If you’re one of the many that has laid their heart on the line for a date with their server only to be shot down, fear not because those days are dead and gone. Here to assist in romancing your service industry crush are a few guiding principles, that if followed will earn you some serious consideration.
Same Rules Apply
Would you ignore someone you’re planning on asking out? What about making demands before getting a name? And throwing down insults about their work?
Hopefully the answer is no (and if it’s yes, it’s time to re-evaluate your game in general). Well, surprise! The same courting rules that apply to the general public also go for your server, host, bartender, etc. because we’re people too! So avoid the brush off, any version of “get me” especially without saying please and thank you, and any insinuation that we’re not doing our jobs to the utmost of our abilities. Basically, mind your manners and treat us how you’d like to be treated, or else you’re just digging your own grave in the dating department.
For most, this goes without saying, but better safe than sorry. Pet names are generally not appreciated, even if we put up a good front about their use. Neither is gawking, catcalling, and definitely not copping a feel.
Now you may not even be aware that you’re guilty of a few of these no-no’s, because let’s face it, sometimes when we’re not trying to be on our best behavior, things slip through the cracks. So, to counteract a few of the misses, don’t pass up an opportunity to show your appreciation of the work we’re doing so that you can enjoy yourself. Basically, do your best to be respectful because just that goes a long way.
If You’re Interested, Act Like It
Working in the service industry, specifically in the front of house, means that we literally serve others all day long. As far as dialogue, there’s very little in the way of engaging conversation. So it’s quite refreshing when we’re asked questions that go beyond the drink menu, perhaps even venturing outside of life at work, and getting a chance to actively participate in an exchange. Not only does this clue us in to your attraction, but may also ignite one of our own!
A word of caution: even if a conversation is going well, don’t guilt trip us if and when we have to attend to our other customers. It is our livelihood, after all. Instead, graciously let us go and leave us wanting more!
Love Don’t Cost A Thing
Sure, a big tip is always appreciated, but be careful about throwing around your money, credit cards included. Attempting to impress with the promise of cash bonuses is in most cases considered solicitation and, excluding special circumstances, is no way to gain affection, literal and otherwise. Even dressed up with promises of tomorrow, all you’ll get for tooting your own horn is payback. And you know what they say about payback…
Impress us with the immaterial, like your great sense of humor, infectious laugh, or even your total lack of coordination (sometimes it’s cute!).
Take A Hint
If your attempts at wooing go wayward, and even a bat can see that there’s no future (at least for the moment), then bow out with style. Don’t skimp on the gratuity, make a scene, or talk trash because no one wants to date a sore loser and, who knows, there may be a chance at redemption next time.
Know more secrets about charming your server (or any service industry employee for that matter)? Let us know here, or @gosirvo.
The interview is arguably the most important part of applying for a job. And the most difficult. Here are the do’s and don’ts for some of the tricky interview questions you may have to answer.
“Can you tell me a little about yourself?”
DON’T give your entire life story.
DON’T regurgitate what is on your resume.
DO give a brief history about prior training or experience.
DO share 2-3 specific accomplishments that relate to your professional career, and be concise.
“What was your experience like at your previous position?”
DON’T speak negatively about your previous employer/company.
DON’T just use a vague phrase as your answer, like ‘great learning experience’.
DO give specific examples of your experience that lead to successful outcomes or that relate to the position for which you are interviewing.
DO include how your previous position or company differ from that for which you are interviewing.
“What are your greatest professional strengths and weaknesses?”
DON’T answer based on what you think the interviewer wants to hear; for both strengths and weaknesses, be honest.
DON’T give generic answers like ‘I work too hard’ or ‘I’m a team player”.
DO provide a specific example of a situation in which your strength served you well.
DO explain what you are doing to overcome your weaknesses after you share what they are.
“Why are you interested in this position?”
DON’T only talk about what is in it for you, such as great perks, more money, etc.
DON’T solely focus on the past, and why you are leaving your current position.
DO discuss the company, and how you and your [insert trait here] will be a perfect fit.
DO talk about the company’s bottom line, the future, and how you can make it a bright one for yourself AND the company.
“What is your super power, spirit animal, etc.?”
DON’T just give your go-to answer. Employers will appreciate an answer tailored to the job, company, or industry as it shows a certain level of dedication.
DON’T hold back, as this question is supposed to break the ice and meant to showcase a bit of your personality.
DO think outside of the box, but still make sure it relates to the company’s ethos.
DO take pause, or use a filler such as ‘that is a great question…’, if you do not have an answer right away.
“Do you have any questions for us?”
DON’T SAY NO!
DON’T let yourself get caught without a question because it has already been discussed. Think of a few less-common questions just in case.
DO ask questions that show you have researched the position and company. Questions about ongoing projects are always a good go-to.
DO ask about relevant subjects. Asking if you can wear jeans to work is not relevant.
DOs for Any and All Questions
Be honest. Do your homework. PRACTICE, PRACTICE, PRACTICE.
Do you have more do’s and don’ts for these questions? Or need do’s and don’ts for other tough interview questions? Let us know @gosirvo
As the national economy continues to improve, jobs are becoming less and less capricious. However, as is the nature of the service industry, employee turnover among hospitality positions remains high, so what can you do to keep the checks coming? Actually, quite a lot!Climbing the ladder
Many consider positions within the service industry to be temporary, whether it is because, for a considerable portion of the workforce, it is either a first job or placeholder or because the average lifetime of a service industry business is shorter than most. However, this is misleading because, since the perception of service industry jobs is as provisional as it gets, there can be no career advancement or long-term career planning in general. But, this is not the case. According to National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation research, 97% of restaurant managers and 94% of shift or crew supervisors no longer in their first restaurant job have advanced to higher-paying positions in the restaurant industry, meaning that if you stick it out, the rewards will be worth the wait.
Lose the ‘tude…or just change it
So, now that you know that it is possible to turn an entry-level position into a well-paying career, how do you keep the job you have in order to ascend the ladder? It starts with the attitude you maintain while in the workplace. Positivity, as well as negativity, is readily noticed and oftentimes contagious. If excitement and enthusiasm are on your mind, not only will your colleagues be thankful, but your supervisors will be as well, not to mention you’ll have a much easier time accomplishing the next tip.
Go the extra mile
Employees that do their jobs well are the ones that are kept on the payroll, and the first to be promoted. So, go above and beyond your normal responsibilities. Be as helpful as possible in your place of employment, even if that means taking extra shifts or unpopular duties. Demonstrate your commitment to the company, and initiative in getting what needs to be done, done.
Learning is fun
When money is tight, getting the most bang for your buck becomes the most important thing. For employees, this means being as productive as possible, in as many areas as possible. Take the time to learn new tasks, skills, and specialties because when push comes to shove, you won’t be the one going overboard, plus you’ll be demonstrating your potential as well as aptitude.
Build roots
One of the most important, and beneficial, aspects of today’s professional world is networking. Be sure to make connections and build relationships with colleagues and supervisors in departments beyond yours. The deeper your roots are in the organization, the less likely it is that you’ll be cut loose when the storm hits. And even if you are, who knows which acquaintance or friend will be your saving grace.
Just in case
Last but not least, have a back-up plan in case the worst happens. Stay up-to-date on available positions in your area, as well as nationwide because you never know when that dream job will arise. Also, continuing to invest in your education is always a safe bet as the most valuable professionals are those that know their craft intimately. And, don’t be afraid to make a change if it is in your best interest.
Here’s a short film (funded by a successful Kickstarter campaign) that investigates exactly how difficult it is for servers to earn a living on tipped minimum wage, which is currently $2.13 per hour for tipped employees. In the 18-minute documentary, several servers go on the record to describe how their wages hover just above the poverty line, how restaurant industry lobbyists have appealed to Congress to keep wages low, and how tipped wages are closely tied to gender politics. Go, watch the film above.
