A 3 min read.

As independent restaurant owners and operators, time is one of your most valuable resources. Every moment counts, especially when juggling the myriad tasks that come with running a successful establishment. Traditional manager meetings, often packed with updates and varying agendas, can feel like a drain on this precious resource. It's time to rethink this approach and consider the benefits of one-on-one meetings instead.

Here’s The Problem with Traditional Manager Meetings

Manager meetings are usually a staple in restaurant management. However, they often become sessions filled with updates that could easily be communicated via email or during daily interactions. Here's why they may not be the best use of your team's time:

1. Different Skill Levels and Agendas: In a typical manager meeting, attendees are at various skill levels and have different priorities. This can lead to disjointed discussions, lack of engagement and a lack of focus on what truly matters.   

2. Information Overload: Meetings packed with updates can lead to information overload, making it hard for managers to retain and act on what's important.

3. Time Consumption: These meetings can consume valuable time that could be better spent on the floor, interacting with staff, enhancing recipes and addressing immediate issues.

If you’d like help navigating make the change from meetings to one-on-ones with your leadership team, I can help. Let’s connect at christinlmarvin@gmail.com

The Importance of Alignment and Connection

While it's crucial for everyone to be on the same page regarding the business vision and goals, this alignment doesn't necessarily require frequent group meetings. Connection, camaraderie, and teamwork are essential, but there are more efficient ways to achieve these without lengthy, unfocused gatherings.

Alternatives to Traditional Meetings

Here are some effective alternatives to foster connection and ensure alignment without the inefficiencies of traditional manager meetings:

1. One-on-One Meetings: These personalized sessions allow for focused, meaningful conversations tailored to each manager's needs and development. Here are tips for effective one-on-ones:

   - Set Clear Agendas: Have a specific focus for each meeting. Discuss performance, goals, and any challenges the manager is facing.

   - Use Active Listening: Make these sessions a safe space for managers to voice their concerns and ideas.

   - Provide Constructive Feedback: Use this time to offer targeted feedback and guidance, helping managers grow and improve.

2. Daily Pre-Shift Meetings: Short, focused meetings held at the start of each day can help ensure everyone is aligned on daily goals and tasks without delving into extensive updates. If your team comes in at staggered times, take 5 minutes at the beginning of each shift to give them updates. 

3. Regular Team-Building Activities: Foster camaraderie and teamwork through regular activities outside of the usual work environment. This could be a team lunch, an outing, or even a fun, informal gathering at the end of a busy week.

Tips for Running More Effective Meetings

If you decide to continue with traditional manager meetings, here are some tips to make them more effective:

1. Have a Clear Agenda: Outline the purpose and topics of the meeting in advance to keep discussions focused and relevant. Keep the agenda short inorder to make time for conversation and questions.

2. Limit Meeting Time: Keep meetings short and to the point. Aim for 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the complexity of the topics. According to research, engagement levels start declining after 30 minutes. 

3. Encourage Participation: Ensure all attendees have the opportunity to speak and contribute. This can prevent the meeting from being dominated by a few voices. A great way to do this is to have a different manager present a topic each week about their expertise in the restaurant.   

4. Follow Up: Send a summary of the meeting with key takeaways and action items to ensure everyone is clear on what was discussed and what needs to be done. This will help keep your team on task and you hold them accountable if tasks are not being completed.

While traditional manager meetings have their place, they often aren't the most efficient way to ensure alignment and foster connection. By shifting towards one-on-one meetings and incorporating other strategies for team-building and daily alignment, restaurant owners and operators can make better use of their time and enhance the effectiveness of their management teams. Remember, the goal is to create an environment where every manager feels heard, supported, and aligned with the restaurant's vision, ultimately leading to a more cohesive and successful team.

To start rethinking your team communication and development, email me at christinlmarvin@gmail.com

P.S. 

For more leadership development, here are some additional resources for you:

1. Tune into the No Hesitations Podcast Episode 32 : How to Lead with Clarity : 5 Strategies for Effective Restaurant Management

2. To grow your leadership in just 5 minutes a day, join my 12 Day Leadership Challenge.

3. Contact me for a strategy session about overcoming your biggest challenge at christinlmarvin@gmail.com and start transforming your mindset, your restaurant, and your life today!