In a restaurant, servers have one of the most
important roles in the establishment: making sure that the customer has a great
experience, from the moment they walk into the restaurant to the moment they
leave. This goes beyond merely just taking their order and getting their meal
to them on time. It extends to doing little things that exhibit good and
professional behavior to make sure that they are having the best experience
imaginable. That’s where etiquette comes in!
So, what etiquette tips should restaurant
servers observe? Here are a few of them.
Smile at Customers
No one wants to be served by someone who looks
like they are having a bad day. If you deal with customers, no matter what
industry you are in, smiling at them is a must. This is one thing that
customers remember the most because it makes them feel more welcomed. It also
makes you more approachable, something that puts customers at ease.
Be Neat and Tidy
If you are going to act professional, you need
to look professional. And nothing makes you look professional like having a
neat and tidy appearance. Things that contribute to this neat and tidy look
include a clean uniform, tying back long hair and trimming fingernails. But
most importantly, make sure you are wearing an apron. Don’t know where to find
a quality apron? Click
here to see restaurant waitress aprons.
Know the Menu
Sometimes customers don’t know what they want
and might need you to explain some of the dishes to them. That is why you must
make sure that you are in the best possible position to advise them. Get
acquainted with the menu as well as the ingredients in case the customer you
are serving has any allergies. And where you don’t know, always seek
clarification from the chef; customers won’t fault you for it.
Bring the Bill When Asked
It is considered rude to bring the bill to
your customers before they request for it. Even though your guest may appear
done, they could still be enjoying their conversation as they finish their
drinks. Handing them a bill in this scenario is like giving them a signal to
leave. So hold off on that until you are asked to bring it.
Be Alert
Don’t just assume that because you have served
your customers, you are done with them until they are ready to leave. Your
guest can still need other things during the course of the meal, such as
refills and dessert, making it important to always be alert. People hate it
when they are at a restaurant and can’t get their server's attention to the
point they have to call or follow the server. Be in a position where a customer
can get your attention by simply raising their hand.
Knowing these few etiquette tips for servers
can make sure that guests have the best experience when they come to eat at
your restaurant. As a server, your primary role is to make sure your guest are
taken care of, from start to finish, and good etiquette is a great way to ensure
this goal is achieved.
