The Bartenders Job Interview
Its
all about the interview - you can't get a job without one. Remember, as a
Professional Bartender you are a salesperson. The first thing you
have to sell is yourself. For the best
results you must prepare for your interview with as much information as
possible.
Bottom Line:
You will have to talk someone
into hiring you.
All interviewers have the same
3 Questions to answer when making
a hiring decision. You will have to get them to answer
'Yes' to all 3.
1 - Do I like this person?
This is the most critical
element of getting any bartending job. People hire people they like. Your
personality is your biggest asset - use it. The key to a successful
interview is
'good conversation'. Often this 'good conversation' will have
nothing to do with the job or bartending. Be prepared with 'good questions' and
be able to speak intelligently about the job, the establishment and the
business.
2 - Are they available when
I need them?
The job will have specific schedule
requirements. In 99% of cases this will include nights and week-ends. Be
prepared to work a schedule that is a mix of both day and night shifts.
3 - Can they do the job?
As an inexperienced bartender you have no proof that you can do the job
- the interviewer knows this. They are likely to ask you some technical questions ('how do you make a ...?') in an attempt to find out what you know.
Avoid giving short answers and reciting cocktail recipes by take this
opportunity to tell them everything you know about the products and
equipment used to make it.
The Human Resources
Department Interview
As you know, every bartending
job is different. You will find differences in the interview process will
depend on the size and the
Ownership and Management of the establishment. Large corporate
businesses, like national restaurant chains and resort hotels, are likely to
have a Human Resources Department. A representative will conduct the
initial interview and then recommend qualified applicants to the hiring
manager. In most cases this initial interview will have no technical
questions at all. The focus will be on your ability to 'fit-in' and be a
good employee. Be prepared to sell yourself.
