How to be a good waiter: 10 rules

Being a successful waiters is not difficult, but many do not know all the secrets, so here are our tips.

Good waiter. It will not be hard to be an astronaut or circus acrobat; but that of the waiter is one of the most difficult jobs in the world; in which, however, one can have good profits, if one does it well.
Successful waiters have great respect for the restaurant owner they work in and give them a salary.

good waiter


Here are our 10 tips that every waiter in a restaurant should follow to get their pockets full of tips:

1.Keep a clean appearance

Good waiter

The first impression is the one that matters, so that customers will judge you for the appearance of your restaurant. Make sure your hair is clean, your long hair is well combed and does not cover your face. Keep your nails well groomed and never use a dirty apron. Use a moderate amount of lotion and always keep your shoes perfectly clean.

2.You know the menu

Good waiter

We need to know him really well, in every aspect. You will need to be able to answer the questions about the ingredients of the dishes when they come from curious, vegetarian customers or who are allergic to certain foods. This includes all types of menus: dishes, drinks and wines, and for children. If you do not know the answer, and test it quickly to be able to respond securely. This will help to make you understand which dishes are most profitable and able to generate additional tips.

3.Respect the times of your customers

Good waiter

Welcome customers right away and do not leave them waiting or wondering where you ended up. Remember that basically they decided to come and spend their money in the restaurant, so make this fact useful. Try to serve a drink within the first two minutes. Name the restaurant specialties from the drinks menu. Returned after you have served your food, to ensure that everyone is satisfied and does not require anything. Avoid initial personal conversations about yourself and try to be quick with the bill when this is required.

4.Remember the order in which the customers sat

Good waiter

Imagine each table as a clock and mentally imagine each client as if you were sitting at 12; and starting from the right, assign a quadrant number to the customers. Write down each order as “chicken at 00:00” “pasta at 01:00”, “sandwich at 02:00” and so on. This will prevent you from asking “who ordered the …” when the food is ready.

5.Remember the regular customers

Good waiter

Having customers who return often to the restaurant is the main objective of most restaurateurs. If you recognize someone from a previous visit, be sure to write your name (from your credit card or booking), as well as your favorite drink and dish. This will serve you for your next visit and you will make him happy if he knows you remember him.

6.Work in groups

During the busiest hours, food and beverage delivery can be delayed. If you have a free hand when you move between the tables and the kitchen, take an empty plate or, if you are in the kitchen and see a companion struggling with a large order of food, give him a hand. Do not rely on support staff to do all the heavy work.

7.To be available

Good waiter

There are no doubts; weekends are the best days for restaurant gains. The success lies in your ability to have a positive attitude in times of greater work, without interrupting your working day.

8.Smile and be kind

This may seem trivial, but it must be natural. Smile every time you approach the tables, even when there are times when difficult customers will test your patience. If a customer is dissatisfied with your service, seek help from your hierarchical superior, and do not argue, be tolerant; remember that other customers can see you. Absolutely avoid flirting, no spouse or girlfriend will seem right that your partner receives too much attention from the waiter.

9.Pay attention to children

Give all possible attention to children, in most cases they influence the decision of the restaurant to visit. Be aware of where you place sharp, hot objects or other objects that can cause damage in case of distraction. Try to consult parents when the children order on their own, let the parents know that you are on their side and without letting the child down.

10.Always be present

Good waiter

Always stay as available and as quick as possible towards the tables. Beware of empty glasses, for the consumption of dishes. Communicate in advance if a dish needs more time than expected. If you find that a dish is cooked incorrectly, let the customers of the table know immediately. Remember that people are paying to be served and do not leave them waiting, or avoid them.

Always keep this in mind: be honest when you mention the tips received, remember that it is a team effort and that the kitchen staff also expect to receive a portion of the proceeds.
The menu directs customers in the right direction, but they are the successful waiters who really close the sale.

Read also: Restaurant kitchen sizing: all the necessary requirements 

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