A Friday night bad habit had my tastebuds struggling to fight the urge for a cheeseburger, animal fries, and large strawberry shake. So, I dodged the drive-through line and decided to order at the counter of my local In and Out. I was sitting on a bench, waiting for them to call out my number when I took the machine operation. From ordering to cooking, the production process was tremendous; I could not believe how many people worked there. Aren’t we in work shortage, I thought? Especially in the food and beverage industry, there have been great staffing shortages because of the pandemic. But this In and Out was buzzing with people and atmosphere.

In and Out is known for paying workers on a higher pay scale, specifically their management. They are among the highest paid in the fast food industry and the best benefits. Pay matters! For someone in high school, a dollar or two more makes a big difference. For someone supporting a family, it is stressful to work a job, where you are not well compensated.

This enterprise has a winning environment. Have you ever been to a place where the staff is yelling at each other. Well, it is the last place you want to be. A positive work environment is key to success, one where people are always having fun, and customers want to stay and come back. This is an essential but sometimes forgotten element of customer service.

Always Hiring is the sign on the door.  As I came into and exited the place, I saw that both had “Now Hiring” signs for $$ per hour. It was a direct advertisement for people in the neighborhood looking for work. As a recruiter, I cannot imagine that a high-volume establishment like this has heavy turnover. Sure, most restaurants do, yet you don’t always see signs encouraging people to come in and apply. Marketing is key.

Staffing starts with people; that’s why they have a department called human resources. The people dealing every day with customers should be compensated fairly. The environment they work in should be filled with positive energy. we should always be looking to add good people to the organization.

Dane Flanigan CEO

ultraHealth Agency