In the highly competitive world of foodservice, attracting the right talent is as crucial as serving the perfect dish. It's not just about filling positions; it's about finding people who will contribute to the growth and culture of your organisation. As the industry faces challenges like never before, from staffing shortages to the evolving expectations of culinary professionals, we’ve come up with four strategies to help you stand out as somewhere people actually want to work.

  1. Start with The Basics

    Your job post is often the first impression potential employees will have of your organisation. Make it count! Beyond listing skills and requirements, your job descriptions should tell a story about your venue, the team they'll be joining, and the impact they can make. Highlight what sets your kitchen apart – is it your commitment to sustainability, your innovative menu, or the opportunity to work with renowned chefs? A well-crafted job description not only attracts candidates but helps your potential employees get an inside view into your company.

  2. Highlight your Team & Culture

    People don't just work for a paycheck; they work to be part of something larger. The culture of your venue can be a magnet for attracting talent. Showcase what makes your workplace unique. Is it your collaborative team environment, your ethos of creativity and innovation, or maybe your community involvement? Let potential employees see the values you live by and the atmosphere they'll be stepping into. Remember, a vibrant, positive culture is not just good for attracting new staff; it's key to retaining them.

  3. Ensure an Efficient Work Environment

    A well-organised and efficient work environment is critical in the fast-paced foodservice industry. Nobody wants to work with stressed chefs. Adopting technologies like Sous Vide can can help streamline kitchen operations, reducing pressure on staff and helping with high-quality offerings.  Primo Foodservice’s new Low & Slow range features a range of products from Meatballs in Napoli Sauce to Savoury Mince. If your prospective talent recognises that your kitchen is committed to reducing pressure while still prioritising quality, they will be more attracted to the role and your venue.

  4. Prioritise Room for Growth

    Growth and development are key motivators for many in the foodservice industry. Offering training programs, workshops, and opportunities for career development shows potential employees that you're invested in their personal and professional growth. Whether it's culinary skills, management training, or certifications in new cooking technologies, such opportunities can differentiate your business as a place where careers are nurtured, and turnovers are low.

Attracting the right talent in the foodservice industry requires a mix of traditional and innovative strategies. From the way you present opportunities in job descriptions to the culture you cultivate, every aspect of your approach matters.