SELECT A SINGLE TINY ACTION. You can’t practice your overall “table presence” because that is too vague. Instead, pick one small motion (like placing a water glass) and practice that one action. Use a chair and the edge of a table as reference points. PRACTICE WALKING TO THE TABLE, pausing without shifting your weight, and then…
Utilizing Feedback in Restaurant Service Without Eroding Your Confidence Learning to practice restaurant service often means inviting feedback from people around you. Yet when so much of what you do is technically apparent, it can be hard not to take criticisms personally. In a skill where much of the technique is visible, you have to practice…
Practicing an entire service encounter can sometimes feel weighty for a new server. They may begin alright, then fail to maintain posture, pacing, hand positioning, voice, and table awareness. The result can be a strange combination of rushing and hesitations. Break service down into short segments. Practice just one short segment of service at a time.…
I believe one of the greatest barriers to serving is fear of looking awkward. I definitely feel that way, and I see it with many of my new servers. The best way to overcome it is to practice. The easiest way to look awkward is to try and do everything all at once. Practice your movements…