The Ultimate Guide to Landing Lucrative Bartender Jobs
Bartending can be an extremely lucrative career if you are passionate about it and willing to put in the hard work. Being a bartender might seem like a lot of fun, but it requires skill, knowledge, and dedication.
With the right approach and mindset, you can jump-start your career as a bartender and land lucrative gigs that could earn you a six-figure income. To help you succeed in this exciting career field, we have put together the ultimate guide to landing bartender jobs.
How to become a bartender? Read on to learn more.
Table of Contents
1. Develop Your Knowledge
To be a successful bartender, it takes more than just pouring drinks. You need to develop various skills and knowledge to excel in this profession. This includes:
- learning to mix drinks
- create new recipes
- familiarize yourself
You can enroll in bartending courses or attend workshops to perfect your skills. You may also consider getting certified by organizations like the “Bartender Certification Board” or the “National Bartenders Association.” This can serve as an excellent credential for potential employers.
2. Build a Strong Network
Networking is vital in any industry, and bartending is no exception. You can connect with other bartenders, suppliers, and potential employers. You can attend bartending events, trade shows or even compete in bartending competitions.
You can also visit bars, clubs, and restaurants in your area. This is to connect with other people in the industry and gain valuable insights about their experiences.
Networking is an excellent approach to finding lucrative bartender jobs. If you’re a student or recently graduated, consider joining a bartending or hospitality organization.
You can do a bartender job search by attending job fairs and industry events to meet influential people and make new connections. You never know when an opportunity may arise.
3. Craft a Winning Resume
Your resume is the first impression you make on a potential employer. Therefore, ensuring it stands out and captures your skills, knowledge, and experience is essential. Ensure it is well-organized and professional, highlighting your key attributes, such as your:
- ability to multitask
- handle customers
- create cocktails
Don’t forget to include your professional certifications and relevant work experience. Remember, the resume should be tailored to the specific job you’re applying for.
Make sure it’s well-written, visually appealing, and highlights your skills and qualifications. If you’re new to the bartending industry, emphasize your relevant experience, such as customer service, cash handling, or any other relevant experience that showcases your abilities.
Creating an impressive resume for bartender jobs involves more than listing your previous experiences. You need to sell yourself through your skills, certifications, and experiences in a relevant and compelling way to potential employers.
Start by emphasizing your technical skills as a bartender. This includes your prowess in mixing, garnishing, and serving drinks, knowledge of drink recipes, ability to handlebar equipment, etc. Mentioning your ability to handle cash transactions and operate point-of-sale systems can attract hiring managers’ attention.
4. Ace the Interview
The interview is the foremost opportunity to make a good impression and land the job. Being knowledgeable, confident, and prepared can make all the difference and set you apart from other candidates.
Dress professionally and prepare answers to common interview questions. Consider bringing a portfolio showcasing your skills and recipes. Show enthusiasm for the position and make a strong rapport with the interviewer.
Highlight your soft skills. Bartenders need excellent interpersonal skills to create an enjoyable atmosphere for customers. Mention any proficiencies in communication, problem-solving, and customer service. If you’re multilingual, include this, as it is a valuable skill in this industry.
Include any relevant certifications in your resume, such as completing a recognized bartending course or certification from bodies like the Bartender Certification Board. If you hold a valid license to serve alcohol in your state, mention that also.
5. Keep Learning and Improving
Always continue to learn, improve, and showcase your skills. Attend workshops, try new recipes and drinks, explore different types of liquor, and follow industry trends.
Strive to be your best bartender, and consider participating in bartending competitions. This can help you showcase your skills and gain exposure in the industry.
6. Get Your Certification and License
To become a bartender, you need to get certified and licensed first. Many places require it by law. It’s also a great way to learn the skills and knowledge you need to become a successful bartender.
Certification courses vary but usually cover topics like:
- drink recipes
- beverage service
- safety and responsibility
Sign up for a course in your area or take an online certification course if available.
7. Practice Your Skills
Practice, practice, practice! It’s critical to refine your bartender skills before starting a new job. Spend time practicing your mixology skills and honing your customer service abilities.
Invite friends over and practice making classic and creative cocktails or mocktails. Be sure to practice your customer service skills, which are critical for building a good rapport with your customers.
Completing Responsible Beverage Service (RBS) Training is highly recommended when aiming for top-tier bartender jobs. This course is designed to educate bartenders on how to serve alcoholic beverages responsibly, identify signs of intoxication, and ensure the safety of patrons and the community.
This certification equips you with vital knowledge and demonstrates your commitment to professionalism to potential employers. Many states require this training by law, and even if yours does not, it’s a valuable certification that could give you an edge in the competitive bartending industry. Take the initiative and sign up for an RBS training course in your local area or online.
8. Be Professional
Always maintain a professional attitude while looking for bartender jobs. This includes your manner of dress, communication, and behavior. Most bar and restaurant recruiters want someone professional, reliable, and can put customers at ease.
Treat the recruiting process like you’re already on the job, and show recruiters that you have the skills and the right temperament to be a successful bartender.
Understanding This Guide on Bartender Jobs
Bartending can be an exciting and high-paying career. Whether you’re just starting your journey as a bartender or looking to take your career to the next level, following these tips and strategies can help you land the lucrative bartender jobs of your dreams.
Remember, success in this industry takes dedication, commitment, and passion. Cheers to your future career as a top bartender!
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Last Updated on October 27, 2023
