Bartending is a dynamic profession that requires a range of skills to succeed. If you want to make a career of bartending, then you know that it’s important to ace the interview to secure a job. However, preparing for a bartending interview can be tricky because there are many things to consider.
In this article, we’ll take a comprehensive look at how to prepare for a bartending interview. From researching the bar to honing your bartending skills, we’ll cover everything you need to know so that you can walk into a bartending interview confidently and ready to impress. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced bartender, this guide will help you prepare for your next bartending interview and land that dream job.
Research the Establishment You’re Interviewing For
Before applying for a bartending job, it is important to research the establishment you are applying to. You want to get a sense of the atmosphere, clientele, and type of drinks that are popular. Take a look at their website and social media pages to learn about any specials or events they offer. This information will allow you to tailor your interview responses to align with the establishment’s values.
In addition, researching the establishment can also allow you to prepare for any surprise questions that may come up during the interview. For example, if the establishment is known for their craft cocktails, be sure to brush up on your mixology skills. The more you know about the establishment, the more confident you will be in your interview, and the better chance you will have of landing the job.
Brush Up on Cocktail Knowledge and Master Basic Skills
As a bartender, you are required to have an in-depth knowledge of cocktails and classic drink recipes. Before heading out for your bartending interview, it’s essential to brush up on your knowledge of cocktail ingredients, mixing methods, and garnishes. This will help you create flavorful and visually appealing drinks for the customers. Familiarize yourself with the common terminologies used in the bartending industry, such as “up” and “on the rocks,” and experiment with creating your own cocktail recipes to showcase your creativity.
Apart from your cocktail knowledge, it’s also important to master basic bartending skills. You need to be comfortable operating various equipment, such as shakers, jiggers, and strainers. It’s crucial to become proficient in free pour techniques, practicing the art of measuring liquor quantities by hand without using a jigger. Additionally, you must be quick on your feet and have excellent communication skills to take orders, multitask, and serve your customers efficiently. Make sure you practice these skills before your interview, so you can confidently showcase them to your potential employer.
Practice Your Bartending Techniques and Speed
One of the key factors that sets a great bartender apart from an average one is speed. Bartending is a fast-paced job, and a bartender who can efficiently make drinks and manage a busy bar is a valuable asset to any establishment. As such, it is crucial to practice your bartending techniques and speed before your interview.
A great way to improve your speed and technique is by practicing with common bar tools, such as shakers, strainers, and jiggers. You can also practice making popular drinks such as martinis, margaritas, and old fashioneds. Additionally, you may want to work on memorizing drink recipes, as this will allow you to make drinks more quickly and efficiently. By practicing these skills, you will be better prepared to handle the demands of a busy bar during your bartending interview, which will increase your chances of landing the job.
Dress the Part: What to Wear for a Bartending Interview
When it comes to dressing for a bartending interview, it’s important to consider the overall vibe of the establishment you’re applying to. For most bartending gigs, you’ll want to be dressed in business casual attire. This means opt for a dress shirt with a pair of khaki pants or slacks. Make sure that your clothes fit well and are in good condition – you don’t want to show up in wrinkled or stained clothing.
Another key consideration is footwear. Bartending often requires spending long hours on your feet, so it’s important to wear comfortable shoes that won’t leave you with sore feet or blisters. A pair of dress shoes or loafers is ideal, but make sure they’re comfortable and broken in first. Remember, while your personality and skills are important factors in getting hired, dressing professionally will give you a good first impression.
Develop Your People Skills and Positive Attitude
When it comes to bartending, customer service is key. Having excellent people skills and a positive attitude are essential to being successful in the industry. In preparation for a bartending interview, focus on honing your interpersonal communication skills.
Firstly, practice active listening. This means paying attention to what the other person is saying and responding thoughtfully. Be empathetic and understanding, and show a genuine interest in their needs and desires. Secondly, focus on being approachable and friendly. Greet customers with a warm smile and make an effort to remember their names. Displaying a positive attitude will help to create a welcoming environment, and customers will feel more comfortable and likely to return.
Remember, bartending isn’t just about making drinks – it’s also about creating a unique and enjoyable experience that customers will want to come back for. Developing your people skills and positive attitude will help you stand out as a candidate and ensure your success as a bartender.
Prepare Responses to Common Bartender Interview Questions
When preparing for a bartending interview, it’s essential to be ready for some common questions that may arise. Being able to answer these questions confidently will help you impress your interviewer and boost your chances of landing the job.
Some of the most common questions asked during bartender interviews include how you handle a difficult customer, what your knowledge of different spirits and beers is, your understanding of safety policies related to alcohol consumption, your experience working in a high-pressure environment, and your ability to work well in a team. By thinking through possible responses to these questions ahead of time, you can demonstrate your expertise, experience, and skills, and stand out as the ideal candidate for the job. Make sure you prepare well, know what you are doing, and be sure to practice answering these types of questions before your interview.
Follow Up After the Interview and Express Gratitude
Once you have completed your interview, it is important to follow up with the hiring manager or bartender who conducted the interview. You should send a thank-you email or note expressing your gratitude for the opportunity to interview for the position. This is an opportunity to reiterate your interest in the job and to acknowledge the time and effort that was put into the interview process. Make sure to customize your message and include specific details about the interview that demonstrate what you learned and why you are excited about the position.
Following up after an interview also shows the hiring manager that you are professional, respectful, and that you take initiative. It is also an opportunity to address any questions or concerns that were not covered during the interview. If you were asked to provide additional information or references, this is the time to follow through with any requests. Overall, expressing gratitude and following up after an interview can make a positive impression on the hiring manager and increase your chances of being offered the bartending position.
Conclusion
In the end, preparation is the key to success in any job interview, and bartending is no exception. It’s important to do your research on the bar you’re interviewing with, practice your skills, dress appropriately, and have a positive attitude. Remember, you’ll be working with people, not just making drinks, so being personable and able to work well with others is just as important as your bartending abilities.
While it can be nerve-wracking to prepare for a bartending interview, remember that it’s also an opportunity to showcase your skills and personality. Use the tips in this article to help you prepare, but also trust in your own abilities and experience. By putting in the effort to prepare for your interview, you’ll be one step closer to landing your dream bartending job.