To work as a waiter, you must first be hired a restaurant and undergo on-the-job training. To work as a waiter in a high-end restaurant, you’ll typically need to have worked as a waiter in a less expensive or less formal establishment. Before allowing you to wait tables, a restaurant may require you to work in a supporting role, such as busing tables or working as a food runner.
To become a waiter, there are no formal training programs or educational requirements, though waiters must be fluent in the language spoken their customers in order to take orders and provide assistance. Many people enter the industry with no prior experience, though they may be required to begin as waiters in low-cost “diners” and cafes. Waiters may be assisted food runners in high-volume restaurants, who actually deliver food to tables after the waiter has taken the order and sent it back to the kitchen. If you get a job in one of these restaurants, you might have to start as a food runner or a busser before you can work as a waiter.
Some chain restaurants may require you to complete a formal training program before you can work as a waiter. This training program could include both online and video training, as well as the requirement that you read an employee manual. You may also be required to shadow an experienced waiter for several days in order to learn the company’s procedures and how to interact with customers appropriately. When you start working as a waiter in a restaurant, you may be assigned to less-busy shifts, which may not be as financially lucrative as the busier times, but will allow you to gain experience in the restaurant.
Before you start working as a waiter in a more upscale restaurant, you will be expected to have prior food service experience as well as significant food knowledge. Waiters and waitresses are typically relied upon restaurant managers and owners to sell their food to customers. You may also be asked to demonstrate your understanding of wine and cocktails, as these can be a significant source of revenue in a restaurant. While you can learn about wine on the job, you might find that taking a wine appreciation class will help you advance your waiter career.