1. Increased competition from outside the industry
It’s not just the fast-casual segment—or even just restaurants—that Jason’s Deli must battle to win over workers. The sandwich chain’s employees are being actively recruited by a range of companies, some of which can offer better compensation packages, says Michele Kemplay, director of human resources for the chain. “Now we are dealing with employees transitioning into positions outside the industry, such as real estate and banking,” she says. Professional development and competitive pay and benefits help convince workers to stay, but the chain also maintains multiple channels of communication for staff feedback. For instance, employees can post comments, suggestions and ideas through the company’s intranet, dubbed the Idea Garden. “Once posted, other employees can vote for the suggestions they like best,” she says. “When an idea gets enough momentum, it is escalated to the appropriate department for review.” The chain encourages feedback by giving cash incentives for ideas it decides to adopt.