4.8 Communication Tool Policy
THE COMPANY uses digital communication tools to keep Team Members informed and connected. The specific platform(s) in use may change over time (for example: Team Member Portal, Slack, Harri, Paradox, text messaging, email, or other approved applications).
Communication Overview
Clear and reliable communication is essential to the success of THE COMPANY and to each team member’s role and responsibilities. For this reason, THE COMPANY has established multiple official communication channels: text messages, Slack, and email.
- Text messages are the primary and mandatory method of communication for urgent, essential, or time-sensitive information.
- Slack may be used for operational updates, scheduling notices, training information, and recognition messages.
- Email may be used for formal or detailed communications, such as policy updates or benefits information.
Team members are required to keep their contact information current and to review all communications delivered through these channels. For record-keeping purposes, all messages sent through these official channels are considered received once sent, regardless of whether they are read or acknowledged. Failure to comply with communication requirements may result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination.
Strong communication ensures that every team member is informed, aligned, and able to deliver the high standards of guest service and operational excellence expected at THE COMPANY.
Note: Slack is not currently in use at THE COMPANY but may be reinstated in the future. This policy outlines expectations for all current and future communication tools.
Purpose of Communication Tools
Approved tools are to be used only for work-related communication, including:
- Food safety recalls or urgent operational updates.
- Restaurant events, promotions, or initiatives.
- Training materials or instructions.
- Scheduling announcements, shift changes, or coverage needs.
- Recognizing birthdays, achievements, or positive shoutouts.
Unacceptable Uses
Communication tools must not be used for:
- Sharing memes, jokes, personal, or unrelated content.
- Using offensive, unprofessional, or disrespectful language.
- Spamming or excessive messaging that distracts from operations.
Expectations & Accountability
- Team Members are expected to check communications regularly and respond promptly to relevant messages.
- Important updates distributed through company-approved tools will be considered official notices; failure to review them may impact accountability.
- All communications through company-approved tools are considered part of THE COMPANY’s professional records and may be reviewed.
Management Responsibility
- Managers and supervisors are expected to ensure messages are clear, concise, and limited to essential or approved topics.
- Leaders should model appropriate use by avoiding excessive or non-work-related posts.