Fraud: how do you avoid it at the checkout?
Closing the till is an essential part of cash control in any establishment. But how can it be done more productively?
Small, medium or large establishments all face a common problem: embezzlement. To a certain extent, differences at the time of closing the till are normal and acceptable. However, if this situation occurs frequently, you may be the victim of one of the most common problems in the world of catering. Find out how to avoid this type of fraud.
How do you identify fraud in the cash register?
The first step in combating this is to know the warning signs. If your establishment is not part of a large corporate network or franchising system, then it is even more vulnerable to fraud at the time of closing the till. Even small differences and errors, if they recur, can be a sign that cash control is compromised. To be able to identify fraud, you need to be vigilant and monitor the entire process, especially at critical moments such as the entry of new employees.
Staff training and motivation are key to preventing fraud
A well-structured and trained team is the starting point for building lasting, trusting relationships and avoiding situations such as fraud. The most important thing is that each employee has a well-defined role, especially when it comes to financial transactions. Make sure that each shift has someone trained to deal with the different situations related to payments. These employees should have specific training so that they feel more secure when carrying out transactions and know how to solve any problems.
Find the balance between familiarity and formality in relationships
In addition to a well-trained and structured team, it is essential to establish a certain formality in relations between the leadership figures and the rest of the team. It’s important to have a good atmosphere between employees, but everyone’s roles and functions must be well defined to avoid abuses of power or trust. These situations can, in extreme cases, lead to fraud.
Close control of cash flow is essential
Controlling cash flow is an elementary and fundamental point for identifying and avoiding deviations. That’s why, in addition to closely monitoring this process, you should always have a reliable person in charge. At the same time, you should make regular financial statements for the business.
Lead by example and start with values
Any leader must lead by example and pass on ethical values to their team. Thinking only about punitive policies is not the solution to the problem. In addition to monitoring and prevention strategies, preventing fraud at the time of closing the till requires regular team training and exemplary leadership with total transparency.
Automation is essential to avoid human error
A management system makes it possible to close the till more securely and automatically, with less chance of fraud and embezzlement. For example, you can define who has access to the restaurant’s result and who is authorized to reopen the till. Choose a system that integrates all your establishment’s sales, whether in person or home delivery. Contact our team of experts to find out how to automate cash control in your business and minimize the risk of fraud.
