Server Jobs in 2023: Expert Tips & Insights from Application to Apron

by Hiration

Every time someone enjoys a seamless food and beverage experience, there's a dedicated server ensuring every detail is perfect.

With the U.S. hospitality sector poised for growth, with about 1.02 mn. openings for food and beverage serving and related workers projected each year from 2022 to 2032, server jobs have become a golden opportunity for many job seekers.

In this all-encompassing guide, we'll navigate the intricacies of server jobs in 2023, offering insights, tips, and strategies tailored for aspiring servers across the United States.

Dive in and discover how you can turn a role into a rewarding career.

Introduction to Server Jobs


To succeed as a server in the bustling hospitality scene, it's essential to grasp the depth and breadth of the role.

While many envision servers merely taking orders, the reality is far more intricate. Servers are the linchpin of F&B establishments, playing a pivotal role in shaping the guest experience.

From the initial greeting to recommending the chef's specials, addressing food allergies, and ensuring impeccable coordination with the kitchen, their responsibilities are multifaceted.

Beyond just serving food and drinks, they juggle tasks like setting tables, processing payments, and swiftly addressing any hiccups that might arise.

At the heart of all these duties lies one core objective: ensuring every patron departs with a smile, cherishing their overall experience.

Also read: What are the duties and required skills of a busser?

Server Jobs: Skills, Qualifications, and Training


Breaking into the server role in the F&B industry isn’t merely about taking orders and serving food. It’s about weaving a mix of skills, qualifications, and personal attributes to create memorable experiences for guests.

Educational & Training Background


  • Educational Foundation: While many server positions don't explicitly require it, a high school diploma or its equivalent can be an advantage.

  • Server Certifications: Investing in certifications, particularly in food safety, hospitality, or customer service, can be a game-changer. Such courses not only hone your skills but also demonstrate your dedication to the profession. Here are two pages you can refer to:

  1. Top 8 Food and Beverage Certifications
  2. 20 Best Waitress/Waiter Certifications
  • Industry Experience: A background in the service or hospitality sector can give you a competitive edge, showcasing your practical knowledge and adaptability.

Essential Skills for Success


  • Effective Communication: The bridge between the kitchen and guests, servers must articulate orders clearly and address queries efficiently.

  • Problem-solving: Whether it's a mistaken order or an unforeseen challenge, a server’s ability to think on their feet is paramount.

  • Endurance & Physical Fitness: The demands of a bustling dining floor mean servers often spend long hours on their feet, making stamina crucial.

  • Sharp Memory: In the heat of a busy shift, remembering orders and customer preferences can set great servers apart.

  • Salesmanship: Mastery in recommending and upselling menu items can boost guest satisfaction and increase revenue.

  • Multi-tasking: Balancing orders, attending to multiple tables, and coordinating with kitchen staff all at once requires adept multi-tasking skills.

  • Outgoing Personality: An amiable and approachable demeanor can turn first-time guests into loyal patrons.

Also read: What are the skills to put in a resume for food service jobs?

Hiration pro tip:
Embracing the digital age, servers often engage in content creation, sharing behind-the-scenes glimpses or food insights on social platforms, thus contributing to the restaurant's brand and allure. Therefore, content creation in the restaurant industry is also a very renowned job option in 2023-24.

A Comprehensive Roadmap to Securing Server Jobs


Embarking on a journey to secure a server position requires meticulous planning and preparation. Here's a refined strategy to guide aspiring servers:

Crafting an Impeccable Resume


Your resume is the first impression potential employers have of you. Make it count.

  • Highlight Relevant Experience: Emphasize past roles where direct customer engagement was your key responsibility. Experience in roles related to hospitality can offer a competitive edge.

  • Specialized Training: Detail any certifications or courses, particularly those related to food safety, customer service, or the hospitality industry.

  • Showcase Soft Skills: In a role where interpersonal skills reign supreme, spotlight attributes like adaptability, effective teamwork, and adept stress management.

Also read: How to draft an ATS-friendly hospitality resume?

Building a Robust Network


The adage, "It's not what you know, but who you know," often holds true in the hospitality sector.

  • Industry Events: Participate in job fairs and networking events tailored for the hospitality industry. Such events can lead to invaluable connections.

  • Online Engagement: Join online forums, groups, and communities centered around the F&B and hospitality sectors. Such platforms can provide insights and potential job leads.

  • Professional Networking Platforms: Actively engage on platforms like LinkedIn. Connect with industry professionals and stay updated with the latest trends and opportunities.

Also read: What are the different ways to network for a job?

In-depth Research on Potential Employers


Prior to an interview, an in-depth understanding of your prospective employer can set you apart.

  • Dive into Establishment’s Essence: Grasp the core values, culture, and history of the dining establishment. Knowledge of their target clientele can also be beneficial.

  • Menu Mastery: Familiarize yourself with their offerings. Understanding specialty dishes or best-sellers can help during the interview process.

  • Experience Firsthand: If possible, dine at the establishment. A firsthand experience can provide insights into service quality, ambiance, and customer preferences.

Also read: How to research the company before an interview in 2023?

Acing the Interview


An interview is your moment to shine, demonstrating not just your qualifications but your passion for the role.

  • Dress to Impress: Your attire should mirror the professionalism you bring to the table. Opt for a neat, polished appearance that aligns with the establishment's ambiance.

  • Punctuality is Paramount: Arrive early, showcasing your commitment and respect for the interviewer's time.

  • Anticipate and Prepare: Familiarize yourself with common interview questions, especially those that highlight your problem-solving abilities and customer service prowess.

  • Engage Actively: Showcase genuine interest by inquiring about the establishment's journey, future aspirations, or any upcoming changes or events.

In the dynamic world of hospitality, preparation and a proactive approach can be the difference between merely securing a job and launching a thriving career.

Equipped with the right strategies, your path to a coveted server position can be smooth and rewarding.

Also read: What are the different types and rounds of interviews?

Source: Server Related Jobs Gender Ratio

Food Server Jobs


The food service category primarily focuses on serving meals to ensure that guests receive their desired dishes with impeccable service.

Positions under this category often involve understanding the menu, dietary requirements, and ensuring timely delivery of food orders.

  • Breakfast Server: Specializing in the first meal of the day, these servers are well-versed in breakfast menus, from continental spreads to full American breakfasts.

  • Banquet Server: These servers are experts in handling large events, be it weddings, corporate gatherings, or grand celebrations. They manage bulk orders and often serve preset menus to numerous guests.

  • Fine Dining Server: Working in upscale restaurants, fine dining servers provide an elevated dining experience. Their roles go beyond serving food; they're trained in food pairings, detailed menu knowledge, and offering a refined, personalized service to patrons. Presentation, etiquette, and attention to detail are paramount in this role.

Also read: How to show the professional experience in your catering server resume?

Beverage Server Jobs


Beverage server roles revolve around drink orders, which can range from non-alcoholic beverages to intricate cocktails.

Knowledge of drink recipes, liquor laws, and customer preferences is pivotal in these roles.

  • Cocktail Server: Tasked with serving a variety of alcoholic drinks, cocktail servers must be familiar with a wide range of spirits, mixers, and drink recipes. They often work in lounge areas, nightclubs, or upscale bars.

  • Bartender Server: A hybrid role, bartender servers not only mix and serve drinks but may also take food orders when working in establishments that offer both dining and bar services.

Also read: How to write a perfectly professional experience section for a bartender resume?

Conclusion


Securing a server job offers more than just an employment opportunity; it’s an entry into a dynamic, ever-evolving industry.

With dedication, continuous learning, and a customer-centric approach, the sky's the limit in the hospitality sector.

Whether embarking on your first server role or considering a shift back into the industry, being prepared can make all the difference.

Commence your professional journey with server jobs today with the help of Hiration’s ChatGPT-powered career service platform.

It will cater to all your professional needs - from building a shortlist-worthy resume and cover letter to optimizing your LinkedIn profile, preparing for interviews, and more!

For any queries or concerns, feel free to drop a mail at support(at)hiration(dot)com.