How to Be The Perfect Waitress

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By TeryLynne
User-Submitted Article

Article Rating: (7 Ratings)

Waitress

Having been in the business for nearly 13 years, the one thing that is the utmost importance when serving tables is organizational skills. One must organize their tables and keep on top of things in order to provide the best service possible

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Pen
Pad
Hospitality

Step 1

Observe: Before approaching your tables, the first thing a waitress should do is observe her/his tables; where are they sitting and are you in stations. Who is in your party? Children? Adults? Senior Citizens? Offer the proper menus to the proper party. RE: Childrens Menu and Early Bird Specials.
Step 2

Friendly Smile: When approaching your tables, engage in a friendly manner. Smile and be polite. Build a rapport and ask questions. Show them that you are interested in them and make them feel that they are the only ones there. Share a joke, an experience, make them laugh, and always make them feel at home.
Step 3

Be Organized: Many times, the wait staff will be given tables back to back. Simply go to those tables and get a drink order for each table. Never make a table wait. Drinks can be served at one time within several tables. As long as the customers have a drink in front of them, they'll be content for the moment. Always have a variety of straws, sugar packs, pens, pads, and toothpicks in your apron. This will save you steps.
Step 4

Ask For Help: The one thing that is so important to waitress is that they want to do everything because they are working for their tips. Although, this may be true, your tip won't be what you want it to be if your customers don't receive the service they deserve. Put your bus people to work. Ask them for help if needed. Depending on the rules within the restaurant, have your bus staff fill water, get more bread, clear the tables, and have them do whatever necessary to give the best service possible.
Step 5

Leave On a Good Note: When your table is done for the night, ask if they want dessert and an after dinner drink. If they don't, get their check right away. Always say thank you with a sincere smile and offer them to come back again. Never ask them if they need change, this is tacky. Simply get change and give them a receipt.
Step 6

Home is Where The Heart Is: Just like your home, if you can, walk them to the door and always tell them they are welcomed back!