How to Get Your Tip Percentage Above 20 Percent
Being a good server is more than just taking orders. Being a good server is about maximizing guests' experience and in turn, maximizing your tip. There are a number of ways to make sure both you and your guests get the most out of the dining experience. If you are eager to increase your earnings, read on to learn how to get your tip percentage above 20 percent.
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Instructions
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Read your guests. You may be the funniest, nicest, most personable server in the world, but sometimes guests just want to eat and get out. Other times, they are focused on their company. But, sometimes they are in a social mood, or just talkative people. Make sure you know you're limits with the guest and try to determine it early. If they don't want to be bothered with small talk and conversation, do your job and be as unobtrusive as possible. If they seem to be enjoying your company, that's your chance to build a great rapport with them.
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Be confident. Nothing is better than having a server that knows what he or she is doing. Make sure you know the menu inside and out, be descriptive and try to speak with an aura of confidence. A guest will be more inclined to hold conversations with you, and take you up on offers for drinks, dessert and appetizers if you come across as if you know what you are talking about.
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Make eye contact. Many people say that waiting on a table is like going on a first date. In a way, that's very true. Make eye contact with your guests when you are reading the specials and listening to them order. Just like on a first date, it exudes confidence, but also shows how focused you are on your job. The guest will really feel that the service is more personal with eye contact.
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Make suggestions. There is an expression in the service industry that goes "Be a server, not an order-taker." Lead your guests as they make their orders. Make certain to suggest appetizers, drinks and sides. Remember, even something as simple as ordering food should be an actual conversation--not just saying the name of an entree.
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Be efficient. More than anything, time is of the essence in a restaurant. No matter how nice you are, people want to have full drinks, a clean table and their food in a timely manner. The definition of perfect service is to give the guest everything they want without having to ask for any of it. If you can accomplish that, you'll be rolling in the money.
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Tips & Warnings
Appearance is important. It's hard to look fresh at the end of a long shift, but having the appearance of someone that is clean-cut and awake will help you.
