Every week we comb through the news to find employment trends affecting the hospitality industry so you donโt have to. This weekโs Hospitality in the News topic: how to become a bartender with no experience.
Working as a bartender is a great opportunity for job seekers who are personable, detail oriented, and enjoy a fast-paced environment. As a bartender, you can work at a variety of venues that include:
- Hotels
- Restaurants
- Catering/banquet events
- Bars
- Corporate events
- Concessions
This position is crucial for creating an amazing experience for guests. Whether youโre working with a full-service bar or serving beer + wine at an event, being a bartender can help you bring in the big bucks and have some fun while doing it.
But if youโve never worked as one before, you might be wondering how to become a bartender with no experience. Hereโs everything you need to know.
How to Become a Bartender with No Experience
Learn about positions responsibilities + requirements
If youโve never worked as a bartender before, you may be unsure about what the position requires besides making drinks. By learning about the position, you wonโt be surprised by the responsibilities when looking for a job. You can expect to maintain cleanliness of the bar, keep it stocked, break down/set up the bar, and other duties as assigned by your manager.
When thinking about how to become a bartender, one thing to consider is getting certified in the safe service of alcohol. This certificate is often required by bar managers and shows youโre committed to keeping patrons safe. Learn more here.
Familiarize yourself with techniques and lingo
On the rocks, neat, chilled, what exactly do these phrases mean? Knowing common techniques and lingo can make you more efficient at bartending. Especially since the environment is so fast paced and often involves multi-tasking. Not only that, but bartending (especially craft cocktail mixology) is considered an art โ which means thereโs a right and wrong way to do things. As you get started in the industry, itโs important to create consistent practices to set yourself up in the future.
Brush up on classic cocktails
Classics are classics for a reason. There are some go-to drinks you just need to know how to make. Here are 18 popular cocktails you should feel comfortable creating. Donโt forget to brush up on your beer and wine knowledge too!
Understand you may need to start small
Experts in any field will tell you that you have to (metaphorically) pay your dues by starting small. For bartenders, this may be by working a few shifts as a barback or beer + wine bartender, or possibly other hospitality positions. Look at this as information gathering; you can take the time to learn about other aspects of the bar or restaurant. And knowledge is power.
Make industry connections
Connections can help you learn about new jobs, share advice, and grow your skills. Think about your network of family and friends. Is there anyone thatโs working a job youโd enjoy or knows someone who does? Donโt hesitate to reach out to people who can help you succeed.
Start looking for bartender gigs
Now that youโve learned how to become a bartender with no experience itโs time to get out there and find the perfect job! Make sure you let your personality and dedication shine to show youโre right for the position.
One easy way to grow your skills and gain experience is by working for a staffing firm like LGC. Weโll set you up with great bartending gigs around your city. Contact us today to learn more!
