Waitressing job?!?

Question

Someone has offered me a job as a waitress and think that I have some experience.. I am actually a bank teller and i think the fact that I can work under pressure and multi task is the key factor. I just wanted to know what other job responsibilties would I have and how much do u guys think I would be making off of tips? I would be working friday saturday and sunday night. Also it is a Diner in one of the nicest/richest towns in my state..Any ideas?!

Answer 1

Waitressing is extremely difficult, especially if you have no experience. It's hard work. Think of it like this...unless you're real cute, and you can juggle 5 plates at one time, I wouldn't worry about the money. Don't quit your bank job.

Answer 2

You can make as much money as you are worth. Some think that a server (not waitress) doesn't have to know much but, they would be wrong. And you only think you know what working under pressure is until you are a server. You need to have a good memory, know the ingredients in the foods you serve as well as the entire menu, be able to anticipate your guests (not customers) needs, be timely and accurate, you need to be agile and quick on your feet. You may also have to clear all your own tables, and if you can't do that quickly, you will lose money by not having anyone seated.
It also makes no difference how wealthy the neighborhood is. Some folks just don't tip well, but I can say from experience that the ones who do more than make up for those that don't. So you can't get an attitude if someone walks out without leaving a tip.
And lastly, you will also be asked by the management to do "side work" which may even involve vacuuming or mopping floors. Refilling salt & pepper, condiments etc. There are all kinds of things they have the servers do and it's common practice. It goes with the territory. So before you accept the job, ask to shadow a server on a busy shift so you can get a feel of what you will be doing. Most employers will let you do that, they don't want to hire someone who won't stay, and you would not want to quit after a week.
Good luck!