Start using this Workflow
Employee Scheduling and Labor Management Checklist
Forecasting Labor Needs
Review historical sales data to predict busy periods
Consider local events and holidays that may affect restaurant traffic
Adjust labor forecasts based on promotions or menu changes
Creating the Schedule
Ensure all employee availability and time-off requests are up-to-date
Balance shifts among staff to ensure fair distribution of hours
Create a mix of experienced and new staff for each shift
Managing Labor Costs
Set labor budget targets based on forecasted sales
Monitor daily labor costs and adjust staffing as needed
Use labor management software to track and analyze labor metrics
Communication and Flexibility
Publish schedules in advance to allow employees to plan accordingly
Offer a system for shift swaps that maintains coverage and fairness
Regularly solicit feedback from employees regarding scheduling practices
Legal Compliance and Documentation
Stay informed about labor laws and regulations, including overtime and breaks
Keep accurate records of hours worked and ensure proper compensation
Train management on labor laws to prevent accidental violations
Performance and Productivity
Track individual employee performance and adjust schedules to optimize productivity
Recognize and reward employees who consistently perform well
Address and document any performance issues promptly
