Hard work never hurt anyone...but why take the chance
This is probably the favorite time of year for me. Crisp cool nights, warm sunny days.
As a baker and business owner, I don't have much time during the day to enjoy a pleasant day. Early to bed, Early to rise...everyday is dedicated to baking and running a business.
I've ranted before about employee problems and finding good people that are interested/thankful in having a job in this day and age. Since that time, it's been a learning experience and growing as an owner of a small bakery.
Our little bakery is growing and the challenge of taking the right steps are always crucial in one way or another. Hiring employees is the biggest challenge for any business and that is what I'm finding out.
I wish there was a magic view finder I could look through as I interview a prospective employee to see how they really are. With experience comes logical judgment in seeing personality types and how they interact with people.
I have great customers who are our "secret shoppers" and they have no problem telling me an employee at the counter is "no good", "crazy", or "lacks charisma". They know how hard the work is at the bakery and they always are very supportive with their advice and their dollar.
A few things I've learned so far. Age is a big factor in any worker. Age discrimination is against the law, but with age comes experience. I would rather hire a 60 year old than a 22 year old.
Why?
I may be generalizing here, but I've yet to meet someone serious about a job in their early 20's. I know it's a generalization. College is a time to learn, but one also needs to learn how_to _work_. If you can't do a good job at something you may not take seriously, in general, you will have a very hard time doing it right with the kind of job that you really are good at. if you can't give 100% all the time, why do it? With that statement comes experience.
So am I ranting again...and again. Naw...it's a realization that people are people and learning how to find the good is becoming a little easier these days. I can spot the ones who are telling a white lie, or their application is fudged a little here and a little there. It's become a part of the business I knew was the hardest part...finding a great employee who believes in a hard days work.
I live with my wife in Savannah, GA - operating an artisan bakery - Back in the Day Bakery. My challenge is to master the making of bread in all forms relating to the history and the life it gives to others.
To carry on the tradition in some small way and to show a food so simple and pure, you can't deny.
Let's eat bread and enjoy life.