Tips for newcomers - how to become a good service employee

Being a waiter is not easy - and it's twice as hard for newcomers! The fact that the old hands already have serving guests, carrying plates etc. in their blood makes it clear that service is a matter of practice. To give beginners a helping hand, here are 10 basic tips for you:

Even if you are nervous at first, always approach the table, i.e. your guests, with a smile. Greet them and perhaps even introduce yourself. Something like this: "Good evening, nice to welcome you here. My name is ... and I'll be your waiter today." Then offer them drinks and bring the menus with you.
Of course, the greeting always varies - but the smile remains!

Always look at your guests when they order. But don't stare at them all the time! It's about finding a middle ground.

Your guests come to the restaurant in different moods - learn to assess this and react correctly! For example: If the guest is in a hurry, bring them the menu as quickly as possible and serve them quickly.

A particularly helpful tip: always take drinks orders in a clockwise direction. If there are children at the table, they are always first, followed by the ladies and then the men. And always from left to right. This will also save you from having to ask questions when assigning the drinks.

Once you've taken the drinks orders, it's the perfect time to ask the guests if they want to order something to eat. If they are not yet agreed or sure, go to the next table and return to that table in 5 minutes.

When the main course has reached the guest, the questions begin. Is the guest satisfied? Can you bring him something else? Is the steak to his satisfaction? Etc.

Always bring the food to all guests at the same time. The exception is of course for starters or if a guest explicitly asks for it because they are leaving early or similar.

Be attentive! When your guests have obviously finished eating, take their plates away. However, ask first if the guest is really finished. Before you serve another course, every plate must have left the table.

After you have cleared the table, ask if the guests want the dessert menu or if you can bring them another coffee.

When guests want to pay, respond quickly - there is nothing more frustrating for a guest than not being served when they want to pay. Thank them for their visit and say goodbye with a smile when they leave the restaurant or when you leave the table.

So the important thing is: Always remain friendly and attentive!

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