How to Be Bartender/Cashier - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Jan 9, 2020 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

How to Become

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Cause: Working as a bartender or cashier can be a great job for those who enjoy interacting with people. Effect: Customers can benefit from the friendly service and helpful advice from the bartender or cashier, making them feel more comfortable and welcome in the establishment.

these roles require a good understanding of customer service, product knowledge, and organizational skills, allowing the bartender or cashier to create an enjoyable experience for the customers. Furthermore, with the right training and experience, bartenders and cashiers can develop their skill set to increase their pay rate and become a valuable asset to their employer.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a High School Diploma or GED. Most employers require that applicants have a high school diploma or equivalent.
Consider Acquiring Hospitality or Food Service Certifications. Depending on the employer, having certifications related to hospitality or food service may be beneficial when applying for a position as a bartender or cashier.
Attend Bartender Training Programs. Formal training in bartending is beneficial for aspiring bartenders. There are many bartending schools and courses offered online and in-person.
Gain Experience as a Barback or Server. Working as a barback or server in a restaurant or bar is a great way to gain experience and learn the basics of bartending before applying for a bartending job.
Apply for Jobs as a Bartender or Cashier. Once you have obtained the necessary experience and certifications, you can start applying for jobs as a bartender or cashier.
Participate in On-the-Job Training. Once you have been hired, most employers will provide on-the-job training and instruction on the specific duties and expectations of the job.
Obtain (and Maintain) Alcohol Service Certification. Depending on the state, bartenders may be required to obtain an alcohol service certification, such as TIPS, before they can legally serve alcohol.

The efficiency of a bartender or cashier is largely dependent on the tools and techniques they use. Proper organization and planning are essential for maintaining an ideal working environment. Scheduling tasks and assigning duties in advance, keeping a detailed inventory of all supplies, and ensuring that equipment is properly maintained can help improve efficiency.

Furthermore, utilizing technology such as bar-code scanners, automated payment systems, and digital order tracking can streamline the processes of serving customers and collecting payments. Finally, providing clear instructions, giving feedback on performance, and offering incentives to motivate employees can help maximize the efficiency of a bartender or cashier. With these strategies in place, businesses can ensure that they are operating at their optimal level.

You may want to check Bouncer/Security Guard, Craft Cocktail Maker, and Beer Pourer for alternative.

Job Description

Greet customers and take their orders
Prepare drinks and food items in accordance with the restaurant's recipes and procedures
Operate cash registers, credit card machines, and other forms of payment
Ensure pricing is accurate and that correct change is provided
Provide excellent customer service and maintain a friendly, professional attitude
Monitor bar area to ensure that all customers are of legal drinking age
Stock and restock bar area with supplies as needed
Clean and organize work areas, including counters, shelves, and glassware
Follow all health and safety regulations
Balance cash register at the end of the shift

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages
Knowledge of cash register systems and POS systems
Ability to operate a cash register
Ability to follow health and safety guidelines
Ability to work in a fast-paced environment
Excellent customer service skills
Ability to handle money accurately
Ability to upsell products
Ability to multitask
Knowledge of bar equipment and glassware
Knowledge of bar recipes
Ability to accurately mix drinks
Ability to stay calm under pressure
Good communication skills
Ability to work as part of a team

Having the right skills is essential for any bartender or cashier. The ability to pay attention to detail, provide excellent customer service, and stay organized are all important factors to consider when working in either of these roles. Attention to detail is key to ensure that customers get the correct order and that all transactions are accurately logged and recorded.

Providing excellent customer service means being friendly, helpful, and ensuring that each customers needs are met. Organizational skills are important for keeping the bar or register running smoothly, so that orders can be filled quickly and efficiently. Without these skills, it can be difficult for bartenders and cashiers to provide a pleasant and efficient experience for customers.

Bartending Instructor, Mixologist, and Bottle Service Attendant are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have in the food and beverage industry?
How would you handle a customer who was dissatisfied with their order?
What techniques do you use to ensure accuracy when taking orders?
What is your approach to customer service?
What methods do you use to manage cash flow?
How do you ensure that all orders are prepared according to customer specifications?
How would you handle a conflict between customers?
Describe a time you had to problem-solve in a stressful situation.
What strategies do you use to manage a large crowd of customers?
How do you ensure that all transactions are handled correctly and securely?

Common Tools in Industry

Point of Sale System. This tool is used to process transactions in retail stores, restaurants and bars. (eg: Square, Toast POS)
Barcode Scanner. This tool is used to quickly read and record barcodes on products in retail stores and bars. (eg: Honeywell Barcode Scanner)
Cash Register. This tool is used to store money, process payments and make change for customers in retail stores and bars. (eg: NCR Silver)
Blender. This tool is used to mix drinks, such as smoothies, frozen cocktails and milkshakes in bars. (eg: Vitamix Professional Blender)
Cocktail Shaker. This tool is used to mix and chill cocktails, such as martinis and margaritas in bars. (eg: OXO Steel Cocktail Shaker)
Ice Crusher. This tool is used to crush ice into small pieces for drinks in bars. (eg: Westmark Ice Crusher)

Professional Organizations to Know

National Restaurant Association
International Foodservice Distributors Association
American Beverage Association
National Beer Wholesalers Association
Wine and Spirits Wholesalers of America
Distilled Spirits Council of the United States
National Association of Bar Executives
National Association of Concessionaires
National Automatic Merchandising Association
National Restaurant Association Education Foundation

We also have Bar Host, Head Bartender, and Bartending Assistant jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Barback. A barback is a restaurant or bar employee who assists the bartenders by restocking supplies, prepping garnishes, and cleaning.
Cocktail Server. A cocktail server is a person who serves alcoholic beverages to customers.
Liquor License. A liquor license is a permit that allows an individual or business to sell alcoholic beverages.
Mixologist. A mixologist is a professional bartender who specializes in creating innovative cocktails and drinks.
POS System. A POS system (Point of Sale system) is a computerized network that helps manage sales, inventory, and customer data.
Inventory Management. Inventory management is the process of tracking and maintaining an accurate record of the quantities and types of products in stock.
Bar Menu. A bar menu is a list of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages available in a bar or restaurant.
Draft Beer System. A draft beer system is a system used to dispense beer from a keg or cask.
Tab Management. Tab management is the process of tracking and managing customer tabs (bills) at a bar or restaurant.
Cash Handling. Cash handling is the process of counting, storing, and accounting for money received from customers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the primary duties of a Bartender/Cashier?

The primary duties of a Bartender/Cashier include preparing and serving alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, handling cash and credit card transactions, and interacting with customers in a professional manner.

What qualifications are needed to become a Bartender/Cashier?

To become a Bartender/Cashier, you typically need to be at least 18 years old, possess basic math skills and knowledge of liquor, beer, and wine, and have excellent customer service skills.

Are there any special regulations related to Bartender/Cashier?

Yes, most states require bartenders to be certified in responsible alcohol service. This certification may include taking a training course and passing an exam.