How to Create a 5-Day Restaurant Supervisor Onboarding Training Plan

Date modified: 21st July 2025 | This article has been written by Pilla Founder, Liam Jones, click to email Liam directly, he reads every email.

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Day 1: Foundation and Restaurant Operations

The first day focuses on creating a solid foundation for the supervisor role whilst integrating the new hire into your restaurant's specific systems and culture.

This foundation day ensures your new supervisor understands the restaurant's operational flow, team dynamics, and their crucial role in coordinating service excellence.

Restaurant Systems and Layout Orientation

Why it's essential: The supervisor must understand every aspect of restaurant operations to manage effectively. Without comprehensive system knowledge, supervision becomes reactive rather than proactive.

Key activities:

ElementInstructionsNotes
Restaurant Layout TourWalk through dining areas, bar, kitchen, storage, and staff areasEmphasise customer flow, bottlenecks, and service zones
Team Structure IntroductionIntroduce each department, key staff members, and reporting relationshipsClarify the supervisor's position within the hierarchy
POS and Reservation SystemsDemonstrate booking systems, POS functions, and reporting toolsPractice accessing reports and making system adjustments
Service Flow OverviewExplain typical service progression from opening through closeShow how supervision needs change throughout service

Team Integration and Role Clarification

Understanding team dynamics and establishing respect is crucial for supervisor success.

Key activities:

ElementInstructionsNotes
Meet Department HeadsFormal introductions with front-of-house, bar, and kitchen leadersDiscuss communication preferences and coordination needs
Shadow Current SupervisorObserve existing leadership during pre-service and service periodsTake notes on delegation patterns and problem-solving approaches
Review Staff PoliciesCover attendance, appearance, conduct standards, and disciplinary proceduresEmphasise supervisor responsibilities in maintaining standards
Establish Leadership PresenceIntroduce to all staff with clear explanation of supervisory authoritySet tone for supportive but firm leadership style

Basic Supervision Principles

Introduce fundamental concepts that underpin effective restaurant supervision.

Training focus:

  • Understanding service timing and table management
  • Recognising service quality indicators and intervention points
  • Learning priority systems for resource allocation
  • Developing awareness of customer satisfaction signals

Day 1 Assessment Questions:

  • Can they navigate the restaurant layout and identify operational areas?
  • Do they understand the POS and reservation systems?
  • Have they grasped the service flow and timing considerations?
  • Are they comfortable with the team and establishing authority?

Day 1 Success Indicators:

  • Demonstrates understanding of restaurant layout and service zones
  • Shows comfort level interacting with all team members
  • Asks relevant questions about operations and procedures
  • Takes initiative in learning systems and processes

Day 2: Service Standards and Customer Experience

The second day focuses on developing expertise in service delivery, quality standards, and customer satisfaction management.

This service-focused day ensures your new supervisor can maintain consistent standards and create exceptional guest experiences.

Service Standards and Protocols

Why it's essential: The supervisor sets the tone for service quality and must be able to model, teach, and enforce standards consistently.

Key activities:

ElementInstructionsNotes
Service Manual ReviewWalk through each service standard with examples and demonstrationsHighlight non-negotiable standards vs. flexible guidelines
Table Service SequencePractice and evaluate complete service sequence from greeting to farewellNote timing expectations for each service stage
Brand Voice TrainingReview language, tone, and interaction style that reflects your restaurant's brandPractice scripted responses and improvised interactions
Quality Check ProceduresDemonstrate pre-service checks, food quality reviews, and environment inspectionsCreate checklist for daily quality monitoring

Customer Experience Management

Developing the skills to create memorable experiences and handle service recovery effectively.

Key activities:

ElementInstructionsNotes
Complaint HandlingRole-play common complaints with escalating difficultyProvide feedback on resolution approach and communication style
VIP and Special Occasion ProtocolsReview procedures for recognising and enhancing special visitsPractice personalisation techniques for memorable experiences
Feedback Collection SystemsTrain on guest feedback tools, survey systems, and review monitoringDemonstrate response protocols for online reviews
Service Recovery ToolkitIntroduce compensation guidelines, recovery options, and decision authorityClarify approval levels for different recovery scenarios

Floor Management Techniques

Train practical skills for managing the dining room during service periods.

Training focus:

  • Table mapping and section management for optimal service flow
  • Reading the dining room to anticipate service needs
  • Managing wait times and customer expectations
  • Coordinating between front and back of house during peak periods

Day 2 Assessment Questions:

  • Can they articulate and demonstrate key service standards?
  • Do they handle complaints effectively with appropriate resolutions?
  • Have they mastered the reservation and table management systems?
  • Are they comfortable making service recovery decisions?

Day 2 Success Indicators:

  • Confidently demonstrates proper service techniques
  • Shows empathy and problem-solving skills in complaint scenarios
  • Makes appropriate judgments about service recovery options
  • Anticipates service needs before they become issues

Day 3: Staff Management and Scheduling

The third day focuses on developing team leadership skills, staff management techniques, and scheduling expertise.

This management-focused day ensures your new supervisor can effectively lead the team, optimise staffing levels, and drive performance.

Team Leadership and Management

Why it's essential: The supervisor must balance authority with support to create a high-performing, motivated team.

Key activities:

ElementInstructionsNotes
Staff Performance StandardsReview job descriptions, performance metrics, and evaluation criteria for each roleHighlight key performance indicators for different positions
Coaching TechniquesPractice observation, feedback, and improvement conversationsRole-play both positive reinforcement and corrective feedback
Conflict ResolutionTrain on mediating staff conflicts and addressing behavioural issuesProvide framework for progressive discipline
Team Briefing SkillsPrepare and deliver pre-service briefing with information, motivation, and focus elementsEvaluate briefing effectiveness and presentation skills

Staff Scheduling and Labour Management

Developing expertise in creating efficient schedules and managing labour costs.

Key activities:

ElementInstructionsNotes
Forecasting TechniquesTrain on using historical data, bookings, and events to predict staffing needsPractice creating staffing forecasts for upcoming periods
Scheduling System TrainingDemonstrate scheduling software, shift management, and communication toolsCreate a complete schedule for upcoming week
Labour Cost CalculationReview labour cost targets, calculation methods, and control strategiesPractice adjusting schedules to meet labour targets
Availability ManagementEstablish protocols for time-off requests, shift swaps, and schedule changesRole-play difficult scheduling conversations

Performance Monitoring and Improvement

Train techniques for ongoing staff development and performance management.

Training focus:

  • Identifying training needs through observation and performance data
  • Conducting effective shift reviews and performance discussions
  • Implementing improvement plans for underperforming staff
  • Recognising and rewarding exceptional performance

Day 3 Assessment Questions:

  • Can they create an efficient staff schedule that meets labour targets?
  • Do they deliver effective pre-service briefings?
  • Have they demonstrated appropriate coaching techniques?
  • Are they comfortable addressing performance issues?

Day 3 Success Indicators:

  • Creates balanced schedules that match business needs
  • Delivers clear, motivating team communications
  • Shows confidence in providing both positive and corrective feedback
  • Makes appropriate judgments about staffing levels and adjustments

Day 4: Operational Controls and Administration

The fourth day focuses on developing expertise in administrative responsibilities, operational controls, and compliance management.

This operations-focused day ensures your new supervisor can manage the business aspects of restaurant supervision effectively.

Cash and Payment Management

Why it's essential: The supervisor is responsible for financial integrity and must understand cash handling, banking, and payment reconciliation.

Key activities:

ElementInstructionsNotes
Cash Handling ProceduresReview float preparation, safe procedures, and cash security protocolsPractice counting floats and preparing banking
Payment ReconciliationTrain on balancing POS reports with actual payments and resolving discrepanciesComplete end-of-day reconciliation exercise
Void and Comp ManagementReview authorisation levels, documentation requirements, and tracking systemsPractice proper recording of voids and comps
Banking and Deposit ProceduresDemonstrate safe counting, deposit preparation, and banking protocolsReview security procedures for cash transport

Inventory and Cost Control

Developing expertise in managing stock levels, controlling costs, and preventing waste.

Key activities:

ElementInstructionsNotes
Stock Control SystemsTrain on inventory tracking, par levels, and ordering proceduresPractice stock counts and identifying ordering needs
Waste ManagementReview waste tracking, prevention strategies, and reduction targetsImplement waste monitoring for a service period
Cost Control TechniquesDemonstrate portion control checks, recipe adherence monitoring, and cost trackingCalculate food and beverage costs for sample period
Supplier ManagementReview approved vendor list, ordering procedures, and delivery protocolsPractice placing and receiving orders

Compliance and Documentation

Train on essential administrative responsibilities and compliance requirements.

Training focus:

  • Health and safety checks, documentation, and incident reporting
  • Alcohol service compliance and responsible service monitoring
  • Staff records management and privacy requirements
  • Required operational logs and documentation

Day 4 Assessment Questions:

  • Can they complete accurate cash reconciliation and banking?
  • Do they understand inventory management and cost control techniques?
  • Have they demonstrated compliance with health and safety requirements?
  • Are they comfortable with administrative documentation and record-keeping?

Day 4 Success Indicators:

  • Accurately completes financial procedures and reconciliations
  • Shows attention to detail in inventory and cost control
  • Maintains proper documentation and compliance records
  • Identifies cost-saving opportunities and implements controls

Day 5: Leadership Development and Business Growth

The final day focuses on developing strategic leadership skills, business analysis capabilities, and establishing ongoing performance expectations.

This leadership-focused day ensures your new supervisor can contribute to business growth and develop as a hospitality leader.

Business Analysis and Performance Metrics

Why it's essential: The supervisor must understand the business beyond daily operations to contribute to growth and improvement.

Key activities:

ElementInstructionsNotes
Key Performance IndicatorsReview restaurant KPIs, calculation methods, and improvement strategiesPractice calculating and interpreting key metrics
Sales AnalysisTrain on analysing sales mix, promotion effectiveness, and pricing strategiesComplete sales analysis for previous period
Customer MetricsReview cover counts, average spend, return rate, and satisfaction metricsIdentify trends and improvement opportunities
Competitive AnalysisDiscuss local market, competitor positioning, and differentiation strategiesDevelop competitive advantage understanding

Advanced Leadership Development

Developing higher-level leadership skills for long-term success.

Key activities:

ElementInstructionsNotes
Situational LeadershipTrain on adapting leadership style to different team members and situationsRole-play leadership scenarios with varying approaches
Strategic PlanningIntroduce goal setting, action planning, and implementation techniquesDevelop 30-day improvement plan for one area
Change ManagementReview techniques for implementing new procedures and managing resistancePractice change communication for upcoming initiative
Personal Development PlanningCreate individualised development plan with goals and learning resourcesEstablish regular check-in schedule for progress

Performance Expectations and Evaluation

Establish clear understanding of ongoing performance expectations and evaluation criteria.

Training focus:

  • Review of job description and performance standards
  • Explanation of performance evaluation process and timing
  • Introduction to career progression opportunities
  • Setting of specific 30/60/90 day goals

Day 5 Assessment Questions:

  • Can they analyse business performance data and identify improvement areas?
  • Do they demonstrate appropriate leadership approaches for different situations?
  • Have they created meaningful personal development and business improvement plans?
  • Are they clear on performance expectations and evaluation criteria?

Day 5 Success Indicators:

  • Accurately interprets business performance data
  • Shows adaptability in leadership approach
  • Develops thoughtful improvement plans with clear actions
  • Demonstrates commitment to ongoing learning and development

Final Onboarding Assessment

At the conclusion of the 5-day training period, conduct a comprehensive assessment of readiness:

  • Knowledge Assessment: Written or verbal test covering key operational knowledge
  • Skills Demonstration: Supervised handling of key supervisory responsibilities
  • Feedback Session: Two-way discussion of training effectiveness and remaining needs
  • Support Plan: Development of ongoing support and additional training requirements

Remember that even after this intensive 5-day onboarding, your new restaurant supervisor will need continued support and development. Schedule regular check-ins at 30, 60, and 90 days to review progress, provide additional training, and adjust development plans as needed.

Effective restaurant supervisors blend operational expertise, people skills, and business acumen. This structured onboarding plan ensures your new supervisor develops all three areas while integrating successfully into your specific restaurant environment.