Stepping into the role of a server is an exciting venture, full of opportunities to interact with people, hone your customer service skills, and earn a living. However, the initial days, and even the first moments of each shift, can be overwhelming. Knowing what to prioritize and how to efficiently handle the opening tasks is crucial for setting yourself up for success. This guide will delve into the essential steps every server should take at the start of their shift, from clocking in to greeting your first table.
Clocking In and Preparing Yourself
The very first step, and arguably one of the most important, is clocking in correctly. Always double-check the time clock to ensure your punch goes through accurately. Mistakes happen, and a missed punch can lead to discrepancies in your pay. After clocking in, it’s time to transition from your personal life to your work persona.
Grooming and Appearance Check
Your appearance is a reflection of the restaurant’s brand and directly impacts the customer’s perception of the establishment. Take a moment to check yourself in a mirror. Ensure your uniform is clean, wrinkle-free, and fits appropriately. Hair should be neatly styled and kept away from your face. Make sure your hands are clean and nails are trimmed. Pay attention to personal hygiene; a fresh and presentable server exudes professionalism and care.
Mental Preparation and Positive Mindset
Serving can be demanding, requiring you to be “on” for extended periods. Before your shift truly begins, take a few moments to mentally prepare yourself. Leave any personal problems at the door and focus on the task ahead. Cultivate a positive attitude and a genuine desire to provide excellent service. A positive mindset is contagious and will undoubtedly influence your interactions with customers and colleagues alike. Remember, you’re not just taking orders; you’re creating an experience.
Understanding the Daily Operations
Once you’re physically and mentally prepared, the next step is to familiarize yourself with the specific nuances of the day’s operations. This involves gathering information and understanding any changes that might affect your service.
Pre-Shift Meeting: Listen Attentively
Most restaurants hold a brief pre-shift meeting. This is your opportunity to glean vital information. Pay close attention to any announcements regarding specials, 86’d items (items that are unavailable), changes to the menu, or any large parties scheduled. Note any server rotations, station assignments, or specific instructions from the management team. Asking clarifying questions demonstrates your engagement and commitment to providing accurate service.
Reviewing the Menu and Specials
Even if you’re a seasoned server, it’s crucial to review the menu and specials before each shift. Menus can change frequently, and specials are, by definition, unique to the day. Familiarize yourself with the ingredients, preparation methods, and potential allergens in each dish. Be prepared to answer customer questions about the menu confidently and accurately. This includes knowing the price of each item, especially specials, to avoid confusion or price shock at the end of the meal.
Checking for 86’d Items and Modifications
Knowing what’s not available is just as important as knowing what is. Nothing is more frustrating for a customer than ordering an item only to be told it’s unavailable. Always check the 86’d list before the first customer arrives. Also, be aware of any ingredient substitutions or modifications that are currently being offered. This information will allow you to guide customers toward alternative options and avoid unnecessary delays or disappointments.
Setting Up Your Station and Side Work
Properly setting up your station and completing your assigned side work are essential for efficient service. This ensures that you have everything you need readily available to handle customer requests promptly and effectively.
Station Inspection and Organization
Your station is your workspace, and a well-organized station translates to smoother service. Ensure that your tables are clean, properly set, and aligned. Check for any wobbly tables or chairs and address them immediately. Stock up on essential supplies such as clean silverware, napkins, menus, condiments, and any other items specific to your restaurant. Having these items readily accessible will save you time and prevent you from having to constantly run back and forth to the service area.
Completing Assigned Side Work
Side work is an integral part of a server’s responsibilities. These tasks, such as refilling condiments, polishing silverware, or stocking the server station, may seem mundane, but they are vital to the overall efficiency of the restaurant. Complete your assigned side work promptly and thoroughly. This helps ensure that the restaurant is well-prepared for service and prevents any unnecessary bottlenecks during peak hours.
Preparing the Service Area
Extending beyond your own station, contribute to the overall readiness of the entire service area. This collaborative approach enhances the customer experience and streamlines operations for everyone.
Restocking Condiments and Supplies
Even if it’s not specifically your side work, take a moment to assess the overall supply levels in the service area. Are the salt and pepper shakers full? Is there enough ketchup and mustard available? Are the coffee carafes filled? Proactively restocking these essentials demonstrates a sense of ownership and teamwork. It also prevents other servers from running out of supplies during a busy service.
Checking Cleanliness and Ambiance
Walk through the dining room and observe the overall cleanliness and ambiance. Are there any spills on the floor? Are the tables properly wiped down? Is the lighting appropriate? Is the music at a comfortable level? Addressing any minor issues you observe shows attention to detail and a commitment to creating a pleasant dining environment. Alert management to any more significant problems that require immediate attention.
Communication and Teamwork
Serving is a team sport. Effective communication and collaboration with your colleagues are crucial for providing seamless service and creating a positive work environment.
Briefing with Colleagues
Take a few minutes to connect with your fellow servers. Discuss any potential challenges or concerns you foresee for the shift. Share information about large parties, special requests, or any other relevant details. A quick huddle with your colleagues fosters a sense of camaraderie and ensures that everyone is on the same page. This collaborative approach will help you anticipate potential issues and work together to resolve them efficiently.
Communicating with Kitchen and Bar Staff
Establishing clear communication channels with the kitchen and bar staff is essential for accurate order fulfillment and timely service. Introduce yourself to the cooks and bartenders on duty. Inquire about any special preparation instructions or ingredient substitutions. Maintaining open communication throughout the shift will help you avoid misunderstandings and ensure that orders are prepared correctly and delivered promptly.
Ready to Greet Your First Guest
With all the preliminary tasks completed, you’re now fully prepared to greet your first guest and embark on a successful shift. Remember, the initial interaction sets the tone for the entire dining experience.
Reviewing Your Greeting Strategy
Before approaching your first table, take a moment to mentally rehearse your greeting. Smile genuinely, make eye contact, and use a welcoming tone. Practice your opening lines, such as “Good morning/afternoon/evening, welcome to [Restaurant Name].” Be prepared to ask how many are in their party and offer seating options, if available. Projecting confidence and warmth will immediately put your guests at ease and create a positive first impression.
Being Present and Attentive
As you approach the table, put away any distractions, such as your phone or order pad. Focus your attention entirely on your guests. Listen attentively to their needs and preferences. Be patient and understanding, especially if they have questions or concerns. By being present and attentive, you demonstrate that you value their patronage and are committed to providing exceptional service.
Mastering these opening steps is paramount to ensuring a smooth, efficient, and successful shift as a server. By taking the time to properly prepare yourself, understand the day’s operations, set up your station, communicate effectively with your colleagues, and greet your guests with warmth and attentiveness, you will be well on your way to providing outstanding service and building a rewarding career in the hospitality industry. Remember, every interaction is an opportunity to create a positive and memorable experience for your guests.
What is the very first thing a server should do upon arriving for a shift?
Before anything else, a server should clock in properly and then immediately check in with the manager or designated supervisor. This allows you to receive essential shift updates, including information about specials, 86’d items (those that are unavailable), seating arrangements, VIP guests, and any pertinent changes to restaurant policies or procedures. Understanding these details from the start prepares you for potential customer inquiries and ensures you are aligned with the restaurant’s goals for the day.
Furthermore, checking in early provides an opportunity to address any personal needs or concerns before the shift officially begins. This might include clarifying schedule details, requesting assistance with a task, or informing the manager of any relevant personal matters. Addressing these issues proactively minimizes distractions and ensures you can focus fully on providing excellent customer service throughout your shift.
Why is it important to inspect your assigned station before service begins?
Inspecting your assigned station is crucial for identifying and rectifying any potential issues before customers arrive. This includes ensuring tables are clean, linens are spotless, silverware is polished and properly set, and condiment containers are full. A thorough check demonstrates attention to detail and sets the stage for a positive dining experience. By addressing these details early, you prevent unnecessary delays and potential customer dissatisfaction during service.
Beyond the visual appearance, inspecting your station allows you to assess the functionality of essential equipment like chairs, booths, and lighting. Addressing any maintenance needs, such as wobbly tables or burnt-out lightbulbs, before the rush will improve the overall dining environment and prevent disruptions. This proactive approach demonstrates professionalism and commitment to providing a comfortable and enjoyable experience for every guest.
What should a server do about pre-bussing and why is it important?
Pre-bussing, which involves removing empty plates, glasses, and trash from the table as guests finish with them, is an essential part of maintaining a clean and organized dining area. Servers should actively observe their tables and remove unwanted items promptly, creating a more pleasant and spacious environment for guests. This demonstrates attentiveness and contributes to a more enjoyable dining experience.
Pre-bussing not only improves the dining experience but also streamlines the final bussing process after guests leave. By removing clutter throughout the meal, the final table clearing becomes quicker and more efficient, allowing for faster table turnover and increased seating availability. This ultimately benefits both the server and the restaurant by optimizing service and maximizing potential revenue.
How crucial is it for servers to know the menu and specials inside and out?
Having a comprehensive understanding of the menu, including ingredients, preparation methods, and potential allergens, is absolutely vital for a server. Customers frequently have questions about dishes, and a server must be able to provide accurate and detailed information to guide their choices. This builds trust, showcases expertise, and allows customers to make informed decisions that align with their dietary needs and preferences.
Equally important is knowing the daily specials and any modifications or substitutions allowed. Servers should be able to describe the specials enticingly and answer questions about pricing and availability. This knowledge empowers them to upsell effectively, enhance the overall dining experience, and demonstrate a commitment to exceptional service by personalizing recommendations.
What role does teamwork play during the opening steps of a server’s shift?
Teamwork is paramount during the opening steps, as it sets the tone for a smooth and efficient service period. Servers should collaborate with their colleagues to complete tasks quickly and effectively, assisting with stocking supplies, setting up stations, and coordinating efforts to ensure the restaurant is fully prepared for guests. This collaborative approach fosters a positive work environment and maximizes productivity.
Specifically, offering assistance to fellow servers, especially those who may be newer or overwhelmed, strengthens team bonds and promotes a culture of support. Sharing information about table statuses, potential issues, or special requests enhances communication and allows the entire team to provide seamless service. Prioritizing teamwork ensures that all servers are working together towards a common goal: delivering exceptional customer experiences.
Why is it important for servers to maintain a positive attitude even before guests arrive?
Maintaining a positive attitude from the start is critical because it influences the entire service experience. A cheerful and optimistic demeanor can be contagious, creating a welcoming and enjoyable atmosphere for both colleagues and, eventually, guests. Approaching the shift with enthusiasm sets a positive tone that can enhance teamwork, improve efficiency, and contribute to a more successful service period.
A positive attitude also helps servers handle unexpected challenges or stressful situations more effectively. A calm and optimistic mindset allows them to approach problems with a solutions-oriented approach, reducing the likelihood of negative interactions or mistakes. Projecting confidence and professionalism, even before guests arrive, builds credibility and sets the stage for exceptional customer service throughout the shift.
What’s an example of an opening duty that can significantly impact service speed later on?
One opening duty that significantly impacts service speed later on is adequately stocking and organizing the server station. This includes ensuring an ample supply of clean silverware, napkins, condiments, menus, drink coasters, and pens. A well-stocked station eliminates the need for servers to constantly run back and forth to replenish supplies, allowing them to focus on attending to customer needs and expediting order fulfillment.
Furthermore, organizing the station logically, with frequently used items readily accessible, streamlines workflow and minimizes wasted time. Servers can quickly locate necessary items without searching or reorganizing, resulting in faster table turns and increased efficiency. Investing time in properly stocking and organizing the station at the beginning of the shift pays dividends throughout the service period, contributing to a smoother and more efficient dining experience for guests.