Resume Examples for Servers: Build a Resume That Gets You Hired

If you’re a Server looking for a new job, having a well-crafted resume can make all the difference. Restaurants receive dozens — sometimes hundreds — of applications, and managers often skim through resumes in seconds. 

A strong resume ensures that your skills, experience and potential stand out.

In this article, we’ll provide resume examples for Servers, including one for those with no experience. Whether you’re applying to a casual dining spot, a fine dining restaurant or a catering company, we’ve got you covered.

Why a Strong Resume Matters for Servers

Some people think Server jobs are easy to get, but the reality is that competition can be tough — especially for high-paying positions. A strong resume:

• Makes a great first impression: Your resume is your first opportunity to make an impact — it speaks on your behalf even before you meet the manager.
• Highlights your strengths: The right format and details can show you’re the best candidate.
• Matches job requirements: Customizing your resume for each job increases your chances of getting hired.

Many restaurants also use applicant tracking systems (ATS) to scan resumes for keywords. That means if your resume doesn’t include the right terms from the job description, it might not even get seen by a hiring manager.

Different Types of Servers and Their Resume Needs

Not all Server jobs are the same. Depending on where you work, the expectations, required skills and even the hiring process can vary. Here are some common Server roles:

• Casual Dining Server – Works in fast-paced environments like chain restaurants, diners and mid-range eateries. Speed, customer service and efficiency are key.
• Fine Dining Server – Needs knowledge of wine pairings, upscale service etiquette and handling VIP guests.
• Banquet/Event Server – Works at catered events, weddings or corporate functions. Flexibility and teamwork are essential.
• Entry-Level Server – Someone new to the industry who needs to highlight transferable skills from past jobs.

Key Sections of a Server Resume

Before diving into the examples, here’s what every Server resume should include:

• Contact information: Name, phone number, email and LinkedIn profile. No need for a full address.
• Professional summary: A short, compelling introduction that highlights your experience and skills.
• Work experience: Focus on achievements, not just job duties. Use bullet points to highlight specific accomplishments.
• Skills section: Showcase relevant skills (e.g., POS systems, customer service, upselling).
• Education and certifications: Include any hospitality-related courses or training.
• Optional sections: If applicable, add volunteer work, industry awards, etc.

Resume Examples for Servers

Let’s look at specific resume examples for Servers, tailored to different experience levels and job types.

Resume Example 1: Experienced Restaurant Server

For Servers with prior experience in casual or mid-range dining, this resume focuses on efficiency, teamwork and measurable achievements. It emphasizes your ability to handle high volumes of guests, upsell and lead or mentor team members in a fast-paced environment.

Resume Summary:

Experienced Server with over five years of high-volume restaurant experience. Adept at providing excellent customer service, increasing sales through upselling and ensuring guest satisfaction. Proven ability to handle high-pressure environments while maintaining a friendly and efficient service. Team-oriented and focused on creating a welcoming atmosphere for every guest.

Contact Information:

• Name: Elizabeth Moore
• Phone: (555) 123-4567
• Email: [email protected]
• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/elizabethmoore

Skills:

• Customer service excellence
• Upselling and sales strategies
• High-volume service
• POS systems (e.g., Toast, Square)
• Team collaboration
• Conflict resolution
• Time management
• Multitasking

Work Experience:

Server | The Italian Bistro | New York, NY | 2021–Present

• Provided fast, friendly service in a 200-seat restaurant, handling an average of 50+ guests per shift.
• Increased average check size by 15% through upselling appetizers and specialty drinks.
• Trained and mentored new servers, improving overall team performance and guest satisfaction.

Server | The Green Table | Brooklyn, NY | 2018–2021

• Managed 30+ tables per shift, providing top-notch customer service in a fast-paced environment.
• Worked closely with the kitchen staff to ensure timely delivery of food and beverages.
• Consistently maintained high guest satisfaction scores, resulting in multiple “Employee of the Month” recognitions.

Education:

Certificate in Hospitality Management | City College of New York | New York, NY | Completed May 2019

Certifications:

• ServSafe Food Handler Certification | National Restaurant Association | Issued June 2017
• TIPS Alcohol Service Training | National Restaurant Association | Issued January 2018

Resume Example 2: Server with No Experience

If you’re new to the serving role, this resume emphasizes transferable skills from previous jobs like retail or customer service. It focuses on abilities such as communication, teamwork and problem-solving that will help you succeed as a server.

Resume Summary:

Motivated and enthusiastic individual eager to start a career in the restaurant industry. Strong background in customer service and a proven ability to thrive in fast-paced environments. Ready to apply excellent communication skills and attention to detail to create a positive dining experience.

Contact Information:

• Name: John Smith
• Phone: (555) 987-6543
• Email: [email protected]
• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/johnsmith

Skills:

• Strong communication
• Customer service excellence
• Cash handling and POS experience
• Team collaboration
• Problem solving
• Fast learner
• Attention to detail

Work Experience:

Sales Associate | ABC Retailers | New York, NY | 2020–Present

• Assisted customers with product inquiries, ensuring a positive shopping experience.
• Handled cash and card transactions with 100% accuracy and provided correct change to customers.
• Maintained a clean and organized work area, improving store efficiency and customer satisfaction.

Education:

Hospitality Basics Certificate | Online Hospitality Academy | Completed October 2024

Certifications:

• ServSafe Food Handler Certification | National Restaurant Association | Issued December 2024
• TIPS Alcohol Service Training | National Restaurant Association | Issued January 2025

Resume Example 3: Fine Dining Server

This resume highlights experience in high-end dining, with a focus on refined service techniques, wine pairings and guest engagement. Ideal for those applying to upscale restaurants, it demonstrates the specialized skills needed to deliver top-tier service.

Resume Summary:

Highly skilled Fine Dining Server with extensive experience in delivering impeccable guest experiences in upscale restaurants. Expertise in wine pairings, formal service etiquette and personalized service. Proven record of maintaining exceptional guest satisfaction and sales growth.

Contact Information:

• Name: Emily White
• Phone: (555) 765-4321
• Email: [email protected]
• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/emilywhite

Skills:

• Fine dining etiquette
• Wine pairing and sommelier skills
• Upselling and wine sales
• Tableside service (e.g., Flambé, Carving)
• Guest engagement
• Multi-course meal service
• Attention to detail
• Conflict resolution

Work Experience:

Fine Dining Server | Le Petit Paris | New York, NY | 2020–Present

• Delivered exceptional service at a Michelin-starred restaurant, ensuring every guest received a personalized and memorable dining experience.
• Assisted guests with wine selections, increasing wine sales by 20% per month.
• Mastered advanced tableside techniques including flambé and carving, contributing to guest satisfaction and restaurant reputation.

Server | The Elegant Bistro | New York, NY | 2017–2020

• Delivered polished service to high-end clientele, ensuring seamless and enjoyable dining experiences.
• Collaborated with Chefs and Sommeliers to ensure wine pairings and meal courses were perfectly coordinated.
• Helped increase restaurant ratings on major review platforms through consistent service excellence.

Education:

Certificate in Hospitality Management | Local Community College | Graduated May 2017

Certifications:

• WSET Level 2 Wine Certification | Wine & Spirit Education Trust | Issued June 2017
• ServSafe Alcohol Certification | National Restaurant Association | Issued April 2017

Resume Example 4: Banquet Server/Event Server

This resume is designed for Servers applying to event-based roles, where large guest counts and fast-paced settings are common. It showcases adaptability, teamwork and experience in coordinating service for large events like banquets and weddings.

Resume Summary:

Detail-oriented and adaptable Banquet Server with experience working at large-scale events and corporate functions. Strong team player with the ability to work efficiently under pressure while delivering outstanding service to large groups of guests.

Contact Information:

• Name: Mark Johnson
• Phone: (555) 246-8100
• Email: [email protected]
• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/markjohnson

Skills:

• Event setup and breakdown
• Large-scale catering
• Team coordination
• Quick table resets and buffet setups
• Guest service excellence
• Time management
• Conflict resolution
• Multitasking

Work Experience:

Banquet Server | Royal Catering Co. | New York, NY | 2020–Present

• Served up to 500 guests at corporate events, weddings,and galas, ensuring timely and accurate food and beverage service.
• Coordinated with kitchen staff and Event Planners to ensure seamless service and event execution.
• Managed quick table resets and buffet setups to meet event schedules, contributing to a smooth and efficient event flow.

Event Server | Platinum Events | New York, NY | 2018–2020

• Provided exceptional service at large-scale banquets, working closely with the Event Coordinator to execute flawless events.
• Set up, served and cleaned up food and beverages at events, ensuring guests had everything they needed throughout.
• Successfully managed multiple events per week, demonstrating strong time-management and organizational skills.

Education:

High School Diploma | Manhattan High School | New York, NY | Graduated June 2017

Certifications:

• ServSafe Food Handler Certification | National Restaurant Association | Issued October 2017
• TIPS Alcohol Service Training | National Restaurant Association | Issued January 2018

Tips for Writing a Great Server Resume

Creating a standout Server resume is key to catching the attention of hiring managers. By focusing on your strengths, highlighting measurable achievements and customizing your resume to fit each job, you can significantly improve your chances of landing an interview. 

Here are some practical tips to help you write a resume that stands out in a competitive hospitality industry.

1. Keep it concise

Your resume should ideally fit on one page, with a clear and easy-to-read format. Hiring managers often skim resumes quickly, so it’s important to present your most relevant experience in a clean, organized layout. 

Avoid unnecessary details or overly long descriptions that could distract from your key skills and achievements. Focus on quality over quantity.

2. Use action verbs

Strong action verbs make your accomplishments stand out. Instead of passive language, use dynamic verbs that demonstrate initiative and impact. Words like “delivered,” “managed,” “boosted,” “enhanced,” “supervised” and “increased” add energy and show the value you brought to each role. This helps communicate that you actively contributed to the success of your team and the restaurant.

3. Highlight achievements, not just duties

Go beyond listing responsibilities and show what you accomplished in your role. Instead of simply saying “served tables,” quantify your achievements by mentioning key metrics such as the number of guests served, your customer satisfaction scores or the sales you generated. 

For example, rather than saying “worked in a busy restaurant,” say “successfully managed 30+ tables per shift while maintaining a 98% guest satisfaction rating.” These specific details make your resume more compelling and demonstrate your impact.

4. Customize for each job

Tailor your resume for each job application to reflect the specific skills and experience the employer is looking for. Carefully review the job posting and incorporate relevant keywords, phrases and qualifications into your resume. 

If a restaurant is looking for a Server with experience in fine dining, for example, make sure to emphasize your knowledge of wine pairings, formal service etiquette and any high-end dining experience you have. Customizing your resume helps you stand out and shows you’ve taken the time to understand the role.

5. Proofread carefully

A well-crafted resume can be undermined by careless errors. Typos, grammatical mistakes or inconsistent formatting can create a negative impression, suggesting that you lack attention to detail. 

Proofread your resume several times, and consider having a friend or colleague review it as well. A fresh set of eyes can catch mistakes you might have missed. Even small errors can be enough for a hiring manager to move on to the next candidate.

6. Include relevant keywords for the ATS

Many employers use ATS software to filter resumes before they even reach human eyes. To ensure your resume gets noticed, incorporate industry-specific keywords and phrases that align with the job description. 

For example, terms like “guest service,” “upselling,” “teamwork” and “POS systems” may be picked up by ATS, helping your resume get past automated screenings. Researching the job description and the company’s culture will help you align your resume accordingly.

7. Showcase soft skills

In addition to technical skills, soft skills such as communication, problem-solving and adaptability are crucial in the Server role. Make sure to demonstrate how you’ve used these abilities to handle difficult situations, improve guest experiences or work well with your team.

Providing examples of when you’ve resolved customer complaints or handled a difficult shift can highlight your interpersonal skills.

8. Keep the focus on the customer experience

The core of a Server’s job is ensuring a positive experience for guests. Highlight any instances where you went above and beyond to create memorable experiences, whether by suggesting menu items, resolving conflicts or handling high-pressure situations gracefully. 

Hiring managers are looking for Servers who can not only do the job but enhance the dining experience for customers.

9. Incorporate quantifiable metrics when possible

Whenever possible, use numbers to quantify your successes. Metrics like the number of guests served per shift, the increase in average check size or how often you exceeded sales goals can help potential employers see the tangible results of your work. 

This can help your resume stand out in a competitive job market and demonstrate that you’re a results-driven individual.

10. Be honest and accurate

It’s important to represent your skills and experience truthfully. Don’t embellish or exaggerate your qualifications in an attempt to impress. 

Employers value honesty and transparency, and discrepancies between your resume and your actual experience could hurt your chances if you’re caught. Stick to the facts, and focus on your strengths.

Final Thoughts & Next Steps

A well-written resume is your first step toward landing a great Server job. Whether you’re an experienced Server or just getting started, tailoring your resume to the role you want will help you stand out from other applicants.

For more career advice, check out OysterLink — a platform built for hospitality professionals. On OysterLink, you can find top-paying restaurant jobs, connect with employers and get insights on industry trends.