Listen for improved teamwork and innovation

Good evening friends. 

This week I’ve read a few blogs with related themes.  One put forth by a chef questioning the input of wait staff and dining room management surrounding the food and service thereof; basically he was claiming autonomy over the business, another blogged of innovation and the myths surrounding new ideas that stifle it. 

As I responded to the first post I picked to write about the effects of not listening to the customers and how if the chef is not the owner, the front of house is the liaison between the two.  I went on to explain the effects of not listening to feedback and that it is feedback that helps us move forward.  Not to say that all feedback needs to force change, but be considered.  It does not matter if it comes from the customer himself, a waiter, or a dishwasher for that matter, as even the perceived strongest leaders needs to entertain alternative perspectives. 

Fernand Point, a great chef, leader, and pioneer, built his business on his ability to listen to the needs of his customers.   He was a stickler for detail serving terrific food on the finest china and would through out the president of France if  he was late to his table.  But he also understood the need of collaboration between both the front and back of the house with seating the guests as well as knowledge of the food and wine being served.  This not only emphasizes the importance of the front of the house as integral as the representative of the chef, but of the final stage of the execution of the dining experience.

The management tip of the day from the HBR blog first published in May of this year, touches in more detail on the myths that stifle innovation and gives interesting examples.  I’ve attached a link, give it a read I would like to hear from you.

Chef David Baker

God Bless the USA!

http://blogs.hbr.org/cs/2012/05/the_myths_that_prevent_change.html?cm_mmc=email-_-newsletter-_-management_tip-_-tip092812&referral=00203&utm_source=newsletter_management_tip&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=tip092812