Salaries.

There have been lots of conversations about salaries in the news lately. Mostly about how they need to increase and that the numbers be shared.

Which leads me to a post.

I had dinner tonight at a restaurant. We love dining there. The service is always amazing. The food even better.

One of the things we talked about tonight is our interviews. And questions we ask, and questions the hopeful employee asks.

One question we both get asked is how much should I expect to make.

It used to annoy me.

I used to worry that the person I’m interviewing is just after the money. I want to hire people who are passionate. People who love serving. Who embrace what they do.

I’ve known people who chase the money. Can I make $5 more a shift there. $15 dollars a shift there.

These are people who are never happy. They never make enough. They jump ship at the drop of a hat. Forgetting, all the perks at their current job.

Meanwhile,

I was asked tonight how I answer the question.

It no longer annoys me. It’s legit.

My response informed him as to why my interviews are 45+ minutes.

I tell people it’s a complicated answer.

Part me. Part them. Part luck. Part bullshit.

It’s based on the time of the year. Day of the week.

Ultimately though. It’s up to them.

I will do my best to make sure there are butts in seats. I can’t control what happens after that.

There will be moms who come in with four kids, order 2 burgers then top $100 because they feel bad for the server.

There will be a very wealthy family who tips okay, but not on wine.

There will be four business men who are only allowed to tip 18%.

There will be locals who tip the check.

Most of my servers make 23, 24, 25 percent each night. If you’re good. You’ll do well.

It’s ultimately up to them to work the room.

Thank you for coming in. I have an other interview.