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

Mar 11, 2020 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

How to Become

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FAQ

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Eating in a restaurant is a popular activity that many people enjoy. When it comes to dining out, the experience can be greatly impacted by the quality of the service. Restaurant counter servers play an important role in this process and can have a direct effect on how enjoyable the experience is for customers.

A good counter server is attentive, friendly and knowledgeable about menu items. They are also able to provide prompt and accurate service, taking orders quickly and ensuring that food arrives at the table in a timely manner. As a result, customers are more likely to be satisfied with their meal and leave with a positive impression of the restaurant.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a High School Diploma or GED. Most restaurant counter servers need a high school diploma or a GED to apply for a job.
Receive On-the-Job Training. Once hired, new restaurant counter servers receive on-the-job training from an experienced server. During this time, they learn how to accurately take orders, use the restaurant's point of sale system, and handle cash and credit transactions.
Develop Customer Service Skills. Since restaurant counter servers are the first line of contact for customers, excellent customer service skills are essential. They should be friendly and helpful to ensure customers have a positive experience at the restaurant.
Build Knowledge of Menu Items. Restaurant counter servers must be familiar with the menu to effectively take orders and answer customer questions. They should know how each dish is prepared, what ingredients it contains, and how to recommend menu items.
Obtain Certification. In some states, restaurant counter servers are required to obtain Food Handler's Certification. This certification proves that the server understands food safety principles and can safely handle food in a restaurant setting.

The role of a restaurant counter server is to provide a high level of customer service to restaurant patrons. To stay updated and competent in this role, it is essential to have a good understanding of the menu items, the restaurants policies, and the customer service standards. Keeping up with new menu items, upcoming events, and any changes to the restaurants policies can help ensure the customers experience is enjoyable and meets their needs.

staying current on industry trends and developments can help servers better understand customer needs and provide a more professional and knowledgeable service. Lastly, staying organized, proactive, and aware of the customers needs can help ensure that each customer has a pleasant experience.

You may want to check Restaurant Delivery Person, Restaurant Delivery Driver, and Restaurant Quality Assurance Analyst for alternative.

Job Description

Greet customers, take food orders, and answer questions about menu items.
Receive payment from customers, process credit card transactions, and issue receipts.
Prepare beverages, salads, and other food items according to customer requests.
Monitor food preparation to ensure that meals are prepared according to restaurant standards.
Ensure that all dining areas are clean and properly stocked.
Make suggestions and answer questions regarding menu items.
Refill customers beverages throughout their dining experience.
Assist other servers and kitchen staff when needed.
Follow health and safety regulations when handling food items.
Provide excellent customer service to ensure customer satisfaction.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Excellent customer service skills
Knowledge of menu items and ingredients
Ability to multi-task and prioritize tasks
Attention to detail
Ability to work in a fast-paced environment
Knowledge of food safety and sanitation guidelines
Ability to handle cash and credit card transactions accurately
Ability to take accurate orders and deliver food promptly
Ability to upsell menu items
Ability to work independently and as part of a team

An effective Restaurant Counter Server must possess excellent customer service skills and a strong work ethic. Being friendly, patient, and having a positive attitude is essential for creating a pleasant dining experience for customers. Good communication skills are also important for giving clear instructions, understanding customer requests, and providing accurate information.

a Restaurant Counter Server must be well-organized and have the ability to multitask in order to meet the demands of the job. Being able to think on their feet and remain calm under pressure is also important in order to handle unexpected situations. Finally, having a good knowledge of food and drink menus, as well as health and safety regulations, will ensure that customers are always provided with the best experience possible.

All of these skills combined are necessary for a successful Restaurant Counter Server.

Restaurant Maintenance Worker, Restaurant Line Cook, and Restaurant Line Server are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

How would you handle a customer who is unsatisfied with their order?
Describe your experience working in a fast-paced environment.
What would you do if you had a difficult customer?
How do you handle stressful situations?
What are your strengths and weaknesses as a counter server?
Describe your experience with taking orders and handling money.
What do you think are the most important qualities of a successful counter server?
What would you do if a customer complained about the food or service?
How do you ensure accuracy when taking orders?
How do you handle customer complaints or difficult situations?

Common Tools in Industry

Cash Register. A device used to record and calculate sales transactions, typically including a keypad, display screen, and receipt printer (eg: Cash register at the restaurant counter).
Point of Sale (POS) System. An electronic system used to manage retail transactions and track customer data (eg: POS system used to manage sales transactions at the restaurant counter).
Menu Display. A system used to display menu items and pricing options to customers (eg: Digital menu display on the restaurant counter).
Order Taking Pad. A device used to take orders from customers and input them into a computer system (eg: Order taking pad at the restaurant counter).
Food Service Equipment. Machines used to prepare food quickly and efficiently (eg: Coffee maker and blender on the restaurant counter).
Intercom System. A communication system used to communicate orders from customers to the kitchen staff (eg: Intercom system at the restaurant counter).

Professional Organizations to Know

National Restaurant Association
International Foodservice Distributors Association
National Council of Chain Restaurants
Restaurant and Foodservice Alliance of Canada
The National Association for Catering and Events
National Society for Human Resource Management
Society for Human Resource Management
American Culinary Federation
Professional Convention Management Association
International Association of Foodservice Professionals

We also have Restaurant Security Guard, Restaurant Expeditor, and Restaurant Supply Clerk jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Customer Service. The practices and processes that businesses employ to ensure customer satisfaction with their products or services.
Food Preparation. The process of preparing food for consumption, either for immediate consumption or for storage.
Menu Knowledge. A familiarity with the items available on a restaurant's menu, including ingredients, presentation, and pricing.
Order Taking. The process of receiving orders from customers, noting the details of the order, and entering the order into the point of sale system.
Point of Sale System. A computer system used to track sales and manage customer orders in restaurants and other retail establishments.
Cash Handling. The process of receiving, counting, and recording cash payments from customers in a retail setting.
Upselling. A sales technique used to encourage customers to purchase additional items or upgrades to their existing purchase.
Cleaning. The act of making a space or surface free from dirt, dust, and other contaminants.
Food Safety. Practices and procedures used to ensure safe handling and preparation of food products to avoid contamination and foodborne illness.
Restaurant Etiquette. The rules of conduct employed in a restaurant setting, including proper customer service practices and respectful interactions with guests and colleagues.

Frequently Asked Questions

What duties does a restaurant counter server typically perform?

A restaurant counter server typically performs tasks such as taking orders, collecting payments, and preparing beverages and food items. Additionally, they may also be responsible for stocking supplies, cleaning work areas, and providing customer service.

What qualifications are necessary to become a restaurant counter server?

Generally, to become a restaurant counter server, applicants must have a high school diploma or equivalent and be at least 18 years old. Furthermore, customer service skills, good communication skills, and the ability to handle a variety of tasks at once are beneficial.

How much does a restaurant counter server typically earn?

The salary of a restaurant counter server can vary depending on the restaurant and location. According to PayScale, the average hourly rate is $9.67 per hour.

What hours do restaurant counter servers usually work?

The hours of a restaurant counter server can vary depending on the restaurant and location. Generally, restaurant counter servers may work part-time or full-time hours, and shifts may include evenings, weekends, and holidays.

What safety protocols should a restaurant counter server follow?

Restaurant counter servers should follow safety protocols such as properly sanitizing all surfaces, wearing protective gloves and masks, and adhering to social distancing guidelines. Additionally, they should also be aware of food safety regulations and follow all guidelines set forth by the restaurant.