Professional Tips on Becoming a Better Bartender

New bartenders often hear the words "Bartenderhaving the taste of the drinks that they are looking
License: and get nervous or confused. The truth is,for and a fast service. They came to you because
you don't need any license to become a bartenderthey want to have their desired drinks. So be
(you just need a job that says you are a bartender!)prepared for the drinks recipes and make sure to
Bartending Schools will promise you a "Bartenderhave the ability to memorize and master trendy
Certificate" but they really can't do much in the waydrinks mixes to be able you to serve them fast. If
of getting you a job (expect giving you endless jobyou are swamped and customers have to wait, here
postings). You can learn a lot and gain a ton ofis all you need to do:
confidence at a Bartending School, but there are1. Acknowledge them.
plenty of tips (such as service and personality) that2. Hussle and work at 100% effort.
can't ever be taught at a school.3. Apologize for the delay with a big smile.
So here's a little list of professional tips that will help4. Warm handshake when customer exits. As the
you become a better bartender.customers finished and about to exit, give them a
1. Acknowledge all new customers as they approachwarm thank you and a hand shake them to let them
the bar. Even if you are swamped, a quick nod orfeel they are always important and pleasing
smile will ease a restless (and thirsty) mind. Establishcustomers to you.
rapport when welcoming customers and introduce5. Eliminate Hesitation. Know your drink recipes! If a
yourself as though you already knew them. Whencustomer throws out a crazy made-up name, don't
the opportunity arises, introduce yourself and askworry, just ask them what's in it, what color it is, and
their names. Remember their faces and drinks thatwhat it tastes like. Always have a mixing guide at
they order. With this manner, people love youyour disposal but do your best to never ever need it!
because they feel that they are important to you6. Keep personal hygiene. This is important. Have a
and you had shown them how friendly you are.clean look. Be presentable and make sure you don't
2. Prepare some JOKES or stories! Storytelling issmell bad. Have mints nearby at all time. Bartenders
POWERFUL! Start entertaining your customers withare always part of bar's atmosphere so your
some little jokes or stories. Keep them interesting butpersonal attributes and appearance does matter.
also politically correct! Doing your job as a bartenderThese are a few of the many tips and techniques
is entertaining specially when you can create or sharethat any veteran bartender will share with you. The
some jokes to your customers. Choose jokes thatimportant thing to realize is that the true skills of
are applicable to anyone. Jokes that talks nothingbartending go far beyond mixing and memorizing. It is
about religion, politics and other related terms whichabout the CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE and the service
people may ignite their defensive thoughts.you provide for them! Work hard and always have a
3. Prepare the drinks well and deliver them quick.smile on your face and you can never do wrong!
Speed is of the essence! If What customers want is