Dear Vi,

I have a great staff that took me over a year to hire and train. I pay them well. My problem is they are young and don't really understand the idea of etiquette. For example, I have seen them interrupt guests mid-sentence in order to recite the specials. How can I teach them without insulting their intelligence?

Anonymous

Dear Anonymous,

Training must be ongoing. Are you having daily meetings where you introduce new topics on a regular basis? Meetings don't need to be long; short, 10-15 minute stand-up meetings are very effective to touch base. A chef should always be present. The idea is to get your staff thinking. Etiquette is something you could bring up, citing examples. Another idea is to have a trainer come in to present a session. Beforehand, tell the trainer topics to touch on during the seminar. Start a library for the staff, include a book on etiquette.