Bartending is one of the most popular hospitality careers, with an array of job opportunities. From high-end hotels to local watering holes, there is always a demand for skilled bartenders who can whip up classic cocktails, create innovative recipes, and keep the bar running smoothly. However, becoming a bartender requires more than just learning how to mix drinks. It requires a combination of practical skills, industry knowledge, and customer service expertise.
In this article, we’ll explore the various ways you can train to become a bartender, including formal education, on-the-job training, and personal study. Whether you’re just starting out in the industry or looking to hone your skills, there are plenty of options available to help you become the best bartender you can be. So, let’s dive in and discover how you can train to be a bartender!
Understanding The Bartending Industry: The Basics
Bartending is a popular and exciting career in the service industry. As a bartender, you are responsible for serving customers in a bar or restaurant. The job involves mixing and serving alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, engaging with customers, and ensuring the bar is clean and well-stocked.
To excel as a bartender, you first need to understand the industry’s basics. This includes knowing the different types of bars and their clientele, the laws surrounding alcohol service, and the various skills required in the job. You should also be familiar with the different types of alcoholic beverages, basic drink recipes, and the equipment used in a bar. By understanding these basics, you can get a head start in your training as a bartender and set yourself up for success in the industry.
Essential Skills Required For Bartending
Bartending is not just about mixing drinks. It’s an art that requires a certain set of skills that can help a bartender deliver quality drinks and service to the customers. Here are some of the essential skills required for bartending:
Firstly, communication skills are vital for bartenders. They need to be able to engage with customers in a friendly manner and listen to their orders attentively. A good bartender understands how to create a welcoming atmosphere and make customers feel comfortable. They need to have excellent interpersonal skills, be able to multitask and handle pressure.
Secondly, being knowledgeable about drinks and bartending equipment is a must. A bartender should know the basic ingredients of all popular drinks and their mixing techniques. They should understand the different types of glasses and know how to pour the right amount of liquid into each glass. Moreover, being aware of the latest trends and techniques in the bartending industry will enhance their skills and help them cater to the customer’s changing demands.
Bartending Certifications: What You Need To Know
Bartending certifications are essential for those seeking to establish themselves in the field. These certifications are valuable for two main reasons: they demonstrate that individuals are knowledgeable and expertly trained in bartending techniques and they are a way to stand out from the competition.
The most widely recognized bartending certification is the National Bartending Certification, which is recognized by the Professional Bartending Schools of America (PBSA). The certification program covers everything from basic mixing techniques to advanced bar management and customer service. Other highly regarded certifications include the Master Bartender Certification from the Master Bartending School and the International Bartender Certification from the International Bartenders Association. Ultimately, bartending certifications give bartenders an edge over others in the job market and can help them to earn higher salaries as well.
Essential Bartending Tools You Need To Start Your Training
Aspiring bartenders need to equip themselves with certain tools before starting their training. Essential bartending tools include a shaker tin, strainer, jigger, bar spoon, and citrus press. The shaker tin is used to mix cocktails, while the strainer helps separate the liquid from the ice. Jiggers are essential for measuring alcohol and other ingredients accurately, while the bar spoon is used for stirring cocktails. A citrus press is used to extract juice from fruits like lemons and limes.
Apart from the basic tools, there are other gadgets that bartenders should invest in, such as a blender for making frozen drinks, a muddler for crushing fruits or herbs, a bottle opener for opening beer bottles, and a wine key for opening wine bottles. As you gain experience in bartending, you may want to add more tools to your kit. However, with the aforementioned essentials, you should be able to start your training as a bartender with confidence.
Bartending Schools vs. On-The-Job Training: What’s The Best Approach?
When it comes to training to be a bartender, there are two main approaches – attending a bartending school or pursuing on-the-job training. The decision of which approach to take will depend on various factors such as personal preference, budget, time availability, and ultimate career goals.
Bartending schools offer a structured approach to learning the skills and knowledge required for a career in bartending. They provide classroom instruction, hands-on training, and opportunities for networking and job placement. On the other hand, on-the-job training involves learning on the job, usually starting as a barback or assistant bartender and gradually advancing to a full-fledged bartender. While it may take longer to gain the necessary experience through on-the-job training, it can be a more practical and cost-effective approach, especially for those who don’t have the resources to attend a bartending school. Ultimately, the best approach will depend on the individual’s circumstances, goals, and preferences.
How To Build A Professional Bartending Portfolio
Building a professional bartending portfolio is an essential step in your journey to becoming a successful bartender. Your portfolio should contain a collection of your work, including your signature drinks, cocktail recipes, and any certifications you have earned. A well-crafted portfolio not only showcases your skills and experience but also helps you stand out from the competition when applying for bartending jobs.
To create a professional bartending portfolio, start by compiling all the relevant information about your bartending experience. This includes descriptions of the bars and restaurants you’ve worked at, your responsibilities, and any notable accomplishments. You should also include photographs of your creations, such as cocktail recipes and garnishes. Remember, your portfolio should represent your unique style and personality, so make sure you choose samples that showcase your creativity and mixology skills. By investing time in your portfolio, you will be able to demonstrate your expertise to potential employers and increase your chances of landing your dream bartending job.
Landing Your Dream Bartending Job: Tips And Tricks.
After completing your bartending course and gaining enough experience behind the bar, it’s time to start your job search. Take some time to research bars and clubs in your area that align with your interests and skills. Choose places that suit your style and where you think you would fit in well with the existing staff.
Before applying for your dream bartending job, make sure your resume and cover letter are polished and professional. Highlight all the relevant skills you have learned and emphasize your experience in customer service and working with people. Networking is also a key factor in landing a bartending job. Attend industry events, meet other bartenders and owners, and ask your regular customers for any recommendations they might have. With the right attitude and determination, you can land the perfect bartending job that will take your career to the next level.
Final Words
Becoming a bartender requires hard work and dedication. It is not just about serving drinks, but also about creating a memorable experience for customers. Training to be a bartender involves learning the right techniques, honing your social skills, and gaining practical experience through internships or part-time jobs. A good bartender is always learning and staying up-to-date with the latest trends in the industry.
If you are passionate about bartending and want to turn it into a career, you must be willing to invest your time and effort into it. It takes time to become a skilled and trusted bartender. However, with the right training, guidance, and practice, you can achieve your goals and become a successful bartender. The key is to stay motivated, keep learning, and always strive to provide exceptional service to your customers.
