What does a Bartender do?
Published 3 min read
A bartender is someone who makes and serves drinks in a bar or pub. They are responsible for making sure that all of the customers are happy and have what they need.
Bartender job duties include:
- Greeting customers and taking drink orders
- Knowing the menu and being able to make recommendations
- Mixing drinks using proper techniques
- Serving drinks to customers
- Checking identification to verify legal drinking age
- Handling money and processing transactions
- Maintaining a clean and organized work area
- Restocking supplies as needed
- Completing side work tasks as assigned
- Providing excellent customer service
Bartender Job Requirements
Most bartenders have at least a high school diploma, although some jobs may require postsecondary education, and many bartenders receive on-the-job training. Some states require bartenders to be certified in responsible alcohol service. To be certified, bartenders must complete a training course and pass an exam. Employers often prefer to hire experienced bartenders. Many bartenders gain experience by working at smaller establishments before moving to larger ones.
Bartender Skills
- Mixing drinks
- Pouring drinks
- Measuring ingredients
- Choosing drink recipes
- Making cocktails
- Decorating drinks
- Upselling drinks
- Dealing with customers
- Dealing with difficult customers
- Working in a fast-paced environment
- Multi-tasking
Related: Top Bartender Skills: Definition and Examples
How to become a Bartender
There are many reasons someone might want to become a bartender. Maybe they like the fast-paced environment of a busy bar, or maybe they enjoy interacting with people and making them happy. Whatever the reason, if you want to become a bartender there are a few things you need to know.
First, it is important to be able to make drinks quickly and efficiently. This means knowing how to measure ingredients, how to pour liquor without spilling, and how to mix drinks without making a mess. There are many resources available to help you learn these skills, including books, online tutorials, and even bartending classes.
Second, it is essential to be able to keep a cool head under pressure. Bartenders often have to deal with rowdy customers, long lines, and other stressful situations. If you can't handle the heat, then bartending is not the job for you.
Third, you need to know how to upsell. This means convincing customers to buy more expensive drinks or order another round even when they might not be planning on it. Upselling is a great way to increase your tips, so it's worth learning how to do it effectively.
Finally, remember that bartending is about more than just making drinks. It's also about providing good customer service and creating a fun atmosphere for your guests. If you can do all of these things, then you'll be well on your way to becoming a great bartender.
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