How to Become a Bartending School Instructor (Stirring Up Success!)
If you’ve ever imagined yourself mixing cocktails and teaching others the art of bartending, or wondered what it takes to become a bartending school instructor, you’ve come to the right place.
In this guide, we’ll outline the EXACT steps you need to follow to launch your career as a bartending school instructor. We’ll discuss:
- The skills you require.
- The education and certifications that can help you succeed.
- How to land a job as a bartending school instructor.
So, whether you’re an amateur mixologist or a seasoned bartender looking to share your expertise, stay tuned.
We’re about to reveal the step-by-step guide to become a bartending school instructor.
Let’s get shaking!
Steps to Become a Bartending School Instructor
Step 1: Gain Bartending Experience
To become a Bartending School Instructor, it’s essential to first gain extensive experience as a bartender.
This means working in a variety of hospitality settings such as restaurants, hotels, or clubs where you can learn about different types of beverages, techniques, and customer service.
Many employers prefer hiring instructors who have a minimum of 3 to 5 years of bartending experience.
This experience allows you to understand the industry inside-out, learn about managing patrons, and familiarize yourself with all types of drink recipes and preparation methods.
Remember, as an instructor, you will need to teach students about not only making drinks but also about understanding customer needs, managing the bar, and adhering to all relevant laws and regulations.
Therefore, your real-world experience is invaluable and will make you a more effective teacher.
Step 2: Acquire Formal Training
To become a Bartending School Instructor, it’s crucial to have a solid understanding of bartending techniques, mixology, and customer service.
You can acquire this by enrolling in a certified bartending or mixology school.
These programs typically include comprehensive courses covering various aspects of bartending, including classic and modern cocktails, beer and wine knowledge, bar setup and operation, and customer service.
Formal training also provides hands-on experience, which is crucial for mastering the art of bartending.
It can give you an edge over others when applying for instructor positions later on as you will have been trained to use the tools and techniques of the trade efficiently.
In addition, attending a bartending school allows you to network with industry professionals and fellow aspiring bartenders.
This could potentially open up job opportunities in the future.
Remember, while many bartenders learn their trade through experience and on-the-job training, formal education can enhance your knowledge and make you a more desirable candidate for an instructor’s role.
This step is all about building a strong foundation and mastering the skills that you will eventually teach others.
Step 3: Earn Certifications and Licenses
Becoming a Bartending School Instructor necessitates obtaining relevant certifications and licenses.
One of the most important is the Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA) certificate, a mandatory requirement in many regions.
This certification demonstrates your understanding of the laws surrounding the service of alcohol, and equips you with the knowledge to responsibly manage and serve alcohol in a professional context.
In addition to the RSA, you may also choose to earn certifications from recognized professional bartending associations.
These certifications often involve comprehensive courses that cover advanced mixology techniques, cocktail recipes, and customer service skills.
Moreover, some locations require bartending instructors to obtain a teaching or vocational education license.
These licenses indicate that you are qualified to teach and train others, and requirements may include previous teaching experience, a bachelor’s degree or higher, and successful completion of a licensing exam.
Finally, remember to regularly check the regulations in your region, as these can change, and you’ll need to ensure that your certifications and licenses are always up-to-date.
Step 4: Develop Teaching Skills
Becoming an effective Bartending School Instructor requires more than just mastery of bartending skills.
You need to develop teaching skills to effectively pass on your knowledge to your students.
This may involve taking pedagogy courses or gaining experience as a teaching assistant.
Understanding different learning styles and instructional strategies can be beneficial.
In addition, becoming a certified teacher or earning a degree in education can further enhance your teaching skills and credibility.
Some programs offer specialized training for vocational or technical education, which is directly applicable to bartending instruction.
It’s also important to practice public speaking and learn how to manage a classroom effectively.
You need to be able to communicate clearly and confidently, and handle different types of student personalities and challenges that may arise during teaching.
Furthermore, having experience in curriculum development can be an advantage as you may be tasked with creating lesson plans.
Familiarize yourself with the use of teaching aids and technology that can enhance your lessons and make learning more interactive for your students.
Remember, being a Bartending School Instructor isn’t just about knowing how to make cocktails, it’s about being able to inspire, motivate, and effectively teach others to do the same.
Step 5: Create a Curriculum
As a bartending school instructor, your role involves teaching students about the techniques and skills necessary to become professional bartenders.
This requires the creation of a comprehensive, engaging, and practical curriculum that covers all aspects of the profession.
Begin by outlining the basic skills every bartender needs to know.
This includes drink mixology, customer service, alcohol laws and regulations, and safe alcohol handling.
Additionally, consider including modules on how to set up a bar, how to manage inventory, and the different types of glassware and tools used in a bar setting.
When creating the curriculum, remember to incorporate a mix of theoretical lessons and practical sessions.
Theoretical lessons can be used to teach the basics, while practical sessions give students hands-on experience in mixing drinks, serving customers, and operating a bar.
Keep in mind that the curriculum should be designed to prepare students for real-world bartending situations.
This means including lessons on dealing with difficult customers, handling busy shifts, and maintaining a clean and organized bar.
Lastly, continually review and update your curriculum based on industry trends and feedback from students and peers.
This ensures that your curriculum remains relevant and gives your students the best chance of success in their bartending careers.
Step 6: Understand Alcohol Laws and Regulations
As a prospective Bartending School Instructor, you need to be thoroughly familiar with the laws and regulations governing the sale and consumption of alcohol in your specific region.
These laws can include everything from legal drinking ages to the hours during which alcohol can be sold, and they can vary greatly from one place to another.
You will also need to understand the potential liabilities that can be associated with serving alcohol, such as the legal and financial consequences of serving alcohol to a visibly intoxicated person.
In many areas, bartenders can be held legally responsible if a patron they serve causes harm to themselves or others after leaving the bar.
Furthermore, understanding the specifics of licensing laws will be crucial, as you will have to guide your students on how to get their bartender licenses and renew them when necessary.
This includes knowing the requirements and processes of various certification programs available in your region.
Lastly, make sure you’re up to date with any changes in regulations.
Laws are frequently updated and it’s important you’re teaching your students the most current and accurate information.
Being knowledgeable in these areas will not only make you a more effective instructor but also ensure that your students are fully prepared for the professional realities of bartending.
Step 7: Get Experience in Educational Settings
Gaining experience in an educational setting is integral to becoming a Bartending School Instructor.
This could involve teaching or training roles in various contexts, not necessarily limited to the bartending industry.
For instance, you could start with tutoring, coaching, or mentoring roles in any field to get a sense of the teaching dynamics.
However, specific experience in teaching bartending skills would be invaluable.
Try to seize opportunities to guide new bartenders at your workplace or conduct workshops and seminars in your local community.
This will not only help you understand the common challenges faced by beginners but also give you a chance to develop your own teaching style and techniques.
Moreover, consider getting a job at a bartending school as an assistant instructor or a guest lecturer.
This will give you first-hand experience of the classroom environment, curriculum, teaching methods, and student interaction at a bartending school.
Remember, as a Bartending School Instructor, you are expected to have excellent communication and leadership skills, patience, and a knack for making complex bartending techniques easy to understand.
Having experience in teaching or training roles can definitely help you build these skills.
Step 8: Network Within the Industry
As you build your career towards becoming a Bartending School Instructor, networking within the industry is a crucial step.
Attend industry events, workshops, and seminars to meet professionals from different arenas of the bartending world.
This may include bar owners, experienced bartenders, distillers, and of course, other bartending instructors.
By building strong professional relationships, you can open doors to new opportunities, collaborations, and resources that will enhance your teaching methods and widen your understanding of the industry.
It is also a great way to stay current with the latest trends, cocktails, and techniques in bartending.
Joining professional bartending associations can also be beneficial.
These organizations often provide resources, training, and the chance to network with like-minded professionals.
Social media platforms can also be a great tool for networking.
Follow prominent figures and institutions in the industry, engage with their content and share your own insights and experiences.
Remember, networking is not a one-time event, but rather an ongoing process of building and nurturing professional relationships.
The bartending world is dynamic and constantly evolving, so staying connected to your network can ensure you remain up-to-date and relevant in your instruction.
Step 9: Apply to Bartending Schools or Start Your Own
Once you’ve accumulated the necessary skills, qualifications, and experience, it’s time to apply for a position as a bartending school instructor.
Research potential schools, looking for those with good reputations, quality curriculum, and strong student feedback.
Prepare your resume to highlight your bartending and teaching experience, and make sure to include any special skills or certifications that may set you apart from other candidates.
If you prefer to have more control and are confident in your teaching abilities, you could also consider starting your own bartending school.
This will require a significant upfront investment and extensive planning.
You’ll need to secure a location, develop a curriculum, obtain necessary licenses and insurances, and market your school to attract students.
As the owner and instructor, you’ll have the chance to shape the education of your students in a way that aligns with your personal philosophy and expertise.
Whether you choose to apply to existing schools or start your own, it’s important to have a clear vision of your teaching style and methodology.
Be prepared to demonstrate your passion and knowledge for bartending, as well as your ability to effectively train others.
Step 10: Continuously Update Your Knowledge and Skills
As a Bartending School Instructor, it is crucial to stay updated with the latest trends in the industry.
This could include new mixology techniques, innovative cocktail recipes, understanding of various types of alcohol, and mastery of updated bar tools and technology.
You can update your knowledge by attending seminars and workshops, reading trade magazines, or joining professional bartender networks.
It’s also beneficial to stay current with the latest in food pairing, as this often goes hand in hand with serving drinks.
Additionally, it’s not just about the drinks.
You should also stay updated on laws and regulations about serving alcohol in your area and keep your certifications up to date.
This is an important aspect of bartending that would be taught to students, so you should be very knowledgeable about it.
Practicing your own bartending skills is also essential.
Try creating your own cocktail recipes or refining your pouring and shaking techniques.
This will not only enhance your skills but also your credibility as an instructor.
Remember, the bartending industry is ever-evolving, and a good instructor isn’t just a teacher but also a lifelong student of the craft.
Bartending School Instructor Roles and Responsibilities
Bartending School Instructors use their expert knowledge in the field of bartending to provide effective instruction to students.
Their goal is to train students to prepare and serve drinks in a professional manner while adhering to relevant laws and safety standards.
They have the following roles and responsibilities:
Bartending Instruction
- Teach students the basics of bartending, including the different types of drinks, mixing techniques, and presentation skills.
- Demonstrate the correct use of bartending tools and equipment.
- Instruct students on creating popular and classic cocktails.
Practical Skills Training
- Guide students through hands-on practice sessions.
- Provide feedback and constructive criticism to help students improve their bartending skills.
- Supervise practice sessions to ensure that students are using correct techniques and adhering to safety standards.
Customer Service Skills
- Teach students how to interact with customers in a professional and courteous manner.
- Instill a high standard of customer service in students to prepare them for the service industry.
- Train students on how to handle difficult customers and challenging situations.
Safety and Legal Knowledge
- Educate students on the legal aspects of bartending, including age restrictions and responsible alcohol service.
- Emphasize the importance of health and safety regulations in a bar setting.
- Teach students how to identify signs of intoxication and how to handle such situations appropriately.
Assessment and Evaluation
- Assess students’ practical skills and understanding of course material.
- Provide grades and feedback based on performance in practical tests and written examinations.
Course Preparation
- Prepare course material, including lesson plans, practice exercises, and examinations.
- Stay updated on the latest trends in the bartending industry to incorporate them into the course material.
Professional Development
- Continually improve personal bartending skills and knowledge.
- Stay updated on changes in laws and regulations related to bartending and alcohol service.
What Does a Bartending School Instructor Do?
Bartending School Instructors are professionals who teach aspiring bartenders the craft of mixing, garnishing and serving drinks according to recipes or customers’ preferences.
They provide hands-on training in a simulated bar environment where students can learn how to pour, shake, stir and blend drinks.
The instructors also provide essential knowledge about the characteristics of different types of alcohols and mixers, as well as the history of various cocktails.
Besides teaching students how to make drinks, Bartending School Instructors also educate them about responsible alcohol service.
This includes teaching about the laws regarding alcohol service and consumption, as well as strategies to handle intoxicated customers.
In addition to these, they are responsible for teaching students the importance of cleanliness and organization behind the bar, and how to provide excellent customer service.
Finally, Bartending School Instructors are expected to evaluate their students’ skills and knowledge, providing feedback and improvement suggestions to ensure they are prepared for a career in bartending.
Essential Bartending School Instructor Skills
- Knowledge of mixology: Instructors must have a deep understanding of the art and science of creating cocktails, including the different types of liquors, mixers, and the right balance of ingredients.
- Communication: Clear and engaging communication is essential in teaching students about bartending techniques, recipes, and best practices.
- Customer Service: Bartending is not just about serving drinks but also about providing excellent customer service. Instructors need to impart these skills to their students.
- Teaching Skills: As an instructor, you need to be able to convey complex information in a way that students can easily understand. This includes teaching methods for different learning styles.
- Hands-On Experience: Having experience in the bartending field is critical. This ensures that instructors can share real-life experiences and practical tips with their students.
- Safety Regulations: Instructors must be knowledgeable about local and state alcohol regulations, as well as safety procedures in handling alcohol and dealing with intoxicated customers.
- Equipment Knowledge: Knowledge about various bar equipment, their uses, maintenance and safe handling is necessary to guide students appropriately.
- Patience: Learning to mix drinks perfectly takes time. Instructors must have patience and provide constructive feedback to help students improve.
- Drink Pairing Knowledge: Understanding how to pair drinks with food can enhance the dining experience. This knowledge is valuable for students who will be working in restaurants.
- Creativity: Bartending often involves creating new drink recipes. Instructors need to teach students how to use creativity in mixology.
- Teamwork: Bartending often requires working with a team. Instructors should instill the importance of teamwork in their students.
- Professionalism: It’s crucial for instructors to demonstrate and teach professional behavior, including punctuality, appropriate attire, and respectful communication.
- Inventory Management: Knowledge on how to manage bar inventory, including ordering and tracking stock, is a useful skill for potential bartenders.
- Physical Stamina: Bartending can be physically demanding with long hours on their feet. Instructors need to prepare students for this aspect of the job.
- Passion: A genuine passion for bartending and teaching can inspire and motivate students to excel in their bartending career.
Bartending School Instructor Career Path Progression
The Foundation: Bartending Apprentice
Starting as a Bartending Apprentice is a common first step on this career path.
Here, you’ll learn the basics of mixing drinks, customer service, and how to operate within a bar setting.
Here are some tips for success at this stage:
- Learn Continuously: Understand the core principles of making drinks, including flavor profiles, techniques and bar etiquette.
- Seek Mentorship: Learn from experienced bartenders, ask questions and seek their advice.
- Customer Service: Focus on honing your customer service skills, as this is a crucial aspect of the job.
The Ascent: Bartender
With experience and skills gained, you’ll progress to the role of a Bartender.
In this role, you’ll handle more complex drink orders, interact directly with customers and contribute significantly to the bar’s atmosphere.
To excel at this stage:
- Mixology: Perfect your mixing, garnishing, and serving drinks techniques.
- Customer Interaction: Engage positively with customers, handle difficult situations and create a friendly bar atmosphere.
- Menu Creation: Start to experiment with creating your own cocktails and contributing to the bar’s menu.
Reaching New Heights: Head Bartender
The Head Bartender role is the next step up.
You’ll have the opportunity to manage other bartenders, control inventory, create cocktail menus, and ensure smooth bar operations.
To succeed at this level:
- Leadership: Develop your leadership skills by guiding and training other bartenders.
- Inventory Management: Learn to effectively manage stock and anticipate bar needs.
- Creativity: Push the limits of your creativity by developing unique, signature drinks.
Beyond the Horizon: Bar Manager
With further progression, you may become a Bar Manager.
This role involves overseeing the entire bar operations, managing staff, and ensuring customer satisfaction.
Here’s what to focus on:
- Business Acumen: Learn the business side of running a bar, including financial management, staffing, and compliance with laws.
- Customer Relations: Maintain high standards of customer service and handle any escalated customer complaints.
- Staff Management: Develop strong communication and leadership skills to effectively manage your team.
Pinnacle of Success: Bartending School Instructor
Reaching the level of a Bartending School Instructor signifies that you’ve mastered all aspects of bartending.
You’re now in a position to share your knowledge and skills with aspiring bartenders.
You’ll be responsible for shaping the curriculum, mentoring students, and providing practical training.
Bartending School Instructor Salary
Entry-Level Bartending School Instructor
- Median Salary: $25,000 – $35,000 per year
- Entry-level bartending school instructors typically have 1-2 years of experience in bartending and may have received certification from a recognized bartending school.
Mid-Level Bartending School Instructor
- Median Salary: $35,000 – $45,000 per year
- Mid-level bartending school instructors have 2-5 years of experience in teaching mixology and often have a strong understanding of advanced bartending techniques.
Senior Bartending School Instructor
- Median Salary: $45,000 – $60,000 per year
- Senior instructors possess 5+ years of teaching experience and are responsible for developing curriculum, overseeing classes, and mentoring junior instructors.
Lead Bartending School Instructor / Bartending School Manager
- Median Salary: $60,000 – $80,000+ per year
- These roles come with significant experience and often involve managing the operations of the bartending school, including staffing, budgeting, and curriculum development.
Director / VP of Bartending School
- Median Salary: $80,000 – $120,000+ per year
- These high-level positions require extensive experience in the field of bartending education, and often involve setting educational strategies and goals for the school.
Bartending School Instructor Work Environment
Bartending School Instructors usually work in educational environments like bartending schools, vocational institutions, or community colleges.
They might also find opportunities to instruct at hospitality industry events, workshops, or online platforms dedicated to professional development in the beverage industry.
The work schedule of a Bartending School Instructor can be varied, depending on the class schedules and programming needs of the institution they are associated with.
They might need to work in the evenings or weekends when students are more likely to be available for classes.
After gaining significant experience and a strong reputation, a Bartending School Instructor may choose to create their own bartending courses, open a private bartending school, or even consult for restaurants and bars on drink menu development and staff training.
FAQs About Becoming a Bartending School Instructor
What qualifications do I need to become a Bartending School Instructor?
Typically, you’ll need a few years of experience in the bartending field before you can transition into a role as a Bartending School Instructor.
This can be gained through working in bars, clubs, restaurants, or hotels.
Some bartending schools prefer their instructors to have certifications from recognized bartending or hospitality schools, while others may require you to have a specific license to serve alcohol.
In addition to your technical skills, you’ll also need strong communication skills and a passion for teaching.
How can I gain the experience needed to become a Bartending School Instructor?
The best way to gain experience is to start working as a bartender and gradually move up the ranks.
This will help you to understand all aspects of the job, from mixing drinks to dealing with difficult customers.
You can also take courses from recognized bartending schools to improve your knowledge and credibility.
Some instructors also gain experience by offering private bartending classes or workshops.
Do I need a degree to become a Bartending School Instructor?
No, a degree is not typically required to become a Bartending School Instructor.
However, having a background in hospitality, business, or education can be beneficial.
More important than a degree is having substantial experience in bartending, good knowledge of drinks and cocktails, and the ability to teach and communicate effectively.
Is becoming a Bartending School Instructor a full-time job?
This can vary depending on the school or program you’re working for.
Some Bartending School Instructors work full-time, while others work part-time or on a contract basis.
In addition to teaching classes, instructors may also be responsible for developing lesson plans, grading student performance, and maintaining the training bar area.
What are the prospects for Bartending School Instructors in the next decade?
The demand for Bartending School Instructors is tied to the overall demand for bartenders, which is expected to remain steady or grow in the next decade.
The increasing interest in mixology and craft cocktails could also boost the need for professional bartending education.
However, like any job, the prospects can vary based on location, the economy, and the popularity of the profession.
Conclusion
There you have it.
Setting sail on the voyage to become a bartending school instructor is not a walk in the park, but the rewards are beyond measure.
Equipped with the proper mixology knowledge, teaching techniques, and a splash of passion, you’re on a great trajectory to making a remarkable contribution to the hospitality industry.
Bear in mind, the journey may be stirring, but the opportunities are bottomless. Your unique teaching methods could be the catalyst for the next best bartender who revolutionizes the industry.
So, take that first leap. Immerse yourself in learning. Mingle with industry professionals. And most importantly, never stop mixing.
Because the world is thirsty for your expertise.
And if you’re seeking tailored advice on beginning or progressing your career as a bartending school instructor, have a look at our AI Career Path Advisor.
This complimentary tool is designed to provide personalized guidance and resources to help you stir your career path in the right direction.
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