Bartenders mix and serve drinks to customers. Typically, they work at restaurants, bars, and other licensed establishments. One of the best things about being a bartender is that you get to earn a wage plus tips. Aside from École du Bar formation, bartenders need to possess important skills. If you are looking to become a bartender, check out the following qualities that bartenders need to possess.
Good Memory
It is important for a bartender to have a good memory. You will need to remember and keep track of the orders of every customer. Also, your memory can help you remember the names of regular customers and their favourite drinks. People appreciate bartenders who listen and remember their orders.
Communication
As a bartender, you need to speak with customers throughout your shift so ensure you speak clearly and loudly while maintaining a positive tone. But, you can only become a good communicator if you know how to listen, so listen to orders carefully.
Organization
Usually, bartenders are busy running over the bar and serving several customers. You must keep track of the people who ordered certain drinks, those who have paid, and those who are still waiting for their orders. If you are organized, you can juggle these tasks with ease. Also, keeping the bar clean and organized will let you impress customers and work more efficiently. Treat your work station like a chef would. You don’t want to waste time finding a tool that you just used. Make sure to make and follow a series of action which keeps you in sync.
Ability to Read People
Great bartenders greet every customer with a smile and a hello. You need to be kind to all even to rude customers. You need to possess the skill to read people so you will know the kind of approach you will use when taking their orders. Also, you will know whether a customer wants to make conversation or just order a drink.
Ability to Stay Cool Under Pressure
A great bartender bypasses their pressure and fear by staying cool. Wherever you might work, you must not let yourself get overwhelmed by the seemingly endless rush at the establishment. Keep in mind that a pool of thirsty customers can swell and crash against the bar out of nowhere. Also, you must understand that every second wasted behind the bar affects the experience of your guests and can negatively impact on the amount of money you make behind the bar.
