Essential Skills for a Server Resume: A Guide

Creating an effective server resume requires highlighting both your technical skills and interpersonal abilities. Here's a guide on essential skills to include in your server resume:

1. Customer Service:

• Excellent interpersonal skills to provide friendly and attentive customer service.
• Ability to anticipate customer needs and offer suggestions or recommendations.
• Handling customer complaints and resolving issues diplomatically.

2. Food and Beverage Knowledge:

• Familiarity with the menu, ingredients, and preparation methods.
• Expertise in describing menu items accurately to customers.
• Knowledge of wine and beverage pairings (if applicable).

3. Order Taking and Processing:

• Taking accurate food and drink orders efficiently.
• Transmitting orders to the kitchen or bar and ensuring correct delivery.
• Handling modifications or special requests with attention to detail.

4. Multitasking:

• Balancing multiple tasks such as taking orders, serving food, and managing payment processing simultaneously.
• Prioritizing tasks during busy periods to ensure a smooth dining experience.

5. Upselling and Recommendations:

• Skill in suggesting additional menu items, desserts, or beverages to enhance the guest experience.
• Upselling to increase restaurant revenue.

6. Cash Handling and Point of Sale (POS) Systems:

• Accurate handling of cash transactions and providing correct change.
• Proficiency in using POS systems to input orders, process payments, and print receipts.

7. Time Management:

• Efficiently managing table turnover to accommodate all guests.
• Ensuring timely delivery of orders to minimize wait times.

8. Teamwork:

• Collaborating with kitchen staff, bartenders, and other servers to ensure seamless operations.
• Supporting team members during busy shifts.

9. Cleanliness and Hygiene:

• Adhering to food safety and hygiene standards while handling food and beverages.
• Maintaining a clean and organized work area.

10. Communication:

• Clear communication with guests to answer questions, take orders, and address concerns.
• Effective communication with the kitchen to ensure accurate order preparation.

11. Adaptability:

• Ability to adapt to changes in the menu, restaurant policies, or procedures.
• Remaining composed under pressure during busy times or challenging situations.

12. Physical Stamina:

• Capability to stand, walk, and carry trays for extended periods.
• Handling physically demanding aspects of the job.

13. Attention to Detail:

• Checking orders for accuracy before serving them to customers.
• Ensuring that special dietary requests or allergies are properly communicated to the kitchen.

14. Etiquette and Presentation:

• Displaying professional appearance, demeanor, and proper etiquette while interacting with guests.
• Presenting food and beverages attractively to enhance the overall dining experience.

15. Language Skills:

• Proficiency in languages relevant to your clientele or location (e.g., foreign languages in tourist areas).

Remember to tailor your resume to the specific job you're applying for, emphasizing the skills that align with the job description. Include quantifiable achievements, such as customer satisfaction ratings or the ability to handle a certain number of tables per shift. By showcasing a combination of technical expertise and soft skills, your server resume will stand out to potential employers.