Dear Restaurateurs,

As the 2009 Louisiana Restaurant Association Chair, I am privileged to have this platform to address matters I feel are important to the success and growth of each one of us, the association and the restaurant industry here in Louisiana. Leadership is one of those matters I take to heart in my business acumen.

When I began my restaurant career more than 25 years ago, I reflected on all the excellent managers I had along the way, and especially the not-so-great ones. While I made some mistakes, I learned the importance of knowing the styles of leadership and what type of leader I was then versus the one I am now.

By examining your style and understanding the personality differences, it will greatly improve your insight into your employees and the way you interact and communicate with them. For example, I seek input from several members of my staff and ask for feedback, suggestions and problem-solving if necessary, or engage in participative leadership. In my experience, this style tends to empower and motivate employees.

Two other well-known leadership styles include authoritative and delegative. Authoritative can be used, and respected, if an employee does not understand the task or procedure, for instance in the training phase. The latter, delegative, can be implemented if an employee has an area of expertise that you do not. A good balance and understanding of all three styles may aid you in a workplace free of conflict, stress and employee turnover, just to name a few.

As we all strive to be better business men and women, let us not forget, nor take for granted, our role as leaders.

Sincerely,

Glen Armantrout

Chair, Louisiana Restaurant Association