First of all, the waiter is very important because he represents the restaurant where he works because he is the one who most often comes into contact with customers.
Server, professional qualifications
Since many shifts are offered on evenings, weekends, and holidays, it is an ideal job for those looking for a flexible schedule, such as students or people looking for extra income. In basic restaurants, the work is simple, so no special preparation is required.
Working in upscale restaurants or hotels requires professional staff.
Waiter, requirements and skills
- Good memory to remember customers’ orders and their preferences
- Communication skills to take orders and pass them on to the staff
- Ability to work as part of a team to help during busy times
- Interpersonal skills are essential, as waiters deal with customers and cooks and often must mediate between them
- Clean and neat appearance
Waiter duties
Serve food and beverages to customers in restaurants and other venues. They provide quick and efficient service in basic restaurants or a formal and relaxed experience in upscale restaurants.
Clean and set tables (mise en place) and make sure everything is in order.
Greet guests, present menus, and recommend food and beverages.
Take orders, direct them to kitchen staff, and bring food and drinks to guests.
It is a hard job that requires stamina, since you have to stand most of the time, and physical strength to carry trays of food and drinks.
They are often under pressure, because even at peak times, the waiter must work quickly and with a smile on his face.
Server wages
On average in southern Europe: Spain, Italy, etc. An inexperienced waiter receives a salary of about €1,000-1,300 net per month; an experienced waiter with 10-20 years of experience earns about €1,500-1,800. A waiter in a Michelin star restaurant earns more and can earn up to 2.000 €
In Northern Europe (Holland, Denmark, etc.) salaries are slightly higher
In Switzerland or New York a waiter earns 3.500 € / 4.000 € per month
