When it comes to running a successful hospitality business or event, the quality of your team can make or break the experience. A great hire keeps things moving smoothly, lifts team morale, and delivers excellent service. But what about the opposite? A bad hire doesn’t just cause a few awkward moments; it can have a lasting impact on your reputation and bottom line.
Whether it’s an underprepared chef, an unmotivated bartender, or a front-of-house member who simply doesn’t fit the vibe, the hidden costs can stack up fast, especially in fast-paced, high-pressure environments like events and pop-ups.
The Real Price of a Poor Hospitality Hire
Hiring the wrong person affects more than just one shift. According to research from the Recruitment & Employment Confederation, a bad hire at mid-manager level can cost a business over £132,000 once you factor in lost productivity, training time, and potential damage to client relationships. While that might sound high for temporary event staff, the principle still applies: time and money wasted, opportunities missed.
In hospitality, where margins are tight and reputations are built on service, even small missteps can be costly. Poor service can lead to negative reviews, reduced repeat business, and a demoralised team. None of which you want on a busy weekend service or headline event.
What a Bad Hire Looks Like on the Day
In an event setting, one poorly matched team member can throw off the whole rhythm. Maybe they’re not used to the pace, unfamiliar with equipment, or lack the attitude needed to work collaboratively under pressure. That can slow down service, frustrate the rest of the team, and impact the overall guest experience.
Here’s what that might look like:
- Long queues at the bar because someone can’t keep up
- Cold food due to poor coordination in the kitchen
- Safety or hygiene standards slipping because of inexperience
- Team friction that spreads through the shift
It doesn’t take many of these issues before the event starts to feel disorganised, something guests will notice and remember.
Why the Right Hire Saves You More Than Just Time
Investing in experienced, pre-vetted hospitality staff isn’t just about ticking boxes, it’s about peace of mind. The right team member can step into a busy service and immediately contribute. They understand the flow, handle pressure well, and deliver a level of professionalism that reflects well on your brand.
At Chefs and Events, we work hard to match our clients with the right people. That means understanding the specifics of each event or venue and providing staff who can hit the ground running, no hand-holding required.
Protect Your Event and Your Reputation
When your team is built right, everything works better. Guests enjoy a smoother experience, your core staff aren’t spread too thin, and you leave a lasting positive impression. The risk of a bad hire just isn’t worth it, especially when solutions are easily available.
Whether you need chefs, waiting staff, bartenders or kitchen support, our team can help you build a reliable roster that delivers every time.
Need Support With Staffing?
We’ve spent over 20 years helping hospitality businesses and event organisers find trusted, experienced staff who make an impact for the right reasons. If you’re planning an event or need short-notice cover, get in touch today on 023 9281 2725 or click the link below to explore our flexible staffing solutions.