To accommodate the needs of guests, restaurants and bars frequently hire a lounge server or several servers. In a lounge setting, servers will answer questions about drink menus and, in some cases, food menus, as well as cater to all guests’ comfort needs. The lounge server will most likely bring drinks from the bar to the guests, and once they’ve finished, the server will bus the table and remove all glasses, napkins, food, and other items. One of the server’s responsibilities is to keep a constant eye on the lounge to ensure that all customer needs are met and that any issues are resolved as quickly as possible.
It is not necessary to have a specific level of education to work as a lounge server, but some fundamental skills are required. The server will need to be able to perform basic math as well as have exceptional communication skills. Even when guests are upset or angry, the lounge server must be friendly, courteous, and professional. In some establishments, the server may also be expected to know a lot about the menu, especially when it comes to spirits. Guests may ask the server for wine, mixed drinks, or even beers recommendations, so the server must be familiar with the lounge’s selection.
During a shift, the lounge server will most likely be on his or her feet for the majority of the time. Because trays of drinks and/or food can be heavy, the server will need to be able to lift them, which can be difficult in crowded lounge areas. Once the drinks have been delivered and the tables have been cleared, the lounge server will most likely need to use a point of sale system; these systems are typically computerized, though some are still operated manually with a cash register. Payments and tips will be handled a single server, who will be responsible for keeping track of the money until his or her shift ends.
The best servers are those who can anticipate a guest’s needs before they occur. This frequently demonstrates to patrons that the server is paying attention and is concerned about their needs; most servers work for tips, and the more attention a server gives a guest, the more likely that guest will tip generously. Of course, this isn’t always the case, but a good server will treat every customer with care and attention in order to increase his or her chances of receiving a higher tip.