Personal appearance and grooming: What employees are to look like on the job is spelled out. They find out what clothing is provided by the restaurant and what they must furnish. Even the type and color of shoes is usually mentioned. The grooming standards of the chain are explained, especially relating to hair styles and fingernails. Some restaurants may also set limits on makeup, particularly if the chain is one that tries to project a wholesome, family image. There will also frequently be jewelry guidelines. These guidelines are necessary because jewelry can get caught on counters and appliances as well as getting lost in the food.
Meals: Fast food companies vary in their approach to employees' meals. At some restaurants, there is no charge for meals eaten while on duty or at the end of a shift. At others, employees pay one-half to full price for meals. Food that is carried out of a restaurant must almost always be paid for.
Pay procedures: Paychecks are normally delivered to the restaurant where an employee works. Paydays are either once a week or every other week. At some restaurants, paychecks can only be picked up at certain hours on paydays. When restaurants use time cards, employees are told how and when to check in at the beginning and end of their shifts. At many restaurants, it is often necessary to have a supervisor or manager sign the card each day to verify that an employee worked a certain shift.
Attendance and punctuality: Employees are to be dressed and at their work stations at the beginning of their shifts. If employees are going to be late or absent, they are to contact their managers or supervisors as soon as possible. Most companies view attendance and punctuality as very important, and an employee can be fired for habitual tardiness.
Schedules: As schedules will often change from week to week, employees have the responsibility of checking the weekly work schedule to see when they are assigned to work. To request a schedule change, employees should talk with or write a note to the appropriate supervisor.
Vacations: Employees generally must work one full year to be entitled to vacations. Workers may receive one or two weeks of paid or unpaid vacations, depending on the chain. At some chains, only full-time employees are entitled to vacations.
Security: Because of the vulnerability of fast food restaurants to petty thieves and robbers, employees are asked to follow certain security precautions like keeping back doors locked and not allowing anyone other than employees behind the service counter. Instructions are usually given on how different types of emergencies should be handled.
Rules and regulations: All restaurants will have rules and regulations similar to the ones below that tell employees that they should:
- Treat customers like guests in their homes.
- Use every opportunity to learn more about their jobs.
- Make suggestions to the manager when they would help improve customer service.
- Help coworkers whenever assistance is needed.
- Show initiative in assuming responsibility.
- Keep busy at all times when on duty.
- Use the company telephone only for business purposes.
- Eat only in designated areas on breaks.
- Keep work station clean.
- Park only in designated areas.
