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

Apr 9, 2020 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

How to Become

Professional Organizations

FAQ

Links

When a Beverage Server/Bartender is hired, they are responsible for providing excellent customer service to guests in a restaurant or bar setting. This requires a high level of knowledge in the beverage industry, as well as a thorough understanding of the laws and regulations surrounding alcohol service. When customers are served in a friendly and knowledgeable manner, the result is increased customer satisfaction and loyalty which can lead to an increase in revenue for the establishment.

Furthermore, when beverage servers/bartenders are properly trained in food safety, it ensures that food and beverages are served safely which further enhances customer satisfaction. having qualified and knowledgeable beverage servers/bartenders on staff is essential to the success of any restaurant or bar.

Steps How to Become

Research the requirements for becoming a Beverage Server/Bartender. Depending on your location, you may need to obtain a license or certification in order to work as a bartender.
Obtain the necessary certification or license, if required.
Find an establishment that is hiring for the position.
Submit your resume and application to the establishment.
Attend an interview, if requested.
Complete any onboarding processes, such as paperwork and orientation.
Learn the menu and the bars protocols.
Practice mixing drinks and pouring beer.
Take any additional training or courses offered by the establishment, if available.
Work shifts and follow the appropriate safety protocols while on the job.

Being an ideal and competent beverage server/bartender requires a combination of knowledge, skill, and the right attitude. Knowing the menu, the ingredients, and how to properly prepare drinks is essential for success. having a strong understanding of customer service and hospitality principles is important for creating a positive experience for customers.

Having the ability to multitask and stay organized is also essential for ensuring orders are made quickly and accurately. Lastly, having the right attitude and a friendly demeanor goes a long way in making guests feel welcome and appreciated. All of these components are necessary for becoming an ideal and competent beverage server/bartender.

You may want to check Brewery Manager, Bartender/Cashier, and Craft Beer Specialist for alternative.

Job Description

Greet customers and provide excellent customer service.
Suggest and up-sell food and beverage items.
Record orders accurately and process payments.
Prepare and serve drinks according to standard recipes.
Clean and restock bar area, including glassware and garnishes.
Maintain inventory of beer, wine, liquor, and other supplies.
Monitor customer activities to ensure compliance with alcohol regulations.
Balance cash drawer and credit card receipts at the end of shift.
Answer customer questions about beer, wine, and spirits.
Ensure cleanliness of work area and adhere to safety policies.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages
Ability to work in a fast-paced environment
Ability to remember orders and serve multiple drinks simultaneously
Knowledge of beer, wine, spirits, and cocktail preparation
Ability to accurately open and pour drinks
Ability to upsell drinks
Ability to provide excellent customer service
Knowledge of state and local alcohol laws and regulations
Knowledge of health and safety regulations
Strong communication skills
Good organizational skills
Attention to detail
Ability to work with minimal supervision
Basic math skills
Cash handling skills

Having a successful career as a Beverage Server/Bartender requires dedication and commitment to providing excellent customer service. The most important skill to have is the ability to effectively communicate with customers and be able to provide them with the best possible experience. Good communication is key to building relationships and loyalty with customers, ensuring they come back time and time again.

having a knowledge of drinks and spirits is essential, along with the ability to mix drinks accurately and quickly. Knowing the specifics of each cocktail, beer, and wine can help to upsell and make more money for the establishment. Being organized and able to juggle multiple tasks at once is also important, as the job requires multitasking and quick thinking.

The ability to remember orders and handle money quickly is also a must-have skill for any Beverage Server/Bartender. Being able to work in a fast-paced environment is also essential. Having these skills will ensure success as a Beverage Server/Bartender.

Bartender/Mixologist, Beverage Cart Attendant, and Flair Bartender are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have in a beverage server/bartender role?
What steps do you take to ensure accuracy when taking orders?
How do you handle difficult customers or situations?
Do you have any experience with POS systems?
Are you familiar with local health and safety regulations related to the service of alcoholic beverages?
What is your experience with preparing and mixing cocktails?
How do you handle working under pressure during peak business hours?
How would you manage an inventory of liquor, beer and wine?
What techniques do you use to upsell drinks to customers?
Can you provide examples of customer service techniques you have used in the past?

Common Tools in Industry

Bottle Opener. A device used to open bottles. (eg: Wine opener)
Blender. A device used to mix drinks and create blended drinks. (eg: Margarita blender)
Ice Scoop. Used to scoop ice cubes out of an ice bin. (eg: Bar scoop)
Glassware. Different kinds of glasses used to serve beverages. (eg: Martini glass)
Mixing Spoon. Used to mix drinks together. (eg: Cocktail spoon)
Jigger. A double-ended measuring tool used to measure specific amounts of liquid. (eg: Shot jigger)
Citrus Reamer. Used to extract juice from citrus fruits. (eg: Lemon reamer)
Cocktail Shaker. Used to shake and mix drinks. (eg: Boston shaker)
Muddler. Used to muddle ingredients in drinks. (eg: Mint muddler)
Strainer. Used to strain mixed drinks and remove pieces of ice or fruit. (eg: Hawthorne strainer)

Professional Organizations to Know

National Restaurant Association
International Bartenders Association
United States Bartenders' Guild
Wine & Spirits Education Trust
The Professional Bartenders Association
Nightclub & Bar Media Group
The Nightclub & Bar Show
United States Bartending Schools Association
International Wine & Spirit Competition
Society of Wine Educators

We also have Alcohol Mixologist, Mixologist, and Bar Consultant jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Mixology. The art and science of designing and preparing mixed drinks.
Alcoholic Beverages. A type of beverage that contains ethanol, a type of alcohol.
Cocktails. A combination of two or more alcoholic beverages, typically with some added flavorings such as fruit juices, herbs, and spices.
Barware. The tools and equipment used by a bartender to prepare and serve drinks.
Garnish. A decoration or accompaniment to a drink, typically one that adds flavor or visual appeal.
Liquor License. A permit issued by a government agency allowing the sale of alcoholic beverages at a bar or restaurant.
Glassware. A variety of glasses used for serving different types of drinks.
Draft Beer. Beer served from a keg or cask directly from the tap.
Bottle Service. A service offered in bars and clubs where customers can purchase bottles of spirits for their table.
Happy Hour. A period of time when bars and restaurants offer discounted prices on alcoholic beverages.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary responsibility of a Beverage Server/Bartender?

The primary responsibility of a Beverage Server/Bartender is to serve drinks and provide exceptional customer service to guests in a bar, restaurant, or other hospitality setting.

What qualifications are needed to become a Beverage Server/Bartender?

To become a Beverage Server/Bartender, you typically need a minimum of a high school diploma or GED and must be at least 21 years of age. In some states, certification or licensing may also be required.

What are the key skills necessary for a successful Beverage Server/Bartender?

The key skills necessary for a successful Beverage Server/Bartender include knowledge and understanding of alcohol, mixing drinks, customer service, problem solving, multitasking, and cash handling.