From Baseball to Burgers: How Little Things Can Lead To Big Rewards
From Baseball to Burgers: How Little Things Can Lead to Big Rewards
Have you ever wondered why a Major League Baseball player can make millions of dollars, while a restaurant server in a mid-price, casual dining environment might make a fraction of that?
The answer lies in the power of little things – and how small differences in performance can lead to enormous rewards.
In the world of sports, we often see the impact of small improvements in performance. For instance, a baseball player who hits just one or two percentage points higher than their peers can see a significant increase in their salary.
According to research by Forbes, the average MLB salary in 2023 was $4.9 million – and that's just the average.
The highest-paid player in the history of baseball, Shohei Ohtani, signed a deal for 10 years, $700 million. And, that does not include his endorsements each year, which will probably be another $50 million.
How does this apply to you?
As a server in a mid-price, casual dining environment, you might not make millions of dollars, but the same principle applies. It's the little things you do like:
- greeting your customers with a smile
- remembering their preferences
- providing STAND OUT service
All of these SEEMINGLY little things can lead to BIG REWARDS in the form of:
- tips
- repeat business
- positive word-of-mouth
- 5 star ratings on line
Research has shown that customers are more likely to return to a restaurant if they have a positive experience with their server.
A study by the National Restaurant Association found that 7 out of 10 customers say that SERVICE is THE most important factor in their dining experience, even more important than the food itself.
Let's read that again.
7 out of 10 customers say that SERVICE is THE most important factor in their dining experience, even more important than the food itself.
So, how can you apply the power of little things to your role as a server? Here are a few tips:
- Smile and be friendly: A genuine smile and a warm greeting can go a long way in making your customers feel welcome and appreciated.
- Remember their preferences: By taking note of your customers' favorite dishes, drinks, and table settings, you can provide a more personalized experience that keeps them coming back.
- Be attentive and responsive: Keep an eye on your customers' needs and be ready to address any concerns they may have. This could mean refilling their water glasses, clearing empty plates, or making sure their food is cooked to their liking.
- Provide excellent service: Go above and beyond to make your customers feel special. This could mean recommending a dish they might enjoy, offering a complimentary dessert, or simply making sure their experience is as enjoyable as possible.
In conclusion, my fellow restaurant server, the power of little things is not limited to the world of sports. By focusing on the details and providing excellent service, you can create a memorable dining experience for your customers – and reap the rewards of increased tips, repeat business, and positive word-of-mouth. So, the next time you're serving a table, remember that even the smallest gestures can make a big difference.
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