How to Greet the Customer at the Table

Greeting your customers is the first chance you get to make a good impression. You need to convey that you're happy to serve them and that they're in competent hands. Follow these steps to greet the customer at the table.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Wait until your customers are seated by the host or hostess. Give them a few minutes to get settled and open their menus.
2. Approach the table once your customers are settled. Make sure they're not in the middle of a deep conversation. If they are, wait until they seem to be ready to look over the menu.
3. Greet the table by introducing yourself. Say that you'll be their server tonight.
4. Ask your customers if they'd like to hear the specials. Some people know right away what they're going to eat. Maybe they order the same thing every time they come to the restaurant and don't need to hear the list of specials.
5. Inquire about whether or not your customers would like to start off with something to drink. Some customers will automatically assume this means an alcoholic drink, but make it clear that this includes soda, juice and other beverages, too.
6. Give the customers time to look over the menu and return promptly, even if you're busy. It's very annoying to people to have to wait to place their order.

Tips & Warnings

• Avoid the term "guys". Some waiters say "guys" all the time to their customers, even if those customers are clearly not "guys," much less men at all. Some people consider it rude and crass.
• Don't sit down with your customers unless it's restaurant policy. Many people find this annoying and intrusive. They're uncomfortable with it.

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