Emotional Exhaustion Stressors and Coping Strategies in London’s Fine Dining Restaurants.

Abstract

This study explores emotional exhaustion stressors and coping strategies among frontline employees (FLEs) in London’s fine dining restaurants. Analysis of 23 semi-structured interviews reveals that factors such as unreasonable customer demands, incivility, and lack of support significantly contribute to emotional exhaustion and burnout. Strategies like self-care, mindfulness, and organisational support were identified as effective in mitigating these challenges. The findings highlight the critical role of working conditions and organisational lack of support in shaping emotional exhaustion and provide actionable insights for improving employee well-being, fostering resilience, and reducing turnover in the fine dining sector.