How to Be a Good Server

Waiting tables takes patience, determination and organization. You must be able to tolerate different types of customers at multiple tables while carrying large quantities of food and drink. Being a server can be a stressful job. However, if you stay focused, you should do just fine.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Keep your appearance professional. Your uniform should be clean and tidy, hair tied back if long, fingernails trimmed and clean. No one wants to eat food served by a sloppy server.
2. Be pleasant at all times. Your guests should enjoy their meal and the person serving it to them. Any personal problems or concerns should be left outside of work. Don't expose other people to your bad mood. There will be times when the job gets frustrating, but you must stay composed.
3. Be nonjudgmental. Treat every table equally and offer the same level of service at each table. Treat your guests the way you would want to be treated if it were you dining out.
4. Follow the basic steps of service. Be timely, write down your orders accurately, anticipate your table's needs, know every item on the menu and act courteously.
5. Slow down. Don't rush or you might forget something. Your guests will be satisfied as long as you're pleasant and you bring them what they order in a reasonable amount of time. Work calmly, but don't dawdle. Focus on being a good server.