork and trust.
Creating a strong company culture is essential for promoting employee engagement and customer satisfaction. Meyer believes that executives have the power to shape a culture that encourages camaraderie among employees and managers. By establishing a common language and shared values, companies can create a sense of belonging that benefits both employees and customers. While promoting a sense of belonging is important, Meyer cautions against creating a cult-like atmosphere. Diversity in hiring practices and a shared commitment to hospitality are key elements of Union Square Hospitality Group’s approach to building a strong company culture.
In conclusion, prioritizing employee experience is essential for delivering a superior customer experience in the restaurant industry. By focusing on employee happiness, creating a positive work environment, and fostering a strong company culture, companies can build successful teams that are dedicated to providing exceptional service to customers. Danny Meyer’s emphasis on the connection between employee engagement and customer satisfaction serves as a valuable reminder of the importance of putting employees first in the pursuit of business success.
