Employee retention tools in a selected restaurant in Iloilo City: An exploratory study

Abstract

The study "Employee Retention Tools in Selected Restaurants in Iloilo City: An Exploratory Study" investigates the role of organizational culture in employee retention in the restaurant industry. The study uses a qualitative phenomenological research design and semi-structured interviews with long-term employees of selected restaurants. Key findings include the importance of positive workplace environments, leadership practices focusing on fairness, respect, and inclusive management, and an environment with interpersonal relationships and a family-like atmosphere. The study also highlights the importance of systematic organizational growth strategies, such as training and transparent professional development pathways, to keep employees engaged. Employees appreciate restaurant management's efforts during crises, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, and nurturing a sense of ownership and responsibility among employees. The findings benefit restaurant owners, managers, and human resource professionals in mitigating turnover and refining retention practices. It emphasizes the need for organizational culture alignment with members' values and demands, especially in a fast-evolving metropolis like Iloilo City. Customized retention strategies that meet psychological and financial needs lead to employee satisfaction, higher service quality, and more profitable business operations.