Restaurant Server Resume Examples

Writing a great restaurant server resume is important because it is one of the first things a potential employer will see when they are considering you for a position. It is your opportunity to make a good first impression and sell yourself as the best candidate for the job.

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If you're looking for inspiration when it comes to drafting your own restaurant server resume, look no further than the samples below. These resumes will help you highlight your experience and qualifications in the most effective way possible, giving you the best chance of landing the restaurant server job you're after.

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Essential Components for Crafting an Effective Restaurant Server Resume

Creating a standout restaurant server resume is pivotal in highlighting your expertise and fit for a role in the hospitality industry. A well-structured resume should effectively showcase your customer service prowess, ability to handle multiple tasks efficiently, and maintain composure in a fast-paced environment. Let's delve into the key sections of a restaurant server resume, offering insights and tips to ensure each part resonates with potential employers.

Contact Information

At the top of your resume, present your contact information prominently. It's vital for employers to reach you easily for interview invitations or further communication.

Include your full name, phone number, and a professional email address. Consider adding your LinkedIn profile URL if it showcases additional qualifications and experiences. While your full home address isn't necessary, mentioning your city and state can be helpful, especially if job opportunities require relocation.

Full Name
Phone Number
Email Address (Professional)
LinkedIn Profile URL (Optional)
Current City & State (Optional)

Accuracy is key in this section to avoid missed connections—triple-check your details before submitting your resume.

Objective Statement

An engaging objective statement can capture a hiring manager's attention. It should succinctly state your career aspirations and emphasize the skills and experiences that make you an ideal candidate for the position.

Example: "Dedicated server eager to leverage extensive knowledge of food and wine pairings, outstanding customer service skills, and adeptness in high-pressure situations to enhance the dining experience at a prestigious restaurant."

Customize your objective statement for each application to reflect the specific role you're targeting.

Work Experience

The work experience section is where you detail your professional history. List past positions in reverse chronological order, focusing on roles relevant to the food service industry.

Job History: Include the establishment's name, location, and your employment dates.
Tasks and Duties: Describe your responsibilities with bullet points, such as order taking, meal serving, and customer interaction.
Achievements: Highlight any notable accomplishments, like awards for service excellence or contributions to sales growth.
Skills Demonstrated: Showcase the skills you've honed in past roles that are pertinent to a server position.
Special Events & Occasions: Mention experience with catering or event services if applicable.
Training & Certifications: Include any relevant training or certifications, such as food safety courses.

Use dynamic action verbs to describe your roles and achievements, creating a compelling narrative of your professional journey.

Skills and Qualifications

This section should mirror the job description, highlighting the server skills you possess that are most valued by employers.

Customer Service Skills: Showcase your ability to engage with guests positively and handle issues gracefully.
Communication Skills: Emphasize your proficiency in explaining menu items and understanding customer needs.
Physical Stamina: Servers are on their feet for extended periods, so stamina is essential.
Multitasking Abilities: Illustrate your capability to manage multiple tables and tasks simultaneously.
Knowledge of Food Safety and Hygiene: Affirm your understanding of food safety standards.
Sales Ability: Mention your skill in upselling to boost restaurant revenue.
Cash Handling Skills: Detail your experience with transactions and financial accuracy.
Familiarity with POS Systems: Note your proficiency with modern ordering and billing systems.
Wine Knowledge: For roles requiring it, highlight your understanding of wine pairings and varietals.
Teamwork Skills: Servers often work in teams, so emphasize your collaborative abilities.

Include any certifications that enhance your qualifications, such as food handler’s licenses or alcohol service training.

Education History

While formal education may not be a strict requirement, detailing your educational background can demonstrate your commitment to learning and personal development.

List schools attended, degrees or certificates earned, and completion dates. Highlight any relevant coursework or training that pertains to the hospitality industry, such as food safety or customer service programs.

For those with degrees in other fields, focus on transferable skills like teamwork, problem-solving, and time management that are applicable to the server role.

Certifications (if applicable)

Certifications can bolster your resume by showcasing your commitment to excellence in the service industry.

Include any relevant certifications, such as ServSafe Food Handler or TIPS, and detail the knowledge and skills they represent. List the certification name, issuing organization, and the date of receipt, noting any expiration dates if applicable.

References

References can validate your professional capabilities through the lens of those who have directly observed your work.

Select references who can speak to your skills as a server, such as former supervisors or satisfied customers. Provide their name, relationship to you, and contact information, ensuring they are prepared to provide a positive account of your work ethic and abilities.

Including credible references can significantly enhance your job prospects by providing tangible proof of your competencies in the service industry.

By incorporating these elements into your restaurant server resume, you'll present a comprehensive and compelling picture of your qualifications, increasing your chances of landing the job you desire.