Adivice for a first time Waitress?

Question

I'm probably going to get a job as a waitress/bartender I would love some tips on what to say to customers, or any tips you might have, also maybe what to do/don't on the interveiw =]

thanks =]

also what are the DO and DON"t when carrying the trays of food and drinks?

Answer 1

For the interview make sure they know that you are a people person and you know that the customer is always right.

While serving you always want to be polite and honest. The worst mistake they make is lying when something goes wrong and blaming it on the kitchen. Never mention tips to the customers and never tell how hard you are working. Telling them it is your first day/week is good, but don't make it look like you are working too hard in hopes of getting a bigger tip. Break the ice with everytable through a little lighthearted humor or through telling them something that relates to your life. Don't overdo it though. Most importantly get there order right and bring the food yourself if you can, that of course depends on the restaruant you are working at.

Answer 2

Smile at people and look happy even if you aren't. Be charming. Do look directly at people when speaking to them and LISTEN to what they are saying. Don't chew gum- its a real turn off for many.

In the UK touching people would not be advisable as you are invading people's body space! Also, be careful about flirting... some people, particularly wives and girlfriends don't like it! However a small amount seems to charm single men!

If you or someone else messes an order up admit to it and say you are sorry, smiling apologetically.

Lastly, for your own safety, if you are working late in the evenings make sure you have a lift home from someone you know. Do not walk home on your own. If you have a car park it in a well lit place close to your place of work. Sometimes customers can misinterpret charm as a 'come-on'

Answer 3

Being a waitress, your best quality would be like-ability. So go to the interview friendly yet professional. Dress conservatively. As far as customers go, DO NOT engage in conversation that's personal. It will haunt you later. Be polite, greet them nicely, then get down to the business of order taking. After a while, you'll develop a friendly relationship with your customers and they'll ask for you or tip you nicely.

Answer 4

Insist you are reliable, that you don't mind working split shifts. As far as what to say to customers, don't stand at the table and talk forever. Some waitresses think this will get them more tips but it really annoys the customers. Smile a lot and constanly be around your tables,not standing at the waitress station. Don't keep asking if they're ok, just make yourself available if they have a problem.

Answer 5

Be attentive and always smile. Big smiles will earn you big tips.

But remember that service does not mean that you have to kiss ***. Give respect and expect that it be given to you. (This does not mean that you should behave like a stroppy cow!)

If they are ignorant, ignore them. Don't fawn on them however, if they just so happen to be nice.

Be professional, you are there to work. If you are chatting to a nice one and another customer turns up, smile at the one you're talking with and break the conversation and go and do your work. Having dealt with the second customer you can return to the first if there is nothing else to do.

Don't show favoratism, nobody likes this sort of person and you will not be an exception.

Answer 6

when you go for the interview try your best to be positive in what you say and do. when you walk in to the interview keep saying that you already have this job. if by chance you do not get this job, do not cry or feel bad just say to your self that was not for me and god have some thing greater and better for me.i can tell you somethings on what to say to a customer good morning how are you doing ?,just try your best to make the customer feel good you also have to know that when a customer enter into your place of business he /she may have the world on their shoulder you have to try to make them feel good so they will come back and you may get a tip some may not want to talk and some may just want their things but try your best to be kind and polite even if they get you mad which once in awhile that may happen. always think about how you would like someone to service you and let that guide you

Answer 7

Never have your hair hanging loose (goes in food and drinks), keep your hands washed, smile and be professional, learn how to deal with nasty customers (perverts, deadbeats, etc.) and take good care of your feet and legs, they will be tired from all the standing. Remember, this is a service business and you want to make people want to come back and tip you generously.

Always acknowledge when someone is seated that you will be right with them. Check back after a few minutes when you serve them to ensure all is well. If they complain, right the wrong without question. Thank them for coming and say please come again.

Answer 8

i work in a bar!! ^-^
the bar i work in also has a restaurant attached so its a double business. I'm not a bartender or waiter myself but i picked up some tips:
1. always smile
2. do your best
3. presentation is everything
4. and Finlay keep eye contact with the customer when talking to them o give a professional image

hope these were useful good luck and congratulations on the new job ^-^

Answer 9

My advice is to remember that the customer is there to enjoy their evening out. It is your job to help them have the best experience they can have. Check back to see if they need anything, but not excessively. Remember regulars; they appreciate that. Talk but don't monopolize their time; they are their to visit with each other, not you. You are there to give them a wonderful dining experience. Think of the type of service you prefer when you are dining out and then provide that to your customers. If kids are at the table bring plenty of napkins and crackers when you first come to the table. The parents will appreciate that.

Good luck.

As far as the interview, show interest in that establishment. Sell yourself. Be up.

Answer 10

It's hard being a waitress. I don't think that they get enough credit.
On the interview, just let them know that you are good with people, that you have a lot of patience, and that you are a hard worker and will do everything that you can to be a good employee.
If you get the job, do all of the things that I mentioned above!

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