How AI and Gig Workers Will Improve Customer Service for Restaurants

The past few years have undeniably changed the restaurant industry in more ways than one could imagine. Especially during the pandemic, restaurants have grappled with unexpected challenges, particularly in maintaining exceptional customer service amidst shifting operational dynamics. But as with every challenge, innovation thrives. Enter AI and gig workers. These are not just buzzwords but actionable solutions that could revolutionize the way restaurants operate, addressing the very core of their challenges.

The State of Customer Service in the Restaurant Industry

Customer service in restaurants is just as critical as the food itself. Yet, there are nuances specific to the industry that can lead to its degradation. Staffing shortages have always plagued the restaurant business. And it's not rare to see a waiter doubling up as a host or a bartender because of understaffing. When employees are spread thin, mistakes and oversights become inevitable. Add to this the high turnover rates, and there's a constant knowledge deficit that affects the quality of service.

To put this in perspective, a whopping 82 percent of UK customers will bid goodbye to a restaurant after a single bad experience. And in the age of online reviews and social media, a poor review can have ripple effects, tarnishing a brand's reputation and affecting business.

Five Ways AI and Gig Workers Will Help the Restaurant Industry

1. Gig Workers Will Enable Restaurants to Scale to Meet Customer Service Demands

Gig workers are the answer to the staffing conundrum. They provide the ability to scale up during peak hours and scale down during the lull, ensuring that every phone call is answered, and every customer inquiry is attended to, all while maintaining cost efficiency.

2. AI Will Shorten and Reinforce Customer Service Training

Every interaction with a customer is a chance to create loyalty. With AI, restaurants can offer dynamic, tailored training programs that get junior employees up to speed quickly and reinforce trained behavior. These systems can monitor all interactions, providing feedback and recommendations that uphold the brand's standards, ensuring consistent, high-quality service.

3. Gig Workers Offer an Affordable and Experienced Human Touch

With customer service gig platforms, restaurants can hire professionals who  add the essential human touch to customer interactions. The beauty is, you pay only for productive time, saving considerably on overheads.

4. AI Will Allow For Quicker Issue Identification and Resolvement

AI can dig deep into feedback, picking up patterns that might be missed by human oversight. By recognizing consistent issues or praises, restaurants can quickly adapt to improve the customer experience, making operations more seamless.

5. Gig Workers are Incentivized to Help Your Business Succeed

For gig workers, your success translates to their success. This symbiotic relationship means they have every incentive to deeply understand your operations and promote your brand.

The Future of Customer Service in the Restaurant Industry

Embracing gig workers and AI isn’t just a trend; it's the future. Restaurants can start by integrating AI tools for feedback analysis or using platforms to hire skilled gig workers for specific roles. The infusion of technology and flexible staffing will not only enhance customer service but will also lead to operational efficiency and adaptability. The industry's landscape is poised to transform, making dining experiences more memorable than ever before.