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

When restaurants offer catering services, it can have many positive effects. First, it can help to increase revenue for the restaurant, as catering services are often more profitable than dining in the restaurant. Second, it can help to expand the customer base, as catering services can reach more people than those who visit the restaurant.

Third, it can help to improve customer service and satisfaction, as catering services allow customers to enjoy their meals in the comfort of their own home. Finally, it can help to increase the restaurant's reputation and brand awareness, as catering services allow the restaurant to serve food at large events, such as weddings and corporate functions. All of these effects can ultimately lead to increased profits for the restaurant.

Steps How to Become

1. Obtain a high school diploma or equivalent. Many employers prefer to hire Restaurant Catering Servers who have a high school diploma or equivalent.
2. Get experience in the restaurant industry. Many employers prefer to hire Restaurant Catering Servers with prior experience in the restaurant industry, such as working as a waiter or busboy.
3. Acquire customer service skills. Restaurant Catering Servers must possess strong customer service skills in order to effectively interact with customers and ensure their satisfaction.
4. Apply for a job as a Restaurant Catering Server. Most restaurants advertise job openings on their websites, in newspapers, and on job boards.
5. Complete an application form. After submitting your résumé and cover letter, you may be asked to complete an application form.
6. Pass a background check. Many restaurants require prospective employees to pass a criminal background check before they can be hired.
7. Complete any necessary training courses. Depending on the restaurant, you may need to complete additional training courses in order to become a Restaurant Catering Server.
8. Become certified in food safety and sanitation. Some states and localities require Restaurant Catering Servers to obtain certification in food safety and sanitation before they can begin working.

The success of a restaurant catering server is dependent on their ability to provide an ideal and competent service. This involves having a strong knowledge of the menu and being able to confidently serve food and drinks while also providing customers with excellent customer service. they must be organized and efficient in order to ensure that all orders are fulfilled in a timely manner, and that there are no mistakes made.

Furthermore, they must also be able to efficiently manage reservations and requests for special orders, as well as working harmoniously with the kitchen staff to ensure that all orders are prepared properly. With these qualities, a restaurant catering server can provide an ideal and competent service which will contribute to the success of the restaurant.

You may want to check Restaurant Supply Clerk, Restaurant Busser, and Restaurant Delivery Driver for alternative.

Job Description

1. Greet and seat guests in a friendly and professional manner.
2. Ensure that all guests are provided with excellent customer service.
3. Prepare and serve food and drinks according to restaurant standards.
4. Respond to guest inquiries and requests in a timely and professional manner.
5. Monitor and maintain the cleanliness of the dining area.
6. Set up, stock, and replenish the service area as needed.
7. Provide accurate and timely food orders to customers.
8. Handle payment transactions in a secure and accurate manner.
9. Manage catering orders and coordinate with other staff to ensure that all items are prepared on time and according to customer specifications.
10. Assist with the breakdown and cleanup of catering events.

Skills and Competencies to Have

1. Ability to communicate effectively with customers, staff and management.
2. Knowledge of the restaurant’s menu and catering services.
3. Proficiency in cash handling and payment systems.
4. Ability to set up and break down catering events.
5. Ability to multitask efficiently and prioritize tasks appropriately.
6. Ability to follow instructions and adhere to safety and sanitation guidelines.
7. Effective problem-solving and conflict resolution skills.
8. Ability to lift and carry heavy items.
9. Knowledge of food storage and preparation techniques.
10. Knowledge of local health and safety codes.

Having excellent customer service skills is essential for any Restaurant Catering Server. Being able to provide timely and courteous service to customers can make the difference between a successful catering event and a failed one. Good customer service involves actively listening to customers, responding to their inquiries promptly, and providing accurate information.

the ability to anticipate customer needs, manage complex orders, and troubleshoot problems are all essential components of restaurant catering server success. Having strong organizational skills and being able to multi-task efficiently also helps keep customers satisfied and the event running smoothly. All of these skills combined can help a restaurant catering server provide an exceptional customer experience.

Restaurant Quality Assurance Analyst, Restaurant Assistant Cook, and Restaurant Chef de Partie are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

• What experience do you have in restaurant catering?
• How would you handle a difficult customer?
• What techniques do you use to ensure customer satisfaction?
• Describe a situation in which you had to go above and beyond to meet customer expectations?
• How do you stay organized when handling multiple orders at once?
• What do you think are the most important aspects of customer service?
• What challenges have you faced while working in a restaurant catering environment?
• How do you handle requests for menu items that are not available?
• What do you think are the key elements to a successful catering event?
• What do you think sets you apart from other restaurant catering servers?

Common Tools in Industry

1. Food Preparation Equipment. Equipment used to prepare and cook food, such as ovens, ranges, grills, or deep fryers (e. g. convection oven).
2. Food Transport Equipment. Equipment used to transport food from the kitchen to the serving line or event (e. g. chafing dishes).
3. Serving Utensils. Utensils used to serve food, such as tongs, spoons, forks, and ladles (e. g. salad tongs).
4. Tableware. Plates, cups, silverware, and other items used to serve food (e. g. dinner plates).
5. Linens. Tablecloths and napkins used to dress tables and keep them clean (e. g. white tablecloth).
6. Beverage Service Supplies. Equipment used to serve beverages, such as pitchers, ice buckets, and trays (e. g. ice bucket).
7. Cleaning Supplies. Supplies used for cleaning up after an event, such as mops, brooms, and buckets (e. g. mop).

Professional Organizations to Know

1. National Restaurant Association
2. International Caterers Association
3. American Culinary Federation
4. Specialty Coffee Association of America
5. National Association of Catering Executives
6. Foodservice Consultants Society International
7. Professional Convention Management Association
8. National Association for Catering & Events
9. International Live Events Association
10. CaterSource Trade Association

We also have Restaurant Floor Manager, Restaurant Line Server, and Restaurant Line Cook jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

1. Banquet Service. The organization and presentation of food and beverages at a large formal gathering such as a wedding or corporate event.
2. Buffet Service. A style of dining where guests can serve themselves from a selection of dishes placed on a table or sideboard.
3. Tray Service. The delivery of food and beverages to guests on trays, either individually or in groups.
4. Plating Service. A method of food presentation in which each dish is neatly arranged on a plate in a specific fashion.
5. Table Setting. The arrangement of utensils, dinnerware, and other items on a table for a meal.
6. Bar Service. The preparation and distribution of alcoholic beverages to guests at an event.
7. Cleanup Service. The removal, storage, and disposal of leftover food and waste from an event.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What type of food does a Restaurant Catering Server typically serve? A1: A Restaurant Catering Server typically serves a variety of foods, including hot and cold dishes, appetizers, salads, entrees, and desserts. Q2: How many people can a Restaurant Catering Server serve at one time? A2: A Restaurant Catering Server can typically serve up to 200 people at one time. Q3: What types of services does a Restaurant Catering Server provide? A3: A Restaurant Catering Server typically provides services such as setup, food preparation, serving, clearing, and cleaning up after the event. Q4: What type of equipment does a Restaurant Catering Server use? A4: A Restaurant Catering Server typically uses equipment such as serving dishes, trays, utensils, and other necessary items for the event. Q5: What type of experience is required to become a Restaurant Catering Server? A5: To become a Restaurant Catering Server, experience in customer service and knowledge of food safety and sanitation is required.

What are jobs related with Restaurant Catering Server?

• Restaurant Bar Manager
• Restaurant Kitchen Steward
• Restaurant Cashier
• Restaurant Assistant Manager
• Restaurant Expeditor
• Restaurant Host/Hostess
• Restaurant Bartender
• Restaurant Cleaner
• Restaurant Greeter
• Restaurant Barista

Web Resources

• Catering Server - Housing & Hospitality housingandhospitality.ucla.edu
• Restaurants and Catering | Procurement Services - University of … procurement.umich.edu
• Restaurant Server - Housing & Hospitality housingandhospitality.ucla.edu