Yes! You have landed an interview for a bartending position. However, bartending interviews are not the same as your more common 9 to 5 job interviews. Here are some key suggestions that we think you may need to know and take with you on your interview.
• Get yourself familiar with the establishment. You can Google them ahead of time and get a pretty good idea of what type of establishment it is. You can also visit the establishment prior to the interview, not letting anyone know why you’re there, just observe your surroundings and get a feel for the place. This will give you an idea of what their bar is stocked with and what their set up is.
• First impression is everything. Dress for successes. The first thing an employer/manager is going to notice is your appearance. Make sure you are dressed appropriately for the establishment in which you are applying for. Make sure you are showered, teeth are brushed, fingernails are clean and that you smell good. Do not smoke before your interview or chew gum or mints during your interview. Most establishments are looking for non-smoking bartenders.
• Smile and bring your A game with you, the employer/manager is going to be looking for an outgoing, upbeat, confident person with charm, charisma and a friendly attitude. Remember there’s a difference between confident and cocky.
• Have a firm hand shake.
• Be on time and prepared for your interview. Never be more than ten minutes early and NEVER, EVER be one minute late. If you have to reschedule the interview, make sure it’s in advance and that you speak with the interviewer directly. Do not leave a message. However, if you choose to reschedule, no matter what the reason. Chances are you will not get another opportunity for an interview with that establishment. Have a pen in hand and a recent copy of your resume, certifications and references with you. Do not bring any friends, husbands, wives, girlfriends, boyfriends, children or pets along with you to the interview. Believe me! It has been known to happen.
• Know and recognize the Beers, Spirits and Wines that would most likely be sold at that establishment. Also, make sure you are up to date with the latest, most common and frequently requested brands.
• The Employer/manager may ask you to write down or make a few drinks. So, know how to make the classics.- Martini, Manhattan, Margarita, Long Island Iced Tea, Cosmopolitan and White Russian. You will find that most employers will ask you to make drinks that can be made several different ways. Or that can be made with well, premium or top shelf ingredients. An employer wants to see that you can up sell a drink or that these recipes can slightly change depending on the establishments or customers preference.
• Let the employer/manager know that mixing a drink is not your only qualification.
Tell them that you are a reliable team player who is willing to jump in to help with other duties and that you are willing to help cover other shifts if needed.
That you have the ability to multi-task and work well under pressure all while waiting on customers.
That you have the ability to keep a neat, well organized, well stocked bar.
That you have very strong customer service skills, and that you consider yourself a friendly people person.
• The employer/manager will probably have some pretty simple questions to ask you. Be prepared to answer any questions they may have, nothing looks worse then you rolling your eyes or waiting through an awkward silence while you are trying to think of something to say. Here’s a list of questions that they may ask during an interview.
BE READY…….
1. Tell me a little about yourself?
2. Why do you like bartending?
3. Why should we hire you?
4. What kind of bartending or serving experience do you have? Have you ever attended a bartending/mixology certification course?
5. When someone has had too much to drink, how would you handle the situation?
6. What’s your favorite drink to make?
7. How much do you pour for a single shot?
8. Why did you leave your last job?
9. Do you have a problem working weekends, holidays or covering other shifts if needed?
10. Are you certified in Alcohol Safety? If so, do you have your certification with you?
Good Luck, Hope you get the job!!!!!
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If you have any questions about Bartending Tips & Tricks or wish to register for an upcoming class, please contact the Maryland Bartending Academy by calling 410-787-0020 or visit MarylandBartending.com today!
Maryland Bartending Academy is not only Maryland’s oldest bartending school, but we also offer the most comprehensive curriculum around. We will have you ready for your new career in two weeks and then we will help you find bartender jobs around Maryland and DC! We have trained and placed thousands and thousands of bartenders into some of the busiest bars throughout not only Maryland and DC, but also the entire nation.
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