Managing a restaurant successfully requires a specific set of skills and traits that all managers must possess to balance the books. Whether it’s multi-tasking, managing stress, or being creative, a manager’s success ultimately hinges on their ability to execute key responsibilities.

One of the biggest challenges restaurant managers face is stress, as they’re required to execute several restaurant-related tasks like managing cash flow, checking inventory, and handling employee conflicts. With a workday that can last up to 15 hours, managers need to manage stress effectively while keeping customers happy and staying focused on their duties.

Another critical trait that all restaurant managers must possess is enthusiasm. Without a passionate and determined approach to success, a business is certain to fail. Managers must have a fire burning inside them, driving them forward to achieve great things within their establishment.

Complying with regulations and keeping employee documentation up to date is essential for any responsible manager. This includes staying on top of minimum wage and overtime regulations, tracking hours worked, and monitoring employee availability and absenteeism.

Being creative is also key to successful restaurant management. Introducing new ideas helps to prevent the establishment from serving the same dishes day in and day out, which can lead to stagnant growth and fewer customers. By inspiring staff and igniting their imagination, managers can create fresh new concepts that attract various customers and boost the restaurant’s reputation.

Restaurant managers need to maintain their product knowledge and ensure that all dishes, beverages, and ingredients are of the highest quality. Tasting food and mingling with chefs in the kitchen is a great way to stay in the loop and provide better insights into the restaurant’s offerings.

Lastly, managers must have a sound return on investment (ROI) strategy in place to ensure that profit is always top of mind. With a potentially high initial investment, managers must weigh the cost of making updates or improvements and stay focused on achievable goals.

In conclusion, great restaurant managers must be adept at executing tasks efficiently and juggling competing priorities with ease, remain enthusiastic and passionate about the business, comply with regulations and maintain employee records, be creative and innovative, maintain knowledge about the establishment’s products, and prioritize ROI. By doing so, restaurants are well-equipped to thrive in a competitive and challenging industry.