how can I become a better waitress?

Question

what I mean is, I want to be outstanding, what makes for a great waitress? an bad waitress?

If they complain about anything, what is the best way to apologise without..sounding flaky, or taking the blame for the chefs mistake'?
Ask *once* if food is okay?

Answer 1

A bad waitress forgets orders and ask too many times how the food is. Ditzy doesn't work as a waitress. Great waitresses are ones who can strike up a conversation with the guests, know the menu and can give good recommendations, and get the food out in a timely manner. Even if your day is going bad don't let the customers know. Look for clues that your table might need something and don't forget anything. Customers shouldn't have to ask for A1 sauce for their steak or ketchup for their fries. Never let drinks go empty. If you try to improve the things, your tips will increase.

Answer 2

Good timing, which means being observant. Filling glasses when they reach the halfway point and being very kind and courteous. Being a neutral prescence in the room and not listening too closely to any specific conversation. Being there to serve. Getting enough information at the preliminary meeting with the customer so that you know whether or not they want a relatively private dining experience or whether they'd like regular service. Asking too many questions becomes annoying so it's important to get an understanding and then to act upon that without asking from then on. Everything feels wonderful when things flow smoothly. So it's important to get into the rhythm with the customer and then everything else just comes naturally to you.

Answer 3

I was in the restaurant biz for about 25 years. I've done everything from bus person to owner. Here's what I have decided makes a great waitress:

Greet a table within 30 seconds - don't give the cheesy "Hi, my name is Deb and I will be your server today, can I get you a drink and an appetizer to start you off?" I hate that. Be yourself - introduce yourself like you would meeting a friend of a friend. Bring the drinks immediately...very very important. Give them something to do while reading the menu. Know when to be at the table and when not. If you find yourself "in the weeds" get help...don't lose your service standard. Know the menu!!! Make suggestions if they are undecided. Bring the check as soon as they ask for it. Have it ready. Pick it up as soon as they pay. Make sure you say good bye. If you show that you appreciate them as much as they appreciate your service you will see them again and again.

Good Luck

Answer 4

Sense what I need before I have to ask. Don't come by too many times. If you see my glass is about 2/3 empty, just fill it. You don't have to ask me if I want more. It's quite obvious that I need more. If my bread is almost gone, bring me more. I would LOVE you for all of this.

Answer 5

ask yourself one question: what do you appreciate/expect from a waitress when you go out to eat? it's the golden rule--do unto others as you would have done unto you. in this case, serve as you would like to be served! kudos on the good work ethic!

Answer 6

Your good if I don't have to ask you for anything.
I like my food hot/warm...not cold...big turn off..
And yes, I think it's ok to say your sorry right away...just make good eye contact and try and resolve the prolblem asap..

Answer 7

Full hands in, full hands out. (this also works well in nursing school, which is where I learned it from a former waitress).

That way you won't make extra trips and you'll be as efficient as possible.

Answer 8

Take your time when taking peoples' orders, listen carefully to what they say and repeat the order when they're done telling you what they want. Be friendly and polite even when they are rude.

Answer 9

be friendly, learn what your regular customers like, don't try to be friends with your customers, just be a good waitress.