The Great Resignation: Don’t Underestimate The Skills from a Food Service Employee
People are leaving their jobs in droves.
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, November 2021 saw 4.5 million resignations, which is an increase of over 370,000 from the prior month, and an all-time high from when the USBLS began counting this data in the year 2000. The reasoning behind the increase of resignations could be for a multitude of things, of course – COVID illnesses and/or safety concerns, burnout, family dynamics changing, lack of child care, or a simple “you know what, this career path isn’t what I truly want.” Regardless of the reason, I believe there is opportunity in change and uncertainty, hence, my reason for this blog.
Looking at the same data, the industry that quit the most was accommodation and food services. Oftentimes, working in this industry means long hours, working holidays, late nights, and dealing with the public and all the stress that comes with it. For some reason, this industry is perceived as being “low skill” and when employers get a resume with a ton of service-related experience they may toss it without a second glance – but I am here to challenge that practice. Why? Because a lot of the skills I gained as a Consultant / Social Worker / Facilitator came from my years of working in the service industry. The skills developed in this industry can translate well into others.
What can a former service worker bring to the table?
They have been berated by drunk folks, bent over backward to ensure customers are happy, they are strong networkers and keep people coming back, they troubleshoot their computer and credit card systems, record and order inventory, collaborate effectively, meet sales goals, and may even serve as a listening ear for customers who need to talk. The coping skills and interpersonal savvy that people in the service industry display are second to none. Furthermore, I know there is information out there that says that it is impossible to actually multitask – but this should not apply to service workers. Some of them seem to have 8 arms. If you have worked in the service industry you know exactly what I mean!
I’d like to encourage those who are making hiring decisions to look to the tons of people who are leaving the service industry to fill roles. Next time you get an application and the first role you see is a restaurant – DO NOT THROW IT AWAY. Look at it and see if there is any alignment with the skills you are looking for. Remember, soft skills, lived experience, interests, and talents are all skills – it may be a bit outside of the box, but being creative in recruiting for roles will ensure you have a dynamic and diverse team.
To my service industry folks –
Your skills are transferrable. If you feel stuck – keep at it. Use your networking skills and make sure your resume is aligning with the skills sets (including soft skills) of the roles you are applying to. The job description is your key. This goes for any other industries as well. Teachers, and medical workers, I SEE YOU! You have been through it these past few years. If you feel as though transitioning to a new field would be beneficial to you, do not hesitate.
Lastly, for those of you who have chosen to stay in these fields that have taken the brunt of the stress that the COVID pandemic has provided – you are amazing and I am sending you virtual hugs and high fives.