Which is best for you?
If you are a candidate looking to be hired by a top hospitality organization you can go one of two routes: seek a job that is at an established restaurant chain or seek a job at a one-of-a-kind restaurant. These two major categories, franchise and independent, offer a potential employee unique benefits. But also have their flaws. Check out the pros and cons of each establishment as we look below the surface.
Franchised Restaurant
Known as chain restaurants, these well established facilities have stood the test of time. Through the ups and downs of the economy, chain restaurants, still draw customers. Being employed by an established restaurant will give you a sense of job security. However, these facilities can come with less than desirable working conditions; low wages, few job benefits, to mention a few. There are exceptions which set these franchises apart from the competition. It is important to remember, working for a franchise is a job. It will provide a paycheck, but does not offer opportunities to be creative or seek employees input. As a culinary graduate, you may be over qualified and often will not find the job satisfaction you seek. Franchise restaurants are designed for individuals who want to own a restaurant but do not have a lot of experience operating a commercial kitchen. Those with little food service knowledge are ideal for this system as this allows the franchise to be molded to fit the brand perfectly. Though management experience is always sought after in this type of restaurant.
Independent Restaurant
Being employed by an independent restaurant has it’s perk. Working for an entrepreneur can be inspiring. Rather than buying into a franchise, an independent owner uses their creativity to design, develop, and execute a concept. Often going against the mold. These people are hard workers and hire people that desire to see their dream be successful. They are competitive and usually have a strong personality. This is an excellent opportunity for an employee to learn and try new menu ideas. To be successful this type of facility has to go beyond expectations. The owner will be willing to listen to new ideas and implement suggestions as this is what make their business thrive. In this type of business work hours are available but be aware that there is a high failure rate for startups. There is no proven marketing strategy so get used to change. Products and services will continually be changing, evolving, to learn what works for the specific concept.
_________________________________
If you are looking to be hired by a restaurant, either franchised or independent, take time to do your homework. Ask around, interview management and food servers, talk to the owner. Find out what appeals to you and go for it! Working in the food industry is always interesting, always changing. Get your foot in the door and check out how you can make connections, know the market, and be successful with Pacific Coast Hospitality.
