Wednesday, July 4, 2007

What Does It Take To Be A Good Server?

Along with quality of food, atmosphere, and price, probably service is one of the prime concerns of any diner. Many servers are lacking in the basic skills required to perform their duties. We checked with several owners and customers and received input as to what is expected of a quality server.

The following guidelines should help to increase the quality of service and afford a good server better gratuities.

1. Firstly, a good server must have a smile and a personality which puts the customer at ease and conveys the impression of care and concern for the comfort of the customer.

2. A good server will be courteous and friendly, and will know when to chat and when to “back off”.

3. Proper identification of a customer’s needs and wants is a prerequisite, and should include any suggestions which would enhance the customer’s dining experience.

4. Prompt service and delivery of a meal to the table is a necessity. No one wants a cold plate of food due to a server’s failure to deliver their meal in a timely fashion.

5. Always tend to your customer’s needs and pay frequent attention, but unobtrusive visits to the table to be sure your customer is happy with their food and to replenish their drinks.

6. Always ask the customer if everything is alright and don’t neglect any sign of discontent.

7. Finally, if a customer has a complaint, try to address the matter in a courteous and prompt fashion.

A good server earns gratuities from a satisfied customer! If your customer is thanked for their patronage, the server will be rewarded accordingly.

No comments: