Two Words for the Restaurant Industry: Adapt & Appreciate [Video Interview]

The restaurant industry was hit especially hard during the COVID-19 pandemic crisis. In fact, many continue to struggle… some even to the point of closing their doors.

Thankfully, some restaurants are finding ways to survive amidst the turmoil. More and more, we’re hearing incredible stories from our clients about ways their teams are stepping up in the face of crisis.

Our Marketing Director, Matthew Coleman, had the chance to speak with Jackie Graves, General Manager of Applebee’s in Clarksville, TN. Jackie shares insights into the new way restaurants are operating under the current circumstance.

The BIG takeaways from Jackie can be summed up in two words: ADAPT & APPRECIATE.

Jackie shares stories of how the employees and team members are adapting by using social media to do grassroots advertising to get guests to the restaurant for curbside pickup. There’s also a host of new regulations that have to do with guest safety and no-contact service.

Everyone is learning to appreciate everything they have and get. Every single guest and customer takes on a whole new meaning. On the flip side, guests also appreciate that there is somewhere open to go to get a great meal (and is also safe!), showing that the whole experience is a lesson in give and take.

As for the adapting the employees have had to deal with, Jackie said, “It’s very different, but it’s very nice to see that our employees can adapt to this kind of crazy change.” These stories remind us that the American worker can be one of the most resilient forces on the planet when duty calls.

Jackie’s parting message to her team serves as a rallying cry to everyone in the restaurant industry:

“Keep fighting, keep adapting, and changing, and learning, and growing. And no matter what we end up on the other side of this business we’ll be stronger, and we’ll be better, and we won’t give up.”

Check out the full video interview, and share this example of teamwork with others to remind them that even in the face of crisis, we can come together and rise above.

What’s your story?

We love hearing how employee recognition is coming to life in your business and seeing pics from client presentations. It gives us a chance to share in the celebration!