The high season in Siem Reap brings a wave of energy, excitement, and, let’s be honest, intense pressure. As a hotel or restaurant manager, you’re juggling a constant flow of guests, a packed schedule, and a team that’s working harder than ever.
It’s easy for motivation to dip when everyone is running on empty. But a motivated team is your biggest asset, and keeping their energy high is key to a successful season. Here are five practical ways to support your team and ensure they shine.
1. Lead by Example
The energy you bring to the floor is contagious. During the busiest days, stay visible and show your team you’re in it with them. Help bus a table, greet a guest at the front desk, or simply take a moment to ask a team member how they’re doing. Your calm and positive presence can be a powerful anchor for the entire team when things get stressful.
2. Prioritize Quick, Positive Feedback
In the rush, it’s easy to focus on what goes wrong. Make a conscious effort to look for what goes right. When a team member handles a tricky situation with a smile or goes the extra mile for a guest, give them immediate and specific praise. A simple, “That was fantastic how you helped that family find their way to Pub Street,” takes only a few seconds but can make someone’s entire shift.
3. Encourage Micro-Breaks
Long hours on your feet can be exhausting. Acknowledge this reality and encourage short, scheduled breaks. It doesn’t have to be long—just five minutes to grab a bottle of water, take a deep breath, or have a quick chat with a coworker. Creating a culture that values these short pauses shows you care about your team’s well-being and helps them recharge for the next wave of guests.
4. Make It a Game
Injecting some friendly competition can be a fun way to boost morale. Create a small, weekly challenge with a fun, low-cost prize. For example, give a small prize to the supervisor whose team gets the most positive guest mentions on comment cards, or challenge the F&B team to see who can upsell the most dessert specials in a single shift.
5. Start a ‘Lessons Learned’ Journal
Every busy shift is a learning opportunity. Encourage your department heads or supervisors to keep a simple notebook or a shared document. Tell them to write down what went well, what could be improved, and what new skills the team needs. This isn’t about criticism; it’s about preparing for the next challenge. When the high season ends, you’ll have a clear roadmap for where to focus your team’s training and development efforts for next year.
Conclusion
The high season is the ultimate test of your team’s skills and resilience. By taking a proactive approach to motivation, you’re not just getting through the rush—you’re building a stronger, more confident team for the future. The lessons you learn and the improvements you make now will directly impact your success in the next season and beyond. Thank you for all you do to make the Siem Reap hospitality community shine.
