Reopening Preparation: Learning & Development in a Post-COVID World
June 18, 2020 | 2218 Views
As restaurants prepare to resume their operations following the COVID-19 pandemic, trainers are finding that some aspects of Learning and Development will never be the same. Here are the three things trainers need to focus on when training new hires and refreshing furloughed team members in preparation for reopening.
1. Social distancing is not likely going away.
- Observe six-foot spacing guidelines between trainer and trainee; this is going to continue to be a priority.
- Implement headsets for in-person and on-the-job training.
- Use tables, counters, or walls to ensure proper space is maintained.
2. Visual learning must come before on-the-job training.
- Create a 360-degree video orientation to give the trainee idea of exactly what they will be doing and dealing with before they ever get to the line.
- Make use of e-learning modules, complete with simulated tasks, such as drag and drop exercises for building sandwiches.
- Develop better technology for in-restaurant classes, and collaborate with other restaurants and support center/corporate office.
- Utilize videos whenever possible; they don’t necessarily have to be highly produced to be effective.
- Utilize social media that is familiar to your employees, for example Tik-Tok, Instagram, or other social media platforms.
3. Engaging with customers is different from behind a mask.
- Be sure your employees are making appropriate eye contact.
- Be sure employees are speaking clearly and loudly to guests, without shouting.
- Smile. It is as important as it ever has been! Guests can tell if you’re smiling, even if they can’t see your mouth.
- Limit physical greetings, shows of affection, or congratulations to elbow bumps or “foot shakes,” rather than handshakes, high fives, or fist bumps.
That’s all I have for now but as we’ve seen this year, it could all change in the blink of an eye! Who’s to say we won’t be back here next week looking for ways to train through only POS systems?! Thanks for listening and, as always, stay safe out there!