If bartending is something you really want to do, be willing to start at the bottom. That means a few different things. At busy establishments, be willing to work as a bouncer or a busser; many bars only promote bartenders from within their current staff. Yes, it can be frustrating, but many professional bartenders had to pay their dues to get where they are. Nobody in any career gets to start at the top. Be willing to work a year or two at a less popular establishment like a bowling alley or a neighborhood pub. And be willing to work the slow shifts – usually daytime or Monday/Tuesday nights. Get any job in any bar you can, focus on giving exceptional service, learn as much as you can, and don’t flair at all when you’re starting out.

• Posted 2012-12-14  | 
•   | 
• Join the Discussion »