Whether you are for or against raising the minimum wage, you no doubt are aware of the movement, especially it's focus on Walmart and the fast food industry, although of course it is an industry wide issue.
If you are an employer in the industry, as I am, you may have fixed feeling about the subject. Having said that, it is a growing movement, and one that isn't likely to go away soon.
In September, California Governor Jerry Brown signed into law the nation's first $10/hour minimum wage measure. Many other states will be right behind.
Tipped WorkersWho are tipped workers?
Benefits I would love nothing more than to have all employees have great benefits! However, personally, I haven't found a way to offer paid insurance (as yet!).
My management team all has Aflac, paid sick leave and paid vacation. I also started a savings matching program for management after I heard a statistic that said 60% of people in this country don't have $1,000 in savings. I told them if they saved $750, I would add $250 to it and then they could open a savings account with it.
Started only 6 months ago, each now has multiple times that amount in their savings account. It's a start, however I'd love to find other affordable benefits for them (I'm all for creativity!).
The industry is going through a revolution, and it seems better to be a part of it than to fight it. It will take time, adjustment and creativity. But hopefully we can all benefit in the end - owners, managers and staff.
Are you doing anything creative regarding pay or benefits? I'd love to
hear about it if you are! For more ideas, read "taking the high road" a how to guide for successful restaurant employers.
-Margie
www.OTLConsulting.com
