What It Takes to Shape Your Future in the Food Service Industry

WINOOSKI, Vt. (WCAX) -- Get ready to roll up your sleeves and hone those knives. This week, John McMahon delved into the world of keeping chefs, servers, and eager diners satisfied in his latest segment, "Build Your Future."

Gather your tools and secure your apron. This week's episode of Build Your Future features John McMahon experiencing what it takes to satisfy the chefs, servers, and eager diners.

At Donwoori’s kitchen in Winooski, chefs are diligently engaged in frying, slicing, and arranging various Korean delicacies for the throng of eager diners filling up the restaurant.

Although this is a new venue, it isn’t a fresh start for proprietor Summer Cao. This place initially launched in South Burlington prior to relocating to Winooski, an area well-known to her family. "My mother runs a nail salon just across the street," she mentioned. Cao aims to make her workers feel as though they're part of her extended family. That inclusive approach is key to retaining staff members.

"The employees serve as a mirror reflecting your vision for the business and how you aspire for it to be. Ensuring their happiness will undoubtedly have a positive impact on the business," stated Nghia Lee, the restaurant’s manager, who had previously overseen most of the team at the old location.

Cao mentions that this outcome stems from how her team members are handled and instructed by herself and her sibling. "Being capable of fostering a workplace atmosphere that inspires individuals or makes them eager to come in daily is something I would like to believe I have achieved," she stated.

Vermont Labor Commissioner Michael Harrington indicates that it's currently a job seeker's market, where there are more available positions in Vermont than there are workers to fill them. This presents an excellent opportunity for individuals seeking new employment opportunities. "Many roles within the restaurant sector are highly sought after but can vary depending on the time of year," he explained.

For potential employees, Vermont presents quite an attractive prospect. According to data from the previous year, Vermont boasts one of the highest average wages at $22.0 per hour for roles in food preparation and service within the area.

As per the Bureau of Labor Statistics, New Hampshire’s mean wage stood at $18.28, New York’s averaged $21.46, and Massachusetts’ came to $20.21.

Harrington states that numerous restaurants simply require individuals who are ready to put in the effort, regardless of their experience level. "Should you be punctual and diligent, the restaurant and the sector will provide training for you," he noted. "This allows you to start at a mid-level position instead of an entry-level one."

For individuals seeking to recruit talent, Cao offers this counsel: "Stay true to who you are. There’s no need to conceal your identity or embellish the facts. Concentrate on your strengths and ensure you fulfill your commitments," she advised.