Bartenders are known for their excellent mixology skills and providing excellent customer service, but there are also a wide range of other jobs that bartenders can do outside of the bar industry. Many of the skills and traits that make a great bartender can also be applied to other professions, from sales to event planning to hospitality management.
If you’re a bartender looking for a change or considering the future of your career, this article will explore some of the many other jobs that bartenders can do. By highlighting transferable skills and opportunities for growth, this article aims to inspire bartenders to explore new possibilities and expand their career horizons.
The Versatility of Bartending Experience
Bartending is often considered a fun and exciting job that involves mixing cocktails and serving customers. However, bartenders develop a range of skills and experiences that can be applied to other professions. The versatility of bartending experience is extensive and diverse.
Some bartenders move into hospitality management positions, where they oversee operations within a hotel or resort. Others may join marketing or sales departments of beverage companies or suppliers. Additionally, bartenders can use their knowledge of mixology to launch their own businesses, such as a mobile bar or catering company. The skills and expertise learned behind the bar can also prove valuable in sectors such as event planning and customer service. From customer interaction and time management to organizational and leadership skills, bartending experience can be used in a multitude of careers.
Exploring Alternative Career Paths for Bartenders
Bartending is a versatile profession that demands dynamic skills and interactions with customers. Bartenders who want to explore other career paths have various opportunities to venture into. One potential alternative is to become a bar manager, where the bartender can coordinate and oversee the day-to-day operations of the bar and its staff. This position requires excellent organizational, leadership, and communication skills, and bartenders with experience often have the edge they need to succeed.
Another career path to consider is liquor sales, where bartenders can use their knowledge of different spirits and beverages to promote and sell products to businesses and consumers. Additionally, bartenders may also explore opportunities to venture into the hospitality industry in roles such as hotel management, event planning, or catering services which require similar skills to bartending. Other jobs that bartenders can explore include food and beverage management, restaurant consulting, and culinary arts. Overall, the skills and experience gained from bartending make it a fantastic starting point for aspiring professionals to explore opportunities in different industries and roles.
Transferable Skills for Bartenders in Other Industries
Bartenders are equipped with a unique set of skills that can be transferred to many other industries. The first and most obvious is customer service. Bartenders are adept at communicating with a range of people and providing exceptional service. This is a skill that is highly valued in any industry that involves interacting with customers, such as retail or hospitality.
Bartenders are also skilled in multitasking and working under pressure. They are used to handling multiple tasks simultaneously and dealing with high-stress situations. This ability is invaluable in many other industries such as event planning, journalism, and even healthcare. The ability to prioritize and stay calm under pressure is a highly sought-after skill that is difficult to teach, but bartenders possess it in spades. Overall, bartenders have a wealth of experience and skills that can help them succeed in a wide range of industries.
Bartenders in Hospitality Management
Bartenders who are looking to expand their horizons beyond the bar can consider a career in hospitality management. With their extensive knowledge in creating and serving drinks, bartenders can easily transition to roles such as bar managers, restaurant managers, or even event planners. As hospitality managers, they will oversee and coordinate various operations of a hospitality establishment, including managing staff, inventory, and finances.
In addition to their relevant experience, bartenders can also benefit from their strong customer service skills in hospitality management. They can ensure that customers have an excellent experience by providing quality service and ensuring that all aspects of the establishment run smoothly. Overall, a career in hospitality management can be a natural and fulfilling transition for bartenders who are seeking new opportunities beyond the bar.
Bartenders as Sales Representatives
Bartenders can take their customer service skills and transfer them to the field of sales. As a sales representative, bartenders can work for companies in a variety of industries, including alcohol and beverage companies. They have the advantage of already having experience in selling and promoting products behind the bar.
Sales representatives are responsible for building relationships with clients, making sales pitches, and closing deals. They also conduct market research, analyze sales data, and create sales strategies. Bartenders can make excellent sales representatives because they are accustomed to working in fast-paced environments, have great communication skills, and are able to adapt quickly to changing situations. With the right training, bartenders can thrive in this field and build a successful career in sales.
Bartenders in Event Planning and Coordination
Bartending is a crucial component of event planning and coordination. A bartender skilled in mixology and cocktail making is a valuable asset in any event, delivering excellent customer service, and providing guests with quality drinks. Bartenders in event planning and coordination can work in various sectors, including entertainment, catering, hospitality, and private events.
In addition to serving drinks, bartenders in event planning and coordination are responsible for organizing the bar area, managing inventory, ordering supplies, creating beverage menus, and coordinating with other staff to ensure the event runs smoothly. The role requires excellent communication and organizational skills to ensure that the needs of the guests are met while adhering to the budgetary constraints of the event. This job is a great career path for bartenders who want to take their skills to the next level while enjoying the excitement and diversity of event planning.
Bartenders as Authors and Speakers
Bartenders often possess a certain charisma and gift for storytelling that can make them excellent authors and speakers. Many bartenders have a wealth of knowledge and experience that they can share with others, whether it’s about mixology, the bar industry, or life lessons they’ve learned along the way. Bartenders can write books, blogs, or columns sharing their insider perspective on the world of bars and cocktails, making them a valuable resource for both enthusiasts and professionals.
Additionally, bartenders can lend their voice to public speaking engagements, sharing their insight and expertise at conferences, events, or even on podcasts. Their engaging personalities and ability to connect with people from all walks of life make them natural choices for speaking engagements, where they can inspire and motivate others with their stories and experiences. Whether they’re sharing their thoughts on the history of cocktails or discussing the latest trends in the industry, bartenders have a lot to offer as authors and speakers.
Wrapping Up
Bartending is an excellent job of the service industry that can provide a lot of skills and experience. However, it may not be the ideal career for everyone, so it is essential to explore the alternative opportunities that it offers. The diverse set of skills that a bartender acquires through their work is transferable to several industries and job roles. With the right mindset and preparation, a bartender can easily transition to another career.
Bartending opens up numerous employment opportunities that include but are not limited to event planning, hospitality management, and catering. Those looking for a career change should consider these alternatives to utilize their experience and skills to achieve professional and personal success. Apart from that, bartending also offers the freedom to travel and work in various locations, which can broaden professional networks and provide more significant challenges. Overall, bartending is an excellent career choice that can lead to fulfilling and diverse employment opportunities.