Electronic House Call - December 27, 2002

ELECTRONIC HOUSE CALL - December 27, 2002

At this point, I suspect most of you are in recovery mode. One more big party push and then most folks will experience the dreaded January doldrums -- good for getting caught up ... unless you are trying to catch up on cash flow!

The good news is that you have made it through a difficult year. It is truly an accomplishment and you will be stronger for it. Rejoice while you can. The bad news, I fear, is that no matter how tough it was, you may look back on 2002 as good times in comparison to what I suspect lies ahead in 2003. More on that in future issues.

GET FOCUSED
With the economy in the tank, threats of renewed terrorism, erosion of our personal liberties in the name of security, political intrigues and what seems to be a clear intent on the part of the US administration to find an excuse to go to war, it clearly will not be business as usual in 2003, whatever it is that passes for "usual" these days.

When things are uncertain, people look for something they can hang on to -- a focus that will keep them on course when their natural compasses are confused. I suspect this may be true for most managers ... and it is certainly true for the hourly staff.

Master marketer Joel Cohen and I have been discussing what we think operators need to stay on track and build sales in trying times ... and we have just about finalized a program that you are really going to like (for a number of reasons.) Look for an official announcement next week.

EMERGENCY BACK-UP
In the pace of the holidays, it is easy to suddenly find yourself without some needed ingredients for a dish you need to prepare. While occasionally these situations result in a culinary breakthrough like Caesar Salad, more often than not the result is just increased stress. Not to fear. The Doctor is here.

If you are ever in the middle of meal preparation and discover you have run out of something, go to The Cook's Thesaurus (www.switcheroo.com) to find substitutes for expensive ingredients, high-calorie and high-fat foods and ingredients you cannot find easily.

CLEAR OUT THE INVENTORY
In the spirit of end-of-the-year housecleaning, I will be sending you information on my first-and-maybe-last-ever inventory clearance sale. I have a lot of projects on my plate at the moment and it is time to de-clutter and make room for new material.

I was going to send the info out this week but figured that you would either be on vacation or up to your ears in holiday happenings and the message would get lost. So I decided to wait until after the first of the year ... but keep an eye out for the notice and respond quickly. The deals will be terrific but the quantities are very limited.

SHARE OUR STRENGTH
Share Our Strength's mission of ending hunger and homelessness in the world is a natural fit for those in the hospitality industry. I will soon unveil a plan that will help you help yourself by supporting their good work. Stay tuned.

THE PERPETUAL QUESTION
What did you learn from your staff today ... and did you remember to buy holiday lights before they disappear from the stores?

[ Home ] [ Top ] [ Email Restaurant Doctor ]