How to Show a Commis How to Do a Task

How to Show a Commis How to Do a Task

As a Demi Chef, there will be times when a Commis Chef needs your help. They may be learning a new recipe or preparing something they have never done before.

You might already know how to complete the task without thinking too much about it. But for someone who is still learning, even a simple job can be difficult.

One thing I have learned is that knowing how to do something does not always mean we know how to teach it.

When I show a new chef how to prepare something, I try to make sure they understand the method before asking them to work on their own.

Good training is not just showing someone what to do. It is making sure they can do it correctly after you have shown them.

Explain the Task Before You Start

Before demonstrating anything, make sure the Commis understands what they are going to learn.

For example, imagine you are teaching someone how to cut vegetables for a stir-fry.

Start by showing them the size and shape required by the recipe. Explain why the pieces need to be consistent.

Vegetables cut into different sizes may cook unevenly. They can also affect the presentation of the finished dish.

When the Commis understands what the result should look like, it becomes easier for them to follow the demonstration.

I prefer to explain one task at a time rather than giving too many instructions at once.

The goal is to make the work clear before they begin.

Show Them the Correct Way

Once the task is clear, demonstrate the correct method.

Work at a pace the Commis can follow.

Show them how to prepare the workstation and use the equipment safely. Then demonstrate each step using the kitchen's approved method.

For the vegetable preparation example, show the correct cutting technique and the required size.

Let them watch the process before asking them to try.

Sometimes experienced chefs work so quickly that new team members cannot follow what they are doing.

Teaching is different from working during a busy service.

You may need to slow down and explain things that normally feel obvious to you.

A few extra minutes spent demonstrating the correct method can save a lot of mistakes later.

Let Them Try the Task

After the demonstration, give the Commis an opportunity to practise.

I usually prefer to start with a small amount rather than giving them the whole preparation list immediately.

For example, let them cut a small batch of vegetables using the method you just demonstrated.

Stay nearby and observe how they work.

Pay attention to their technique and how they handle the equipment. Make sure they follow the required hygiene and safety procedures.

Try not to take over the task every time they make a small mistake.

Give them a chance to learn through practice while keeping the work safe.

Some people learn quickly. Others need to repeat the same task several times before they become comfortable.

That is normal when someone is developing a new skill.

Check Their Work and Give Feedback

Once the Commis finishes the task, take time to check the result.

Compare their work with the standard you demonstrated.

For example, the vegetable pieces may be too large or uneven.

Instead of simply telling them the work is wrong, show them what needs to improve.

You could explain that the pieces need to be smaller so they cook evenly. Then show the correct size again and let them practise another small batch.

I find that clear feedback helps people improve much faster than simply asking them to do the work again.

It is also important to recognise when something has been done well.

If the Commis follows the correct method and produces a good result, let them know.

This helps build their confidence and encourages them to continue improving.

Know When They Are Ready to Work Alone

After a few successful attempts, the Commis may be ready to complete more of the task independently.

But this depends on their ability and the type of work involved.

Some preparation tasks are simple to supervise from a distance. Others require closer attention because of food safety risks or the equipment being used.

Do not leave someone to handle a task they are not trained or authorised to perform.

For normal preparation work, you can gradually give them more responsibility as they demonstrate the correct method.

Check their progress and make sure the final result still meets the kitchen's standards.

If they continue making the same mistake, another demonstration may be needed.

The important thing is to make sure they understand the task before moving on to something more difficult.

Final Thoughts

Teaching a Commis Chef is one of the first opportunities for a Demi Chef to develop leadership skills.

You do not need to know how to manage a whole team yet. Start by helping someone learn one task properly.

Explain the work and demonstrate the correct method. Give them time to practise and check their result.

Be patient when they need more guidance.

As they become more confident, they will need less help with the same task.

A good Demi Chef does not just complete their own work. They also help the people around them become better chefs.