What Does a Server Actually Do?
For many, the hospitality industry is a perfect starting point for those looking to get their foot in the door of the workforce. However, the industry is well-known for its high turnover rate and demanding work environment, so it's important to understand what you're signing up for before you commit. One of the most common entry-level positions in the hospitality industry is the server. Servers are responsible for taking orders, serving food and drinks, and providing excellent customer service.
What Are the Responsibilities of a Server?
The responsibilities of a server can vary depending on the establishment in which they work. However, some of the most common responsibilities include:
- Greeting customers and seating them
- Taking orders for food and drinks
- Serving food and drinks
- Checking in on customers to ensure they are satisfied
- Clearing tables
- Processing payments
- Maintaining a clean and organized work area
What Are the Different Types of Servers?
There are many different types of servers, each with their own unique set of responsibilities. Some of the most common types of servers include:
- Fine dining servers: Fine dining servers work in upscale restaurants and are responsible for providing a high level of service to guests. They are typically well-trained and have a deep knowledge of the menu and wine list.
- Casual dining servers: Casual dining servers work in less formal restaurants and are responsible for providing a more relaxed dining experience. They are typically less experienced than fine dining servers, but they still need to be able to provide good customer service.
- Bartenders: Bartenders serve alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks to customers. They are typically responsible for making drinks, taking orders, and collecting payment.
- Counter servers: Counter servers work in fast-food restaurants and are responsible for taking orders, preparing food, and serving customers.
What Makes a Good Server?
There are several qualities that make a good server. Some of the most important qualities include:
- Customer service skills: Servers need to be able to provide excellent customer service. They should be friendly, attentive, and able to handle difficult customers with ease.
- Teamwork skills: Servers need to be able to work well with others. They need to be able to communicate effectively with their colleagues and work together to provide a smooth dining experience for guests.
- Attention to detail: Servers need to pay attention to detail. They need to be able to remember orders, accurately prepare food and drinks, and keep their work area clean and organized.
- Physical stamina: Servers need to be able to stand for long periods and walk around quickly. They also need to be able to lift heavy trays and carry dishes.
What Are the Benefits of Being a Server?
There are several benefits to being a server. Some of the most common benefits include:
- Flexible hours: Servers can typically work flexible hours, which can be a benefit for those who have other commitments, such as school or family.
- Earning potential: Servers can earn a good living, especially if they work in a busy restaurant. Tips can be a significant part of a server's income.
- Job security: The hospitality industry is growing, and there is a high demand for servers. This means that servers can typically find work relatively easily.
- Opportunity for advancement: Servers can advance to management positions within the hospitality industry.
What Are the Challenges of Being a Server?
There are also some challenges associated with being a server. Some of the most common challenges include:
- Stress: Serving can be a stressful job, especially during busy times. Servers need to be able to handle pressure and work well under stress.
- Long hours: Servers often work long hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays. This can be difficult for those who have other commitments, such as family or school.
- Physical demands: Serving can be physically demanding. Servers need to be able to stand for long periods, walk around quickly, and lift heavy trays and dishes.
- Dealing with difficult customers: Servers can sometimes encounter difficult customers. They need to be able to handle these customers with professionalism and courtesy.
Is Being a Server Right for You?
If you are considering a career as a server, it is important to weigh the pros and cons to decide if it is the right fit for you. Serving can be a rewarding career, but it is also a demanding one. If you are looking for a job with flexible hours, earning potential, and opportunity for advancement, then serving may be a good option for you.
What Does a Server Do Day to Day?
A server's day-to-day responsibilities can vary depending on the establishment in which they work. However, some of the most common duties include:
- Preparing for the day: Servers typically start their day by preparing for the day's service. This may include setting tables, stocking their station, and reviewing the menu.
- Greeting customers: Servers greet customers and seat them at their tables. They may also offer drinks or appetizers while guests review the menu.
- Taking orders: Servers take orders for food and drinks from customers. They should be able to answer questions about the menu and make recommendations.
- Serving food and drinks: Servers serve food and drinks to customers. They should be able to do so efficiently and with a smile.
- Checking in on customers: Servers check in on customers throughout their meal to ensure that they are satisfied. They may also offer refills or additional items.
- Clearing tables: Servers clear tables once customers have finished their meal. They may also offer dessert or coffee.
- Processing payments: Servers process payments for customers. They may also offer to split the bill or add a tip to the total.
Server Job Description
Job Title: Server
Department: Food and Beverage
Reports To: Restaurant Manager
Summary:
The Server is responsible for providing excellent customer service to guests in a fast-paced restaurant environment. The ideal candidate will have a strong work ethic, be able to work well in a team environment, and have a positive attitude.
Responsibilities:
- Greet customers and seat them at their tables.
- Take orders for food and drinks.
- Serve food and drinks to customers.
- Check in on customers throughout their meal to ensure that they are satisfied.
- Clear tables once customers have finished their meal.
- Process payments for customers.
- Maintain a clean and organized work area.
- Assist with other tasks as needed.
Qualifications:
- High school diploma or equivalent
- At least one year of experience in a customer service role
- Strong work ethic
- Ability to work well in a team environment
- Positive attitude
Server Resume Sample
Jane Doe
123 Main Street
Anytown, CA 12345
(123) 456-7890
jane.doe@email.com
Summary
Experienced Server with a proven track record of providing excellent customer service in a fast-paced restaurant environment. Seeking a position where I can use my skills and experience to contribute to the success of a team.
Skills
- Customer Service
- Teamwork
- Time Management
- Problem Solving
- Food and Beverage Knowledge
Experience
Server
ABC Restaurant
Anytown, CA
2022-Present
- Provided excellent customer service to guests
- Took orders for food and drinks
- Served food and drinks to customers
- Checked in on customers throughout their meal
- Cleared tables once customers had finished their meal
- Processed payments for customers
- Maintained a clean and organized work area
- Assisted with other tasks as needed
Cashier
XYZ Store
Anytown, CA
2021-2022
- Processed customer transactions
- Provided excellent customer service
- Maintained a clean and organized work area
Education
High School Diploma
Anytown High School
Anytown, CA
2020
Server Cover Letter Example
Jane Doe
123 Main Street
Anytown, CA 12345
(123) 456-7890
jane.doe@email.com
Date
Hiring Manager Name
ABC Restaurant
Anytown, CA
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am writing to express my interest in the Server position at ABC Restaurant. With my experience in providing excellent customer service and my passion for the hospitality industry, I am confident that I would be a valuable asset to your team.
In my previous role as a Server at XYZ Restaurant, I was responsible for greeting customers, taking orders, serving food and drinks, and processing payments. I consistently provided excellent customer service, going above and beyond to ensure that every guest had a positive dining experience. I am also familiar with a variety of food and beverage products, and I am able to make recommendations to guests based on their preferences.
In addition to my customer service skills, I am also a hard worker and a team player. I am always willing to go the extra mile to help out my colleagues, and I am always looking for ways to improve my performance. I am also able to work well under pressure and maintain a positive attitude even during busy shifts.
I am confident that I have the skills and experience necessary to be a successful Server at ABC Restaurant. I am eager to learn more about your company and how I can contribute to your team.
Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Sincerely,
Jane Doe
Server Salary
The average salary for a Server in the United States is $27,
