Proper Etiquette For Waiters In Restaurants

By Adriana Noton

Perfectly good dining experiences at restaurants can be ruined by a few ill thought out actions by waiters. Some things should always be done by servers and some should never be done. To most diners, these things seem obvious. But to a lot of waiters they go by the wayside. Here are a few basics that every waiter should know.

First of all, don't hover about the guests when they are eating. Check in once shortly after the food is delivered to make sure there are no problems with the order or that they don't need any extra condiments. Keep your eye on everyone without bothering them in case they try to flag you down at any time.

If patrons are having a tough time deciding what to order, don't hassle them or pressure them. Ask if they need some more time and then let them be. Wait a few minutes before coming back. Never sigh or act irritated if they don't order right away. A few extra minutes for them to select the right thing is not going to hurt anyone.

Should a restaurant customer happen to have a complaint, always apologize even if you didn't do anything. Do not make excuses or try to blame them. Say that you are sorry for the inconvenience and that you will fix the problem. If you are not able to solve the problem, get someone who can right away.

Now onto removing their plates: It is very unlikely that a restaurant is going to run out of plates. If that is a possibility, then the owner needs to buy more. Because it is unacceptable to snatch up plates the second somebody has out the last bit of food into his or her mouth. It is rude and annoying and makes it seem as though you want them to leave.

Something else to keep in mind about dishes is this: Never, ever take away one person's plates is somebody else at the table is still eating. This is outrageously rude! This could make the person who is still eating feel uncomfortable or rushed into finishing his or her meal. The number of waiters who do this to customers is astounding. Please don't be one of them.

Additionally you should never chomp on gum or play with your hair while talking to customers. Don't shout or argue with other employees when diners can hear you. Don't light up a cigarette where they can see you. No whining about how tired you are how you can't wait to go home. Do not yawn or act bored or otherwise give off the impression that serving them is a nuisance for you. And by all means don't count your tips in view of people eating. Nor should you hint at getting tips.

As for the things you should do: Do dress neatly and make sure your hair is combed. Always smile and be polite. Remember to thank them for coming, and say it so that it sounds true. Even if it's not. - 32197

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