8 UNMISERABLE TIPS TO BE A GREAT BARTENDER
1. Customer Service
Although the focus is on making cocktails, one of the main activities of a bartender's job is dealing with people. Therefore, it is very
important to pay attention to how you serve Customers. Remember that people like cozy environments and are looking for a good
experience. So why not put your good energy at work and make a difference in someone's day? After all, a cocktail accompanied by
good service always counts more points!
2. Fast service - but with quality
Nobody likes to be kept waiting, right? But, of course, you don't have to drop everything you're doing to serve another customer after
all, you're busy and don't want to compromise on the quality of your work. When this happens, which in a bar can be very common, give a signal to the person that is waiting. Believe me: this simple gesture helps a lot! That way, the customer is more comfortable waiting and you feel less pressure to finish what you're doing. Result: everyone wins!
3. Are you free? Help your coworker
A bartender's job is teamwork too. In a bar, in addition to working with other bartenders, you also have the help of the bar back and the
glasses. Each one has a specific role in the operation of the bar, but nothing prevents you from helping in other areas as well. Check
your bar and verify if need to cut more fruit for the cocktails, if there is enough ice, or if the glasses are clean and organized
4. Keep the bar clean and organized
In addition to looking good, keeping the bar clean and organized directly influences the quality of a bartender's work. Keep the bar station always clean, the utensils organized and always wash the bar tools between one drink and another. When closing the bar, don't forget to clean all the utensils by leaving them soaking and remember to wipe off any remaining drinks. In addition, the hygiene habits of those who work behind the bar must be impeccable. Keep your uniform clean, wash your hands before preparing drinks, and always use tweezers to pick up ice and garnish.
5. Optimizing
Agility is also a key characteristic of a good bartender. If you already have more experience in the area, you know that it is possible to take orders simultaneously. However, no matter how much experience you have, sometimes you can forget one order or another. To avoid having to ask the customer again, do the following as soon as you take the orders, line up the glasses on the counter. So just in case you forget, just look at though glasses to remember exactly what needs to be prepared!.
6. Product knowledge
Nothing better than knowing exactly everything you can offer a customer. After all, if a customer asks about a cocktail, you don't just want to read what's on the menu, do you? Knowing the characteristics of each cocktail, as well as its origin and composition, demonstrates that you are confident and have mastery of the subject. And if the customer asks for a recommendation, you know exactly what you can offer to provide a good experience. With product knowledge, in addition to making the most popular cocktails, you have the freedom to create different combinations and signature cocktail recipes.
7. Confidence when serving!
Confidence is everything in a bartender's routine! Have the shaker as your best friend and be careful when handling the bottles so you don't waste the drink! Generally, the customer will be watching your steps, but that's ok: the more familiar you are with the drinks, the more confidence you will have in the preparation. After preparation, it's time to pour the drink into the glass. At this point, remember to never fill a glass to the top, leave at least two fingers.
8. Goodwill , initiative and curiosity!
Be proactive and always try to be one step ahead in any situation. Anticipate what the customer needs, if his glass is already empty, does he want another drink ? In addition to being attentive while working . remember that's a good bartender is always up to date. Be curious and search new trends in the world of mixology and look for new cocktail recipes whenever possible. Courses are also great tools to update yourself and get in touch with your market colleagues. And finally, positivity is everything. As with any job , facing challenging situations in a positive way is always the best way. With calm and confidence you can dribble any setbacks without compromising the quality of work. And don't forget:
"Professionalism and kindness generate to god drinks."