Waiter pouring glass of wine

How to become brilliant waiter

Propel Last Updated May 8, 2023

Being a brilliant waiter involves much more than simply taking orders and serving food. A truly great waiter understands the importance of customer service, attention to detail, and the ability to work well under pressure. If you're looking to become a brilliant waiter, here are some tips to help you succeed.

  1. Develop your people skills As a waiter, you'll be dealing with all sorts of people, from families with young children to business professionals. It's essential that you have excellent people skills, which means being friendly, patient, and attentive. Listen carefully to what your customers are saying, and be willing to go the extra mile to make their dining experience a great one.
  2. Learn the menu inside out Knowing the menu inside out is essential for any waiter. You should be able to describe each dish, including any allergens or dietary restrictions that it may contain. This will help you to provide excellent customer service and ensure that your customers have a great dining experience.
  3. Be organized Working in a busy restaurant can be chaotic, so it's essential that you're organized. Keep your tables clean and tidy, and ensure that you have all the tools you need to do your job properly. This may include a notepad and pen, a wine opener, and a crumber.
  4. Pay attention to details Brilliant waiters pay attention to the details. This means checking orders for accuracy, ensuring that food is cooked to the customer's liking, and being aware of any special requests or dietary requirements. You should also be aware of the little things that make a difference, such as offering fresh pepper or Parmesan cheese.
  5. Work well under pressure Working in a busy restaurant can be stressful, so it's essential that you can work well under pressure. Stay calm, focused, and organized, and prioritize your tasks to ensure that everything gets done on time. Remember that your customers are relying on you to provide them with a great dining experience, so it's important to stay focused and alert.
  6. Take pride in your work Finally, take pride in your work. Being a brilliant waiter is a challenging job, but it's also incredibly rewarding. Take pride in your ability to provide great customer service, and aim to exceed your customers' expectations every time.

In conclusion, becoming a brilliant waiter takes hard work, dedication, and a willingness to learn. By developing your people skills, learning the menu, being organized, paying attention to details, working well under pressure, and taking pride in your work, you'll be well on your way to becoming a truly great waiter.