In Cheyenne, Wyoming, business owner Jasmin “Dave” Agovic of L’Osteria Mondello is breaking the mold in a labor market struggling with hiring challenges. While many businesses report difficulty in finding workers willing to commit, Agovic boasts a waiting list of teenagers eager to work. This exceptional demand stems from Agovic’s commitment to treating his employees like family, fostering a positive work culture that resonates with young workers.
Current employees frequently go above and beyond, even showing up unannounced to help during busy times. For instance, Colton Loetscher, a young employee, voluntarily offered to make coffee and prepare pizzas during a hectic morning, underscoring the sense of camaraderie at the establishment.
Agovic emphasizes flexibility in scheduling and acknowledges that the lives of young workers involve commitments outside of work, such as school and church. His willingness to accommodate these needs has garnered loyalty among his staff, leading to positive word-of-mouth and attracting even more candidates. The restaurant also maintains a supportive atmosphere, with former employees returning to lend a hand and participate in celebrations, such as birthday gatherings.
Agovic views the recruitment process with an educational lens, recognizing that he is not just offering jobs but also valuable life experiences and training. His approach is built on the belief that happy employees translate to satisfied customers. By prioritizing well-being over productivity minutiae, he cultivates an environment where young workers can thrive, learn responsibility, and take pride in their contributions.
Overall, Agovic’s method stands apart in a landscape of complaints about youth unwilling to work, illustrating that when businesses value and invest in their employees’ development and well-being, success will follow.
