Proud Mary manager Tom Gunn shares his tips on what it takes.
Know your section
It looks great if you know your way around your section, so memorise the floor plan and table numbers as quickly as you can. I’d advise requesting a floor plan from the manager before coming in and reading over it thoroughly in preparation.
Demonstrate menu knowledge
Study the menu before your first shift. Your new boss won’t mind you asking them specific questions like “Is that dish gluten free?” but if you ask “What’s that chicken dish?” then they won’t be impressed. You need to know what you’re talking about.
Confidence is key
Building good rapport with customers is essential to the job. So you’ll also make your new boss happy if you’re engaging with customers, making eye contact and smiling.
Show your serving skills
Two words: multiple plates. Waiters need to be able to carry at least three to maintain the level of productivity necessary for the liveliness of the restaurant. So if you haven’t had that much experience − practice, practice, practice!
Keep busy
Be on your feet! The worst thing you could do on your first day is sit down. A waiter always has something to do − a table could be cleared, glasses could be dried, or a bench wiped. Keep moving and keep your hands full.
Observe the service
I love it when new employees come in the day before their first shift and watch the service. It shows that they are excited and really want to be here. No new boss will expect you to do this, but it will certainly impress them.
Proud Mary is located at 172 Oxford Street, Collingwood.
