Why do you need a corporate social network? We tell you:

The HORECA sector is characterized by its fast pace and the delivery of exceptional customer experiences. However, in that dynamic environment, front-line workers often experience a disconnect as they are immersed in direct customer service, their work style is constantly on the move, and they face daily challenges in the operation of the business.

This is where the implementation of a corporate social network can make a difference and facilitate their day-to-day work. Imagine a digital space where your employees can connect, share ideas, collaborate on projects, access resources and stay connected at all times. A corporate social network is just that and much more.

In this article, we will explain how to enhance internal communication, the main channels that exist and how to strengthen the culture of collaboration in your operation. Take note!

What is a corporate social network?

A corporate social network is a digital platform designed specifically for the business environment. It is a virtual space where the workers of an organization can connect, interact and share information in a collaborative way.

Unlike conventional social networks, corporate social networks are focused on enhancing internal communication, collaboration and knowledge sharing within the team.

In a corporate social network, users can create individual profiles, similar to what is found in traditional social networks, but with a professional-oriented approach. These profiles allow workers to share relevant information about their experience, skills, projects they are working on, among other details.

Main tools and functionalities of a corporate social network

Corporate social networks offer a variety of tools and functionalities that facilitate communication and collaboration in the work environment. Some of these features include:

1. Posting news and updates: Users can share news, announcements and updates relevant to the entire team. This ensures that all employees are informed and aligned with important events.

2. Discussion forums and interest groups: These platforms allow the creation of thematic groups where workers with similar interests can discuss, exchange ideas and share knowledge specific to their field of work.

3. Internal messaging functionalities: Corporate social networks offer internal messaging systems, such as internal channels that facilitate direct communication between team members, fostering instant collaboration and avoiding email saturation or the use of more than one communication channel. Something that for the HORECA sector and front-line workers is essential to avoid work disconnection.

Benefits of implementing a corporate social network for front-line workers in the HORECA sector 

A corporate social network offers a solution to improve internal communication, foster collaboration, strengthen organizational culture and increase employee productivity:

1. Improved internal communication and collaboration among employees:

In a high-demand, fast-paced environment like the HORECA sector, effective communication among front-line workers is crucial. A corporate social network provides a centralized space where workers can share information in real time, communicate more efficiently and coordinate tasks effectively. This results in greater coordination and a more agile response to customer needs.

Example: Waiters can use the corporate social network to communicate special customer orders to the kitchen immediately, avoiding misunderstandings and improving service efficiency.

2. Encouragement of participation and knowledge sharing:

Front-line workers in the HORECA sector often have valuable knowledge and experience that they can share with each other to improve operations. A corporate social network allows workers to exchange ideas, tips, best practices and solve problems together. This not only strengthens the sense of community and collaboration, but also fosters innovation and continuous improvement in service.

Example: Chefs can share recipes, cooking techniques and presentation tips on the corporate social network, allowing other team members to learn and improve their skills.

3. Greater visibility of the company's culture and values: 

The HORECA industry is all about delivering unique customer experiences, and company culture and values play a key role in delivering those experiences. A corporate social network provides a platform to highlight and promote the company's culture and values, sharing inspiring stories, outstanding achievements and events related to the organizational culture. This strengthens brand identity and creates a sense of belonging among frontline workers.

Example: The corporate social network can showcase success stories of employees who have provided exceptional service, highlighting how their dedication reflects the company's core values.

4. Increased productivity and efficiency in internal processes:

The implementation of a corporate social network in the HORECA sector can streamline and optimize internal processes. From the management of schedules and shifts to the communication of menu changes and policy updates.

A corporate social network provides an efficient channel for sharing relevant information and ensuring that all workers are aware of changes. This reduces the time spent on manual coordination and allows front-line workers to focus on providing quality service.

Example: Managers can use the corporate social network to send updates on changes in service procedures, new safety regulations or important reminders, ensuring that all workers are informed in a timely manner. And from their own communication channel. All from one place.

Success stories of companies that have implemented a corporate social network

The implementation of a corporate social network has proven to be a successful strategy for many organizations in various sectors, including the HORECA sector. Here are some examples of companies that have obtained positive results by using a corporate social network:

1. Marriott International: 

Marriott, one of the world's largest hotel chains, implemented a corporate social network called "M-Social". This platform has allowed employees from different hotels to connect, share knowledge and collaborate on cross-cutting projects. It has also been used to promote Marriott's culture and values, highlighting success stories and recognition.

2. Chipotle Mexican Grill:

The well-known restaurant chain Chipotle has implemented a corporate social network called "HotSchedules". This platform has been used to manage workers' schedules and facilitate communication between kitchen staff and servers. Workers can exchange shifts, request days off and receive important updates on procedures and menu changes.

3. Starbucks: 

Starbucks, the famous coffeehouse chain, has "My Starbucks Idea". This platform allows employees from different locations to share ideas and suggestions for improving products, services and operations. Workers can vote and comment on each other's ideas, generating an open and transparent dialogue. This corporate social network has been key to fostering employee participation and innovation, as many ideas have been successfully implemented in the stores, improving the customer experience.

Main corporate social network channels

When it comes to implementing a corporate social network in your company, it is important to know the different options available. Here are some of the main channels you can consider:

1. Microsoft Teams: A team communication and collaboration platform that allows teams to communicate via chat, make calls and video calls, share files and collaborate on projects. With a wide range of integrations and tools, Microsoft Teams has become a popular choice for businesses of all sizes.
2. Slack: With its focus on instant messaging and team organization, Slack has gained popularity as a business communication tool. It allows the creation of thematic channels, integration with other tools and quick search for information, which facilitates collaboration and effective communication.
3. Workplace by Facebook: This platform provides a familiar and easy-to-use environment for business communication. With features similar to the Facebook social network , Workplace enables group creation, project collaboration, live streaming and instant communication, all within a secure business environment.
4. Yammer: Designed specifically as a corporate social network, Yammer facilitates communication and collaboration across the organization. Employees can share updates, documents, ideas and engage in relevant conversations with other team members.

These are just a few examples of the Corporate Social Media channels available in the market. Each platform has its own unique features and benefits, so it is important to evaluate your company's needs and choose the one that best suits your goals and organizational culture.

How to implement a corporate social network in your HORECA business

Here are some steps to follow to introduce a corporate social network in your organization, along with technical and security considerations, as well as recommendations to ensure a good implementation:

1. Set clear objectives:

Before implementing a corporate social network, it is important to define the objectives you want to achieve with its adoption. Do you want to improve internal communication, foster collaboration between departments or share knowledge? Setting clear goals will help you guide the implementation and measure its success.

2. Select a suitable platform:

There are numerous corporate social networking platforms available on the market. Research and choose a platform that suits the specific needs of your hospitality organization. Consider aspects such as ease of use, customizability, integration with other tools and data security.

3. Plan the implementation:

Develop a detailed plan for implementing the corporate social network. This may include assigning roles and responsibilities, creating an implementation schedule, communicating internally about the project, and training employees in the use of the platform.

4. Customize the platform:

As you implement the corporate social network, customize it to fit your organization's identity. Add your company logo and colors, configure privacy and security settings, and organize content groups and categories according to your team's needs.

Technical and safety considerations to be taken into account:

Ensure that the corporate social networking platform complies with security and data privacy standards. Check for end-to-end encryption, user authentication, access control and cyber threat protection measures.

5. Acceptable use policies: 

Establish clear policies on the appropriate use of the corporate social network, including guidelines on permitted content, confidentiality of information and respect among employees. Educate users about these policies and promote a culture of responsible use.

6. Integration with existing systems:

Make sure the corporate social network integrates seamlessly with other systems and tools your organization uses, such as email, calendars and project management applications. This will facilitate adoption and workflow efficiency.

niikiis: the all-in-one software with integrated social network

One of the outstanding features of niikiis is its integrated social network with configurable and customizable channels, which helps connect frontline teams and simplifies internal communication from a single software. The benefits it brings you are as follows:

1. Concentration of communication channels: 

With niikiis' integrated social network, your HORECA business teams can centralize communication in one place. It is no longer necessary to use multiple tools or separate platforms for messages, notifications or information exchange. Everything is in one intuitive, easy-to-use, mobile-friendly software.

2. Configuration and customization: 

niikiis allows you to configure and customize communication channels according to the specific needs of your business. You can create channels dedicated to different departments, work areas or projects, facilitating collaboration and knowledge sharing among team members.

3. Connection of first-line equipment: 

In the HORECA sector, it is essential to maintain fluid communication between front-line workers such as waiters, cooks and service staff. niikiis' integrated corporate social network helps connect these teams, enabling fast and effective communication, regardless of whether they are on different shifts or physical locations.

4. Mobile-first prioritization: 

Since the HORECA sector involves a dynamic and constantly on-the-go work style, niikiis has been designed with a "mobile-first" approach. This means that the social network and all software functionalities are optimized for use on mobile devices, allowing workers to access and participate in the social network from anywhere and at any time, without having to use a computer.

5. Improved collaboration and productivity:

niikiis' integrated social network fosters collaboration and connection among all employees, improving communication and facilitating the exchange of ideas and knowledge. This leads to greater operational efficiency, time savings and improved overall productivity.

Still thinking about it?

In conclusion, implementing an enterprise social network in your HORECA business is capable of significantly improving your team's communication, collaboration and productivity. Furthermore, by exploring the main corporate social networks such as Yammer, Jive, Slack and Microsoft Teams, you will be able to find the platform that best suits your business and your specific objectives. 

However, if you are looking for an all-in-one solution specialized in the HORECA sector, implementing a software like niikiis is the perfect solution. With an integrated social network and configurable and customizable channels, it connects frontline teams and prioritizes the use of mobile to suit their work style.

Don't wait any longer to improve your internal communication, start today and boost your business with a corporate social network!