How to Ask for Help from Other Waiters

When waiting tables, timing is everything. You're trying to keep track to who is where in the meal schedule. Some are ordering drinks, others waiting for their food, and still others in need of their check. It's easy to fall behind during the balancing act. Follow these steps to ask for help from other waiters.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Communicate with other waiters if you're falling behind and need help. It's a great idea to give them a warning if possible rather than throw things at them at the last minute.

2. Consider having another waiter either greet a table and get their drink order or deliver food for you. Both actions will help you get out of the weeds.

3. Have the other waiter tell your customers that you'll be with them shortly, but he'll get their drink orders in the meantime.

4. Make sure to put their drinks on the correct tab if the other waiter handles it for you. This will help you avoid having to transfer the tab later on. That can be even more time consuming.

5. Tell the other waiter exactly who gets which meal. This will help them deliver the meals without having to ask the customers what food is theirs. That can be tacky and make you seem ill-prepared.

6. Check on your customers to make sure they're enjoying their meal. This will show that even though you couldn't deliver their food, you're still staying on top of their service.

7. Thank the other waiter for helping you out during the busy time. Make it clear that you will help him out whenever needed in the future.

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