Schedule Sidework to Give Your Staff Flex

Instead of tacking housekeeping items onto the end of an already-long closing shift, consider booking certain employees for shorter shifts devoted to side work, administrative work, or chores. While shorter, task-based shifts may not be everyone's preference, assigning behind-the-scenes work in smaller chunks may be the perfect scheduling solution for those with limited availability who still wish to pick up hours when possible. Plus, even with restricted availability, those employees will have a chance to stay in the loop with the restaurant, which makes it easier for them to jump back in once they’re more available.

The one caveat: Familiarize yourself with relevant call-out/minimum shift time bylaws in your state before introducing shorter shift times.