ALT-1 Beginners Guide to Waiting Tables
You may feel anxious during your first rounds of waiting tables. You think, “Will the clientele be nasty toward me? Will the guests dislike the sound of my voice? Will I have to keep repeating myself?" These or other questions may fill your mind. Do not fret. Your boss or manager saw some skill, most likely some people skill in you that made him or her hire you.
Use the suggestions below to hone your skills while waiting tables. You will be pleasantly surprised how a consistent application of these steps will bring people back to the establishment again and again!
First, survey the room. Look at all the guests in the entire room or in the section of the room that you are to service.
Second, read the body language of the guests. Does someone look like they are in need of an item even from a distance? Is someone looking around for assistance? Does someone looked distressed, or confused?
Next, walk up to the table. Give direct eye contact and use a pleasant voice to greet the guests. Tell them your name so that they know who is serving them. Connect with the guest using small talk. Find something about the guest’s physical appearance or clothing that he or she is wearing that you can genuinely compliment. Comments such as, "you have a great smile." “That’s a great color you are wearing or nice shoes” sound genuine and appropriate to say to a stranger.
Fourth, offer the menu, offer water, and inquire as to what other beverages may be desired.
Fifth, write down the order. Repeat the order, stressing any special requests such as, “Make sure this dish is hot or I need that portion to be served to me last” that the guest has stated while giving the order.
Bring the food to the table as soon as possible. Give the guests time to begin the meal and then check back in 5 -10 minutes to make sure that your guests are satisfied with the meal.
Finally, smile again and again during your interaction with the guests. And remain honest. For example, if during the small talk the guest suggests that you look tired and you are, admit it. Guests prefer honesty and it is a sure fire way to them to connect with you as person and not just a servant.
If you do the suggestions stated above they will come back for good service and a few will return just to be greeted by a friendly efficient you!
