Rethinking the Food Service Industry:

Posted on by zippybeck

Balancing Rights, Customer Dynamics, and Economic Realities

In an era where the American food service industry is grappling with significant changes, we’re observing an increase in unionization efforts among fast food workers, a pivotal debate over tipping practices, challenges with difficult customers, and the omnipresent economic stresses of inflation and rising living costs. These multifaceted issues necessitate a comprehensive and empathetic approach, particularly when we consider that food service workers are not mere employees; they are integral members of our communities.

Recognizing Our Everyday Heroes

Food service workers are familiar faces in our daily lives – our children, our elders, individuals striving for the American dream, and indispensable members of our communities, churches, and families. Their contribution transcends the services they provide; they are a vital part of the fabric of our society.

Navigating the Interconnected Challenges

Unionization and Tipping Practices

As reported by Business Insider, the movement for unionization in the fast food industry, coupled with the tipping debate highlighted by restaurateurs like Danny Meyer (Bon Appétit), reflects a broader conversation about fairness and respect in the workplace.

The ‘Karen’ Phenomenon and Customer Dynamics

The rise in challenging customer interactions has exposed the difficult environments faced by food service workers. Addressing these issues goes beyond mere business policies; it’s about fostering a culture of respect and empathy in our everyday interactions.

Economic Pressures

The impact of inflation and the rising cost of living is profoundly felt by those in lower-wage jobs. Adjusting wages and tipping practices is a societal responsibility to ensure the dignity and stability of our community members.

A Collective Approach to Solutions

For Workers

  • Enhanced Support Systems: Implementing support systems like counseling and mental health resources can help workers cope with the stress of demanding work environments and difficult customer interactions.
  • Career Development Opportunities: Offering pathways for career advancement and skill development can provide workers with prospects for growth and long-term career planning.

For Businesses

  • Revisiting Compensation Models: Adapting wage structures in response to the rising cost of living is essential for supporting worker well-being.
  • Customer Management: Developing policies to manage customer behavior is crucial for a respectful work environment.

For Consumers

  • Awareness and Respect: Our behavior and attitudes can significantly impact the experiences of workers. Treating them with respect is a reflection of our community values.

For Policymakers

  • Supportive Legislation: Laws that protect workers’ rights and ensure fair compensation are vital for the health of the industry and its employees.

Conclusion: Embracing a Community-Centric Approach

Adopting a community-centric approach is essential for addressing the challenges facing the food service industry. By recognizing food service workers as our neighbors and friends, we are motivated to find sustainable and compassionate solutions, ensuring a stronger, more resilient community for everyone.

Now let’s get “Spicy” What are your thoughts on Unionization?

As we think about all of this, I invite you to discuss the potential impact of unionization in the restaurant industry. Do you think it could be a key to improving working conditions and livelihoods? Or would it be another factor of pain heaped onto an already beleaguered industry? What do you think? How do you feel about the idea of restaurants unionizing and the potential impact on the industry, our guests and our communities?

Would love to get your take on this potentially controversial subject!

A Thanksgiving Feast of Service: Finding Heart in Hospitality

Posted on by zippybeck

As the golden leaves of autumn herald the approach of Thanksgiving, a time steeped in the Norman Rockwell-esque Americana of family, gratitude, and, of course, a bountiful feast, we in the restaurant industry find ourselves at the crossroads of tradition and modernity. Thinking about Thanksgiving I thought this is the ideal opportunity to carve out a moment to reflect on the essence of hospitality, a trait that’s as timeless as the holiday itself, and how it intertwines with the art of hiring for the holidays.

In a landscape often buzzing with talks of tipping protocols and service charges, it’s crucial to remember that at the core of every memorable dining experience is the human touch – a smile, a thoughtful gesture, a well-timed joke – elements that can’t be summed up in a percentage at the bottom of a bill. The true flavor of service, much like the secret ingredient in grandma’s famous pumpkin pie, lies in its sincerity and warmth.

As restaurateurs, our quest during this festive season is not just to fill vacancies but to discover those sparkling gems of employees who understand that true hospitality is not just a service but a heartfelt experience. The perfect hire is akin to the right spice in a dish – it can transform an ordinary meal into an extraordinary one.

Imagine walking into a restaurant greeted not just by the aroma of roasted turkey and cinnamon-spiced cider but by a server whose eyes light up as they welcome you, a chef who pours their soul into every dish, a host who makes you feel like you’ve come home. This is the essence of service with a smile, a job well done, an unforgettable experience.

In a time where tipping is often seen as obligatory, it’s vital to remember that customers still wield the ultimate power of choice. They can choose where to bestow their time and resources, and this decision is heavily influenced by the quality of their experiences. Restaurants that merely extend their hand for a tip without offering a slice of genuine hospitality may soon find themselves facing a burst bubble.

This Thanksgiving, let’s remind ourselves that service is not just a transaction but an interaction, an exchange of goodwill and appreciation. When hiring for the holiday season, let’s look for those who embody this spirit, individuals who understand that the heart of hospitality beats not in the cash register but in the moments of connection they create with each guest.

As we set our tables and open our doors, let’s infuse our establishments with the warmth and inclusivity that Thanksgiving stands for. Let’s celebrate diversity in our staff and our clientele, creating an atmosphere where everyone, from every walk of life, feels welcomed and cherished.

In the end, the goal is simple yet profound: to give our guests not just a meal but a memory, not just service but a story, not just hospitality but a piece of our hearts. With that in mind, let’s raise a glass to those who understand and embody this ethos, for they are the ones who keep the spirit of the holiday alive in the restaurant industry.

As we all prepare for the busy season ahead, let’s carry with us the reminder that the best ingredient in the recipe for successful hospitality is always love – love for the food, love for the service, and, most importantly, love for the people we serve. Cheers to a Thanksgiving filled with heartfelt service and joyous gatherings, both in our homes and in our restaurants.

Charting the Course: Balancing Humanity and Technology in the Restaurant Industry

Posted on by zippybeck

As we set our sights on the upcoming Restaurant Finance and Development Conference, a palpable sense of anticipation courses through the veins of the restaurant industry’s leaders. The air is thick with the aroma of change, a blend of uncertainty and opportunity, as CFOs and executives ponder the complex recipe for success in the coming year. The festive season looms, bringing with it reflections on labor costs, the puzzle of labor shortages, the allure of automation, and the relentless quest for robust earnings.

The Dawn of Automation and AI: An Inevitable Tide

Automation and AI are no longer mere specks on the horizon; they are the winds propelling the industry forward. From the humble beginnings of self-service kiosks to the futuristic visions of robotic chefs, technology has been entwining itself into the restaurant narrative with increasing tenacity. The future whispers promises of an unprecedented fusion of technology in daily operations, sparking both excitement and trepidation.

Humanity vs. Technology: The Delicate Dance

At the heart of this technological revolution lies a delicate dance between humanity and technology. The efficiency and cost savings of automation pirouette alluringly, tempting decision-makers with visions of streamlined operations and enhanced profitability. Yet, amidst this dance, we must not lose sight of the warmth and adaptability that define the soul of hospitality—the irreplaceable human touch.

People vs. Cost Savings: Navigating the Dichotomy

As the festive season casts its glow, the contrast between the joyous cheer of human interaction and the sterile precision of machines becomes starkly evident. Industry leaders find themselves navigating a dichotomy that is as challenging as it is crucial—the balance between people and cost savings. It is a strategic calculus that demands foresight, empathy, and a keen understanding of the industry’s heartbeat.

Your Compass Through the Tides of Change

In these transformative times, a trusted advisor is not just a luxury but a necessity. ZippyApp stands as a lighthouse amidst the stormy seas of change, offering guidance, expertise, and a steady hand. As the industry charts its course through the confluence of humanity and technology, ZippyApp emerges as an indispensable ally, helping businesses to navigate towards a future where technology enhances rather than eclipses the human spirit.

Embracing the Future with ZippyApp

As we look towards a horizon shimmering with technological advancements, the role of a trusted advisor becomes more crucial than ever. ZippyApp extends an invitation to join hands in embracing the future—a future where technology and humanity converge in harmony, ensuring that the restaurant industry continues to thrive as a beacon of warmth and hospitality in an increasingly automated world. Let’s chart this course together, steering towards a future that’s not only efficient but also rich with the human connection that lies at the heart of hospitality.

Embark on the Journey with ZippyApp

http://www.zippyapp.com

Crafting Inclusive Job Postings: Building a Future with Everyone in Mind

Posted on by zippybeck

This morning I came across this gem of a thought: “A team’s true strength lies in each member, and the power of each member is the collective team.” Isn’t it striking how such age-old wisdom still rings true, especially in our vibrant, interconnected world today? It got me thinking about the beauty of diversity and inclusion, especially in the job market.

Picture this: We’re drafting a job ad, one that feels less like a formal announcement and more like a coffee chat invitation. We all have those favorite spots in town – that cozy café or the lively store where stories, laughter, and memories intertwine. It’s the people there, from all walks of life, that give it soul. So, in that spirit, shouldn’t our job invites mirror that warmth and inclusivity?

But here’s a twist. While we want to get the essentials right, why not add a touch of humanity? A dash of humor, a sprinkle of real stories, or maybe a fun fact. Because at the end of the day, it’s our shared human experiences that connect us.

Speaking of connection, have you ever read a job ad and felt an instant click? Or perhaps, the opposite – an ad that made you think, “Hmm, not for me”? Words have power, and we’re on a mission to use them wisely, ensuring everyone feels that open-door vibe.

Now, onto growth and opportunity. Imagine reading an ad that doesn’t just list out tasks but paints a picture of a journey, an adventure. Something that ignites passion rather than just ticking off another job requirement. What are your thoughts on that?

And while we’re discussing work, let’s touch on balance and understanding. The world is a stage, and its scenes are ever-changing. How do you feel about workplaces that understand the rhythm of life and adapt?

  • Quick Pop Quiz 📌: When you’re eyeing a job ad, what’s the first thing that draws you in? A) The pay package, B) The role itself, C) The team vibe, or D) Future growth paths? Super curious to know!

Diversity isn’t just about numbers or quotas. It’s the symphony of voices, backgrounds, and experiences that make a workplace vibrant. If you’ve ever crafted or stumbled upon a job ad that beautifully captures this spirit, do share!

Feedback? Absolutely essential! It’s the compass that guides our journey. So, spill the beans – your insights, stories, or even a light-hearted joke. Let’s make this chat a melting pot of ideas.

The reality is for nearly every working adult is our jobs are more than a 9-to-5 routine. They are a tapestry of tales, dreams, and shared experiences. So, chime in, share, comment, and let’s make this dialogue a memorable one. Cheers to inclusivity and genuine connections!

#CraftingConnections #InclusiveHiringJourney


#InclusiveHiring #JobAdsReimagined

Putting a Bow on 2023: Finish Strong with These Fresh, Fiery Hiring Trends 🔥

Posted on by zippybeck

Hey there, Restauranteurs and Hospitality Peeps,

Ever tried hiring staff for your restaurant during the holiday rush? It’s like trying to find a needle in a haystack while wearing sunglasses at night. Confusing, right? But 2023 isn’t your average year, and I’ve got the inside scoop to make you the hiring MVP! 🏆

1. The Rise of the Virtual Interview:
Let’s be real. The COVID-19 era turned our world upside down, like that time I tried to make a smoothie without the blender lid on. (Don’t ask!) But amidst all that chaos, virtual interviews emerged as the superhero we didn’t know we needed. Not only do they save time and reduce the awkward pre-interview small talk, but they also let you interview in your favorite pajamas. Win-win!

Why they’re still hot in 2023:

  • Time Savings: Say goodbye to logistical nightmares and hello to a streamlined process.
  • Faster Hiring: Speed is the name of the game. No more waiting for candidates to commute or find your hidden office behind the potted plant.
  • Safety First: We’re all hopeful about the future, but safety remains a priority. And hey, virtual interviews mean zero chances of someone spilling coffee on your desk.

2. It’s Not You; It’s Me… Actually, It’s All About the Candidates:
2023 is all about flipping the script! Candidates are re-evaluating what they want, and if you’re not showing off your restaurant’s charm, you’re missing out. Make your restaurant the cool kid everyone wants to hang out with!

Tips to lure the best:

  • Flexibility: Maybe it’s a choice of hours or just understanding life happens. Flexibility is the new 401k.
  • Compelling Job Descriptions: Be the storyteller. Create a narrative that makes candidates think, “I HAVE to work here!”
  • Brand Personality: Your restaurant isn’t just another brick in the wall. Share the fun, quirks, and what makes you unique. Got a chef who sings opera while cooking? That’s pure gold!

3. The Digital Boom – No, It’s Not a New Dance Move:
Digital recruitment is like that catchy song you can’t get out of your head. It’s everywhere! And if you’re not on this train, you’re waiting at the wrong station.

Digital tricks up the 2023 sleeve:

  • Your Website is Your Stage: Jazz it up, make it pop, and let it sing your brand’s story.
  • Job Boards & Search Engines: Think of them as your digital matchmakers. Swipe right to the best candidates.
  • Social Media: Be where the party’s at! Instagram, Twitter, TikTok – if it’s buzzing, you should be there.

So, what’s the big wrap-up (besides that leftover burrito from lunch)?

Hiring in 2023 is like making a killer cocktail. 🍹 Mix a dash of flexibility, a splash of personality, and top it off with some digital zest. And speaking of zest, if you’re looking for the ultimate tool to add some sparkle to your hiring game, ZippyApp ATS is the secret ingredient.

Ready to end 2023 with a bang and set the stage for an epic 2024? Dive into the world of ZippyApp ATS and onboard like a pro. Let’s chat, brainstorm, and crush those hiring goals together!

Cheers to putting that bow on 2023 and finishing stronger than a double shot of espresso! ☕🎉

Hit me up, let’s talk ZippyApp ATS magic! 🚀🌟

Rising Wages and Robots: California’s Glimpse into the Future of the Fast-Food Industry

Posted on by zippybeck

Today, if you walk into any fast-food restaurant in California, you might notice something shifting. Gov. Gavin Newsom recently inked an agreement that will, in essence, raise wages for fast-food employees starting in 2024. As an avid and invested follower of tech companies and the restaurant industry, I’m always interested in how societal shifts, especially in legislation and technology, shape our future. California’s decision might seem localized, but its ripples will touch every corner of America, and perhaps even the globe.

The Financial Implication: A Quick Math

The new legislation promises a raise to $20 per hour for workers in fast-food chains with over 60 locations nationwide. This translates to a notable bump for more than half a million Californians. The associated financial implications are considerable. Higher wages lead to either increased prices or a reduction in profit margins, unless operational efficiencies can be found.

One might argue that increasing operational efficiency can be achieved through…automation. Machines and AI have been making waves across industries, and with the prospect of escalating human costs, automation might just be the silver bullet many operators are seeking.

How Automation Could Shape Guest Experience and Employee Morale

There’s an age-old saying that people buy from people. The essence of visiting a restaurant is not just about the food but the experience – the human touch. But what if, in our bid to maintain profit margins, we unintentionally strip that away? Robots taking orders or AI systems recommending dishes based on algorithms can be efficient, but can they replicate the warmth of a human interaction?

However, automation doesn’t always translate to a decline in morale or job loss. Instead, it could lead to a shift in the kind of jobs available. Employees might transition into roles that require overseeing these machines or providing a touch of humanity where machines fall short.

The Skillset Evolution: From Counter to Computer

As we flirt with the idea of a robotic workforce, it’s imperative to understand the shift in skill requirements. An employee who once specialized in frying might now need to understand how to troubleshoot a robotic fryer. This doesn’t necessarily mean a PhD in robotics but a basic understanding of the technology they’re working with.

This shift might seem daunting, but it’s also an opportunity. With proper training and education, the workforce can upskill, leading to potentially higher-paying roles and better job security.

The Cultural Quandary

A restaurant is a melting pot of cultures, tastes, and experiences. It’s not just a place to grab a bite; it’s where memories are made. If automation becomes affordable and widespread, the essence of these cultural hubs might change. We must ask ourselves if we’re ready for that shift.

California Leads, But Who Follows?

With rising labor costs in California, other states might soon be faced with a similar decision. However, the Golden State’s choice will serve as a benchmark, a case study of sorts, for the rest of the country. Will we see a domino effect or will other states find alternative solutions?

Final Thoughts

The balance between maintaining profits, ensuring guest satisfaction, and upholding employee morale is a precarious one. While robots and AI offer tempting solutions to the challenges posed by increasing labor costs, they come with their own set of challenges.

California’s recent decisions open the floor for a dialogue that’s been brewing for years. As restaurant owners, operators, tech enthusiasts, and patrons, the question isn’t just about machines replacing humans. It’s about how we can coexist, adapt, and continue to serve memorable experiences on a plate.

I invite all of you to share your thoughts, concerns, and visions for the future. Let’s have a conversation that’s as rich and diverse as a California-style pizza.

Bracing for Storms and Sizzling in the Kitchen: A Restaurateur’s Guide to Preparedness

Posted on by zippybeck

Hope for Sunshine, But Set the Table for Rain

As we stir the pots, flambé desserts, and craft those delicious dishes that delight our customers, there’s another recipe I’ve been perfecting lately: the recipe for preparedness. With my family gearing up for hurricane season, there’s a touch of apprehension in our household, especially with Hurricane Idalia casting a shadow as it heads towards the Florida coast. I’m sure many of you can relate. So let’s put our chef hats on and cook up a plan to keep our restaurants and our loved ones safe.

1. Team Talks Over Tacos (or Tapas or Tiramisu)

The more we talk, the better we feel:

  • Emergency Drills with a Twist: Let’s be honest, drills don’t have to be dull. After practicing, why not treat the team to a special dish? Let’s turn preparation into a mini celebration!
  • Skill Sharing Sessions: Invite someone knowledgeable about storm readiness to your restaurant during a slow hour. Combine it with a tasting session of a new dish. Learning while indulging – now that’s a win!

2. Keeping the Restaurant Rolling

Even without the regular office setup, our spaces have unique needs:

  • Backup Power: An uninterrupted power supply or generator can ensure that those fridges and freezers stay humming, keeping our culinary masterpieces safe.
  • Suppliers on Speed Dial: Establish close ties with local suppliers. In a pinch, a friendly network can mean the world!

3. Communication – The Secret Ingredient

  • Group Chats: Keep a digital thread, like a WhatsApp group, for the team. It’s not just for the daily specials but essential for fast communication.
  • Local Updates: Stay connected with local news. Being informed is being prepared.

4. Stocked Pantries and Safe Spaces

  • Emergency Kits with Flair: Alongside flashlights and first aid, throw in some non-perishable gourmet goodies. Emergencies can always use a sprinkle of joy!
  • Safety and Ambiance: While ensuring the safety of your space, consider how emergency lights or other safety features can blend seamlessly into your restaurant’s ambiance.

5. Financials with a Dash of Care

  • Insurance Chat: Between tasting sessions and menu planning, take a moment yearly to review your restaurant’s insurance. Think of it as reviewing a recipe, ensuring all the ingredients are there.
  • Reserve Fund: A little ‘rainy day’ jar or fund can help smoothen out unforeseen bumps.

6. Emotional Well-being on the Menu

Our teams are our families:

  • Open Conversations: Create a space where your staff can express any worries or concerns. Sometimes, just talking about the approaching storm can ease minds.
  • Tips and Tricks Sharing: Share with your team any personal strategies you use for mental well-being. It could be a favorite playlist, a book, or even a meditation app.

Something to Keep in Mind…

In our world of tantalizing flavors, bustling kitchens, and the sizzle of the grill, let’s remember to mix in a bit of preparation. As Hurricane Idalia reminds me, while we cannot control the weather, we can control our readiness for it. It’s just like ensuring we have all our ingredients before the dinner rush. So, here’s to clear skies and full tables, but also to being ready for anything the world might serve up.

Stay safe, stay passionate, and let’s cook up a storm while weathering them too! 🌦🍽🌞

Digital Accessibility: A Win-Win for Retail and Hospitality Businesses in 2023

Posted on by zippybeck

The digital era has brought about significant opportunities and challenges for businesses, particularly in the retail and hospitality sectors. Websites and mobile apps have become essential tools for attracting customers and employees alike. However, it is crucial to ensure that these platforms are accessible to all users, regardless of their abilities.

Customers’ Interaction with Your Digital Presence

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), about 15% of the world’s population has some sort of disability. However, many websites are not designed to be accessible to those with disabilities. AbilityNet reports that a staggering 90% of websites are not accessible to people with disabilities who rely on assistive technology.

In the U.S., more than half of the population with disabilities has internet access, and those who don’t go online cite the lack of accessibility as a key reason. Therefore, creating an accessible digital presence can significantly expand your customer base and drive more sales. Here’s why:

Increase Revenue and Market Share

Retailers and food service companies are among the most cited in digital accessibility lawsuits. In contrast, companies with accessible websites can gain a competitive advantage by tapping into the half-trillion dollars spent annually by people with disabilities. According to Click-Away Pound, 73% of people in the U.K. with disabilities are unable to complete transactions on more than a quarter of the websites they visit.

Enhance Customer Experience

Accessible websites improve the user experience for all visitors, not just those with disabilities. For example, offering text alternatives for images benefits people with visual impairments, while also enhancing SEO and helping search engines index the content.

Avoid Legal Risks

Digital accessibility lawsuits have been on the rise, with many retailers and hospitality businesses facing legal claims for failing to provide accessible websites and apps. By making your digital presence accessible, you can reduce the risk of litigation and the associated costs.

Potential Candidates and Employees’ Interaction with Your Digital Presence

In addition to customers, businesses need to consider the accessibility of their careers websites for potential candidates and employees with disabilities. As mentioned in the SHRM articles, making your careers website accessible to all is not just a legal requirement but also a smart business strategy.

Attract a Diverse Talent Pool

Having an accessible careers website allows you to attract a broader range of candidates, including those with disabilities. By showcasing your commitment to inclusion, you can enhance your employer brand and appeal to a diverse workforce.

Comply with Legal Requirements

Several laws require businesses to make their digital properties accessible to people with disabilities. In the U.S., these include the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act. Non-compliance with these regulations can result in legal action and financial penalties.

Provide a Better Candidate Experience

An accessible careers website can improve the candidate experience and help you stand out as an employer of choice. By making the application process smooth and inclusive, you can attract and retain top talent.

The Takeaway

Digital accessibility is more than just a legal requirement; it is a moral and ethical responsibility. By creating an accessible digital presence, retail and hospitality businesses can provide a better experience for all customers and employees, drive more sales, and avoid legal risks.

At ZippyApp, we understand the importance of digital accessibility and are committed to helping businesses create an inclusive digital presence. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you embrace digital inclusion in 2023.

“Alone we can do so little, together we can do so much.”
– Helen Keller

The Golden Arches and Beyond: An Interesting Dive into Fast Food Facts

Posted on by zippybeck

If Steve Jobs, Bill Gates, and Jeff Bezos walked into a fast-food joint, they might just order up some spicy nuggets of wisdom for us all. But since I can’t channel them, let’s don our own hairnets of curiosity and dive into the sizzling world of fast food, sprinkled with a dash of humor and a side of fries.

Ah, the fast food industry! The beacon of a speedy meal, the realm where 3.8 million hard-working souls turn potatoes into golden fries. Now, I’m not saying fast food has the economic gravity of Apple, Microsoft, or Amazon, but with a crispy $200 billion revenue in 2021, it’s hardly small potatoes either. 🍟

Now, picture young Timmy, the 16-year-old flipping patties. He’s part of the bustling 30.7% of teenage employees, eagerly saving up for his first car (or a new video game console). On the other side, we have Martha, the single parent, trying to juggle work and family, making up the 20% of single-parent employees. Don’t forget wise old Dave, part of the 40% of workers above 25, sharing stories of “how fries were made back in his day.”

Joking aside, it’s concerning that while they serve up meals on the double, their earnings barely make up a meal at a fancy restaurant: an average of $10.92 per hour. If you’re thinking of ordering a dash of benefits with that job, think again. A mere 26% get that luxury.

If these numbers had a face, they might just resemble a harried waitress named Wendy, balancing trays and managing not to get burned. Oh, speaking of burns, 71% have reported on-the-job injuries. It makes you wonder if the lack of unions (with less than 2% being unionized) is why there aren’t more safety nets, or at least protective mittens.

And, in the midst of all the fryers and grills, there’s an undeniable feminine touch. Approximately 63% of these employees are women. Add in a dash of international flavor with 14% of the workforce being foreign-born. Talk about a global special!

Let’s make a pit stop at the famous golden arches. In 2021, McDonald’s alone was responsible for employing a whopping 205,000 people worldwide. If they ever decided to form a city, it would be “Burgeropolis.”

The landscape of this industry has changed dramatically. From 200,000 establishments in the late ’90s to a hearty 300,000 by 2020. Yet, there’s a looming cloud (and it’s not just the scent of grilling patties): Automation might snatch 4.3 million jobs by 2030. If ever there was a time for a visionary innovator in the fast-food sector, it’s now.

But, as daunting as it sounds, we Americans and our insatiable love for fast food aren’t fading. 37% of us happily munch on it daily, proving that its taste, or maybe just the convenience, is here to stay.

Whether you’re a burger-flipping teenager, a multitasking parent, or just someone enjoying their drive-thru coffee, the fast-food universe is vast and filled with stories (and calories). The next time you’re savoring that burger, remember there’s a world behind the counter, bustling, frying, and trying.

Sources:

A bunch of really smart sites that study everything from fries to finance. Check them out if you’re hungry for more details!

Taking Subjectivity and Bias out of the Interview Process: A Blueprint for Business Success

Posted on by zippybeck

Picture this: A serene lakeside, three titans of the tech world – Steve Jobs, Bill Gates, and Jeff Bezos – beside you. Now imagine them giving you sage advice on hiring. This vision encapsulates the wisdom of Forbes, Psychology Today, and Harvard Business School. For every business owner seeking to elevate their company, mastering the hiring process is crucial. Here’s a blueprint, woven with specific tips and the tantalizing results of getting it right.

1. Embrace Self-Awareness

Tip: Engage in introspective strolls through nature.
Inspiration: Imagine a forest. Every tree, unique in its twists and turns, contributes to the collective beauty of the woodland. Similarly, a team selected without biases is like this forest, diverse and thriving. Such a team brings myriad solutions, stemming from different viewpoints, akin to the diverse trees of the woods.

2. Structure: The Bedrock of Fairness

Tip: Craft a questionnaire as solid and unchanging as the mountain ranges.
Inspiration: Just as every river flowing from a mountain follows a consistent path carved over time, standardizing interview questions ensures everyone sails on the same current, eliminating the capricious whirlpools of bias.

3. Precision in Job Criteria

Tip: Carve out the exact mold like a sculptor does with marble.
Inspiration: When you know precisely the statue you’re sculpting, you waste no marble. Similarly, clear job criteria ensure you recruit individuals tailor-made for the role, optimizing resources and boosting efficacy.

4. A Mosaic of Perspectives

Tip: Assemble a panel as varied as a wildflower meadow.
Inspiration: Just as different flowers bring out the best in a meadow, varied interviewers with distinct backgrounds can collectively spot the gems amidst the gravel, ensuring a holistic and informed hiring choice.

5. The Blind Spot

Tip: Wear blinders, like a focused racehorse, to irrelevant details.
Inspiration: Racing ahead based solely on ability, blind recruitment ensures that your team’s prowess mirrors the true mosaic of skills available in the broader world.

6. Never Stop Learning

Tip: Constantly water and nurture the minds of your hiring teams.
Inspiration: Just as plants grow best with regular care, investing in diversity training enriches your company’s culture, turning it into a lush garden that attracts the most vibrant of talents.

7. The Power of Feedback

Tip: Think of it as echoes in a canyon – what you put out returns to you.
Inspiration: Like a hiker tuning into the echoes to navigate terrains, feedback after interviews guides you towards the right paths, ensuring you always secure the finest recruits.

8. Marrying Technology & Humanity

Tip: Think of tech as the compass, but your heart as the true north.
Inspiration: While tech can quickly sift through the grains, the human touch adds that sprinkle of magic, ensuring your company isn’t just efficient but also warm and welcoming.

9. Avoid the Echo Chamber

Tip: Build a roundtable of knights, each with their own tales and triumphs.
Inspiration: Just as every knight at the round table brought unique tales and perspectives, valuing individual voices ensures a depth of decision-making, shielding against the perils of group biases.

10. Perfecting the Loop

Tip: Constantly polish and refine, like the endless lapping waves on a shore.
Inspiration: As the shoreline changes with every wave, revisiting hiring practices ensures you’re always in sync with the dynamic world, poised to welcome every tide-turner.

Just as an angler knows the art of patience and precision, every business owner should finesse their hiring artistry. With this blueprint as your guide, not only will your net be filled with the best, but your business will flourish with innovation and vigor. Dive deep into these strategies, and perhaps, one day, tales of your success will echo alongside those of our tech legends.

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