If you’re still struggling with staffing, it’s okay, you’re not alone.

Cafes in Australia have faced significant challenges in recent years, particularly due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Staff shortages have been a major issue for many in the industry, with most businesses struggling to find and retain quality staff. As you most likely already know; gone are the days of placing an ad on gumtree and receiving 40 (quality) candidates in the first few days. Simpler times.

However, despite these difficulties, there are reasons for cafes to be hopeful about recruitment improving in the near future.

Firstly, the Australian government has recognized the importance of the hospitality industry to the country's economy and has implemented several initiatives to support it. These initiatives include funding for job training programs and incentives for businesses to hire and retain staff, as well as relaxed restrictions on visas, allowing more overseas workers to come to Australia.

Furthermore, since the pandemic, more people are returning to work and seeking employment opportunities. This is particularly true for the hospitality industry, which was one of the hardest-hit industries. With the increasing demand for staff, there will likely be a larger pool of qualified candidates for cafes to choose from.

But, it will take time.

COVID-19 forced many people to re-evaluate their career choices and priorities, leading some to consider working in industries they may not have considered before. The hospitality industry, which was previously seen as a part-time or entry-level job, is now being recognized as a valuable and rewarding career path. As a result, more people are considering working in the industry, which could help address the staff shortages that cafes have been facing.

In addition to the changing attitudes towards work, there has also been a shift in the way that cafes and other businesses approach recruitment. Based on the hundreds of conversations with cafes that we have every week, many businesses are now realising the importance of offering competitive wages, flexible schedules, and opportunities for growth and development to attract and retain quality staff. This change in approach is not only beneficial for staff, but it also benefits the business by creating a positive work environment and reducing turnover rates.

Finally, technology has played a significant role in improving recruitment and staffing for cafes. With the rise of social media and online job boards, it is now easier than ever for cafes to reach a wider audience and attract potential candidates. Additionally, technology has also enabled businesses to streamline their recruitment processes, making it easier to find and hire qualified candidates.

So, while the COVID-19 pandemic has presented many challenges for cafes in Australia, there are reasons to be optimistic about the future of recruitment in the industry. With the changing attitudes towards work and the industry, a larger pool of incoming potential candidates, and the use of technology, cafes have the opportunity to attract and retain quality staff. But as the industry continues to recover, it is essential that cafes adapt to these changes and continue to prioritise the well-being and growth of their staff.