Bartending is a popular profession among those who enjoy the art of mixing drinks and providing excellent customer service. It’s a fun and rewarding job that can lead to great career opportunities in the hospitality industry. However, finding a bartending job can be challenging, especially if you have little to no experience.
If you’re looking to break into the bartending industry and wondering how to get started, this article will provide you with some helpful tips and tricks. From gaining experience to networking with industry professionals, we’ll cover everything you need to know to kickstart your career as a bartender. So, without further ado, let’s dive in!
Understand the Basics of Bartending
Bartending is an exciting and lucrative profession that involves preparing and serving a variety of drinks in a bar or restaurant setting. However, before you can get a bartending job, it’s important to understand the basics of bartending. Bartenders need to be knowledgeable about different types of liquor, mixers, garnishes, and glassware in order to create popular drinks that appeal to customers.
Additionally, bartenders must possess strong communication skills to interact with patrons in a friendly and professional manner. They should also be comfortable with basic arithmetic to handle cash and credit card transactions quickly and accurately. Finally, bartenders should have a good memory to remember customers’ drink preferences and orders. By understanding these basics, aspiring bartenders can position themselves for success in the industry.
Networking and Building Relationships
Networking and building relationships is a great way to help you get a bartending job. This involves interacting with people in your industry, attending events, and creating connections with others. Start by attending relevant events and engaging with others in the industry. Your goal should be to make a genuine connection with others and get to know them on a personal level.
Social media can also be a helpful tool in networking and building relationships. Follow bars and restaurants in your area on social media platforms like LinkedIn and Twitter. You can also connect with industry leaders and bartenders on LinkedIn and join groups related to bartending. Make sure to stay active on social media, post regularly, and interact with others’ posts as well. Building relationships takes time and effort, but it can pay off in helping you get a bartending job.
Creating Your Bartending Portfolio
Creating a bartending portfolio is an important step towards getting a bartending job. This portfolio should include all your certifications, experience in the hospitality industry, and references from your previous employers. Start with a well-crafted resume that highlights your relevant experience, skills, and qualifications. Make sure your resume is updated and tailored to the specific job you are applying for.
In addition to your resume, you can also add pictures of drinks that you have made, any awards or recognition that you have received, and videos of your bartending skills. Your portfolio should showcase all your talents and skills as a bartender, and give the employer an idea of what to expect from you. A well-assembled portfolio can make a huge difference in getting hired as a bartender. Your goal should be to make your portfolio stand out and show that you are the right fit for the job.
The Importance of Experience and Training
If you are looking to get a bartending job, it is essential to have some experience and training in the field. Experience can be a significant factor in securing a job as most employers prefer hiring bartenders who have previously worked in the industry. It shows that you have the skills and knowledge required to provide efficient service to customers.
There are several options for gaining experience and training in bartending. One of the most popular ways is to attend bartending schools or training programs. These programs offer hands-on experience and teach you the basics of mixology, service, and regulations related to the industry. You can also gain experience by working as a barback or server in a bar or restaurant. Additionally, it is a good idea to read books and research to stay up-to-date on new trends and techniques in the industry. Overall, experience and training are crucial in getting your foot in the door in the competitive world of bartending.
Finding Job Openings and Opportunities
Now that you have your bar certification and resume in order, it’s time to start looking for openings and opportunities in the industry. One of the most effective ways to find job openings is to make connections within the industry. Attend local events, join professional organizations, and participate in educational workshops. Networking with bar managers, fellow bartenders and other industry professionals may lead to job openings.
Another option is to search job boards and classified ads online. Websites like Craigslist and JobGurus all have job postings for bar jobs. LinkedIn is also great for connecting with industry professionals and finding job openings. Additionally, many bars and restaurants post job openings on their websites or social media pages, so be sure to check them out. By being proactive and utilizing different resources, you increase your chances of finding the bartending job you want.
Navigating the Interview Process
After submitting your job application and getting called in for an interview, you should start preparing yourself for the looming interview. Be sure to research the establishment and familiarize yourself with the menu, drinks, and atmosphere. You should also anticipate common interview questions and prepare answers to highlight your skills, experience, and work ethic.
During the interview, dress appropriately and arrive on time. Present a friendly, outgoing and professional attitude, while maintaining eye contact, confidence, and a smile. Additionally, be willing to listen and learn, as employers may be willing to hire someone without a lot of experience but with a positive attitude and willingness to learn. Finally, be patient and follow up on your application, while being grateful for the opportunity to interview.
Professionalism and Continuing Education
Maintaining professionalism as a bartender is crucial in keeping your job and advancing your career. This includes being punctual, dressing appropriately, and being courteous to customers and coworkers. Good communication skills are also important when dealing with customers who may have different personalities and preferences. Bartenders must be able to multitask and handle multiple orders at once, maintain a clean and organized workspace, and have a good understanding of bar equipment and how to use it.
Continuing education is also important for bartenders who want to stay ahead of the competition and excel in their careers. This could involve taking mixology classes, attending industry events, or studying new trends and techniques. Advanced training can also lead to more opportunities and higher-paying positions. Earning certifications, such as the National Bartending Certification or the Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) certification, can also show potential employers that you are committed to your career and have the knowledge and skill set to deliver quality service.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, landing a bartending job requires a combination of dedication, hard work, and people skills. While a certification or degree might help, it’s not always necessary to get your foot in the door. Networking and gaining experience by volunteering or working in related fields will give you a better chance of getting your dream job.
Remember, bartending is more than just making drinks; it’s about creating a welcoming atmosphere, catering to the needs of your customers, and providing excellent service. With the right attitude, knowledge, and skills, you can set yourself apart from the competition and secure a successful career in bartending. So, start practicing your mixology skills, get to know the industry, and be persistent in your job search – and soon enough, you’ll be serving up cocktails like a pro.