Online Reporter
Nomalisa Gumpo,[email protected]
FAST food managers have been urged to prioritise emotional intelligence and mental wellness to improve staff wellbeing and business performance as the industry is intensive and sees many burning out.
This was highlighted at a wellness workshop held by Lupane State University Department of Human Capital and Industrial Psychology Cluster last week, under the theme “Nourish to Flourish”.
The workshop brought together psychologists and fast-food industry managers to address mental health challenges affecting productivity, staff morale and leadership effectiveness.
Community psychologist Mr Theresi Sibanda said fast food managers often work under high pressure, which contributes to burnout, anxiety and emotional exhaustion.
“Poor communication, role overload, public reprimanding of staff and unclear expectations all impact mental health. When someone is embarrassed in front of customers or colleagues, their performance suffers for that day and the future too,” he said.
Mr Sibanda noted that a lack of mental health literacy and stigma also stop many managers from seeking help.
“They are afraid of being judged, so they bottle up their stress and eventually take it out on their teams,” he said.
Research psychologist Dr Sibangilizwe Maphosa called for emotional intelligence to be at the centre of leadership in fast food outlets.
“A manager who cannot manage their own emotions is heading for disaster, emotional intelligence allows you to stay calm under pressure, empathise with staff and reduce conflict,” he said.
He added that fast food workplaces often ignore mental health triggers, including chaotic environments, sexual harassment and unaddressed interpersonal tensions.
“If you do not lead with emotional intelligence, you create a toxic space that drives people away,” he said.
Counselling psychologist Mr Mhleliwendabezinhle Ncube said managers must strike a balance between authority and approachability saying mangers must be approachable, but they must also set healthy boundaries,” he said.
The workshop also addressed gender dynamics in the workplace. Some managers raised concerns about misconduct and sexual harassment.
Dr Maphosa said emotional intelligence is about knowing when to act and address your employees.
“We must put systems in place to handle these situations professionally and early,” he said.
Managers agreed on the need for reforms in workplace culture. Suggestions included offering performance-based incentives, organising team-building events, and holding weekly reviews to promote transparency and engagement.
“You become a better leader when you’re human, when you listen, share your own setbacks, and create a safe space,” said manager Ms Sibongulwazi Mpofu.
