'May PERAan' is SBS Filipino's new podcast series which features financial experts seeking to answer the most common questions about money and finances.
Listen to the audio
LISTEN TO
Paano matutugunan ng maliliit na negosyo ang dinaranas na staff shortage?
SBS Filipino
13/02/202210:02
More than one in five employing businesses had staff who were unavailable to work due to issues related to COVID-19, according to results released from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS).
The hospitality industry, in particular, has suffered a blow from staff shortages during the current Omicron case surge.
Highlights
- The use of technology is critical
- Adjust operating schedules
- Start developing a recovery plan
Employ International Students
The federal government removed the 40-hour-per-fortnight work cap on international students in affected sectors to ease staff shortages and supply problems. This move will be beneficial for both employers and student employees.
"International students can work more than 20 hours now so maybe can explore that option. Or you can open the option to the local community to cover missing hours by offering work experience even to high school students."
Seek help from family members
There is nothing stopping other family members from being employed by a business. Family members are more likely to be truly committed to the success of the business. As an owner, you must still comply with all the employment regulations.
"That will be a big help. Just be aware of the food handling and other compliances."
Adjust operating hours when possible
While others opted to close completely, Jazmine recommends manoeuvering operations to delivery only or adjusting the operating schedule.
"You don't wanna close. Try adjusting the business hours and open during peak hours when you are more profitable."
This system will help you ensure that you have enough staff on the ground to have operations running smoothly during peak hours.
Reduce your offerings
When necessary, it might be advantageous to limit or temporarily suspend some of the offerings you usually provide. If you have special promos you can put them on hold or create a new variety.
Use online tools
Your social media channels are one of your most valuable assets. This will help you inform your customers to let them know when you are open. You can also take orders online and deliver them.
In order to survive, businesses must be resilient, adaptive and creative. Jazmine reminds business owners to start developing a recovery plan to help their restaurant get back to business more quickly.
"Don't forget to plan ahead. Once the crisis subsides, people will be back and you will be busy. Do all the planning you can do while you have time."
ALSO READ / LISTEN TO
Disclaimer: This article is for general information only. For specific financial advice, you should consider seeking independent legal, financial, taxation or other advice to check how the information here relates to your unique circumstances.