PRLA Restaurant & Lodging Matters Summer 2021

6 • PENNSYLVANIA RESTAURANT & LODGING matters • Summer 2021 CHAIRMAN’S MESSAGE As a simple guy, I tend to analyze all situations as being either an obligation or an opportunity. If identified as an obligation, the situation requires my prompt action, as a reflexive response. If identified as an opportunity, I’m permitted some time to think through to the solution that will have the most durable, positive impact. I think it’s fair to say that most of us like opportunities more than we like obligations. But my simple lens often helps me see the opportunity that lies within an obligation, and that motivates my engagement. My perspective applies to our current situation on hiring and workforce development. Filling all positions for successful operations is an obligation, no doubt. Training so that our new recruits are properly equipped to perform well is an obligation. In hiring, the opportunity within the obligation is to identify the person best suited to the role. Not easy when the numbers are against us and we find ourselves frantically plugging gaps these days. The real chances to make the most durable and positive impact on not only your operation, but someone’s life is through the training opportunity. Better to call it education so that you invest in your team member each day of their career, not just for the first critical shifts. You likely struggled to attract and hire this new recruit, so maximize the effort both parties put in to build the longest career possible. In hospitality, we can proudly claim to be the “industry of opportunity” for many proven reasons. As operators and managers, let’s not overlook our opportunity to deliver on that promise for our newest recruits, as well as our trusty veterans, through continual educational support. The real chances to make the most durable and positive impact on not only your operation, but someone’s life is through the training opportunity. Bill Covaleski FOUNDER, VICTORY BREWING COMPANY DOWNINGTOWN