The hospitality industry is one of the largest industries in the world; it’s the sector of service to the public. Working in this sector is very stressful, whether in cafes, restaurants, or hotels. Studies show that working in hospitality is one of the most stress-inducing jobs and is also recognized as an industry of exploitation and abuse.
People who work as waitresses, particularly women, face pressure from the job, sexist comments, sexual harassment, and more. As well as dealing with the job at hand which is being on your feet for hours on end, the pressure of memorizing orders, and dealing with rude customers, women also face being seen as just a service, as something to be stared at, grabbed, and catcalled.
Waitresses may be required to work long hours, often with little or no break time. This can lead to physical and mental fatigue and increased risk of injury due to repetitive motion or carrying heavy loads.
We all know how brutal hospitality can be; most of the time, part of the job is sucking up how hard it can be. The long shifts on an empty stomach and the 101 things to do in a short amount of time make you want to scream, but why does no one seem to try and make it easier?
Are Employers the problem?
Part of this reason is the company and the employers contribute to exploiting the workers. Many companies care more about their business making money but seem to forget the only way a business runs is because of workers. People forget employees are needed more than they give credit to.
One of the major issues faced by waitresses is low wages. Many waitresses are paid at or near the minimum wage, which can make it difficult for them to make ends meet and can lead to financial insecurity. This is especially true in high-cost cities or regions, where the cost of living is higher.
In addition to low wages, many waitresses do not receive benefits such as healthcare, sick leave, or vacation time. This can make it difficult for them to take care of their own health and well-being and can lead to the financial strain if they need to take time off work due to illness or injury.
Sexual harassment is another issue faced by many waitresses. They may be subjected to inappropriate comments or advances by customers or coworkers, which can have serious consequences for their physical and emotional well-being. It is important for employers to have policies in place to prevent and address sexual harassment, and to provide support and resources to employees who have experienced this type of abuse.
In conclusion, the exploitation of employees in the waitressing industry is a serious issue that needs to be addressed. Employers can take steps to prevent and address exploitation by paying fair wages, providing benefits and a safe and healthy work environment, and implementing policies to prevent sexual harassment. By taking these steps, employers can create a more equitable and sustainable industry for all.
