4 Skills for a Successful Server Career
Learn what Servers do, the skills they need and what to expect from a career in food service.
Whether you're a seasoned Server or someone looking to get into the field, this practical guide will answer all of your questions regarding Server requirements, necessary skills, career progression and more.
What Is a Server?
Servers communicate with the back-of-house and front-of-house staff on a daily basis. They make sure the orders are delivered promptly and accurately.
However, it's important to differentiate between the role of a Server and the role of a Waiter, as these two are sometimes used interchangeably.
While some aspects of their work are quite similar, such as taking and delivering orders, as well as interacting with customers, Waiters have a more narrow set of responsibilities compared to Servers.
Waiters can work in both casual and fine-dining establishments and Servers are usually found in upscale restaurants where they handle a broader set of responsibilities.
What Does a Server Do at a Restaurant?
The Server's duties and responsibilities include:
- Greeting and welcoming customers
- Interacting with patrons and presenting the menu
- Answering customers' questions and suggesting items from the menu
- Taking orders in an accurate manner
- Communicating with staff to ensure orders are delivered on time
- Preparing tables, washing dishes and helping with other tasks
- Dealing with complaints in a calm and efficient manner
- Handling cash and credit card payments
While Server responsibilities can vary by workplace, this day-in-the-life video provides an example of how the role may look in a fine dining setting.
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Make sure to check out our Server job description where you will find a complete guide on what the position entails.
How To Become a Server?
You don't need previous experience to become a Server, as most of the skills are learned on the job. However, to apply for a Server job, you must meet the minimum age requirements set by the state in which you live.
While many employers are willing to hire first-time Servers, standing out from other applicants can still be challenging. In this video, an experienced hospitality professional shares practical tips on how candidates with little to no restaurant experience can improve their chances of getting hired.
To increase your chances of getting your first job, you can browse through the National Restaurant Association which supports over half a million restaurant businesses in the country. There, you can attend courses and learn more about the latest trends in the industry.
Lastly, it's also beneficial to go through the state labor laws as the U.S. has 50 different states (and Washington D.C.), all of them with different legislations. It's important to know your rights as an employee so you can effectively protect yourself and your livelihood at all times.
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Top 4 Skills for Servers
Working as a Server offers a wide array of possibilities, from career progression in the hospitality industry to completely changing your career. The skills you gain as a Server are highly competitive and widely applicable to many other jobs on the market.
While technical skills can be learned over time, experienced hospitality professionals often share practical advice that can help new Servers avoid common mistakes and adapt more quickly to the demands of the role.
This video highlights several important things aspiring Servers and Bartenders should know before getting started.
1. Customer service
Being friendly and approachable is one of the most important traits of a good Server. Since you will be continuously interacting with customers throughout your shift, you will have a unique opportunity to answer all their questions and proactively ask for feedback.
2. Communication skills
Given that delivering orders on time depends on both the Server and other staff members, your employer will expect you to possess outstanding communication skills. By effectively communicating with others, you're ensuring that the service is running smoothly even during the restaurant's busiest hours.
3. Ability to multitask
Ordinarily, Servers work in a fast-paced environment, simultaneously juggling a couple of tasks at the same time. To make sure everything's running without delays, Servers should excel at multitasking. The good news is that this incredibly valuable skill can be learned through practice and experience.
4. Good physical shape
Although there's no specific age requirement for Servers, this job requires someone who's in good physical shape. Servers spend their shifts walking or standing for long hours. To qualify for the job, you should be able-bodied and capable of pushing heavy trolleys and serving carts.
Server Salary and Earnings Potential
On average, Servers make $17.05 per hour, excluding tips. This can greatly fluctuate from state to state, depending on the employer, economic conditions and life expenses. For example, the state of Vermont in the New England region, offers the highest-paying jobs for Servers.