How to Become a Server (Plate Profits, Pour Pleasure)

If you’ve ever imagined providing top-notch customer service while working in a dynamic restaurant environment or wondered what it takes to become a server, you’re in the right place.

In this guide, we’ll delve into the EXACT steps you need to take to begin your career as a server. We’ll discuss:

The skills you need.
The training that can help you excel.
How to land a job as a server.

So, whether you’re new to the hospitality industry or a seasoned professional seeking to enhance your skills, stay tuned.

We’re about to reveal the roadmap to becoming a server.

Let’s dive in!

Contents show

Steps to Become a Server

Step 1: Understand the Role and Responsibilities

Before you begin your journey to becoming a server, it’s important to fully understand the role and responsibilities involved.

Servers are often the front line of customer service in a restaurant or cafe setting.

They interact directly with customers, take orders, serve food and drinks, and process payments.

However, the role of a server goes beyond just serving food.

They are also responsible for maintaining cleanliness in dining areas, making sure tables are ready for customers, and sometimes even assisting in food preparation.

Servers must also have good knowledge about the menu and be able to make recommendations or answer any questions customers may have about the dishes.

In addition to the physical tasks, a server needs to have excellent interpersonal skills as they interact with many different people throughout their shift.

They must handle customer complaints gracefully and ensure that all customers have a satisfying dining experience.

Being a server can be physically demanding, as it often involves being on your feet for long periods and sometimes lifting heavy trays of food or dishes.

Understanding these responsibilities will help you decide if this role is right for you and will prepare you for what to expect in your job.

Step 2: Obtain Necessary Certification for Food Handling

After completing high school education, the next step to pursue a career as a server is to obtain the necessary certification for food handling.

In most states, restaurant servers are required to have a food handler’s card or permit.

This certification ensures that you are educated about food safety, sanitation practices, and how to prevent food-borne illnesses.

You can acquire your food handler’s card by attending a food safety course offered by a recognized training provider.

These courses are typically short and can be completed in a few hours.

They cover topics such as proper food storage, handling, and preparation, hygiene, cleaning and sanitizing, pest control, and the laws and regulations related to food service.

After completing the course, you will have to pass an exam to get your food handler’s card.

Once you have this card, it must be renewed every few years.

This certification will not only comply with the law but also increase your chances of getting hired as a server, as restaurants prefer to hire individuals who are already knowledgeable about food safety.

Remember, the exact requirements may vary by state and establishment, so always check with your local health department or potential employer about what is required.

Step 3: Develop Customer Service Skills

In the role of a server, customer service skills are of paramount importance.

You will be dealing with customers directly, and your ability to make them feel welcome and cared for can impact their overall dining experience and the reputation of the restaurant.

Start by developing strong communication skills.

This includes both verbal communication and non-verbal cues.

You should be able to accurately relay the customer’s orders to the kitchen staff and communicate any specials or promotions the restaurant is offering.

Furthermore, your non-verbal cues, such as maintaining eye contact, smiling, and using open body language, can help make customers feel more comfortable and welcome.

Additionally, working on your active listening skills is also essential.

This not only helps you get orders right, but also allows you to understand and cater to each customer’s unique needs.

Remember, a good server is not just an order-taker but someone who enhances the customer’s dining experience.

Finally, learn how to handle complaints and difficult situations with grace.

There will be times when customers are dissatisfied with their meal or service.

Knowing how to address these situations professionally and effectively can turn a potentially negative situation into a positive one.

You can develop these skills through practice, role-playing exercises, attending customer service training workshops, or even by observing experienced servers.

This step is crucial and will play a significant role in your success as a server.

Step 4: Learn Basic Food and Beverage Knowledge

As a server, it’s crucial to have a basic understanding of the types of food and beverages that will be served in the establishment where you’re working.

This includes knowledge about different types of cuisines, specialty dishes, the ingredients used in them, and the methods of preparation.

If your restaurant serves alcohol, you should also have basic knowledge of different types of wines, beers, and spirits, and which types of drinks pair well with certain dishes.

This knowledge will not only allow you to make recommendations to customers but also answer any questions they might have about the menu.

Moreover, understanding dietary restrictions or allergies and knowing which dishes to recommend or avoid for such customers is also a part of your role.

One way to acquire this knowledge is through online courses or workshops.

Another way is hands-on experience, like helping in the kitchen during your off-hours, or tasting the dishes and drinks yourself.

The more you know about the restaurant’s offerings, the better service you can provide to the customers.

Remember, your goal as a server is not just to take orders and deliver food.

It’s also about enhancing the overall dining experience of the customers with your knowledge and service.

Step 5: Gain Experience through Entry-Level Positions

If you’re interested in becoming a server, it’s important to gain real-world experience in the hospitality industry.

The ideal way to do this is by taking on an entry-level position in a restaurant or other food service establishment.

This might be as a busser, dishwasher, host, or even a fast-food worker.

These roles might not seem glamorous, but they provide crucial insight into the restaurant business and can be stepping stones towards becoming a server.

You’ll learn about food preparation, customer service, restaurant etiquette, and teamwork.

You’ll also have the chance to observe servers in action, learning first-hand how they handle different situations.

This real-world exposure will help you understand the nuances of the role and prepare you to handle the pressures of a busy service period.

Moreover, showing initiative and dedication in an entry-level role can demonstrate to your employers that you’re ready for the responsibility of being a server.

And when a serving position opens up, you’ll be a natural choice for promotion.

Step 6: Familiarize Yourself with Point of Sale Systems

As a server, one of the most important skills you can develop is proficiency in using Point of Sale (POS) systems.

These systems are commonly used in restaurants and other hospitality establishments to process customer orders and payments.

It serves as the central hub where customer information, menu items, and other data are managed.

There are many different types of POS systems, and each restaurant may use a different one.

Therefore, it’s important to familiarize yourself with a range of common systems, such as Square, Toast, or Aloha.

You should know how to input orders, apply discounts or special offers, split bills between customers, and process cash or card payments.

Additionally, a solid understanding of POS systems can also aid in managing the inventory and daily sales reports, which could be part of your responsibilities as a server in some establishments.

Some POS systems offer online tutorials or training courses that you can take.

Other times, the establishment you work at will provide specific training.

Take advantage of these opportunities to learn, as demonstrating proficiency with these systems can make you more attractive to potential employers.

Step 7: Study the Menu Offerings Where You Will Work

When you secure a job as a server, it is essential to thoroughly understand the menu of the restaurant, bar, or establishment where you will be working.

This knowledge is vital as it allows you to answer any customer questions about the food and drink offerings with confidence and accuracy.

This includes understanding the ingredients used in each dish, how the dishes are cooked or prepared, and any potential allergens that customers should be aware of.

If there are specialized items like vegan, vegetarian, or gluten-free options, you should know what those are as well.

In addition to food, you should also be familiar with the drink menu.

If the establishment serves alcohol, you should understand the different types of wines, beers, or cocktails on offer.

Knowing which drinks pair well with certain dishes can enhance the dining experience for customers.

Your establishment may have special menu items that change daily or weekly.

Make sure to keep up-to-date with these changes and know the specifics of each new item.

Remember, the more knowledgeable you are about the menu, the more helpful you can be to customers, and this can translate into better tips and job satisfaction for you.

Step 8: Practice Carrying Plates and Balancing Trays

Being a server requires a balance of skill and agility.

One of the most practical ways to develop these skills is to practice carrying plates and balancing trays.

This will ensure that you are able to serve food and drinks to your customers without spilling or dropping anything.

Start off by practicing at home.

Use a tray and a few dishes to mimic the weight and balance of a full tray of food.

Be sure to practice standing, walking, and even navigating around furniture with the tray.

It’s important to be able to maintain balance even when the weight shifts as dishes are added or removed from the tray.

Also, practice carrying multiple plates in one hand.

Start with one, then gradually add more as you become more comfortable and confident in your ability to balance them.

Remember, safety is paramount.

Always make sure your path is clear before proceeding and never carry more than you can comfortably handle.

Developing these skills will not only impress your employer but also ensure efficient and effective service to your customers.

Being a good server is about more than just taking orders and delivering food.

It’s about providing an enjoyable dining experience, and a big part of that is being able to serve meals in a smooth, unobtrusive manner.

Practicing these skills is a crucial step to becoming a successful server.

Step 9: Improve Your Memory and Attention to Detail

As a server, you’ll deal with a wide variety of tasks and customer requests on a daily basis.

The ability to remember details accurately and provide focused attention to your customers is critical to your success in this role.

Start by consciously practicing your memory skills.

This could involve memorizing daily specials, remembering customer names or recalling the specifics of large orders.

Developing techniques to help you remember such details, like association or visualization, can be very useful.

Improving your attention to detail involves being attentive to your customers’ needs, from their dietary restrictions to their preferences for condiments.

For example, if a customer is vegan, you should be aware of what dishes on the menu are suitable for them.

Similarly, if a customer prefers extra ketchup with their fries, remembering this small detail can make a big difference in their dining experience.

Consider participating in memory improvement exercises or games, or even taking an online course that focuses on developing these skills.

An attentive server who can remember small details will stand out and could receive higher tips and repeat customers.

This is also a valuable skill when looking to advance in the restaurant industry to roles such as a restaurant manager, where attention to detail is crucial.

Step 10: Learn Up-Selling Techniques

In the food and beverage industry, up-selling is an integral technique that servers need to master to maximize the establishment’s sales and enhance the customer’s dining experience.

This involves suggesting more expensive items, add-ons, or specials to customers with the aim of increasing the amount they spend.

First, get familiar with the restaurant’s menu and understand the cost, ingredients, and preparation methods of each dish.

This information will give you the confidence to make recommendations to customers.

Consider pairing items together, such as a specific wine with a meal, or suggesting add-ons like appetizers, desserts, or side dishes.

Next, practice your communication skills.

Up-selling should feel natural and not like a sales pitch.

Engage with customers, ask about their preferences, and make suitable recommendations.

Remember, the goal is to enhance their dining experience, not just to sell more.

Finally, pay attention to training provided by your restaurant.

They may have specific strategies or scripts for up-selling.

They may also provide incentives for servers who excel in up-selling.

Keep in mind that up-selling is not just about increasing sales but also about providing better service.

Customers appreciate good recommendations and it can significantly enhance their dining experience.

Step 11: Seek Employment Opportunities

Once you have completed your training and obtained necessary certifications, it’s time to seek employment as a server.

Start by checking job postings in newspapers or online job portals such as Indeed, Glassdoor, or LinkedIn. Another effective way to find job opportunities is through networking.

Attend industry events or connect with people in the restaurant industry.

They might provide valuable leads or even offer direct recommendations for open positions.

You can apply to different types of restaurants based on your preference and the kind of experience you want to gain.

For instance, you could work in a fast-food chain, a casual dining restaurant, or a fine dining establishment.

Each environment presents different challenges and learning opportunities.

In addition, you can consider whether you want to work part-time or full-time.

Many servers start part-time and move to full-time as they gain experience and confidence.

When you apply for a job, remember to showcase your customer service skills and any experience you have in the food service industry.

Be prepared to answer questions about your ability to handle stressful situations, work in a team, and meet customer needs.

Remember, persistence is key.

It might take some time before you land your first job as a server, but don’t get disheartened.

Keep applying and improving your skills, and you will eventually find the right opportunity.

Step 12: Be Committed to Continuous Learning and Improvement

As a server, staying relevant in your role requires a commitment to continuous learning and improvement.

This involves a combination of job-specific training, self-directed learning, and staying updated with the latest trends in the industry.

One way to continuously improve is by attending training programs or workshops organized by your employer or external institutions.

These might cover topics like customer service, beverage knowledge, or safe food handling practices.

Such trainings not only hone your skills but can also add value to your resume.

Self-directed learning is also important.

This can be as simple as reading books, watching online tutorials, or even observing and learning from more experienced colleagues.

Topics could include anything from wine pairing to understanding different dietary restrictions.

Being aware of the latest trends in the food service industry is crucial as well.

This could involve reading industry reports, following related news, and understanding the latest consumer preferences and dietary trends.

Remember, the food and beverage industry is dynamic, and customers’ tastes and preferences are always changing.

Keeping up-to-date and continuously improving your skills is key to providing excellent service and staying competitive in your role as a server.

Server Roles and Responsibilities

Servers, also known as waitstaff or waiters/waitresses, provide an excellent dining experience by efficiently serving food and drinks to customers in a friendly manner.

Their roles and responsibilities are varied and essential to the success of a restaurant or dining establishment.

Customer Service

Greet customers as they come into the restaurant and guide them to their tables.
Provide excellent customer service to enhance the dining experience.
Handle customer complaints and ensure they are satisfied with the service.

Food and Beverage Knowledge

Have detailed knowledge of the menu items, ingredients, and preparation methods.
Be able to make recommendations based on customers’ dietary needs and preferences.
Answer questions about the menu and beverages.

Order Taking

Take orders accurately and relay them to the kitchen staff or bar.
Ensure all orders meet the specific requests made by customers.

Serving

Serve food and beverages to customers in a timely and professional manner.
Periodically check in on customers to see if they need anything else.
Clear tables once customers have finished their meals.

Billing

Present customers with their bill and process payments.
Ensure the accuracy of each bill before presenting it to the customer.

Cleaning

Maintain cleanliness of the dining area, tables, and serving stations.
Assist with cleaning duties before, during, and after service.

Team Collaboration

Work closely with kitchen staff, bartenders, and other servers to ensure smooth operation.
Communicate effectively with team members to manage customer expectations.

Health and Safety Compliance

Adhere to food safety and sanitation guidelines.
Ensure all dining areas meet health and safety standards.

Inventory Management

Assist in managing inventory of supplies and inform management when supplies are low.

Continuous Learning

Stay updated on the restaurant’s current offerings and promotions.
Participate in training programs to improve service skills and knowledge.

What Does a Server Do?

A Server, often known as a waiter or waitress, primarily works in restaurants, bars, cafes, and other food service establishments.

They may also work in settings such as hotels, cruise ships, or private events.

Servers are responsible for taking orders from customers, serving food and beverages, and ensuring the customers’ satisfaction with their dining experience.

They may also be responsible for setting tables, clearing dishes, and handling cash or card transactions.

Some servers may have the task of explaining the menu, answering any queries about the food or drinks, and making recommendations based on customers’ preferences.

Servers have a critical role in providing excellent customer service, addressing any complaints, and maintaining cleanliness and order in dining areas.

They often work closely with kitchen staff and bartenders to ensure orders are correct and served in a timely manner.

Additionally, servers often play a vital role in enhancing the dining experience by engaging with customers and providing an enjoyable atmosphere.

Their ultimate goal is to provide a pleasant dining experience, leading to repeat business and positive reviews.

Essential Server Skills

Customer Service: A server’s primary role is to provide excellent service to patrons. This includes addressing their needs promptly, treating them with respect, and maintaining a friendly demeanor.
Communication: Servers must communicate clearly with both the kitchen staff and the customers. They also need to relay relevant information about orders, dietary requirements, and customer feedback effectively.
Time Management: During peak hours, servers have to manage multiple tables and orders simultaneously. Efficient time management helps ensure prompt service and customer satisfaction.
Multitasking: A server’s role involves juggling multiple tasks such as taking orders, serving food, clearing tables, and handling payments, all at the same time. The ability to multitask effectively is key to this role.
Physical Stamina: Being a server is physically demanding, requiring long hours of standing, moving around, and carrying heavy trays. Physical stamina and resilience are crucial to meet these demands.
Attention to Detail: Servers should pay close attention to the details of each order, customer preferences, and potential allergens. They must also maintain a keen eye for cleanliness and hygiene.
Teamwork: Servers work closely with kitchen staff, bartenders, hosts, and managers. They need to have strong teamwork skills to ensure a smooth workflow and provide the best possible dining experience for customers.
Cash Handling: Servers often handle cash transactions, so they should be comfortable with basic arithmetic and handling money. Accuracy is key to avoid any discrepancies.
Problem-Solving: Servers often face challenges such as unhappy customers, delayed orders, or miscommunications. The ability to think on their feet and solve problems quickly is essential.
Knowledge of Food and Beverages: A good server should have comprehensive knowledge about the dishes and drinks on the menu. This enables them to answer customer queries, make recommendations, and cater to specific dietary requirements.
Patience: Dealing with difficult customers or handling stressful situations requires a high level of patience. Keeping calm under pressure helps provide better service and ensures a positive dining experience for all customers.
Professionalism: Servers are the face of the restaurant and their behavior reflects on the establishment. They should maintain a high level of professionalism, adhering to the dress code and etiquette of the restaurant.
Memory: A good server needs to have a strong memory to remember the specifics of each table’s orders, any special requests, and to keep track of which dishes go to which tables.

Server Career Path Progression

The Foundation: Junior Server

Starting your journey as a Junior Server, you’ll be responsible for basic tasks such as taking orders, serving food and drinks, and providing the best customer service possible.

Here are some tips to succeed in this role:

Learn Quickly: Absorb all you can about the menu, the establishment’s rules and expectations, and basic serving techniques.
Be Attentive: Pay close attention to the customers’ needs and ensure they have a positive dining experience.
Teamwork: Work effectively with your fellow staff members to ensure a smooth operation.

The Ascent: Server

With more experience, you’ll transition into the role of a Server.

You’ll handle a larger section of the restaurant, manage complex orders, and engage more with customers.

Here’s how to thrive in this stage:

Excellent Service: Continuously strive to provide the best dining experience for your customers.
Product Knowledge: Stay informed about the menu, ingredients, and allergens to answer any customer inquiries accurately.
Upselling: Learn how to subtly upsell items to boost the restaurant’s profit.

Reaching New Heights: Senior Server

Once you’ve proven your skills and reliability, you’ll become a Senior Server.

You’ll be trusted with larger parties and VIP customers, and may also train new servers.

To excel at this stage:

Leadership: Take responsibility for guiding and training newer staff members.
Conflict Resolution: Handle any customer complaints gracefully and efficiently.
Reliability: Be consistent in your duties, always showing up on time and completing your tasks efficiently.

Beyond the Horizon: Lead Server and Beyond

As you continue your career, you might become a Lead Server, supervising other servers, coordinating schedules, and handling more administrative tasks.

Here’s what to focus on:

Communication Skills: Develop strong communication skills to coordinate effectively with the kitchen, management, and your team.
Problem Solving: Learn to anticipate problems before they happen and solve them quickly when they do.
Management: If your path takes you into restaurant management, focus on managing personnel and ensuring the restaurant operates smoothly.

Pinnacle of Success: Restaurant Manager or Owner

At the peak of this career path, you may find yourself as a Restaurant Manager or even an Owner.

Here, you’ll be responsible for all aspects of the restaurant’s operation, from staffing and customer service to budgeting and marketing.

Server Salary

Entry-Level Server

Median Salary: $20,000 – $25,000 per year
Entry-level servers typically have 0-1 years of experience and possess basic knowledge of restaurant operations, food handling, and customer service.

Mid-Level Server

Median Salary: $25,000 – $30,000 per year
Mid-level servers have 2-4 years of experience and often take on increased responsibilities such as training new servers, handling larger sections, or working during peak dining hours.

Senior Server

Median Salary: $30,000 – $40,000 per year
Senior servers possess 5+ years of experience and typically have advanced knowledge of menu items, wine pairings, and special accommodations. They often mentor new servers and may assist in managerial tasks.

Lead Server / Dining Room Manager

Median Salary: $40,000 – $50,000+ per year
These roles require significant experience and often involve managing the server team, ensuring excellent customer service, and coordinating with the kitchen staff for smooth restaurant operations.

Restaurant Manager / General Manager

Median Salary: $45,000 – $70,000+ per year
These top-tier positions require extensive experience, deep knowledge of restaurant operations, and strong leadership skills. They are responsible for managing all restaurant operations, from staffing and training to budgeting and marketing.

Server Work Environment

Servers most commonly work in restaurants, cafes, bars, and other food service establishments, but they can also find employment at hotels, resorts, cruise ships, and event venues.

Servers often have flexible schedules, although they typically work evenings, weekends, and holidays when most dining establishments are busiest.

Some may work part-time while others work full-time hours.

Shifts can range from early morning breakfast service to late night closing duties.

The environment can be fast-paced and demanding, especially during peak dining times.

Servers are regularly on their feet, and may need to lift and carry heavy trays or dishes.

Being a server requires good communication and customer service skills, as they are the main point of contact for customers.

After gaining experience and building clientele, a server may move into roles such as head server, restaurant manager, or even owner of their own restaurant.

FAQs About Becoming a Server

What is needed to become a server?

Becoming a server doesn’t require formal education, but a high school diploma or equivalent can be beneficial.

Key skills needed include excellent communication and customer service abilities, patience, physical stamina, and multitasking capabilities.

Knowledge of food hygiene and safety is also essential.

Some states require servers to have food handling certification or alcohol service certification.

How long does it take to be a server?

The time it takes to become a server can vary, but many restaurants provide on-the-job training which can last anywhere from a few days to a few weeks.

This training usually covers topics like customer service, restaurant policies, menu knowledge, and sometimes food and drink preparation.

Servers who want to work in fine dining establishments may require more extensive training.

Can I be a server without experience?

Yes, it is possible to become a server without previous experience.

Many restaurants are willing to train new servers, especially if they demonstrate good communication skills, a positive attitude, and a willingness to learn.

However, prior experience in customer service roles can be beneficial and may provide an edge when applying for server positions.

Is serving a stressful job?

Serving can be a stressful job at times, as it involves dealing with multiple customers simultaneously, often during busy periods.

It also requires physical stamina as servers are often on their feet for the duration of their shift.

However, good interpersonal skills, patience, and the ability to stay calm under pressure can help manage the stress.

What are the prospects for servers in the next decade?

The prospects for servers will vary depending on location and the type of establishment.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects little to no change in job growth for servers over the next decade.

However, the demand for servers tends to fluctuate with the economy, as it is tied to consumers’ discretionary spending.

New opportunities may arise with the growth of food delivery and takeout services.

Conclusion

There you have it!

Beginning your career as a server can be challenging, but the rewards are plentiful.

Equipped with the right skills, customer service knowledge, and determination, you’re poised to make a significant impact in the hospitality industry.

Remember, though the journey may be tough, the opportunities are endless. Your hard work and friendly demeanor could pave the way for a thriving career in the service industry, or even lead to you managing your own restaurant someday.

So, take that initial leap. Immerse yourself in training. Network with industry professionals. And most importantly, never stop refining your serving skills.

Because the world is eagerly awaiting the excellent service you can provide.

And if you’re seeking personalized guidance on starting or advancing your career as a server, take a look at our AI Career Path Advisor.

This free tool is designed to offer customized advice and resources to help you navigate your career path effectively.

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