Behind every successful restaurant business is a team of dedicated and passionate employees. In an industry known for its fast-paced environment and high turnover rates, retaining your valuable team members can feel like a challenge.
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Optimize your schedule and keep your team in sync with Homebase. What is employee retention?Employee retention is a company’s ability to keep its employees in their roles, reducing turnover—which is when people voluntarily or involuntarily leave their jobs. To gauge this, businesses use the employee or staff retention rate. What is a staff retention rate?A staff retention rate, also known as employee retention rate, is a metric used by businesses to measure the percentage of employees who remain with the company over a specified period of time. It’s an important indicator of how well your business is able to retain its employees and keep them from leaving for other opportunities. How to calculate employee retention
Formula: (Number of Employees at Start – Number of Employees Who Left) / Number of Employees at Start) x 100% This percentage tells you how well your business is retaining employees. Higher percentages are better, indicating good employee retention, while lower percentages may suggest you’ll need to improve retention efforts. Why is employee retention at restaurants important?Employee retention at restaurants is important for several reasons. Food and service qualityWhen staff turnover is high, it can lead to inconsistency in food quality, service, and overall customer experience. Retaining employees helps maintain consistent standards, which is crucial for customer satisfaction. Restaurant costsConstantly hiring and training new employees can be expensive and time-consuming. By focusing on retaining your staff, you save money on recruitment, training, and onboarding. Customer loyaltyCustomers often return to restaurants where they receive good service from familiar faces. Retaining employees can build customer loyalty and repeat business. Efficient operationsEmployees who have been working at your restaurant for a long time tend to be more efficient and productive. They know the menu, kitchen, and procedures well, leading to smoother operations and shorter wait times for customers. Positive workplace cultureHigh turnover can create a negative work environment. Retaining employees fosters a positive workplace culture, leading to happier and more motivated staff. Restaurant reputationA restaurant known for high turnover may have a bad reputation. On the other hand, restaurants with low turnover are often seen as more reliable and desirable places to dine. Effective employee retention and engagement strategiesRetaining staff members has significant advantages for your restaurant, as it leads to cost savings, enhances your overall company culture, and elevates the experience for both your employees and your customers. 1. Survey your employeesEmployees crave the chance to be heard. Anonymous employee engagement surveys provide them with a safe space to express their thoughts openly, without fearing any negative consequences. By tapping into their insights, you can gain a clearer understanding of what needs to evolve within your restaurant to cultivate a more positive environment. 2. Minimize burnoutBurnout, a state of emotional and physical exhaustion due to prolonged stress, is a long-standing issue in the restaurant industry. Safeguarding against burnout involves understanding how hard your staff is working and the toll it takes on their mental and physical health. Understand your team’s capacityIn essence, it boils down to being realistic about your team’s capabilities. Prioritizing their well-being is important. You need to strike a balance between providing quality service to customers without overwhelming your staff. 3. Let your employees make their own scheduleThe restaurant industry can be tough. Unpredictable hours and short shift notices can be particularly hard for parents and caregivers. 4. Prioritize employee appreciationLet’s face it, we all thrive on hearing it: “Good job!” These two words can truly brighten our day. Yet, we’ve come to understand that words alone don’t always suffice; actions speak louder. Demonstrating that you value employee happiness is essential, and there’s a ton of ways to do it. Employee appreciation eventsEmployee appreciation events celebrate the collective hard work your team puts in throughout the year. Incorporate fun games, great food, and lighthearted awards for a successful event that your team looks forward to all year. 5. Work on improving company cultureDeveloping a positive restaurant company culture requires various strategies: enhancing team communication, granting autonomy, and improving benefits. But simpler steps can uplift morale too. Think team outings, volunteering, or pre-shift family meals. These create bonds, boosting commitment to each other and your restaurant’s success. 6. Increase compensationImproving the atmosphere at work can help keep employees from leaving their jobs, but it’s essential to understand that pay and benefits are the main reasons why people look for new jobs. Increasing salaries can make a big difference in reducing employee turnover. 7. Improve productivity with time tracking toolsBoosting how much work your employees get done helps them stay focused on their jobs and feel more connected to your company. Employee retention in restaurants is easy with HomebaseIn today’s tough job market, the struggle to find new workers is real. Plus, keeping employees can be hard in the restaurant world.
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Optimize your schedule and keep your team in sync with Homebase. Frequently Asked Questions about employee engagement and retentionWhat is employee retention?Employee retention means keeping your employees happy and motivated so they stay in their jobs instead of leaving. Why is employee retention important for restaurants?Employee retention is vital for restaurants because it keeps food and service quality consistent, saves money on hiring and training, builds customer loyalty, and makes operations smoother. How do you calculate employee retention?To calculate employee retention, you count how many employees you have at the start, subtract those who left during a specific time, and divide by the initial number. Multiply by 100 to get the percentage. What are some strategies to improve employee retention in restaurants?Strategies include surveys to listen to employees, preventing burnout, letting employees make schedules, showing appreciation, enhancing company culture, increasing compensation, and using time tracking tools. Why should restaurants use Homebase for employee retention?Homebase offers tools to create schedules, prevent time fraud, and manage payroll. It helps restaurants save money, improve efficiency, and keep employees happy and engaged. The post 7 most effective restaurant employee retention strategies appeared first on Homebase. via Homebase https://joinhomebase.com/blog/restaurant-employee-retention-strategies/
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When you’re in the early stages of running your business, it’s easy to get lost when thinking about all the things you need to organize in order to grow. This is where making a business plan, strategic plan and operational plan comes into play. A business plan outlines the “what” and “how” of your business, while a strategic plan sets the long-term vision. Operational plans dive into day-to-day tasks. We’ll explain their roles, differences, and how they work together. In this post, we’ll break down these concepts, explain the difference between them and why all three are important. By understanding these plans, you’ll gain the tools to steer your ship, set big goals, and navigate the everyday waters with confidence and success.
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Get your team in sync with our easy-to-use, all-in-one employee app. What is a business plan?A business plan, just like a blueprint for building a house, shows the general path for your business to follow. Besides the essential facts, it’s the tool that conveys your vision to potential investors, partners, and your own team. A business plan is your business’s roadmap to success. It’s a detailed guide that helps you understand where your business is headed and how to get there. In this plan, you outline your business goals, what products or services you offer, who your customers are, and how you’ll reach them. Writing a business plan is one of many tips for starting a business you can tap into to get off the ground. Your business plan includes financialsYour business plan also includes financial details, like how much money you’ll need and how you’ll make money. It’s important to outline everything because it helps you make smarter decisions, attract investors or loans, and stay on track as you grow. Think of your business plan as a game plan that keeps you focused and prepared for whatever comes your way. What is a strategic plan?A strategic plan is a detailed plan that lays out where you want your business to be in the future and how you’ll get there. In this plan, you outline your long-term goals, the actions you’ll take to move towards those goals, and the major steps to reach those goals. A strategic plan helps you make smart choices about things like which products to focus on, how to stand out from competitors, and where to expand. It’s like your compass for making decisions that match your vision. Goal setting in your strategic planSetting SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time bound) is a clear way to put your strategic plan into actionable tasks. This plan also keeps you flexible – you can adjust it as your business grows and the market changes. By having a solid strategic plan, you’re setting yourself up for success, making sure all your actions lead to reaching those big dreams you have for your business. What is an operational plan?An operational plan is where the nitty-gritty of running your business happens. An operational plan is like your playbook for your day-to-day tasks . It spells out exactly how you’ll execute your strategies outlined in your strategic plan and reach your goals outlined in your business plan. In your operational plan, you break things down: who’s doing what, when and how. It’s like giving clear instructions to your team on tasks, deadlines, and responsibilities. From managing the kitchen in a restaurant to handling customer orders in a salon, it’s all in the operational plan. It also covers how you’ll maintain quality, manage resources, and handle any bumps along the way. Think of it as your action plan – turning your grand ideas into reality, step by step. What’s the difference between a business plank, strategic plan and operational plan?
Business plan
Strategic plan:
Operational plan:
In short, a business plan is your overall roadmap, a strategic plan sets the direction for growth, and an operational plan makes sure everything runs smoothly day by day. They work together to keep your business on track and thriving. Why is having a business plan, strategic plan and operational plan important?Having a business plan, a strategic plan, and an operational plan is like having a superhero trio for your business. Here’s why they’re so important: Business Plan:
Strategic Plan:
Operational Plan:
Together, these plans are like your business’s superpowers. They make sure your business is not just surviving, but thriving.. Strategic plan exampleLet’s say your restaurant, Brenda’s Bistro, wants to become the ultimate dining spot in your community, celebrated for your fantastic dishes and top-notch hospitality. MissionBrenda’s Bistro’s mission is to create unforgettable dining experiences by offering a diverse menu crafted from locally sourced ingredients, while delivering outstanding customer service. Goals:
Strategies and Initiatives:
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs):
How to make a strategic planCrafting a strategic plan isn’t a one-size-fits-all deal; each company’s unique goals require a tailored approach. Let’s break down the essential steps to shape that core plan. 1. Gather the key peopleStart by bringing together the important voices. This usually includes your executive board, managers, and sometimes outside investors. Their insights and suggestions are like puzzle pieces that fit into a successful strategic plan. 2: Find your business’ strengths and weaknessesYour strategy needs to know where your company stands both inside and out. Begin with a SWOT analysis, checking your internal strengths and weaknesses, plus external opportunities and threats. Gather insights from gap analysis, looking at competitors, and listening to customer and employee feedback give you the bigger picture. 3. Set GoalsNow, create goals from all that info. Match these goals with your mission, vision, and values. Pick the ones that make a big impact, make sense for the long haul, and line up with your values. Examples can be reaching certain sales targets, or a certain number of followers on your business’ social media. 4.Make a game planTime for an action plan. Break down each goal into strategies, initiatives, and tactics. Depending on your goals, these could be marketing plans, tech upgrades, or smart partnerships. You don’t need tons of details here; that’s what the operational plan covers. Also, set up key performance metrics to measure your progress. 5. Review and and tweakSchedule regular check-ins to review your plan. This is where you reflect and adjust if needed. Good financial info comes in handy here. How often you do this depends on your business’s rhythm – maybe monthly for new businesses or yearly for more established ones. Remember, your strategic plan is your map to success. Tailor it, review it, and let it guide you toward your goals. Now that your strategic plan is sorted, let’s dive into the power of operational planning to make those goals a reality. How to make an operational planIt’s time to take that big-picture strategic plan and break it into doable steps. First, check out the long-term goals. Figure out which departments need to team up to reach which goal. Ask questions like: What kind of resources does the business already have access to? What’s missing? Any money financial risks coming up? This helps you see which parts of your business need a boost to hit those goals. 1. Nail down your budgetMake a budget based on what each department in your business needs to reach the big goals. What does your kitchen staff need? How about front-of-house staff? With your match-up between goals and areas, spread your budget where it’ll give the best bang for your buck. Remember to keep some cash aside for surprises and changes. A solid budget is like a shield against unexpected stuff. 2. Set targetsEach goal you’re chasing needs a target. Think carefully here – not too wild that your team loses heart, but not too tiny that the big plan stays out of reach. Realistic targets are your secret weapon. An example target could be selling 100 orders’ worth of a certain dish by the end of the month. 3. Check in with your team regularlyDon’t just set and forget. Schedule regular check-ins with your staff to see how things are going. Are you hitting those targets? Are things humming along? These feedback sessions with your employees are like checkups for your plan. If things are off, you can tweak the plan to get back on track. Homebase’s free mobile app has a built-in messenger tool to make it easy to stay connected. Send messages to individuals, groups, or your entire team. 3. Stay open and data-drivenKeep communication flowing during reviews. And don’t forget the data – it’s your treasure map. Numbers show where you’re doing well and where there’s room to improve. Use your POS software or an employee management tool like Homebase to help you make data-informed decisions on how to improve your business operations. With Homebase’s workforce forecasting and smart scheduling tools, you can save on labor costs for your business. With all this, your operational plan becomes a real powerhouse, making sure your business charges ahead toward those big dreams. Make your business plan, strategic plan and operational plan work for you
In the bustling world of business, having a roadmap is essential for success. The triumphant trio of a business plan, strategic plan, and operational plan work together to steer your ship towards greatness. These plans aren’t just fancy paperwork – they’re important tools that guide your every move. By understanding each plan’s role and significance, you’re armed with the superpowers needed to navigate the complex business waters. A business plan provides clarity, a strategic plan offers direction, and an operational plan ensures smooth sailing. Together, they fuel your business’s journey from survival to thriving, making sure you’re not just a player in the game, but a true champion. Here are 10 small business tools you can use to put these three plans into action. FAQs about business plan, strategic plan and operational planWhy do I need a business plan?A business plan acts as a roadmap for your business journey. It outlines your goals, customers, and how you’ll make money. It’s crucial for attracting investors and making smart decisions. What’s the purpose of a strategic plan?A strategic plan sets your long-term vision and goals. It guides big choices like expanding and standing out. It’s like a compass, helping you stay on course towards success. What’s the difference between a strategic plan and an operational plan?While a strategic plan sets long-term goals, an operational plan focuses on day-to-day tasks. It’s like a playbook that tells your team exactly what to do to reach those goals.
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Get your team in sync with our easy-to-use, all-in-one employee app. The post Business plan, strategic plan, operational plan: why all 3 are important appeared first on Homebase. via Homebase https://joinhomebase.com/blog/business-strategic-operational-plan/ A successful retail business starts with a well-thought-out retail business plan. While you may think you have your business ideas all figured out in your head, putting them down on paper in the form of a business plan is crucial for several reasons. In this post, we’ll explore what a retail business plan is, why it’s different from other business plans, what to include in it, common mistakes to avoid, and how to make your plan stand out. What Is a Retail store business plan and why do you need one?A retail store business plan is a comprehensive document that outlines your business model, identifies your target customers, and lays out a roadmap for turning your retail store or online shop into a profitable business. It’s a planning and forecasting tool that provides clarity and direction for your business. With a good business plan, you’re more likely to achieve success. Here’s why having a retail store business plan is essential: Planning and forecastingA retail store business plan helps you plan and set clear goals for your business’s short-term and long-term success. Planning helps you set goals, allocate resources wisely, and stay on track. It ensures that day-to-day operations run smoothly. Forecasting, on the other hand, helps businesses anticipate future trends and challenges, allowing them to make informed decisions and adapt to changing circumstances. Together, planning and forecasting help you avoid costly mistakes, reduce labor costs, seize opportunities, and achieve both short-term and long-term objectives. In essence, they’re like a GPS for your retail business, guiding it towards profitability and sustainability. Securing investmentA retail store business plan helps secure investment by demonstrating a clear and well-thought-out strategy. It shows potential investors that you’ve done your homework, understand your market, and have a solid plan for success. The plan outlines your business goals, target market, competitive analysis, and financial projections, instilling confidence in investors that their money will be used wisely. It also highlights your commitment and professionalism, making you a more attractive investment opportunity. Essentially, a strong retail business plan reassures investors that your venture is a sound investment with a higher likelihood of delivering returns on their capital. Guiding business operationsA retail store business plan serves as a roadmap for guiding business operations. It outlines your business’s goals, strategies, and tactics, providing a clear direction for daily activities. It helps you make informed decisions about product offerings, retail staff scheduling, pricing, local business marketing, online marketing and staffing. The plan also includes financial projections and budgeting, ensuring you manage resources effectively. Regularly reviewing the plan allows you to track progress, identify areas needing improvement, and adjust strategies accordingly. Overall, it keeps the business focused, organized, and aligned with its objectives, making day-to-day operations more efficient and effective in achieving long-term success.
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Get your team in sync with our easy-to-use, all-in-one employee app. How is a retail business plan different from other business plans?Retail businesses are unique in many ways, and your business plan should reflect that. Unlike other businesses, retail operations involve factors such as inventory management, supply chains, order fulfillment, deliveries, and customer returns. Here’s how a retail store business plan differs: Inventory managementUnlike other business plans, retail plans must handle challenges like seasonal sales variations and predicting what customers will buy. Inventory management in retail business plans is about keeping the right amount of products in stock to meet customer demand while avoiding excess or shortages. They also need to explain how they get products, where they store them, and how they restock when items run low. In contrast, many other businesses don’t deal with these inventory issues. Retail store business plans focus more on handling and controlling inventory to make sure they always have what customers want and don’t waste money on too much stock. Marketing strategyMarketing strategy in retail store business plans, compared to other business plans, often emphasizes attracting customers to physical or online stores, creating appealing displays, and running promotions like sales or loyalty programs. Retail plans typically prioritize reaching a broad consumer base and enticing them with visually appealing products. In contrast, other business plans might focus on more specialized marketing, like B2B partnerships or online advertising. Retailers also consider factors like store location and layout, which are less significant for many other businesses. So, simply put, retail business plans concentrate on tactics to draw in shoppers and make their shopping experience enjoyable and memorable. Growth strategyGrowth strategy in retail store business plans, unlike other business plans, often centers on expanding to new locations, introducing new product lines, or attracting more customers. Retailers aim to increase sales by opening additional stores, going online, or diversifying their offerings. In contrast, some businesses may focus on improving internal processes or targeting specific niche markets. Retailers typically rely on broadening their reach to fuel growth, making strategies like franchising, adding new store branches, or exploring e-commerce crucial components of their plans. So, in simpler terms, retail business plans tend to emphasize expanding the business footprint and customer base as a primary path to success. What to do before you start writing your retail store business planResearch your marketThorough market research is essential. Investors look for evidence of a healthy market and an unmet need that your business can address. You’ll want to gather data on who your customers are, what they want, and where they’re located. Analyze your competition to see what makes your business unique. This research helps investors see that there’s a demand for your products or services and that your business can thrive in the market. It’s about proving that your idea is well-informed and has the potential to succeed. So, in simple terms, thorough market research shows investors that your business plan is based on a strong foundation of knowledge and understanding. Understand your competitorsKnow your competition inside out. Understanding what sets you apart is crucial. You need to know who you’re up against and what makes them tick. Research your competitors thoroughly: their strengths, weaknesses, and strategies. Identify what sets your business apart – your unique selling points. Investors want to see that you’ve done your homework and can explain how your retail store will outshine the competition. Maybe it’s better prices, superior quality, or outstanding customer service. This knowledge not only helps you stand out but also shows investors that you’re ready to face the competition head-on, which can boost their confidence in your business’s potential success. Have a growth strategyDefine a clear growth strategy to demonstrate how your business will expand once it’s up and running. It shows investors that you’re not just focused on starting your business but also on making it grow in the long run. You can outline different growth strategies like market penetration (selling more to existing customers), product development (creating new products for existing customers), market development (selling existing products to new markets), or diversification (introducing new products to new markets). This helps investors understand your vision and how you plan to increase your business’s value over time, making your retail venture a more attractive investment opportunity. What to Include in your retail store business planBusiness overviewProvide a high-level description of your retail business, including your company’s structure, location, and the products or services you’ll offer. Business goalsExplain your business goals, whether they’re related to market share, product ranges, or online expansion. It should give a clear, simple picture of your retail business. Explain whether your business will operate in a physical store, online, or both. Mention the legal name of your company, where it’s located, and briefly describe the products or services you plan to sell. Keep it straightforward and easy to understand, so anyone reading your plan can quickly grasp what your retail business is all about. This section sets the stage for the rest of your plan, helping readers get a sense of your business from the get-go. Your industry experienceIn the “Your industry experience” section of your retail store business plan, it’s your time to shine. Tell the readers about your background and expertise, especially if you’ve held important positions in recognized retail businesses. If you’ve previously led successful growth initiatives or managed to open new stores that flourished, this is the place to mention it. Basically, this section is all about showcasing your qualifications and experience in the retail world. It helps build trust and confidence that you’re the right person to turn your retail business idea into a thriving reality. Keep it concise but impressive. Marketing strategyThe “Marketing strategy” section of your retail store business plan is where you paint a picture of how you’ll present your store to the world. Explain your store’s image, the strategy for your brand, and how you plan to market your products or services. Don’t forget to dive into the 4Ps of retail marketing:
This section gives a clear roadmap for how you’ll attract customers and make your business a success. Keep it straightforward and compelling. Financial strategy and forecastThe “Financial strategy and forecast” section of your retail store business plan is where you show the money side of your business. Investors want to see the numbers, so include things like:
These details help investors understand your business’s financial health and potential. Make sure your numbers are realistic and based on careful research and planning. Management structureIn the “Management structure” section of your retail store business plan, you’ll provide details on how you intend to organize your team and manage your business effectively. This section involves explaining several key aspects: Firstly, you’ll specify the number of team members you plan to hire. This is essential to understand the size and scope of your workforce. Secondly, you’ll describe the roles and responsibilities of each team member. This clarification ensures that everyone knows their specific duties and contributes to the smooth operation of the business. Lastly, you’ll illustrate how each team member fits into your overall business plan. This section helps investors and stakeholders comprehend how your team will collaborate and work together to achieve the business’s goals and objectives. A well-defined retail management structure assures potential investors that you have a competent team ready to execute your business plan effectively. Homebase offers user-friendly employee management tools to streamline team communication, time tracking, and scheduling, helping you refine your management structure. Common mistakes to avoid when making your retail store business planA successful business plan is as much about what you leave out as what you put in. Here are some common mistakes to avoid: Too much detailAvoid long, rambling text. Use visuals and graphics when possible and attach heavy content as appendices. Poor financial planningAccount for growing expenses, taxes, and market influences in your financial projections. Poor spelling and grammarBasic errors can undermine how partners and investors view your plan. Strengthening your business planTo strengthen your business plan, consider your audience, which may include potential investors, business partners, and financial institutions. Be transparent, avoid exaggerations, and demonstrate the value of your idea. Conclusion: Finishing your retail store business planA well-crafted retail store business plan is more than just a guide; it’s a tool to attract investors, secure funding, and set the foundation for a successful retail business. Leveraging tools like Homebase can help you stay competitive and efficient in the retail industry. Don’t delay writing your plan—it could be the first step towards realizing your retail business dreams.
One easy app to manage your hourly team.
Get your team in sync with our easy-to-use, all-in-one employee app. FAQs about writing a retail store business plan
What is a retail store business plan, and why is it important?A retail store business plan is a comprehensive document outlining your retail store business’s model, goals, and strategies. It’s crucial as it provides clarity, attracts investors, and guides daily operations for success.
How does a retail store business plan differ from other business plans?Retail store business plans are unique due to their focus on inventory management, marketing tactics to attract shoppers, and growth strategies centered on expanding customer reach.
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2 hours of extra work = 2 hours of comp time |
But if an employee works more than 40 hours in a week, they’re into overtime and you change their comp time accordingly. This is often at a minimum rate of 1.5 for each hour of overtime. Let’s say Lena works a 40-hour week but stays 4 hours late on Sunday, now you’d get:
4 hours of extra work x 1.5 overtime rate = 6 hours of comp time |
But what happens if staff don’t normally work 40 hours but their extra hours take them into overtime? Now, you would have to apply different rates. Imagine Ace does 30 hours a week but picks up 15 hours of extra shifts one week for comp time. You calculate:
10 hours of extra work = 10 hours of comp time
5 hours of extra work on the overtime rate x 1.5 = 7.5 10 + 7.5 = 17.5 hours of comp time |
On looking at these calculations, you may decide you need labor more than you need to reduce overtime pay. For example, maybe you can’t afford to lose Ace for 17.5 hours later in the month.
If team members don’t use their comp time before it expires, you simply reverse these calculations and add these hours to your payroll as you would ordinarily.
How do I set up comp time for my employees?
Once you’ve checked your employee’s eligibility for comp time, and seen whether the rates above suit your business, you’re good to go.
Now to set up comp time policies for your business and introduce them to your staff. We’ve listed the essential steps below.
- Review labor laws and regulations: That means going beyond eligibility. For instance: What is the minimum overtime rate? Do you need to obtain written consent?
- Decide who’s eligible: If you have different types of workers, you may want to keep matters simple and only offer comp time to full-timers. Scheduling may become overly complicated and time-consuming if part-time employees keep moving around their shifts.
- Determine an accrual rate. As we’ve discussed, you have to comply with the state minimum. But maybe you want to offer a more generous rate to encourage employees to take extra shifts. Say, there’s a one-off event your team all hates working, you could offer two hours of comp time per hour worked to reward them.
- Set accumulation limits: You may struggle to staff your business if all your staff take comp time during busy periods. In that case, restrict how much they can take and use in a month to suit your labor demands.
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Develop a policy: With all the above figured out, write a policy. Homebase’s HR professionals can help you draft one that suits your specific needs and preferences while staying compliant.
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Explain the policy: Make sure employees are aware of and understand the policy. You can announce the changes via your team chat, hold a meeting to discuss the rules, and add the policy to your handbook.
- Train managers: As managers may oversee comp time shifts, let them know what to expect. If you’ve previously told them to send employees home when they approach overtime, they may find the changes confusing.
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Track comp time: You can lose track of hours if you don’t record them properly. Have teams track comp time on their time clock to ensure mistakes don’t lead to them getting under or overpaid.
- Review: Teams change and so do their priorities. They may find comp time doesn’t suit them anymore and stop using it after a while. Keep checking how much staff use it and consider tweaking your policy if they’ve lost interest.
Compensatory time off: Key takeaways
When you come across a policy like comp time that benefits you and your team, no doubt you want to take advantage of it.
Because let’s face it, you don’t want to assign staff long hours or undesirable shifts any more than employees want to take them. And comp time is a way to incentivize staff to take these hours without going over your labor budget.
But navigating the labor laws surrounding comp time can be a challenge. That’s especially when you already have a business to run and can’t spend hours researching rules and regulations.
There’s no need to tackle new business policies alone, though. Homebase has compliance features that:
- Update you on changing labor laws related to comp time
- Advise you on whether your team is eligible for this practice
- Help you draft a comp time policy and add it to your handbook
That way you can easily introduce comp time to your business without worrying about incurring heavy fines or disrupting your business flow.
Track hours. Prep for payroll. Control labor costs. All with our free time clock.
Remember, this is not official legal advice. If you have any concerns, it’s best to consult an employment lawyer.
The post Comp Time: What it is, who qualifies, and how to calculate it appeared first on Homebase.
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Keeping track of hourly workers accurately and efficiently sets your business up for success. You can make sure you’re not overpaying in labor while still compensating your team fairly. And staff won’t get stressed out by unnecessary scrutiny or inconvenient time tracking methods.
All this is why investing in a clock in clock out app can be a game changer. This kind of popular software can record shift times quickly and accurately with minimal hassle for your staff. However, as Google will tell you, there are hundreds of apps out there, and you have to figure out which one would work best for your business needs and preferences.
This article explores the best clock in and out apps on the market to help you make an informed choice. We take a detailed look at each option’s features, pricing, and user experience to reveal which one might work best for you.
Track hours. Prep for payroll. Control labor costs. All with our free time clock.
What is a clock in and clock out app?
A clock in and clock out app is a kind of software that allows hourly workers to record their shift start and end times electronically. These apps are replacing old-fashioned time tracking methods like punch clocks and spreadsheets because they’re more accurate and convenient. Clock in apps are also difficult to tamper with, so there’s no risk of staff recording the wrong shift times or signing in for each other.
Time tracking apps vary according to industry needs, but most small business versions have the following features:
- A time clock with GPS, biometric, or photo verification
- A mobile app that employees can use to clock in and out
- Break and attendance tracking
- Staff notifications and reminders about upcoming shifts
- Alerts for managers about missed breaks and no shows
- Automatic timesheets
- Scheduling and payroll tools
Why are clock in and clock out apps important for small businesses?
Clock in and clock out apps are important for small businesses because they’re the best way to record employee hours accurately. This has a knock-on effect across many areas of the company:
- More revenue: When team members are late for work and you don’t subtract the time from their wages, unnecessary extra labor costs will add up. Clock in apps mean you only pay staff for the hours they worked.
- Easier to spot patterns in attendance: Some employees have issues with punctuality, perhaps because they have a difficult commute or poor time management skills. If you can see who’s often fifteen minutes late, you can ask them why and help them solve the underlying problem.
- Improved team morale: Paying employees for hours they didn’t work is unfair to staff who stick to their schedules. Some team members may become demoralized if they work harder to compensate for missing colleagues but get the same wages. But, because clock in apps mean you only pay employees from the moment they start their shifts, you eliminate this issue.
- Greater insight into labor demand: Accurate timesheets show you exactly how many staff members you needed on previous shifts. That makes it easier for you to predict your labor requirements for similar shifts in the future.
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More seamless data management: Most clock in apps automatically generate timesheets, so you don’t have to manually input any data yourself. That can save you from hours of paperwork and reduce stressful payroll errors.
- Fewer compliance issues: Time tracking overlaps with many areas of compliance. If you accurately record hours, you’ll know when staff are approaching overtime and you need to either adjust their rate or reallocate shifts. You can also catch who’s skipping breaks and make sure they get enough rest. And if someone’s constantly late for no good reason, accurate timesheets can give you grounds for a formal warning.
6 excellent clock in and clock out apps
Although there are many time clock apps out there, these stand out above the rest:
- Homebase: Best all-around app for small businesses
- TimeCamp: Best for in-app tracking
- Clockify: Best for tracking billable hours
- Connecteam: Best for tracking traveling crews
- Buddy Punch: Best for range of clock in methods
- Deputy: Best for variety of integrations
1. Homebase: Best all-around app for small businesses
Homebase lets employees clock into work effortlessly, records hours accurately, and creates instant timesheets. Our platform is also affordably priced, so you get a comprehensive set of human resources tools at a cost that won’t cut into your budget. Not to mention, customers compliment us on our easy setup and user-friendly interface, so you can enjoy the benefits of accurate time tracking from day one.
Integrated timesheets and payroll
Our time clock tool syncs with our built-in timesheets and payroll features. That way, you don’t have to enter the timesheet data yourself and risk inconsistencies and errors. In addition, you can use Homebase to automatically calculate wages based on:
- Hours worked
- Paid and unpaid breaks taken
- Overtime
- Rates
- Tips earned
Homebase timesheets also let you analyze how your business is performing, for instance, by importing sales data to compare it against labor costs and determining where you’re under or overspending on hours.
Remote time tracking and geofencing technology
If your business has on-the-go teams, checking the time they start and finish shifts can be challenging. Homebase’s time clock can track your remote workers without you having to call employees up or ask them what their colleagues are doing. You can also set up geofences around specific locations, so no one can sign in until they arrive at work.
In addition, our time clock tool can give you a GPS snapshot of each employee’s location when they start their shifts for extra verification. That way, you can oversee teams without having to visit several work sites or asking them to travel to central locations to sign in and out of work.
Anti-time theft and buddy punching technology
When colleagues clock in for one another — or “buddy punch” as it’s often called — managers can’t tell who arrived on time and who was late. Homebase has a way to eliminate this problem. If you ask your team to download our app and clock in when they arrive at their work location, employees won’t be able to punch in for each unless they relinquish their phones. And if you think someone might try that, you can also request photo verification for an extra layer of security.
Pros and cons
Pros
? All-in-one solution
? Designed for hourly teams
? Beginner-friendly
? Range of time tracking tools
? Built-in payroll, scheduling, and chat app
Cons
? Prioritizes features for small businesses
? No option to track the time spent on tasks
Pricing
Homebase’s basic time tracking features are free for teams at one location with twenty employees or fewer. But to take advantage of all that our platform can do for you, we recommend one of our paid plans with advanced time tracking tools.
Here’s a breakdown of all the options we offer:
- Basic. Free for one location and up to 20 employees. It has basic time tracking tools alongside scheduling, POS integrations, and email support.
- Essentials. $24.95 per month per location. Everything in Basic, plus advanced time tracking tools, performance tracking and scheduling tools, integrations with popular payroll apps, and access to live support.
- Plus. $55.95 per month per location. Everything in Essentials, plus time off controls, hiring tools, and departments and permissions.
- All-in-one. $99.95 per month per location. Everything in Plus, plus labor cost controls, business insights, HR and compliance, and onboarding tools.
Payroll is available as a separate add-on for $39 per month plus $6 per active employee. Customers can also commit to an annual plan and save 20%.
What customers say
As of June 2023, Homebase has a 4.8/5 (out of 43.6K reviews) rating on the App Store and a 4/4/5 (out of 18.2K reviews) on Google Play.
Track hours. Prep for payroll. Control labor costs. All with our free time clock.
2. TimeCamp: Best for in-app tracking
Office-based businesses sometimes need to track how long staff members spend on different apps, as well as monitor their hours. Doing so lets them determine which platforms are most efficient and which they need to scrap.
If that sounds like you, TimeCamp may be a good fit. The software has kiosks where employees can check in as well as a desktop plug-in, so you can track team members’ activity across different computer applications.
Top features
- Time kiosk feature
- Desktop app tracking
- Task and project tracking
- Timesheets
Pros and cons
Pros
? Unlimited users and tasks on the free plan
? “Clean layout”
? “Easy to use”
Cons
? Charge per employee isn’t cost-effective for large teams
? Users report “lagging” and “delay[s]” that lead to inaccurate time tracking
Pricing
TimeCamp has three plans:
- Free: Time clock kiosk and app at no cost for unlimited users and projects.
- Basic: $3.99 per user per month. Everything in Free, plus attendance, time off, and overtime tracking.
- Starter: $7.99 per user per month. Everything in Basic, plus billable time tracking.
- Pro: $10.99 per user per month. Everything in Starter, plus billable rates, custom roles, and timesheet approvals.
There’s also the option of the Enterprise plan with custom pricing.
What customers say
As of June 2023, TimeCamp has a 3/5 (out of 50+ reviews) on the App Store and a 3.8/5 (out of 600+ reviews) on Google Play.
3. Clockify: Best for tracking billable hours
Many small businesses, like design agencies and marketing companies, have to differentiate between billable and nonbillable hours. Otherwise, you could end up charging clients for time that staff spent in an internal meeting. That’s why Clockify has the option to track both employee hours and projects to ensure you correctly record and categorize all the work your team does.
Top features
- GPS time tracker
- Time kiosk feature
- Built-in Pomodoro timer
- Reminders to start and stop the manual timer
Pros and cons
Pros
? Free plan
? No limits on how much time employees can track
Cons
? Charge per kiosk user, unlike many competitors
? “A bit slow and unresponsive”
? “Outdated” user interface
Pricing
Clockify has a free account with basic time tracking tools and an app. It also offers four monthly paid plans:
- Basic: $4.99 per employee and $0.99 per kiosk user monthly. Everything in the free account, plus pins for kiosks and break management.
- Standard: $6.99 per employee and $1.49 per kiosk user monthly. Everything in Basic, plus leave management and reminders for employees to log time.
- Pro: $9.99 per employee and $1.99 per kiosk user monthly. Everything in Standard, plus GPS tracking and extra controls and permissions over who can edit time logged.
- Enterprise: $14.99 per employee and $2.99 per kiosk user monthly. Everything in Pro, plus a custom website and the ability to log in as any employee.
What customers say
As of June 2023, Clockify has a 4.6/5 (out of 1.7K reviews) on the App Store and a 4/5 (out of 1.75K reviews) on Google Play.
4. Connecteam: Best for tracking traveling crews
Similar to Homebase, Connecteam has geofencing capabilities for offsite teams. So, you can create virtual fields with boundaries where employees have to check in.
If you have traveling team members like delivery drivers or cleaning crews, Connecteam also lets you track their movements. That’s helpful if you need to check that people aren’t taking diversions or making unnecessary pit stops en route to clients.
Top features
- GPS time clock
- Geofencing
- Location tracking
Pros and cons
Pros
? Free plan
? Supports 10+ languages
? “Customizable”
Cons
? Limited number of users
? “Time-consuming”
? “A lot of upgrades are required”
Pricing
Connecteam has a free plan for up to ten users with unlimited features. There are also four paid plans, which are as follows:
- Basic: $35 per month for one time clock and up to 30 employees. Includes timesheets, notifications, and GPS clock in verification.
- Advanced: $49 per month for three time clocks and up to 30 employees. Everything in Basic, plus automatic clock outs and geofencing for up to 10 sites.
- Expert: $99 per month for six time clocks and up to 30 employees. Everything in Advanced, plus GPS location tracking and reporting tools.
- Enterprise: Custom pricing for unlimited time clocks. Everything in Expert, plus unlimited reporting.
If you have more than 30 employees, Connecteam charges per extra user.
What customers say
As of June 2023, Connecteam has a 4.3/5 (out of 500+ reviews) on the App Store and a 3.8/5 (out of 1.92K reviews) on Google Play.
5. Buddy Punch: Best for range of clock in methods
If your business has a variety of departments, perhaps you manage a warehouse or manufacturing facility, you may struggle to find a clock method that suits everyone. But Buddy Punch has a range of verification options, so you don’t need to choose. For example, office workers can use stationary webcams while their on-the-go colleagues can opt for QR codes and facial recognition. However, it’s worth noting that many states are banning biometric clock in methods like some of those Buddy Punch offers.
Top features
- GPS time tracking
- QR code, facial recognition, and webcam verification
- Task tracking with job codes
- Flexible user controls and permissions
Pros and cons
Pros
? A variety of clock in options
? “User-friendly”
Cons
? Inflexible paid plans
? Fixed rate and charge per employee
? “Lagging issues”
? “Glitches with punching in and out”
Pricing
BuddyPunch has three paid plans:
- Standard: $3.49 per user and $19 base fee per month. Includes GPS time tracking, time off tracking, and notifications.
- Pro: $4.49 per user and $19 base fee per month. Everything in Standard, plus reports on early, late, and absent employees.
- Enterprise: Custom pricing. Everything in Pro, plus API access.
What customers say
As of June 2023, Buddy Punch has a 4.9/5 (out of 500+ reviews) on the App Store and a 4.6/5 (out of 150+ reviews) on Google Play.
6. Deputy: Best for variety of integrations
Like Homebase, Deputy integrates with a variety of popular payroll, point of sale (POS), and project management software solutions. That means no matter what type of business you have, you can probably connect to all the tools you need. The downside is that Deputy doesn’t have a built-in payroll tool like Homebase does, so there’s no option to handle time tracking and accounting tasks within the same app.
Top features
- Task tracking capabilities
- Biometric and GPS time clocks
- Payroll and POS integrations
Pros and cons
Pros
? Option of a temporary plan for seasonal businesses
? Versions in over seven languages
? “Flexibility”
Cons
? Inflexible paid plans
? Minimum costs apply
Pricing
Deputy offers all its time tracking features within one plan for $3.50 per user per month. You also have the option to pay extra for scheduling tools.
What customers say
As of June 2023, Deputy has a 4.7/5 (out of 2.6K reviews) on the App Store and a 4.7/5 (out of 13.6K reviews) on Google Play.
Stop watching the clock with the right time tracking app
Introducing a clock in and out app to your small business is a major step toward more accurate and efficient employee management. You can be sure you’re paying the right wages without having to stay on the premises all the time.
But which to choose? Depending on what kind of small business you have, you might need TimeCamp’s desktop app tracking plugin or Buddy Punch’s webcam verification feature.
However, in most cases, Homebase is the standout option. Our time clock has a range of verification methods to enable employees to clock into work, including GPS, PIN codes, and photos. This tool also generates accurate timesheet and payroll data, which means you never have to worry about under or overpaying staff. And our features don’t stop there — we also have built-in scheduling and communication features to manage and coordinate team members more effectively.
And best of all, Homebase is easy to learn and use. Before long, your team will be so used to the new clock in system that you’ll have forgotten all about scrambling with time cards or checking the cameras.
Track hours. Prep for payroll. Control labor costs. All with our free time clock.
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