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

Jan 18, 2022 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

How to Become

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The rise in the prevalence of mobile devices has had a significant effect on the restaurant industry. With customers now able to order food directly from their phones, restaurants have had to adjust their staffing to include more bartenders and servers. This has resulted in an increased demand for skilled restaurant staff, leading to higher wages and better job security for those in the industry.

restaurants have had to invest more in technology and training to ensure their staff are up-to-date with the latest mobile ordering trends. this shift has been beneficial for both restaurant owners and employees alike, creating a more efficient and enjoyable dining experience for all involved.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a High School Diploma or GED. Most employers require applicants to have a basic high school education.
Obtain Bartender/Server Certification. Most states require bartenders and servers to obtain certification before they can work in a bar or restaurant. Certification courses are available both in-person and online.
Get Food Handler Certification. Most states also require food handlers to obtain a special food handler certification. This certification is usually obtained through a short course.
Get Certified in Alcohol Service. Many states require servers and bartenders to obtain an alcohol service certification. This is often obtained through a short course.
Obtain a Job as a Bartender/Server. Once you have your certifications, you should begin looking for jobs as a bartender or server in restaurants and bars.
Develop Your Skills. As you gain experience working as a bartender or server, take the time to develop your skills. This can include learning new recipes, improving your customer service skills, and learning more about the different types of alcohol available.
Look for Advancement Opportunities. As you gain experience, look for opportunities to advance in the restaurant/bar industry. This could include becoming a manager or trainer, or even starting your own business.

Keeping up to date and qualified as a bartender/server is essential for providing excellent customer service. To ensure success in this role, it is important to stay informed of the latest trends in the food and beverage industry, as well as any changes to regulations or laws. it is important to stay up to date on training and certification in order to successfully serve customers and abide by health and safety standards.

Furthermore, attending industry conferences and seminars can help to build knowledge and skills, while networking with colleagues is a great way to stay informed of the latest developments. By staying updated and qualified, bartenders/servers are better equipped to provide an excellent customer experience and increase their value as a professional.

You may want to check Pub Bartender, Bar Supervisor, and Cocktail Server for alternative.

Job Description

Prepare and serve alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages in accordance with established procedures.
Provide excellent customer service by greeting customers, taking orders, and serving drinks.
Maintain a clean and organized work area.
Stock and replenish bar inventory and supplies.
Follow all safety and sanitation guidelines.
Process payments and operate POS systems.
Collect and remove empty bottles, glasses, and dishes.
Prepare garnishes for drinks.
Mix ingredients to prepare cocktails and other drinks.
Monitor guest consumption of alcohol and intervene as needed according to establishment policy.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages
Excellent customer service skills
Knowledge of bar equipment and tools
Ability to work in a fast-paced environment
Ability to multitask and prioritize tasks efficiently
Good communication and interpersonal skills
Ability to take orders accurately and efficiently
Ability to follow health and safety regulations
Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Knowledge of cash handling procedures
Knowledge of Point of Sale (POS) systems
Knowledge of proper pouring techniques
Ability to upsell menu items and suggest menu items

An effective bartender/server must possess a variety of skills in order to be successful. One of the most important skills is the ability to effectively communicate with customers. Good communication involves being able to actively listen, understanding customer needs, and responding in a timely and professional manner.

Furthermore, having a strong knowledge of different drinks and food items is essential for providing quick, accurate service. being organized and having the ability to multitask is a must for a successful bartender/server. An organized individual can quickly take orders, serve customers, and handle customer complaints in an efficient manner.

Finally, having excellent customer service skills is a must for any bartender/server. Being able to handle difficult situations with poise and grace will help to create a positive customer experience and keep them coming back for more. All of these skills are essential for a successful bartender/server and should be mastered in order to excel in the industry.

Club Bartender, Beverage Cart Attendant, and Alcohol Mixologist are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have in bartending or serving?
Can you tell me about a time when you had to deal with a difficult customer?
What methods do you use to ensure accuracy when taking orders and delivering orders?
Describe a time when you had to manage multiple tasks at once.
How do you handle an increase in business during peak hours?
How do you maintain a clean and organized environment while serving customers?
What is your experience with operating restaurant equipment?
What do you find most rewarding about working in a restaurant?
What strategies do you use to upsell menu items?
How would you handle a situation where a customer has an issue with their order?

Common Tools in Industry

Pouring Jigger. A measuring tool used to accurately pour spirits into drinks. (eg: 1. 5 oz tequila, 0. 5 oz orange liqueur)
Bar Spoon. A long-handled spoon used for stirring, muddling, and layering of drinks. (eg: mixing a martini)
Muddler. A tool used to muddle herbs and fruits in the bottom of a glass. (eg: muddling mint leaves for a mojito)
Ice Scoop. A scoop used to transfer ice from an ice bin to a shaker or drink glass. (eg: filling a shaker with ice cubes)
Speed Pourer. A device used to quickly and accurately pour spirits into drinks. (eg: 4 oz vodka poured into a Cosmopolitan)
Corkscrew. A tool used to open a bottle of wine. (eg: opening a bottle of red wine)
Bottle Opener. A tool used to open bottles of beer and soda. (eg: opening a bottle of IPA)
Blender. A kitchen appliance used to blend drinks such as margaritas and daiquiris. (eg: blending a strawberry daiquiri)
Julep Strainer. A metal strainer used to strain out ice and other ingredients from blended drinks. (eg: straining blended frozen margaritas)
Citrus Juicer. A handheld device used to extract juice from lemons, limes, and oranges for use in drinks. (eg: squeezing fresh lime juice for a margarita)

Professional Organizations to Know

National Restaurant Association
National Bartenders Association
United States Bartenders Guild
International Foodservice Management Association
National Association of Professional Bartenders
American Culinary Federation
The International Sommelier Guild
National Association for Catering and Events
National Association of Professional Servers
International Association of Culinary Professionals

We also have Bar Consultant, Bartending Assistant, and Spirits Expert jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

POS System. Point of sale system, used to keep track of transactions and orders in restaurants, bars, and other retail settings.
Barback. A barback is a bartender's assistant, responsible for stocking the bar and helping to prepare drinks.
Bar Tab. A bar tab is an open account or tab that allows a customer to purchase drinks on credit and pay their bill later.
Mixology. The art and science of making cocktails, blending flavors, and creating new drinks.
Pour Cost. The cost of a drink, determined by the cost of the ingredients per ounce, multiplied by the number of ounces in the drink.
Upselling. A technique used to encourage customers to purchase more expensive items or drinks.
Garnish. An edible decoration added to drinks for aesthetic appeal and flavor enhancement.
Inventory Management. The process of tracking and organizing inventory, including liquor, beer, wine, food, and other supplies needed to run a bar.
Happy Hour. A promotional period during which customers can purchase discounted drinks.
Float. Money collected at the end of a shift in order to cover any discrepancies in the register or bar tab.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the minimum age to be a bartender/server?

The minimum age to be a bartender/server is typically 18 or 21, depending on the state and local laws.

What skills are required for a bartender/server?

Skills required for a bartender/server include customer service, good communication, knowledge of cocktails and beer, ability to multitask, and knowledge of local laws pertaining to serving alcohol.

What type of safety precautions should a bartender/server take?

A bartender/server should take safety precautions such as wearing gloves when handling food, checking identification for alcohol purchases, knowing the signs of intoxication, and keeping a well-stocked first aid kit.

How much can a bartender/server make in tips?

A bartender/server can make an average of $10-$15 per hour in tips. The amount may vary depending on the number of customers served and the quality of service provided.

What other duties might a bartender/server have?

Other duties of a bartender/server include cleaning and sanitizing glassware, restocking supplies, monitoring inventory, taking orders and payments, and providing customer service.