General FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions answered by other trainers! If you have more questions, don't hesitate to reach out to one of the Grand Opening Supervisors.
FIRST TIME FTS:
· BRING YOUR I-9 Identification - You will NOT be able to work without the IDs (Must be original documents! NOT a copy)
What do I need to bring for I-9’s
Driver's license, passport, birth certificate, and your social security card are usually the easiest and most common to bring. Please see the list of other acceptable documents if you have any questions. - Delilah Garcia
If this is your first time at a GO, you will need to fill out an I-9 form. Some documents acceptable to satisfy proof of identity and employment authorization (passport, or State ID and social security card, or State ID and birth certificate) - Kim Zepeda
What should I pack?
Nonslip shoes, a name tag, work pants and shirts (if you have them) should fill the majority of your suitcase. Make sure to pack some clothes to wear in your free time while relaxing in your room or exploring the city you are in. - Nathan Gonthier
Non-Slip Shoes for Crews, CFA Pants, Comfortable socks, CFA Polos (worn for training days before opening). Training polo/chefs coat will be provided for you, and if flying, do your best to avoid checking a bag. - Andrew Phillips
If this is your first GO, you will need all essentials for proper uniform etiquette (name tag, belt, gray/black Oobe pants, black non-slip shoes, black socks, Chick-fil-A polo/chef coats, and Chick-fil-A outerwear). Bring some things for your free time, but don't overpack because you will likely not use half the things you bring. - Kim Zepeda
Any (but not all) CFA polos you may have, clothes for recreation if the opportunity arises, and swimwear is optional depending on the location of your opening - Delilah Garcia
What will my hours look like?
Be prepared to be flexible. Hours usually include some longer days but can change at any point. Supporting the restaurant and the operator is always the number one priority so if their needs change, so can your schedule. - Kendall Wachter
Hours are subject to change depending on the volume/need of the store. Please be open and prepared for long days. Grand Opening week will look anywhere from 12–16-hour days/50-70-hour weeks. All these hours will be logged via NovaTime. If you are having trouble, ask one of the GOSs for assistance. - Kim Zepeda
You may work 50-60 hours a week with 12–14-hour shifts. These hours depend on trainer availability - Delilah Garcia
What will being in the hotels be like?
The hotels are always accommodating of your needs. The size of your room will vary based on location and time of your stay, but you will never be put into a bad situation. Laundry and a mini store are usually available in the lobby and the common spaces make a great place to build community and learn from your fellow trainers. - Nathan Gonthier
You will be given your own hotel room, paid for by CFA Inc. You do not spend much time at your hotel. Most of your time will be spent at the restaurant training the staff. - Andrew Phillips
What should I buy?
Try your best to buy very little before you come. When you arrive, feel free to stop and buy groceries, toiletries, and any extra items you may need. Remember though, you will be spending the majority of your time working and at the restaurant so don’t overspend. - Blair Berry
Ensure you have all the toiletries you will need for the time away. Also, make sure you have corporate-approved brand Shoes for Crews non-slips. - Andrew Phillips
You won't be required to buy anything. Chick-fil-A will provide $25 daily for food including travel days. You will not be required to turn in receipts for those, and it is a daily per diem that will be added to your paycheck. If this is your first opening, Chick-fil-A polos/chef coats will be provided upon arrival. Your break food is also complimentary, but do not abuse that privilege - Kim Zepeda
How can I best help the team and the operator?
Do your best to work with the GOS team and the operator to understand what is important to their business. Always put a focus on culture and making team members feel welcomed as you are representing Chick-fil-A Inc. on these assignments. You won’t be at these restaurants forever so set them up for excellence not only while you’re there, but when you leave as well. - Nathan Gonthier
Review Pathway procedures for any position you train on. Be open about your strengths and weaknesses. Have a positive attitude. Have a growth mindset. Be willing to step out of your comfort zone to help the team and store to be successful. Treat all with honor, dignity, and respect. Demonstrate the Chick-Fil-A core values in everything that you do. - Andrew Phillips
Train by using Pathway as your guide and stay away from using shortcuts and saying, “This is how we do it at my store” If you have any questions or suggestions on how a system can be improved bring it to the attention of your lead or GOS before making any adjustments - Delilah Garcia
Review Pathway procedures for any position you train on. Be open about your strengths and weaknesses. Have a positive attitude. Have a growth mindset. Be willing to step out of your comfort zone to help the team and store to be successful. Treat all with honor, dignity, and respect. Demonstrate the Chick-fil-A core values in everything that you do. - Kim Zepeda