1. What are the top challenges faced by restaurants in staff retention in New York?
The top challenges faced by restaurants in staff retention in New York include:
1. High turnover rates: Restaurants in New York often struggle with high turnover rates due to the competitive nature of the industry and the transient nature of the workforce in the city. Employees may leave for better pay, more attractive benefits, or simply to explore other opportunities in such a dynamic environment.
2. Cost of living: The high cost of living in New York can make it difficult for restaurants to offer competitive wages and benefits to retain staff. Employees may seek higher paying jobs to make ends meet or may be forced to take on additional jobs, leading to burnout and turnover.
3. Lack of career development opportunities: Many restaurant employees in New York may feel limited in their career growth and development within the industry. Without clear pathways for advancement or training programs, employees may seek opportunities elsewhere for career progression.
4. Work-life balance: The fast-paced and demanding nature of the restaurant industry in New York can impact employees’ work-life balance. Long hours, weekend shifts, and late nights can take a toll on staff, leading to burnout and turnover if not effectively managed.
5. Competition for talent: With a plethora of dining options in New York, restaurants face fierce competition for top talent. Employees may be enticed to leave for a more renowned or trendy establishment, making it challenging for restaurants to retain their best staff.
Addressing these challenges requires a proactive approach to staff retention, including providing competitive compensation and benefits, offering opportunities for career growth and development, promoting a healthy work-life balance, and creating a positive and supportive work environment to foster employee loyalty and engagement.
2. How does the minimum wage law impact restaurant staffing in New York?
The minimum wage law in New York has a significant impact on restaurant staffing. Here are some ways it influences the industry:
1. Increased Labor Costs: With the minimum wage law requiring higher pay for employees, restaurant owners have to allocate a larger portion of their budget to cover these increased labor costs. This can make it challenging for restaurants to hire an adequate number of employees to maintain efficient operations.
2. Staffing Levels: Some restaurants may choose to reduce their staffing levels in response to higher minimum wage requirements in order to control costs. This can lead to employees taking on additional responsibilities and potentially becoming overwhelmed with the workload, impacting the overall customer experience.
3. Menu Prices: To offset the higher labor costs associated with the minimum wage law, some restaurants may increase menu prices. This can affect customer demand and potentially lead to a decrease in sales, further impacting the restaurant’s ability to maintain staffing levels.
4. Employee Morale: On a positive note, higher minimum wages can lead to improved employee morale and job satisfaction. This can result in lower turnover rates and better overall performance from staff members, ultimately benefiting the restaurant in the long run.
Overall, the minimum wage law in New York plays a crucial role in shaping restaurant staffing decisions and operational strategies. Restaurant owners must carefully consider the implications of these regulations on their staffing practices to ensure business success in a competitive industry.
3. What are the legal requirements for employee breaks in New York’s restaurants?
In New York, there are specific legal requirements for employee breaks in restaurants that employers must adhere to:
1. Meal breaks: Employees who work shifts of more than 6 hours are entitled to at least a 30-minute unpaid meal break. This break must be taken no later than the end of the fifth hour of work.
2. Rest breaks: Employees are entitled to a 10-minute paid rest break for every four hours worked. This break should be scheduled as close to the middle of the work period as possible.
3. Compliance: Employers must ensure that employees are provided with the required breaks as per the New York labor laws. Failure to provide these breaks can result in penalties for the employer.
It is crucial for restaurant employers in New York to understand and comply with these legal requirements to ensure that their employees are provided with the necessary breaks during their shifts.
4. How can restaurants in New York effectively manage shift scheduling?
To effectively manage shift scheduling in restaurants in New York, several key strategies can be implemented:
1. Utilize scheduling software: Investing in scheduling software can greatly streamline the process of creating and managing shifts. These tools can help in creating schedules, assigning shifts, managing time-off requests, and communicating changes to staff.
2. Prioritize communication: Clear communication with staff is essential for successful shift scheduling. Make sure to establish a platform for staff to request time off, swap shifts, and communicate any scheduling conflicts. Regularly update staff on their schedules well in advance to minimize last-minute changes.
3. Consider employee preferences: Take into account the availability and preferences of your staff when creating the schedule. By accommodating employee preferences to the best of your ability, you can improve morale and reduce turnover.
4. Implement a fair scheduling policy: Creating a fair scheduling policy that considers factors such as seniority, availability, and workload can help in reducing conflicts and ensuring that shifts are distributed equitably among staff.
By implementing these strategies, restaurants in New York can effectively manage shift scheduling, leading to improved efficiency, employee satisfaction, and overall operational success.
5. What are the best practices for recruiting hourly employees in New York?
1. Utilize online job boards and social media platforms to reach a wide pool of candidates. Websites like Indeed, Craigslist, and industry-specific job boards can help attract hourly employees in New York.
2. Network with local culinary schools, vocational training programs, and hospitality associations to connect with potential candidates who are looking to start their career in the foodservice industry.
3. Host job fairs or open houses at your restaurant to meet candidates in person and give them a glimpse of your work environment.
4. Offer competitive wages and benefits to attract top talent. In New York, where the cost of living is high, it is important to provide hourly employees with fair compensation and perks such as paid time off, health insurance, and meal discounts.
5. Conduct thorough interviews to assess candidates’ skills, experience, and cultural fit. Look for candidates who are reliable, customer-focused, and able to work well in a fast-paced environment.
By following these best practices, you can effectively recruit hourly employees in New York and build a strong team to support your restaurant operations.
6. How do labor laws in New York affect restaurant overtime policies?
1. In New York, labor laws have a significant impact on restaurant overtime policies. According to the New York State Department of Labor, non-exempt employees who work more than 40 hours in a workweek are entitled to overtime pay at a rate of 1.5 times their regular rate of pay. This applies to most restaurant staff, including servers, cooks, and dishwashers, unless they fall under specific exemptions.
2. Employers in New York must comply with both state and federal overtime laws. The state regulations may sometimes be more stringent than federal laws, so it is crucial for restaurant owners and managers to be aware of both sets of regulations and follow the one that provides the most protection to their employees.
3. Additionally, restaurant employers in New York must keep accurate records of employees’ hours worked, wages paid, and overtime calculations. Failing to maintain proper records or pay overtime as required by law can result in costly fines and legal consequences for the restaurant.
4. It is essential for restaurant owners and managers to regularly review and update their overtime policies to ensure compliance with New York labor laws. This may include setting clear guidelines for overtime eligibility, providing proper training on timekeeping procedures, and implementing systems to track and calculate overtime accurately.
5. By understanding and adhering to New York’s labor laws regarding overtime, restaurant owners can protect both their employees’ rights and their business from potential legal issues. Keeping up with the latest developments in labor law and seeking legal guidance when necessary can help ensure a fair and compliant work environment for restaurant staff.
7. What strategies can restaurants in New York use to reduce employee turnover?
There are several strategies that restaurants in New York can implement to reduce employee turnover:
1. Competitive wages and benefits: Ensuring that employees are compensated fairly for their work can help to increase job satisfaction and reduce turnover rates.
2. Implementing employee recognition programs: Acknowledging and rewarding employees for their hard work can boost morale and improve retention.
3. Providing opportunities for growth and advancement: Offering training programs, mentorship opportunities, and clear paths for career development can motivate employees to stay with the company longer.
4. Creating a positive work culture: Fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment where employees feel valued and appreciated can help reduce turnover.
5. Improving work-life balance: Offering flexible scheduling options and paid time off can help employees achieve a better work-life balance, leading to higher job satisfaction and lower turnover rates.
6. Conducting exit interviews: Understanding the reasons why employees are leaving can provide valuable insights into areas that need improvement and help reduce turnover in the future.
7. Providing consistent and constructive feedback: Regularly communicating with employees about their performance, recognizing their achievements, and offering guidance for improvement can help boost morale and increase retention rates.
8. What are the key indicators of employee satisfaction in New York restaurants?
Key indicators of employee satisfaction in New York restaurants include:
1. Fair compensation: Employees in New York restaurants expect to be fairly compensated for their work, considering the high cost of living in the city. This includes competitive wages, tips, and benefits such as health insurance and paid time off.
2. Opportunities for growth: Employees value opportunities for career advancement and skill development. Restaurants that offer training programs, promotion opportunities, and support for further education tend to have more satisfied employees.
3. Work-life balance: New York is a fast-paced city, and restaurant staff often work long hours. Providing flexible scheduling, adequate breaks, and time off for rest and relaxation can greatly impact employee satisfaction.
4. Positive work environment: A positive and supportive work culture, where employees feel respected, valued, and appreciated, is crucial for employee satisfaction. This includes effective communication, teamwork, and a sense of camaraderie among staff members.
5. Recognition and feedback: Employees appreciate recognition for their hard work and contributions. Regular feedback and constructive criticism can help employees improve and feel valued in their roles.
6. Employee benefits and perks: Offering additional benefits such as discounts on meals, performance bonuses, staff outings, and employee recognition programs can further enhance employee satisfaction.
7. Health and safety measures: Ensuring a safe and healthy work environment is essential for employee satisfaction. Restaurants in New York should comply with all health and safety regulations and prioritize the well-being of their staff.
8. Employee engagement: Engaging employees through team-building activities, staff meetings, and open communication channels can improve overall job satisfaction and foster a sense of belonging within the restaurant team.
9. How can restaurants in New York encourage employee loyalty and long-term commitment?
Restaurants in New York can encourage employee loyalty and long-term commitment through various strategies:
1. Competitive Compensation: Offering competitive wages and benefits can attract top talent and incentivize employees to stay with the restaurant long-term.
2. Career Development Opportunities: Providing opportunities for career growth and advancement within the organization can motivate employees to commit to their roles and invest in their professional development.
3. Positive Work Environment: Creating a positive work culture that promotes teamwork, respect, and open communication can foster loyalty among employees and make them feel valued and appreciated.
4. Recognition and Rewards: Recognizing and rewarding employees for their hard work and accomplishments can boost morale and encourage long-term commitment.
5. Training and Development: Investing in training programs and skill development for employees can enhance their job satisfaction and encourage them to stay with the restaurant for the long term.
6. Work-Life Balance: Promoting a healthy work-life balance by offering flexible scheduling options and time off can help employees feel more satisfied with their jobs and committed to the restaurant.
7. Employee Engagement: Involving employees in decision-making processes, seeking their feedback, and listening to their concerns can help foster a sense of ownership and loyalty among staff members.
8. Regular Feedback and Performance Reviews: Providing regular feedback and performance evaluations to employees can help them understand their strengths and areas for improvement, leading to greater job satisfaction and long-term commitment.
9. Employee Benefits: Offering additional perks such as employee discounts, meal allowances, or wellness programs can further enhance employee loyalty and retention in the competitive New York restaurant industry.
10. What are the [training and development opportunities for restaurant employees in New York?
1. In New York, restaurant employees have access to a wide range of training and development opportunities to enhance their skills and further their careers in the industry. Many restaurant establishments in New York offer structured training programs for new hires, which may include on-the-job training, orientation sessions, and mentorship programs to help employees acclimate to their roles and responsibilities.
2. Additionally, there are various culinary schools, hospitality programs, and professional development workshops available in New York City specifically tailored for restaurant employees. These programs cover a range of topics such as food safety, customer service, management skills, and culinary techniques to help employees advance in their careers.
3. Restaurant associations and industry organizations in New York also provide opportunities for networking, career advancement, and continued education through events, seminars, and certifications. These resources can help restaurant employees stay current with industry trends, build their professional network, and learn new skills to excel in their roles.
Overall, New York offers a rich landscape of training and development opportunities for restaurant employees to grow and succeed in the competitive hospitality industry.
11. How does the seasonal nature of the restaurant industry impact staffing in New York?
The seasonal nature of the restaurant industry in New York has a significant impact on staffing. Here are several ways in which this impact manifests:
1. Fluctuating Demand: Seasonal fluctuations in tourism, events, and local activities directly affect the demand for restaurant services. During peak seasons like summer or holidays, restaurants experience a surge in customers, requiring more staff to handle the increased workload. Conversely, during off-peak seasons, such as winter months, the demand decreases, leading to potential staff layoffs or reduced working hours.
2. Recruitment Challenges: The seasonal nature of the industry poses challenges in recruiting and retaining staff. Many hospitality workers prefer full-time, year-round employment for stability and benefits. Hiring seasonal staff requires continuous recruitment, training, and onboarding processes, which can be time-consuming and costly for restaurants.
3. Staff Retention: Seasonal fluctuations can impact staff morale and job security. In industries where turnover rates are already high, the seasonal nature of the restaurant business may lead to increased turnover as employees seek more stable employment opportunities.
4. Scheduling Flexibility: Restaurants must adapt their staffing levels and schedules to match the seasonal demand. This requires effective workforce planning and scheduling to ensure adequate coverage during peak times while managing labor costs during slower periods.
In conclusion, the seasonal nature of the restaurant industry in New York presents both challenges and opportunities for staffing management. Effective strategies such as cross-training employees, offering incentives for seasonal work, and implementing flexible scheduling can help restaurants navigate these fluctuations and optimize their staffing levels throughout the year.
12. What are the key considerations for hiring foreign workers in New York restaurants?
1. Work Visa Requirements: One of the key considerations for hiring foreign workers in New York restaurants is to ensure that they have the appropriate work visa to legally work in the United States. Employers should familiarize themselves with the different types of work visas available, such as H-1B visas for specialty occupations or J-1 visas for cultural exchange programs.
2. Language Skills: When hiring foreign workers, language skills are crucial, especially in a customer-facing role in a restaurant. Employers should assess the English proficiency of potential hires to ensure effective communication with colleagues and customers.
3. Cultural Sensitivity: New York is a diverse city with a melting pot of cultures, and hiring foreign workers can bring a unique perspective to the restaurant. Employers should promote a culture of inclusivity and provide training on cultural sensitivity to create a harmonious work environment.
4. Immigration Compliance: It is important for employers to comply with immigration laws and regulations when hiring foreign workers. This includes verifying their employment eligibility through Form I-9 and keeping up-to-date records of their visa status.
5. Labor Laws and Regulations: Employers should also ensure that foreign workers are aware of their rights and responsibilities under New York labor laws. It is essential to provide proper training on workplace policies, safety procedures, and employee benefits to all staff members, including foreign workers.
6. Recruitment and Retention: To attract and retain foreign talent, restaurants should consider offering competitive wages, benefits, and opportunities for career growth and development. Creating a positive work environment and fostering a sense of belonging can help in retaining foreign workers in the long run.
By considering these key factors, restaurant owners in New York can successfully hire and manage foreign workers while complying with relevant laws and regulations.
13. How can restaurants in New York effectively manage a diverse workforce?
To effectively manage a diverse workforce in New York restaurants, the following strategies can be implemented:
1. Diversity Training: Provide comprehensive training on diversity and inclusion to all employees to foster understanding, respect, and empathy among staff members.
2. Cultural Sensitivity: Encourage cultural sensitivity and awareness among team members to promote a welcoming and inclusive work environment.
3. Equal Opportunities: Ensure that all employees have equal opportunities for growth and advancement within the organization, regardless of their background or identity.
4. Open Communication: Foster open communication channels where employees feel comfortable sharing their thoughts, concerns, and experiences without fear of judgment or discrimination.
5. Employee Resource Groups: Establish Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) to provide support and resources for employees from diverse backgrounds.
6. Fair Policies: Implement fair and inclusive policies and procedures to address issues related to diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace.
7. Feedback Mechanisms: Create mechanisms for feedback and suggestions from employees to continuously improve diversity management strategies.
8. Celebration of Diversity: Celebrate multiculturalism and diversity through events, activities, and initiatives that showcase the richness of different backgrounds and perspectives.
9. Leadership Commitment: Ensure that leadership is committed to promoting diversity and inclusion at all levels of the organization.
By incorporating these strategies, New York restaurants can effectively manage a diverse workforce and create a positive and inclusive work environment for all employees.
14. What are the best practices for conducting employee performance reviews in New York?
1. Provide Regular Feedback: It is essential to provide ongoing feedback to employees throughout the year, rather than waiting for annual performance reviews. This helps employees understand their strengths and areas for improvement in real-time, leading to better overall performance.
2. Set Clear Expectations: Before conducting performance reviews, make sure that employees are aware of the specific criteria upon which they will be evaluated. Clearly outline performance standards, goals, and objectives so that employees know what is expected of them.
3. Use a Structured Approach: Follow a structured performance review process that includes a formal evaluation form or template to ensure consistency and fairness across all employees. This can help managers assess performance objectively and provide constructive feedback.
4. Focus on Behavior and Results: When evaluating employee performance, focus on both behavioral aspects (such as teamwork, communication, and attitude) and results achieved (such as sales targets, customer satisfaction metrics, and project completion).
5. Encourage Two-way Communication: Performance reviews should be a two-way conversation where employees have the opportunity to share their perspectives, challenges, and career goals. Encourage open dialogue and listen actively to employee feedback.
6. Provide Training and Development Opportunities: Use performance reviews as a platform to discuss training and development needs with employees. Identify areas where additional training or support is needed to help employees grow and succeed in their roles.
7. Document Performance Discussions: It is important to document performance discussions and agreements reached during the performance review process. This documentation can serve as a reference point for future evaluations and help track employee progress over time.
8. Recognize and Reward Achievements: Acknowledge and appreciate employees’ hard work, achievements, and contributions during performance reviews. Recognizing employees for their efforts can boost morale and motivation.
9. Address Performance Issues Promptly: If performance issues are identified during the review process, address them promptly and constructively. Provide specific feedback on areas of improvement and work with employees to create a plan for development.
10. Follow Legal Requirements: Ensure that performance reviews are conducted in compliance with relevant employment laws and regulations in New York, including anti-discrimination laws and privacy regulations.
By following these best practices for conducting employee performance reviews in New York, restaurants can effectively evaluate and support their staff to drive better performance, employee engagement, and overall business success.
15. How can restaurants in New York address workplace conflicts among staff?
Restaurants in New York can address workplace conflicts among staff by implementing the following strategies:
1. Establish clear communication channels: Encouraging open communication between team members and management can help address conflicts before they escalate. Regular staff meetings and one-on-one check-ins can provide opportunities for employees to voice their concerns.
2. Provide conflict resolution training: Offering training on conflict resolution techniques can equip staff with the skills needed to address and resolve disputes effectively. This can help prevent conflicts from escalating and create a more harmonious work environment.
3. Create a positive work culture: Fostering a positive work culture based on respect, teamwork, and mutual support can help prevent conflicts from arising in the first place. Encouraging collaboration and celebrating achievements can boost morale and reduce tension among staff.
4. Implement a clear disciplinary process: Establishing a fair and transparent disciplinary process can hold employees accountable for their actions and help address conflicts in a timely manner. Consistent enforcement of policies can help maintain a professional work environment.
5. Seek mediation when necessary: In cases where conflicts cannot be resolved internally, restaurants can consider bringing in a neutral third party mediator to help facilitate discussions and find a resolution that is acceptable to all parties involved.
By proactively addressing workplace conflicts through effective communication, training, a positive work culture, clear policies, and mediation when necessary, restaurants in New York can create a harmonious and productive work environment for their staff.
16. What are the current trends in employee benefits offered by restaurants in New York?
1. One current trend in employee benefits offered by restaurants in New York is an increased focus on mental health support for staff. This includes providing access to counseling services, mental health resources, and promoting a healthy work-life balance.
2. Another trend is the offering of flexible scheduling options to accommodate the diverse needs of restaurant employees. This can include shift swapping, remote work opportunities, and the ability to set preferences for work hours.
3. Restaurant employers in New York are also increasingly offering wellness programs and initiatives to support the physical health of their staff. This can include gym memberships, healthy food options, and incentives for participating in wellness activities.
4. Additionally, restaurants are becoming more inclusive and diverse in their benefits offerings, with a focus on providing resources and support for marginalized groups within the industry. This can include diversity training, cultural sensitivity programs, and affinity groups for employees.
5. Finally, some restaurants in New York are starting to offer additional financial incentives and perks to their employees, such as student loan assistance, retirement savings plans, and performance-based bonuses to attract top talent and retain staff in a competitive market.
17. How does the local culinary school scene impact staffing in New York restaurants?
1. The local culinary school scene in New York City has a significant impact on staffing in restaurants in various ways. Firstly, culinary schools serve as a talent pool for restaurants, providing a steady stream of trained professionals entering the workforce. Restaurants often recruit directly from these schools, looking for fresh talent and individuals with a passion for the industry.
2. Culinary schools also play a role in shaping the local restaurant scene by influencing trends and standards in the industry. Graduates of these schools bring with them new skills, techniques, and ideas that can enhance the dining experience for customers and contribute to the overall competitiveness of restaurants.
3. Additionally, culinary schools can help address staffing shortages in the industry by providing a pipeline of skilled workers to meet the demand for qualified restaurant staff. This can be particularly beneficial in a city like New York, where the restaurant scene is highly competitive and constantly evolving.
4. On the other hand, the large number of culinary school graduates entering the workforce can also lead to increased competition for jobs in restaurants, pushing employers to offer competitive wages and benefits to attract and retain top talent. Overall, the local culinary school scene plays a crucial role in shaping staffing dynamics in New York restaurants, impacting recruitment, training, and the overall quality of the workforce in the industry.
18. What are the local resources available for restaurant staffing in New York?
In New York, there is a wide range of local resources available for restaurant staffing. Some of the key resources include:
1. Culinary Schools: New York is home to top culinary schools such as the Culinary Institute of America and the Institute of Culinary Education. These schools produce graduates who are trained and passionate about the hospitality industry, making them valuable recruits for restaurants.
2. Job Fairs and Hiring Events: Throughout the year, there are various job fairs and hiring events specifically tailored for the restaurant industry in New York. These events provide a platform for restaurants to meet potential candidates face-to-face and streamline the hiring process.
3. Staffing Agencies: There are several staffing agencies in New York that specialize in providing temporary and permanent staff for restaurants. These agencies pre-screen candidates, saving restaurants time and effort in the hiring process.
4. Online Job Boards: Popular online job boards such as Indeed, Craigslist, and Poached Jobs have a dedicated section for restaurant jobs in New York. Restaurants can post job openings and browse through resumes to find suitable candidates.
5. Networking Events: Restaurants can also leverage networking events within the hospitality industry to connect with potential candidates. Industry-specific events and conferences provide a platform for restaurants to meet experienced professionals and talented individuals looking for job opportunities.
By utilizing these local resources, restaurants in New York can effectively recruit and hire qualified staff to meet their staffing needs.
19. How can technology be leveraged to streamline employee management in New York restaurants?
In New York restaurants, technology can be leveraged in various ways to streamline employee management:
1. Scheduling software: Implementing scheduling software can help managers create and assign shifts efficiently, taking into account factors such as availability and skill sets of employees. This can reduce scheduling conflicts and overtime costs.
2. Time and attendance tracking systems: Utilizing technology for time and attendance tracking can help ensure accurate payroll processing and compliance with labor laws. Biometric systems or mobile apps can streamline clocking in and out processes.
3. Training platforms: Online training platforms can be used to onboard new employees and provide ongoing training for existing staff. This can help maintain consistency in service standards and reduce the time spent on in-person training sessions.
4. Communication tools: Utilizing communication tools such as messaging apps or intranet platforms can facilitate seamless communication between employees and management. This can enhance collaboration, address issues promptly, and keep everyone informed.
5. Performance management software: Implementing performance management software can streamline the process of setting goals, conducting performance reviews, and providing feedback to employees. This can help track employee progress and identify areas for improvement.
By leveraging technology in these ways, New York restaurants can improve efficiency, reduce administrative tasks, and enhance overall employee management practices.
20. What are the emerging employment laws that will impact restaurant staffing in New York?
1. One emerging employment law that will impact restaurant staffing in New York is the Fair Workweek Law, which requires employers to provide predictable work schedules to their employees. This law aims to prevent last-minute scheduling changes and ensure that employees have enough time to plan their personal lives outside of work.
2. Another important law is the Salary History Ban, which prohibits employers from asking job applicants about their salary history during the hiring process. This law is designed to address pay equity issues and prevent discrimination based on previous salary levels.
3. The New York City Council recently passed legislation that requires fast-food employers to provide advance notice of work schedules and pay a premium for last-minute schedule changes. This law, known as the Fair Workweek Law for Fast Food Workers, aims to protect the rights of fast-food employees and ensure they have more control over their work schedules.
4. Additionally, New York employers must comply with the state’s minimum wage laws, which continue to increase each year. Employers must stay informed about the latest minimum wage rates and ensure that their employees are paid correctly to avoid violations and penalties.
5. Sexual harassment prevention training is also crucial for restaurant staff in New York, as employers are required to provide anti-harassment training to all employees on an annual basis. This training helps create a safe and respectful work environment and reduces the risk of harassment incidents within the restaurant industry.
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