How to Be Catering Waitstaff - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Nov 23, 2022 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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Catering waitstaff are responsible for providing excellent customer service at events and gatherings. They provide a variety of services that are essential to the success of any event, such as setting up tables and chairs, serving food and drinks, and cleaning up afterwards. Without catering waitstaff, events would be chaotic and food would not be served in an orderly fashion.

Furthermore, their presence is essential to ensure that guests are comfortable and well taken care of during the event. Furthermore, their attention to detail and knowledge of etiquette can help ensure that the event is a success. With catering waitstaff, events can be organized, efficient and memorable for all involved.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a High School Diploma or GED. Most catering services will require waitstaff to have at least a high school diploma or GED.
Get Job Training. Most employers will provide on-the-job training for waitstaff. This training may include instruction on customer service, proper food handling techniques and cash register operations.
Obtain Food Safety Certification. Some catering companies require waitstaff to have food safety certification. This certification can usually be obtained through a local health department or community college.
Develop Customer Service Skills. Waitstaff should possess excellent customer service skills and the ability to communicate effectively with customers.
Find a Job. After completing the necessary training, waitstaff can begin searching for job opportunities with catering companies. Job listings can be found in local newspapers, online job boards and through networking.
Apply for the Position. Those interested in becoming waitstaff should submit a cover letter and resume to potential employers. During the application process, candidates may be asked to provide references and complete an interview.
Learn the Menu. Once hired, waitstaff must learn the menu of the catering company. They should also take the time to familiarize themselves with table settings, serving procedures and the workplace environment.
Attend Training Sessions. Many catering companies require their waitstaff to attend training sessions that cover topics such as customer service and safety protocols.
Wear the Appropriate Attire. Waitstaff should always wear the appropriate attire for their position, which usually includes a clean, pressed uniform and comfortable shoes.

Catering waitstaff must possess a wide range of skills in order to ensure successful events. They must be organized, efficient, and have strong customer service skills. They need to be knowledgeable about the event's food and beverage offerings and able to provide helpful suggestions to guests.

They must also be able to handle large numbers of guests in a timely manner and provide timely service. Furthermore, they must be able to work well with other staff members, as well as be able to follow any specific instructions given by their employer. By having these skills, catering waitstaff can provide an enjoyable experience for guests and ensure a successful event.

You may want to check Food Server, Lead Server, and Cafeteria Worker for alternative.

Job Description

Set up catering areas by arranging tables, chairs, linens, and place settings.
Greet guests and provide them with menus and descriptions of available food items.
Serve food, drinks, and desserts to guests in a professional and courteous manner.
Refill drinks and clear away finished plates.
Handle payment transactions, collect payments, and issue receipts and change.
Monitor buffet tables for low items, replenish supplies, and discard stale items.
Clean and reset tables after guests have left.
Maintain a professional appearance at all times.
Follow all safety and sanitation policies.
Participate in pre-service meetings to review daily specials and new menu items.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of catering etiquette, policies and procedures.
Ability to serve food and beverages in a neat, organized, and timely manner.
Ability to set up and break down catering events.
Ability to multitask efficiently and manage multiple tasks at once.
Ability to understand and follow directions quickly and accurately.
Excellent customer service skills, including the ability to remain friendly, courteous and professional at all times.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Ability to lift moderately heavy objects (up to 50 pounds).
Knowledge of food safety and sanitation regulations.
Knowledge of various types of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.

Catering waitstaff must possess many skills to be successful in their role. One of the most important skills is communication. Good communication enables waitstaff to ensure that customers' orders are taken accurately and that any special requests are understood and fulfilled.

waitstaff must have excellent customer service skills, as they are often the first point of contact for guests. They need to be able to greet customers warmly and answer any questions they may have. They must also be able to handle customer complaints in a professional manner.

Finally, waitstaff must be able to work quickly and efficiently in order to ensure that orders are delivered on time. Without these important skills, catering waitstaff would not be able to provide guests with the high quality experience they expect.

Deli Clerk, Silver Service Waiter, and Server Assistant are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have in the catering industry?
Are you comfortable working with a variety of people?
How do you handle difficult customers?
Do you have any experience handling large events?
Tell me about a time when you went above and beyond for a customer.
What is your experience with food safety and sanitation procedures?
How do you handle stress in a fast-paced environment?
Are you familiar with different types of foods and wines?
What methods do you use to ensure each guest receives the best service?
What do you think sets you apart from other applicants for this job?

Common Tools in Industry

Tray Carrier. A device used to transport multiple plates, glasses, and other items in a single trip. (eg: Tray carrier with multiple compartments)
Apron. A garment worn by waitstaff to protect their clothing while serving food and drinks. (eg: Half-length white apron)
Waiters Corkscrew. A tool used to open wine bottles quickly and efficiently. (eg: Winged corkscrew)
Water Pitcher. A container used to serve water to guests. (eg: Clear plastic water pitcher with spout)
Serving Tray. A flat surface used to transport multiple plates of food or drinks at once. (eg: Round metal serving tray with handles)
Coaster Set. A collection of small mats or trays used to place beverages on. (eg: Set of 6 square coasters with cork backing)
Chafing Dish. A metal container with a heating element underneath used to keep food warm while its being served. (eg: Rectangular stainless steel chafing dish)
Serving Utensils. A variety of tongs, spoons, and forks used to serve food. (eg: Set of 4 stainless steel serving utensils)

Professional Organizations to Know

National Association of Catering Executives (NACE)
International Caterers Association (ICA)
National Restaurant Association (NRA)
Society for Foodservice Management (SFM)
International Special Events Society (ISES)
American Culinary Federation (ACF)
Special Events Magazine
United States Bartenders Guild (USBG)
The International Live Events Association (ILEA)
American Society of Catering and Events (ASCE)

We also have Food Expo, Buffet Attendant, and Cocktail Waiter jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Banquet Server. A banquet server is a person who is responsible for attending to guests at a banquet or special event. They typically set up the event space, serve food and beverages, and clean up after the event.
Bartender. A bartender is a person who prepares and serves alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks to customers. They often work in bars, pubs, and restaurants.
Events Coordinator. An events coordinator is responsible for planning, organizing, and coordinating events. They often work with vendors, suppliers, and other stakeholders to ensure that the event meets the desired outcome.
Food Runner. A food runner is a person who delivers food from the kitchen to customers. They may also assist with setting up the tables and clearing them once customers have finished their meals.
Waiter/Waitress. A waiter or waitress is a person who takes orders from customers, serves food and beverages, and collects payment for the meal. They often work in restaurants, cafes, and hotels.
Host/Hostess. A host or hostess is a person who greets guests when they enter a restaurant or other type of dining establishment. They often take reservations, answer questions about the menu, and take orders from customers.
Banquet Captain. A banquet captain is a person who oversees a banquet or special event. They are responsible for assigning tasks to waitstaff and ensuring that all guests are satisfied with their meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many years of experience do Catering Waitstaff typically have?

Most Catering Waitstaff have between two and five years of experience in the hospitality industry.

What skills do Catering Waitstaff need?

Catering Waitstaff need to possess excellent customer service, communication, and problem-solving skills. They should also be able to multitask and work efficiently in a fast-paced environment.

What duties do Catering Waitstaff typically perform?

Typical duties performed by Catering Waitstaff include greeting guests, taking orders, serving food and drinks, clearing tables, and ensuring the event runs smoothly.