The Power of Words: What Do You Convey When You Speak or Write?

Why Communication Matters

• One wrong word can ruin a guest’s meal.

• A sloppy note can send the wrong plate to the wrong table.

• A careless tone can crush team morale.

Strong communication = smoother shifts, better service, more money.

1. Guest Communication

Spoken:

• Tone matters. Speak like you’re happy to be there—welcoming, confident, respectful.

• Clarity matters. Repeat orders back to show you understand. Fixing it early is cheaper than fixing it later.

Written:

• Enter orders correctly—no guessing, no shortcuts.

• Allergy notes? Write them clearly. Guests’ safety (and trust) depend on it.

Remember: Guests who feel understood tip better and come back more often.

2. Team Communication

Spoken:

• Use short, clear phrases: “86 salmon,” “Hot plate behind,” “Need hands on 12.”

• Don’t just yell across the room—make sure the right person hears you.

• Respect matters—sarcasm and blame make a busy shift worse.

Written:

• Prep lists, shift notes, checklists—legible and complete.

• Group texts or apps—keep it professional. No gossip or drama.

Good communication builds trust. Teams that trust each other run smoother and stress less.

3. Manager Communication

Spoken:

• Bring solutions, not just problems. “We’re out of limes—should I 86 margaritas or run to the store?”

• Ask for feedback. Be open to learning.

Written:

• Time-off requests → clear, polite, on time.

• Messages and emails → professional, concise, respectful.

Managers promote employees who communicate responsibly because they’re easier to trust.

The Pitfalls of Poor Communication

• Misheard orders = wasted food + upset guests.

• Negative tone = toxic team culture.

• Sloppy notes = managers lose trust.

The Rewards of Strong Communication

• Guests: Happier, safer, more loyal → better tips.

• Team: Less drama, more support, smoother shifts.

• Managers: Trust you more → better hours, more responsibility, faster promotions.

Key Takeaway

Communication costs nothing, but it’s your most powerful tool. Every word you say—or write—is a reflection of your value.

Action Step

This week, focus on one area:

• With guests → Repeat back every order.

• With team → Use clear, respectful phrases during rush.

• With manager → Send one clear, professional message instead of several rushed ones.

• With yourself → Practice handwriting (yes, it matters).

At the end of the week, notice one way your improved communication made the shift smoother—or made you stand out.