Fusion of Flavours and Generations: Thriving with Diversity in NZ Hospitality
In the buzzing hive that is New Zealand hospitality, blending a mix of generations and cultures isn't just good practice—it's an art form. At Hospo HR, we're not just recruiters; we're cultivators of diverse, vibrant teams. Here's how you can foster a thriving workplace that celebrates both the age and cultural tapestry of your staff.
I’ve thrown a bunch of ideas practical tips for each key ingredient so that you have options to consider and find what’s best suited to your establishement.
The Generational Mix with Cultural Spice:
Create a 'Cultural Calendar.' Celebrate the varied cultural events and holidays of your team members. This not only acknowledges the importance of these days but also educates and enriches the entire team's understanding of different backgrounds.
Invite team members to share their cultural celebrations through storytelling or traditional cuisine on their special days. This can be an 'International Potluck Day' every month or a 'Story Behind My Dish' session where the staff bring in and talk about a dish from their home country.
Facilitating Robust Communication:
Implement a 'Multi-Channel Communication Hub.' Utilize a platform where employees can choose their preferred method of communication—whether that's email, instant messaging, or a good old-fashioned cork bulletin board in the break room.
Regularly update this hub with essential information and encourage two-way feedback. Ensure there are translations or multilingual options available to cater to the diversity of languages within your staff.
Crafting a Multi-Layered Learning Environment:
Pair traditional training with digital tools that appeal across ages and backgrounds. For example, use e-learning for tech-savvy staff and face-to-face for those who value personal interaction, ensuring cultural considerations are integrated into content.
Set up mentorship pairings where a Baby Boomer might teach a Millennial about customer service finesse, while the Millennial introduces the Boomer to the latest social media strategies. Within this exchange, include cultural sharing to broaden understanding and empathy.
Balancing the Work-Life Scales:
'Flex-Time' isn't just a buzzword; it's a bridge to work-life harmony. Tailor work schedules to consider traditional cultural family roles and generational preferences.
Offer flexible scheduling around key cultural events or family obligations and allow for time off or shift swaps without penalty. This shows respect for personal lives and leads to happier, more committed team members.
Leadership That Resonates Across Ages and Cultures:
Adapt leadership styles to be both directive and collaborative, fitting the situation and the individual. For instance, younger generations may appreciate a collaborative approach, while older employees might respect clear directives.
Conduct 'Leadership Style Workshops' to train your management team on various approaches, including cultural sensitivity training. Then, let employees provide anonymous feedback on management styles to fine-tune your approach.
In conclusion, running a multi-generational, culturally diverse team is like hosting the world at your table—every day brings a new flavor, a fresh perspective. At Hospo HR, we believe in the power of this diversity to elevate New Zealand's hospitality to world-class standards. So, let's embrace it fully, learning from each other to deliver exceptional experiences for every guest who walks through our doors.
