Year: 2026
Type: dissertation
Abstract: Employee retention is a considerable challenge in the United States (U.S.) restaurant industry.Restaurant leaders are concerned that employee turnover can negatively affect firm profitability and sustainability.This qualitative pragmatic inquiry project, grounded in Herzberg's two-factor theory, was performed to identify and explore effective strategies used by some U.S. independent restaurant leaders to enhance employee retention.The participants were seven U.S. independent restaurant leaders in the northeastern United States who had successfully implemented strategies to reduce employee turnover.Data were collected through interviews and public documents and then analyzed using thematic analysis.Three key themes were identified: (a) relational and values-based leadership practices, (b) supportive and inclusive organizational culture, and (c) operational and structural support systems.A key recommendation is that independent restaurant leaders implement formal performance management practices.By enhancing the overall well-being and retention of employees, restaurant leaders can potentially promote positive social change by improving the quality of life for local citizens.
Source: ScholarWorks (Walden University)
Author: Londono-Rivera, Tania Raquel
Institution: Walden University
Language: English
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7168439595