subject: Waiter Training [print this page] Waiter Training Waiter Training
First and foremost it is vital that waiting staff understand the importance of their role in working in a restaurant, and respect the fact that they are the link between the customer and the business.
Setting a table is often a skill that is overlooked in training, but a professionally laid table creates an excellent first impression for the customer and makes the waiters job in servicing that table much smoother.
Next, a good business must show their staff the correct way to take an order from a customer, including the correct questions to ask the customer to ensure all their needs are met, and also the best way of recording the information succinctly so that it is communicated correctly to the kitchen and serves as an accurate record for billing purposes.
When it comes to delivering what has been ordered, competent tray service is often what lets an establishment down, but this can be easily overcome by engaging in some waiter training, focusing on the correct technique for carrying trays, and allowing them a little bit of practice time in order to build their confidence.
Similarly, plate skills are probably the most daunting element of the job for someone who is new to waiting tables, but it is worth investing time in showing your team how to do it properly to save time during service and to create a professional appearance in front of diners.
Once a member of waiting staff has mastered all the practical techniques it is time for them to learn the order of service. This starts by attending to the customers initial needs, such as being comfortable at their table and taking care of their jackets, then offering and delivering drinks while they are perusing the menu. The order of service also includes vital elements such as checking back on the customers after each course to ensure they are happy with their food and have everything they need, which is vital to ensuring excellent customer care.
Finally any well run business will also want their staff to have excellent product knowledge of their menus, wine lists and drinks available from the bar, so that can then can competently answer any questions a customer may have, but also be able to confidently upsell. When done well, upselling can not only help to exceed the customers expectations but also maximise the return for the business.
