How to Get the Best Service From a Waiter

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By missnice104
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Article Rating: (12 Ratings)

A friendly server!

Awww it's great to know a wonderful waiter/waitress. They are some of the best people to meet in the world! However, every blue moon, do you get the waiter/waitress that has a slight temperment? Do you ever sometimes get your food not quite the way you want it, as you are served? Do you feel the restaurant that has the most ultimate food can have some of the more grumpy or frustrated servers? Read this article and find out how you can turn your circumstances around and get great service!!

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Money
Extra Tip Money
Credit Card
Conversation
Dress Nicely
Attentiveness

Step 1

Money
Cindy Lauper use to sing a song titled, "Money Changes Everything." In most cases, she is right. The number one step to remember, if you want your waitress to treat you like a king/queen, is to tip them generously. Here's an extra tip. When you enter the restaurant, slip the waiter a tip and tell them to seat you somewhere nice if possible. Or you could say, "Here's a tip to start for all the hard work you do all day!" This probably doesn't happen on a daily basis to the server, so they will look at you, remember your face, and take care of you.. big time!
Step 2

Conversation
When the waiter sits you down, and introduces himself/herself, remember the name. After he/she has talked about the specials, say something like, "Hi Joe Blow (or whatever his/her name is), how are you doing? I hope your day's been good." If you say it and mean it, it will come across to the server and they may give you conversation about their day. If they do, this is a great sign! Ask them what they think is good on the menu, or what their favorite dish is in the restaurant, and they will be glad to tell you. They may also tell you about what not to order! (This is a good thing for your pocketbook!).

If the waiter/waitress forgot to tell you his/her name, simple ask. But please get the name so when you are in conversation with them, you can mention their name a couple of times. They will appreciate you if you are that considerate. Trust me...it works! Everyone loves to hear their name. It makes a person feel special.

Here's something to note; servers are just like you and me...they come from all walks of life. Some will be charming and sweet, (like you and I can be), and some can have "not so nice" days (you never know what someone is going thru). Please take this into consideration also.
Step 3

Dress neatly or professionally
Usually when you dress professionally, servers tend to treat you better (unless they are just having an awful day). Generally, when they see you carry yourself well, they may be thinking that you will be okay and that you will treat them with respect. This all depends on your friendliness and attitude toward them. If you have on blue jeans and a nice top and maybe nice jewelry, that works too. Most of the way you will be treated will depend on your attitude as well. You may want to keep in mind that being a server is a draining job. They are on their feet practically all day, and they have to have good memories. They not only bring you back another refill and are watching when you need one, but they (if they are really good), will have to stop by your table to inquire how you are doing and if you need anything. If the server likes you, they may do it several times. If you treat them kindly, for the most part, they will treat you kindly. Please note, this is only my opinion, but I think to dress nicely in any environment makes a person that doesn't know you feel more comfortable.
Step 4

Saying Goodbye
When the money is taken care of, tell that particular server that you loved this restaurant and will definitely be back. Ask for a what is considered a "good day"..or what they consider the best time to come into the restaurant. If the server is very warm to you, ask what days he/she is working so you will know when to come to get the best future service ever!

Comments

femwriter said

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on 12/17/2009 This is an informative article on how to Get the Best Service From a Waiter. Thanks for sharing this piece of writing. 5* plus recommendation!

Wasatch said

on 3/2/2009 I am lower middle class income, but my wife spent quite a few years at waitress jobs. We love to occasionally surprise someone with a moderately overboard tip. When you go back to the same waiter or waitress they do remember it, often even months later.

Susanh said

on 12/18/2008 As a server myself for many years, it really does make a difference when the customers treat you with respect. :)

CathyHHill said

on 11/2/2008 Great tips - I totally agree with your suggestions. My Mother used to say "you catch more flies with honey than vinegar".....or something like that :) GREAT ARTICLE!