One of the most notable consequences of all the coronavirus, is the current staff shortage crisis. According to many organisations, the shortage of skilled workers in foodservice can be attributed to a lack of international candidates. It has forced many businesses to think outside of the box when it comes to hiring, but it’s perhaps an old hospo tradition that could be considered by venues looking for a short-term solution.
The ‘rockstar shift’ is a term that many hospo professionals will be familiar with. For those that aren’t aware, it’s essentially when a venue advertises a singular shift, rather than a full-time/part-time position. This allows eager workers to come in an and cover a shift from desperate businesses, who don’t mind paying a little extra for the short-term services of a ‘rockstar.’
Whether you’re looking for a couple of extra shifts, or are simply interested by the concept, here’s a few reasons why this approach can work for hospitality professionals:
Flexibility
The hospitality industry is extremely fast-paced, and sometime unpredictable. It only takes two or three employees to call in sick for a busy night to turn into a chaotic one. Normally you’d have your own staff on call, but in some circumstances this option might not be available. Being ready to call on a rockstar allows a business to be less reliant on their own staff, especially if they’re carrying extra responsibilities through this staff shortage.
New Tricks
Rockstars have more to offer than simply plugging a hole. A good rockstar will be experienced across a variety of venues, so it’s worth talking technique if you get the chance. Perhaps they’ve got a few garnishing tips to share, or even a signature cocktail recipe that they’re ready to share! Either way, don’t let your ego get in the way of learning wherever you can.
Experience
Picking up a rockstar shift can be a daunting process for anyone new to this type of work, but it’s definitely worth giving a go! Every venue is unique in its own way, so it’s an awesome way to expand your skillset and perspective. It’s exciting to see how other venues operate and might offer some new ideas for your next/current role. It’s also an excellent way to get a taste for different types of venues before committing to something long term.
New Friends
One of the main attractions of working in hospo is meeting new people. The industry boasts a strong network of interesting and dedicated employees. The rockstar shift is a great way introduce new personalities to the team. On the other side of the coin, the rockstar gets a great chance to throw themselves into a new scene and presents an excellent chance to make new friends while getting paid.