17 Nov 2017
Elements Restaurant (NC) Response
8yDear Former Employee,
We are sorry you felt this way while employed with us. No job is easy and if that is what you are seeking, then it is better you have chosen to go elsewhere. We have employees that have been working with us for over 2 years. Many of which who have had no experience in the food industry. Others who have moved on to bigger and better avenues who continue to visit and praise the hard work and dedication built while employed here. If this was a so called "hostile environment" I doubt that anyone would work here for over a year. "Preferential" treatment for the daughters, as you say - each has put in over 15 years of workmanship, 2 employees has worked for over 15 years, another for over 8 years and many staff for over 2 years. Loyalty and work ethic is rewarded and promoted. We try to educate our staff on food and wine knowledge, you must do this yourself as well. Everything cannot be taught if you do not make the effort.
As to the Tip Pooling System - this has been approved by the NC Dept of Labor. The tip pool system is clear and at any time, can be requested by the employee for copies or to look at. Staff earns more than the so called 50% noted here. Sushi Chef is not tipped out which is also completely legal if the Chef deals directly with guests. Which did happen when we had a Sushi Chef on staff. We want our staff to be paid a fair wage, and try to abide by all laws. That is why we contacted the NC Dept of Labor for clarification. The tip pool system is to encourage teamwork and to hold each other responsible for the daily duties included with each shift.
The management team here, I can guarantee, is more hands on than any other management group elsewhere. We are here before and after you leave, putting in extra time for other duties that are required. Supporting the Front of House Staff with whatever they require. Being short staff because someone was ill, family emergency, or for the random, I just can't work today. Someone must step into place and ensure business runs as smoothly as possible and takes care of the guests.
As for the comments about the owner, he has taken steps to assist former employees with drug and alcohol abuse issues, he as given loans to employees who needed a helping hand and some never repaying, assists refugees who have come to America for a chance at a new beginning. As a refugee himself at the age of 15, sent across the world with a little sister in tow, dealt with racism, and dedicated himself to literally working almost every day, he understands how it feels to have nothing and built his work ethic to have a better life and tries to carry that through and encourage others to work hard and build what you want in life. It will not be given to you.