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The Top 5 Ways To Get A Bartending Job
Know that typically, the position of "bartender" is not an entry level
position.
1. Be in the industry. This means that
you’re already working as a host/hostess, server, busser, cook, cocktail
server, or bar back. Managers prefer to hire within because they know your
work habits, your dependability, and how you work with others.
The immediate positions right underneath a bartender are; bar back, cocktail server, and server. Bartenders just like everyone else get sick, go on vacation, have emergencies, or just want a day off. This is your opportunity to prove yourself.
Let management know that your goal is to make
it behind the bar and you’re willing to pay your dues for it. At the same time,
make friends with the bartenders. Run errands for them, pick up their food, tip
them well, and have then quiz you on drinks. Trust me, it'll pay off.
2. Go get a job in the industry. High volume
nightclubs are so busy that they must have bar backs. A bar back is a busy
bartender’s backbone. They keep the ice bin filled, fill the juices, wash
glasses, empty the trash, change the kegs, run for backups and do anything else
the bartender needs.
Oh, and they are masters of staying out of
the bartenders way. Bartenders will tip you out very well, if you’re good. The
next best foot in the door position is to be a cocktail server. Take these
positions, sponge everything and get paid to learn.
3. Apply at a place that that is opening.
I have personally done this five times. If you have a little experience
with great eye contact, grooming, presence, and a killer looking resume, then
your 99% guaranteed a bar position.
4. Know someone. Yep, some people get
bartender jobs just from knowing the right people and being in the right place
at the right time. Pick out a bar that you like and get to know the manager.
Work your magic and sell yourself. That’s all we do anyway.
5. Learn all you can from books and other media, set up a
practice bar at home, talk friends into having parties so you can practice
tending bar, go to bars and absorb everything you can, then walk to the edge
and jump. Fake it ‘til you make it, baby.
We’ve seen it done many times. But don’t worry; we’re going to give you lots of tips and hints to help you look like you know what you’re doing.
Facts
The good bartender jobs are never advertised in the classifieds. And by
good we mean the ones where you make good money. Most times jobs are filled
through word of mouth and hiring from within. What about those ads that say,
Will train, Make $$$, No experience necessary?
They’re either a strip club or bartending school. Lots of bartenders in the same area network, send each other business, and borrow things from each other when they run out throughout the night, so it’s like an underground system you have to break into.
