I was thinking of going to bartending school. Can a guy make a good second income from bartending?

Answer 1

Hey Matt,

I don't agree with the bartending school. I bartended for 12 years and from what I have seen, they do a lousy job training you and when they say they have job placement, what they are really saying is:

"Look, I can get you a job at the American Legion Hall or someplace else that nobody wants to work at, but don't forget to pay me my $500 or you don't get the referral"

What's in a rum and coke? See, you are as qualified as I was!
Different bars have different pours and places like TGI Fridays don't ever hire from outside anyway, and they have their own drink recipes.

Get to know the owners (without being a regular) and get to know the bartenders. That is when you'll find out about openings. People will tell you to submit an application. In all the years that I have done this, no manager or owner has ever gone back and looked at the submitted applications. I have NEVER filled out an application before getting a job bartending -- They've always asked me to work for them and then I have filled everything out after the fact.

Yes, you can make a decent living (At the right bar), just keep in mind that you work at most bars either the open or the close shift. Close for most bars is 1-3am. Allow another hour to get out (Stocking and Cleaning) and it's early in the morning. Many I have known have lost their daytime jobs because of their nighttime gigs bartending. It might work if you can do banquet or Hotel bartending. You are usually done by 10 or 11 at night and rarely have any restocking to do so you are out fairly quickly.

Good luck,

James in San Diego

Answer 2

Sure, depending on what you might call "good income."

Bartending makes for a nice second job (first job for some). It's hard work, but the hours are usually very flexible (typically nights and weekends).

You'll most likely start out with the least desirable shifts and bar stations. Some spots might restrict your customer interaction until you've gained some experience.

Answer 3

yes you can, but you also need experience. The real money is made in the clubs and busy pubs.

What I found was that fit is very important. You should find a place where you WANT to work, because you feel comfortable there. Some people would not want to work at a swanky lounge, others would not want to work ina rowdy country bar, it just depends on the type of person you are.

AFter you get 6 months solid experience, yes you can make a good second income.

Answer 4

depends on where you work since most of that income will come from tips...

Check out a few bars and see how well the bartenders (and waiters/waitresses) are being tipped... the bartender will usually get a take (10%) of the waiters' tips in addition to any he gets himself...

Answer 5

yes, but just FYI, most managers (including myself) won't hire bartenders from bartending school...they tend to teach you how to steal. I prefer someone to have experience and references, or to work their way up from inside out. I'm telling you this so you know what to expect when you look for a job.

Answer 6

Definitely!

Answer 7

yes of course!!!!! i am a woman and would love to see more men out there instead of half dressed females playing it up for a tip.gay bars might actually be nice for you too!!!! not that i think your gay its just that the men would appreciate it.

Answer 8

guys actually make BETTER bartendars, especially if you remember names & drinks!! guys also tend to make drinks a bit stronger than women, so more drunk amkes better drinks, makes bigger tips!!! i have 2 friends that are all bartendars!! make good life and meet lotts of cuteies!!!

Answer 9

It really depends on you and the bar.

Answer 10

somewhat. I guess it depends on where you are bar tending at too