Ideal Waiter Profile
Every business is unique, but there are certain characteristics that are botim database to any café, bar or restaurant when it comes to hiring waiters. These five qualities are really important in the person who will be providing direct customer service. Physical stamina, organizational skills, good communication, teamwork and a sense of humor are real gems that we explain in detail.
1. Mental and Physical Resistance
Waiters must have excellent physical fitness, as they are on their feet and constantly moving around practically all working hours. Taking orders, carrying trays, moving tables, among others, are essentially physical tasks. Therefore, this professional must be a person with energy, good physical stamina and good health in general.
Being a calm person who doesn't get irritated easily, with a stable and harmonious temperament is also essential for a waiter. When interviewing candidates, try to find out about their eating, resting and leisure habits. A person who takes care of themselves is in better physical and mental shape and will therefore be a better professional for your business.
2. Excellent Communication
Naturally, the waiter must be a friendly, friendly person who can express himself well verbally and physically. The ability to listen attentively and suggest options according to the customer's profile are highly valued attributes.
Empathy, that is, the ability to put yourself in the customer's shoes, anticipating their concerns and desires, is also a very important characteristic to consider, which complements good communication. This ability to communicate well is crucial in the most tense moment of a complaint or when the customer is not satisfied for some reason.
3. Organizational Capacity
Having a method and being organized is essential to efficiently carry out all the typical daily tasks of a waiter. Therefore, when hiring, try to find out if the candidates have organizational skills that are suited to the reality of your business.
However, not everything always goes as planned, so look for candidates who are adaptable and even have a bit of improvisation. Knowing how to handle a situation that is out of the ordinary or that simply did not go as expected is a very important skill in customer service.
4. Teamwork
Interacting with colleagues and superiors in a cordial manner, respecting and valuing their work is essential for working as a waiter. Knowing how to use humor to defuse conflicts and maintain harmony in the workplace is a priceless skill.
