How to Apply For Bartender Jobs
A bartender is a person who works as someone that serves drinks, food menus etc.
And there are some essential skills and qualities of a bartender.
Essential Skills and Qualities of a Bartender
To land a job behind the bar, you’ll need more than just a friendly smile and ability to pour a beer. Bartending takes a certain skill set and personality.
- Strong communication.Bartenders spend all night interacting with customers and staff. You’ll need to be friendly, engaging, and able to start a conversation. Listen well and show interest in your patrons.
- Responsibility and trustworthiness.Bartenders handle cash and expensive alcohol. You must be reliable, honest, and able to keep accurate records. Owners won’t hire someone who seems irresponsible.
- Physical stamina.Expect to be on your feet for long shifts, lifting heavy boxes, and hustling behind the bar. You’ll need energy, endurance, and the ability to work at a fast pace. Take breaks when you can to recharge.
- Problem-solving skills.Things can get hectic, especially when it’s busy. You’ll encounter spills, customer complaints, equipment issues, and more. Stay calm and think on your feet to resolve problems efficiently.
- Knowledge of drinks and cocktails.Study ingredients, recipes, and techniques. Know how to make classics like an Old Fashioned or Manhattan as well as trendy new cocktails. Stay up-to-date with the latest mixes, garnishes, and glassware.
Flexibility bartender schedules can vary from week to week. Be willing to work evenings, weekends, holidays and special events. Saying “no” too often could lose you shifts or even your job.
With the right skills and attitude, you’ll be well on your way to joining the ranks of professional bartenders. Practice, study, and don’t be afraid to start out at an entry-level position to get your foot in the door. The experience will be invaluable.
Types of Bartender Jobs
The Following are Types of Bartender Jobs:
- Nightclub Bartender
Nightclub bartenders typically work late hours (often starting around 9 pm) serving cocktails and mixed drinks to a party crowd. The pace is fast, the music is loud, and the customers are usually there to dance and have a good time.
The tips can be great, but the hours aren’t ideal for most lifestyles. Still, if you’re a night owl who loves high energy, a nightclub may be your perfect fit.
- Restaurant Bartender
Restaurant bartenders usually work more standard hours and serve a combination of cocktails, beer, and wine to compliment the food menu. The atmosphere is more relaxed, allowing you to chat with customers and the restaurant staff.
While the pay may be slightly lower, the lifestyle is more balanced. Many restaurant bartenders work their way up to bar manager positions over time.
- Hotel Bartender
Hotel bartenders are employed by hotels, resorts, and cruise lines to serve drinks in lounges, pool bars, and event spaces. Schedules can vary but often include weekends and evenings.
The clientele ranges from hotel guests to event attendees, requiring a broad range of knowledge to craft cocktails, beers, wines and non-alcoholic options. The pay is typically at or above average with benefits, especially if employed directly by the hotel.
- Other Options
Additional choices include owning your own bar, working as a bartender for private events, or becoming a brand ambassador promoting a spirits or beer company. The possibilities are vast if you have the experience, skills, and motivation to land the right job.
With some patience and persistence, you’ll be shaking and stirring your way to a rewarding career behind the bar.
How to Become a Bartender: Education and Certification Requirements
To land a bartending job, the most important requirements are experience and the proper certifications. While not always mandatory, the right education and credentials can help you stand out in a competitive field.
- Experience
The majority of bartenders get started through on-the-job experience. Many bartenders start out as barbacks, servers, or in other entry-level roles at bars and restaurants to gain experience.
As you learn, you can then transition into a bartending position. If you lack experience, look for bartending internships or apprenticeships in your area to build your skills. You can also take bartending classes at a local culinary school to pick up techniques and familiarize yourself with various spirits and cocktails.
- Certifications and Licensing
Some states require bartenders to obtain a license or certification to serve alcohol. Even if not required, earning certain credentials can demonstrate your competence to potential employers.
The two most well-known are:
ServSafe Alcohol Certification: This covers the fundamentals of responsible alcohol service. It’s required in many states and shows you understand laws and safety standards.
BarSmarts: This in-depth online training and certification program covers advanced cocktail techniques, spirits knowledge, and mixology skills. Earning the BarSmarts credential proves you have expert-level bartending ability.
Other options include courses and certifications from the American Bartenders School, Beverage Alcohol Resource (BAR) program, and the United States Bartenders’ Guild (USBG).
While a degree in culinary arts or restaurant management may be useful, it is not mandatory to become a bartender. However, some programs do offer concentrations or certifications in bartending, mixology, or beverage management. Coursework covers topics like cost control, bar operations, cocktail recipes, and customer service. A degree can provide a strong foundation in the business aspects of bartending.
With the right experience, education, and credentials, you’ll have the qualifications to land an exciting new job behind the bar. But ultimately, your bartending skills, work ethic, and ability to provide friendly service to all customers are what will make you a great hire.
Focus on continuously improving your craft by taking new courses, reading books on mixology techniques, and practicing making both classic and innovative cocktails.
Conclusion
So there you have it, everything you need to know to land that bartender gig you’ve been dreaming of. Whether you’re looking to pick up some extra cash on the weekends or make a career change, following these tips will set you up for success.
Brush up on your mixology skills, build your experience, network, and dazzle them in your interview. Before you know it, you’ll be shaking, stirring, and serving behind the bar.
