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Employment
Our Principles

Olive Garden's guiding principles were developed in 1995 by team members from all levels of the organization. These principles are the philosophical touchstone for all the Olive Garden team members and can be expressed in two thoughts:

HOLD US TO HIGH STANDARDS
TREAT US WITH RESPECT

Olive Garden Principles

1. We are committed to open and honest communication, mutual respect and strong teamwork.

2. We are clear on each individual’s role, accountabilities and key performance measures.

3. We do not compromise standards in selection, training and job performance.

• We will only hire people with the skills and potential to succeed.

• People only advance from training when they have demonstrated the required competencies.

• Peer interviewing helps us select the right people for the team.

The greater danger for most of us is not that our aim is too high and we miss it, but that it is too low and we reach it - Michelangelo

4. In the process of making a change, we seek the opinions of those closest to the action, listen and value their ideas.

5. Everyone should expect regular, on-going training opportunities to sharpen and advance their skills.

6. When accountabilities are not being met, we act quickly.

• Feedback

• Re-training/Redirection

• Assess results with appropriate consequences

7.We will achieve the results and share our successes.

Principles