By Marisa Bidois, Restaurant Association of New Zealand CEO
As the CEO of the Restaurant Association, I’ve seen first hand the incredible resilience and adaptability of our industry. Yet, despite our strength, we continue to face significant challenges, particularly in terms of skills shortages. This is why I am so passionate about our HiT30 training programme, which is returning this August. HiT30 is more than just a series of training sessions; it’s a lifeline for businesses looking to thrive in a competitive and ever-evolving landscape.
Over the past few years, HiT30 has garnered immense support and enthusiasm from business owners across the country. The concept is simple yet powerful: 30-minute high-intensity training sessions delivered over 30 days. This structure not only makes training manageable but also keeps it engaging and impactful. The HiT30 training chart, a central feature of the programme, offers daily challenges that encourage continuous learning and skill enhancement.
Why is this important? Because investing in our teams is the key to overcoming the skills shortage that plagues our industry. We need a workforce that is not only available but also highly skilled and motivated. Through the HiT30 programme, we provide our members with a wealth of resources—webinars, learning materials, guides, and a professional development plan to track progress. These tools are designed to help staff acquire new skills and knowledge, ultimately leading to better service and higher job satisfaction.
Continuous learning culture
I believe that the true value of HiT30 lies in its ability to spark a culture of continuous learning within our businesses. It’s not just about 30 days of training; it’s about fostering an environment where ongoing professional development is a priority. This is crucial for attracting and retaining talent, particularly among young people who are looking for career growth and opportunities in our industry.
Our industry is currently experiencing quieter times, making it the perfect moment to focus on training. By investing in our staff now, we can ensure they are match fit for the busy summer season ahead. HiT30 offers a structured yet flexible approach to professional development, making it easier for business owners to integrate training into their daily operations.
The challenges we face are not insurmountable, but they do require a concerted effort from all stakeholders. We need better partnerships between industry, government, and training organisations to develop fit-for-purpose, adequately funded education and training options. These collaborations are essential for producing ready-to-work, career-focused individuals who can drive our industry forward.
As we prepare to launch HiT30 once again, I encourage all business owners to embrace this opportunity. Let’s work together to create a skilled and resilient workforce that can meet the demands of our dynamic industry. HiT30 has been a tremendous success in the past, and I am confident that it will continue to empower and support our teams to elevate their service and advance their careers.
For more information about the HiT30 programme, visit http://hit30.restaurantnz.co.nz/
Let’s make this August a month of growth, learning, and preparation for a brighter future in hospitality.
