I start training tomorrow for waiting tables any tips?

	I start training tomorrow for waiting tables any tips? Please don't direct me to another site. I want tips from people in the field. This is my first time, I have bussed tables, was a hairdresser, and cashiered. I already know keep a smile and your home life at home not in the workplace. So I need help from some pros. Asked By: Lacy - 6/29/2010

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You're going to drop something. It's inevitable. Even experienced waiters do.....don't let that worry you. I'm not "in the field" any more, but I did wait tables all through school. You'll get all the technical training from your trainer, but here are some tricks he/she may not teach you: A very important part of your job is to make certain that every item the diner ordered gets to the table. So many waiters just pick up the order from the kitchen - assuming - it's correct. Before you leave with the tray, look it over and see that everything is there. If the cook did miss something....correct it right then and there. Don't put yourself in the position of having to apologize to the diner for forgotten toast or whatever. Yes, it's the cook's responsibility to put everything out....but the diner won't see the cook to complain.......he'll only see you. Also, the cook doesn't get tips.....you do. Another tip is stay busy. This is for the management, so that they will see you as a hard worker (and stay off your back). A good waiter/waitress is never bored. Pick up a cleaning towel and get busy when you have no tables to wait. There are always things to clean: tables, chairs, chair legs!, etc. Standing around is probably the worst mistake you can make. Sell the food! Everything your restaurant offers is delicious. You recommend all of it. It's never, "Would you like coffee?" - It's "How about some fresh, hot coffee?" And, "That's a great choice, you'll love it. Our Alfredo Shrimp is simply wonderful." Keep the diners' glasses and cups full. Repeat. Keep the diners' glasses and cups full. You're in the service industry now. Do not be ashamed to use "Sir" and "Ma'am". It's now part of your job vocabulary. And, on a related subject - do not call diners "Honey" or "Sweetie" or any other such tags. Unless you're in a greasy spoon type of diner, it's too familiar and just plain demeaning. Refrain from making too much small talk with your diners. Remember, they are there to eat, not talk to the staff. You'll get a feel for how much is "too much". Don't share personal information, of course. When I dine out, I honestly do NOT care if my server's kids have the flu or good grades. ** Wear comfortable, already-broken-in shoes. With thick, thick, thick, thick soles. Trust me on this. I really enjoyed waiting tables. I had the necessary traits: Friendliness, good memory, attention to detail, lots of energy, cleanliness. The best part of being a waiter is that you basically make your own salary. The better you are the more tips you make. I wish you the very best of luck. You'll do just fine. Answered By: artistagent116 - 6/29/2010

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Firstly,and the most important rule: TRY NOT TO DROP ANYTHING!! U do that and it knocks your confidence. Be confident within yourself on the exterior,even if on the inside you're utter mush. Try and take any criticism constructively (it can be hard,but if coming from bosses or colleagues,they are trying to help you. If from customers then learn from experience).It's bloody hard going,but absorb every bit of information you're given,as this proves when your trial is up that you are worthy of being kept on. Oh,and if youre female and the shirt is white,wear a vest top under it.Sounds daft but its better not to show too much(especially as white is see thru!)..Smile even when you want to cry,try not to be rude even if you want to punch someone,think of it as a new adventure that you're going to make the most of.. GOOD LUCK! Source(s): EXPERIENCE Answered By: Beverly P - 6/29/2010

You don't know what you got yourself into. Waiters/waitresses are slaves. Get out of there as soon as possible! Answered By: boy - 6/29/2010

First pay attention to your tables, don't hover or annoy, but be visible and check in now and then for water/coffee refills, etc. Next know the menu backwards and forwards, and any daily specials and be ready to explain them in detail. Be quick and check the food, make sure it's complete nothing missing from the order. Do not keep them waiting for their food or the check. Be neat and clean and do not wear perfume. Make sure your hair is up in a bun, a ponytail, but off your face and your uniform is clean. Keep makeup to a minimum. Answered By: Spindrift - 6/29/2010

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