It’s no secret that the quick-serve industry has a high turnover rate, and the time and money businesses spend to hire new employees add up fast. But some operators are turning to mobile platforms to change employee hiring and retention strategies, thanks in part to a high percentage of Millennial workers.

“The trend out there is to accommodate certainly the newest generation of worker … with as much of an ability to interact with you as a potential employer via their phone,” says David Lewis, president and CEO of OperationsInc, a human resources consulting firm.

For example, Jobaline.com offers Web-based apps through which applicants complete applications through a mobile device, Web browser, or even via text message. Luis Salazar, CEO of Jobaline.com, says advantages to a mobile-based hiring platform include the option to search for a temporary employee when a staff member calls in sick. “It’s like having your own virtual staffing agency,” he says.

Some mobile apps offer streamlined communication between operators and employees. For example, Red e App offers a direct network-based communication and can also store content like training manuals.

“On the company’s end, they get to see when you come in when you read your messages,” says Jonathan Erwin, CEO and founder of Red e App. “They get to welcome you, train you, onboard you, and get compliance and regulatory information to you. It’s never been possible before.”