Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Kristyn Eitel . We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Kristyn , thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Do you have any thoughts about how to create a more inclusive workplace?
Creating inclusive work spaces is a top priority of mine as well as our overall company culture; we believe in empowering team members to come as they are and be their 100% true, authentic selves. At times, that’s not as easy as it should or could be and it’s important to create not only safe, but affirming work spaces. To that end, sometimes, that means leading educational and inclusive discussions within the team setting- by doing so, we’re encouraging others to be a part of the processes of truly creative diverse, equitable and inclusive spaces; people can then be a part of a conversation or opportunity vs. being told of one. Participation is key to that success.
Kristyn , love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
Kristyn Eitel is a proud Milwaukee hospitality veteran and dedicated community advocate with over 30 years in the hospitality business; a career that starting off as a dishwasher then server and nearly every other job there is in working in a restaurant. Kristyn Eitel is a proud UWM graduate, Milwaukee Business Journal 40 under 40 alum, who’s put reinvesting in the community at the top of the priority list. “I believe our restaurants need to live authentically in the communities in which they occupy. To do that, it’s our job to support the people, initiatives, and priorities that ultimately push us all forward. BelAir Cantina is a space that prides itself on the notion of ‘come as you are’…these are establishments where you will always have a seat at the table.”
Kristyn’s Powered by Tacos program, a philanthropic effort that raises funds in which are directly reinvested in our surrounding communities. Since its inception, the Powered by Tacos program has awarded $153,000 to local organizations and community efforts. Past recipients of funds are the Tosa Skate Park, Urban Ecology Center,
Camp Minikani, Journey House, and Ronald McDonald House Charities.
How do you keep in touch with clients and foster brand loyalty?
Through maintaining constant communication with industry stakeholders; it’s difficult at times, especially when you’re in the midst of seasonal sales pushes and promotional initiatives, however, staying in touch and keeping dialogues going allows for creative collaboration and further brand growth and loyalty. Those opportunities and ideas 9 out of 10 times translate to front facing programming and incentives that drive business.
How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?
After navigating a very uncertain and vulnerable two years during the COVID-19 pandemic, BelAir had to pivot quickly and act responsibly in coordination with every step of progress and setbacks during that time. This experience plus a dedicated team proved to be the winning combination for not only surviving but finding a positive path towards the future.
“Flexibility, patience, and simply listening better have to be three of the major takeaways from the last few years.”
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @kristyneitel11
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristyn-eitel-a6394b25/