Sure, I'd be happy to help! Here's a comprehensive guide on how to train new restaurant servers, covering everything from the basics to advanced techniques.
1. The Basics
Before you start training your new servers, it's essential to cover the basics. This includes:
Restaurant policies and procedures
Make sure your servers understand the policies and procedures of your restaurant, including dress code, punctuality, and appearance.Menu knowledge
Your servers should be familiar with the menu, including ingredients, preparation methods, and portion sizes.Customer service skills
Train your servers on basic customer service skills, such as greeting guests, taking orders, and handling customer complaints.Food safety and sanitation
Emphasize the importance of food safety and sanitation, including proper handwashing techniques, food handling, and storage.2. Service Skills
Once your servers have a good grasp of the basics, it's time to focus on service skills. Here are some areas to cover:
Attentive service
Teach your servers how to provide attentive service, such as taking orders promptly, refilling drinks, and checking in with guests regularly.Upselling and suggestive selling
Train your servers on how to upsell and suggestively sell menu items, without being too pushy or aggressive.Conflict resolution
Teach your servers how to handle customer complaints and conflicts in a professional and friendly manner.Teamwork
Emphasize the importance of teamwork and how servers can work together to ensure a smooth service.3. Advanced Techniques
Once your servers have a solid foundation in the basics and service skills, it's time to move on to advanced techniques. Here are some areas to cover:
Wine and beverage knowledge
Teach your servers about wine and beverage pairings, as well as how to recommend drinks to guests.Menu customization
Train your servers on how to suggest menu modifications and customizations to guests, such as substituting ingredients or adjusting seasoning levels.Guest recognition
Teach your servers how to recognize repeat guests and personalize their service experience.Pre-shift preparation
Train your servers on pre-shift preparation, such as setting up the dining room, prepping utensils, and reviewing menus.4. Practice and Feedback
Training your servers is not a one-time event, but an ongoing process. Here's how to ensure that your servers continue to improve:
Practice and role-playing
Practice different scenarios with your servers, such as taking orders, handling complaints, and suggesting menu items.Feedback and coaching
Provide your servers with regular feedback and coaching, both positive and constructive, to help them improve their skills.Mentorship
Pair your new servers with experienced servers, who can provide guidance and support.By following this comprehensive guide, you'll be well on your way to training top-notch restaurant servers. Remember to provide ongoing support and feedback, and your servers will continue to improve and excel in their roles.
You can also assign your trainees to work alongside an experienced server for a period to get hands-on experience and get feedback from both the mentor and the trainers. For advanced training, you could bring in a professional trainer or a server who has shown exceptional skills to conduct a workshop or class.
I hope this helps you in training your new restaurant servers!
DISCLAIMER: This information is provided for general informational purposes only, and publication does not constitute an endorsement. Kwick365 does not warrant the accuracy or completeness of any information, text, graphics, links, or other items contained within this content. Kwick365 does not guarantee you will achieve any specific results if you follow any advice herein. It may be advisable for you to consult with a professional such as a lawyer, accountant, or business advisor for advice specific to your situation.
