How to Waitress

Customer service jobs are some of the hardest jobs there are. Being a waitress is one of the toughest. Customers can be demanding and rude. You need to give good service with a smile no matter what you get in return. Getting good customer service training and working with a good team will help you be successful as a waitress.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• A good outlook on life
• The ability to put on a smile - no matter what
• Attention to detail

1. 
   SMILE!

   Service with a smile! No matter how you might be feeling, greet your customers with a smile. Most restaurants insist on giving good customer service. Without it, you aren't going to make money. You will receive customer service training and will probably sit through an informative video on how your employer wants you to treat customers. Some smaller restaurants may not be as organized but they still will expect their servers to behave in a certain way.
   Introduce yourself and (depending on how your restaurant does things) either give them a menu, explain specials and ask if they'd like to order drinks.

2. 
   listen!

   Pay attention to your customers. Good customer service is important if you want to make money. Learn how to read people. Some people like to converse with their waitress others just want to have privacy. Then there is the customer that seems impossible to please (funny thing is they are usually good tippers!) Try to be attentive to all regardless of their mood.

3. 
   bring appetizers promptly

   Try not to keep them waiting needlessly. Return promptly with drink orders. When taking food order repeat order back to customer to avoid misunderstandings. If customer has salad or appetizers try to give them enough time to enjoy them before bringing main course. Take your cue from the customer. Don't be afraid to ask them their preferences. Apologize for any delays.

4. 
   make sure silverware is clean!

   Always check back after serving food. Within 3 minutes of serving ask if they need anything then LET THEM ENJOY. A good waitress doesn't hover but is available if the customer needs something. If there is a problem try to solve it as quickly as possible and always with a smile.

5. 

   Remove empty plates and glasses as quickly as you can. Always ask first. for example "Can I get that out of the way for you?". Offer take-home containers for leftover food.

Tips & Warnings

• Attitude is everything.
• Be available but still give the customers space to enjoy their meal.
• Aim to please.
• Be mindful of families with small children and offer to bring their meal out first.

[1GoGetter]

on 2/10/2009 You certainly know what it takes!

[jmbryan10]

on 2/8/2009 If you're planning to be a server, read these tips! great article 5 stars.

[writeitout]

on 2/7/2009 Great advice, my husband about fell off his chair when a waitress, for the first time ever, brought him a refill of iced tea without him asking her, 5* and a rec

[cherold598]

on 1/26/2009 It's hard to work with the public. Great tips.