Waiter

Roles and responsibilities

• Supports the smooth running of the food & beverage department, where all aspects of the guest food & beverage service experience are delivered to the highest levels
• Works as part of a team that maximizes guest satisfaction and comfort, delivering a positive and timely response to guest enquiries
• Takes responsibility for the duties and tasks assigned to the role, ensuring that all work is carried out in a timely and professional manner
• Delivers on departmental plans and objectives, where hotel initiatives & targets are achieved
• Collaborates with their immediate report, ensuring that costs and inventory are controlled, that productivity and performance levels are attained
• Builds and maintains effective working relationships whilst promoting the company culture and values.
• Ensures adherence and compliance to all legislation where due diligence requirements and best practice activities are planned, delivered and documented for internal and external audit, performing follow-up as required
  
  

Requirements of the Server/Waiter/Waitress:

• Experience in food & beverage service beneficial but not essential
• Hands-on approach with a can-do work style
• Commitment to delivering exceptional guest service with a passion for the hospitality industry
• Ability to find creative solutions taking ownership for duties and tasks assigned
• Personal integrity, with the ability to work in an environment that demands excellence
• Experience of working with IT systems on various platforms
• Strong communication skills

Desired candidate profile

• 1. Customer Service Excellence

• Friendly and Approachable: A good waiter must be friendly, personable, and approachable, ensuring guests feel welcome and valued.
• Attentive to Guest Needs: Waiters should be observant and proactive in addressing guest needs, refilling drinks, offering more food options, or checking in regularly to ensure satisfaction.
• Handling Complaints Gracefully: When problems arise (e.g., incorrect orders, delays), a waiter should handle complaints calmly and professionally, offering solutions or escalating issues to management if necessary.

• 2. Communication Skills

• Clear and Concise Communication: Waiters need to clearly explain menu items, take orders accurately, and inform guests of any specials or promotions.
• Listening Skills: Listening carefully to guests' orders and preferences (e.g., dietary restrictions, special requests) is key to delivering a positive experience.
• Team Communication: Collaborating with the kitchen staff, bartenders, and other servers is crucial for ensuring smooth operations and timely service.

• 3. Multitasking and Time Management

• Managing Multiple Tables: Waiters often serve multiple tables simultaneously, so they must be able to juggle multiple tasks, such as taking orders, delivering food, and checking on guests.
• Prioritizing Tasks: During busy times, waiters must prioritize urgent tasks, such as delivering food orders promptly, while also managing less immediate duties like refilling drinks.
• Handling Stress: A calm demeanor under pressure helps ensure that the service runs smoothly, even during peak hours.

• 4. Knowledge of Menu and Specialties

• Menu Knowledge: Waiters must be well-versed in the restaurant’s menu, including ingredients, preparation methods, and potential allergens. This knowledge enables them to make recommendations and answer guest questions.
• Wine and Beverage Knowledge: In fine dining or specialized establishments, knowledge of wine pairings, cocktails, and beverage options is essential for providing informed recommendations.
• Daily Specials and Promotions: Waiters must be familiar with any specials or promotions the restaurant is offering on a given day, so they can effectively communicate these to guests.

• 5. Attention to Detail

• Accurate Order Taking: Waiters must carefully note down orders to avoid mistakes. This includes not only food and drink selections but also guest preferences (e.g., specific cooking instructions or dietary restrictions).
• Maintaining Cleanliness: Ensuring that tables are clean, well-set, and free from debris before seating guests or serving food.
• Observing Guest Behavior: Being alert to when a guest needs assistance (e.g., drink refills, condiments, or dessert options) without being intrusive.