The Service Industry, is a world of its own. Everyone and anyone who has ever been part of it will most likely agree. If you have been part of it for at least two years, you might have muttered once or twice that your restaurant or bar should have its own show. I am sure we have all seen the movie Waiting and can relate to a few scenes. We have all witnessed the sexual harassment, bias managers, unsanitary ways of handling food, over serving that obnoxious guest, or flagging the obnoxious guest because we’re simply not interested in dealing with them. Today, we will touch on ways to be better. knowing what you are selling, being able to be in control of certain situations and how you can make more money.
The biggest misconception about serving and bartending is that its easy. Depending on the type of person you are, it may be easy and come natural, and for others may take a few more tables and a couple extra weeded Friday nights to catch on. Nonetheless, it takes a certain kind of person to deal with the varieties of personalities, in the front of the restaurants and as well as the back. But on the contrary, what we lack the most is control. So many of us lose our cool, our composure when were a little busy and that needs to change.
Taking control of the situation, being in charge of the things you are capable of doing. You may not be able to get that extra well done steak out to your table who’s in a rush in 10 minutes, but who the hell orders a well done steak and who expects it to be ready in 10 minutes. But you do have control of telling your guest that because it is well done it will take about 20, that alone deletes their thought of it being fast and that might make them change their mind on their order, allowing them to get back to their business, without being pissed off at you that you can’t perform miracles. It may be simple to you, but when you walk away asking yourself, does that guy seriously think that’s possible? The answer is yes, people are that unaware and unfortunately it is our responsibilities to inform them the obvious, such as no well done steak can be ready in 10 minutes.
Information is key. Knowing the menu, knowing ingredients in drinks and food, will not only make you a more competent server, but it should also increase your tips. Being able to help or guide your guest through their meal, giving a simple suggestion. Most importantly, be honest! If you think something on the menu is nasty, tell them, but also suggest something that you think is good. Being able to connect with people will not only make them remember you, but also they will appreciate the human in you and thank you for not being the robot with the overused spiel that even you are sick of saying.
Attitude is so important in this industry. We need to stop with the pre judgmental comments before we even greet a table. Give everyone a chance, then make an opinion. Regardless of your opinion, you still have to serve them so why not make the best of it. If they are assholes, as cliché as it may sound, kill them with kindness. Keep in mind that in about 45 minutes they will be gone and you’ll move on and so will they. Allowing guest to get under your skin will only hurt you and your money. So don’t do it. Keep in mind that other people are around and may be paying attention to you and how you react. At the end of the day you are there to make money, make connection and network.
Now to the good stuff, the reason why we all show up, even if we were the night before telling ourselves were only having one drink, that turned into 4 beers and 3 shots of Jameson. The money. There is serious money to be made as long as you are willing to work for it. The Service Industry gives you the opportunity to have a flexible schedule, take days off, go on vacations, work all over the world, gives you experience on dealing with vast varieties of personalities and network with all types of people. Take advantage of every chance you receive. Meet as many people are you can, and build relationships with the guests you have. Have a positive attitude and have good work ethic.
