I began my journey as a dishwasher at a small café in my hometown of Jacksonville, Illinois. I quickly realized training and development played a crucial role in the success of any business.
My first task in the restaurant business was detailing the restrooms. I wiped out the sinks and toilets and asked for my work to be checked.
The owner walked into the men's restroom with me and laughed. He then asked me if I knew the difference between clean and Immaculate. Of course, being 12 years old, I looked at him like he was crazy. He handed me a toothbrush, and after forty-five minutes of scrubbing every surface possible, including the toilet seal, the owner said, "You'll never forget this lesson."
I carry a box of toothbrushes in my truck because there IS a difference between clean and immaculate. Most people who have worked for me have a toothbrush cleaning story.
That forty-five minutes led me to discover my passion for the training and development of others. Over the years, I have taught countless restaurant employees how minor details like a dirty door jam are as important as a clean and sanitary workstation.
After living through COVID-19, I became aware that most of my restaurant staff was experiencing burnout due to working countless hours doing cleaning projects. My mission was to take that pressure off them to retain great employees.
I hired multiple cleaning companies with lackluster results. However, staff morale improved, which resulted in less turnover and improved operations.
I founded Lady Bird Hospitality Solutions to help business owners focus on what's essential. Staff morale is critical to the success of your business. How will you provide excellent guest service, cocktails, and fantastic food if morale is low?
It's my commitment to provide you with support staff that has been appropriately trained on all aspects of cleaning and sanitizing your property correctly. I look forward to working with you.
Jake Baker
President