by Alisha Link

Created on: December 16, 2008   Last Updated: December 18, 2008

As a former employee in the service industry, I know all to well what it takes to be a great server and it's not as easy as it appears. As a service manager for a major casual dining chain, I know how hard it is to find qualified servers, and no not anyone can do it. It is a tough job, with a mostly tough crowd of customers expecting nothing less than perfection, but it can be both rewarding and lucrative if you follow these tips.

1. Your appearance plays a key role in how much people will tip you. This sounds bad, but people(customers) will judge you on your looks, and it could possibly affect your tips. Being a waiter means your job is to come into direct contact with people all day long, so take a little time and make sure you come to work neat, clean, and with a smile on your face everyday.

2. Be nice. Sounds simple enough, but sometimes it's not so easy when your customer has "one-tripped" you for the third time and is not being nice about it! Just realize that we all have bad days and cut them a break. My mother always taught me to kill them with kindness, and you just may be the one to turn their day around.

3. Anticipate your guests' needs. As a frequent diner, I always tip better if I don't have to ask for things. If you see their drinks are getting low don't wait for them to ask you for more, ask them first. Or depending on your restaurant's policies, just get them more.

4. Get to know your bartender and bar specials. Having a good relationship with the bartenders can mean faster drink times for you and your customer, and knowledge of bar specials is a key role of any good server. Being able to sell liquor is key to boosting your sales and thus boosting your tips.

5. Be knowledgeable about the menu. There is nothing worse than a server who doesn't know the menu. If customers have questions and you appear knowledgeable they will have more trust in your abilities to take care of their needs.

6. Upsell, Upsell, Upsell. Any server that makes money knows the key is to upsell. Suggest appetizers, salads, desserts, and alcoholic drinks. The key is not just to suggest the item, but to suggest and describe it at the same time. Upselling will increase your tickets and your tips will follow.

7. Don't be afraid to ask for help. We've all been there on a busy shift and receiving help does not make you a bad server, it makes you responsible and smart. Even if it's just refilling a drink, sometimes the littlest of help can keep you from going in the "weeds".

8. Go above and beyond. If a guest is wondering which margarita to try or which sauce to choose, give them a sample. If a guest asks where the restroom is, walk them to it instead of pointing. It's the little things that people appreciate, and will not only make you feel good it will also help your pocketbook.

9. Always thank them, by name if possible. When a guest pays, it is imperative that you "de-greet" them. You should thank them by name if you know it(by credit card) and welcome them back. Let them know your schedule so if they enjoyed their visit, they can ask for you next time.

10. Build your regulars. Regulars are not only a sure thing in terms of tips, but they also provide a sort of "friend" at work. They know you better, and are less likely to punish you for your mistakes if you don't take advantage of them. Regulars are key to steady income, so it's important to take good care of them. By the end of my days as a server, I was deriving at least 75% of my income from regulars, and on my last day I took home five times as much in tips as I usually did.

Being a server is tough occupation, but if you take control and follow these tips, you'll be well on your way to doubling your money!

Learn more about this author, Alisha Link.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.