The characteristics of a good bartender have changed over the years. Showmanship has replaced the art of conversation, from flare bartending to voluptuous vixens who do more than just pour drinks. Nonetheless, a good bartender espouses characteristics that ring as true today as they did before Prohibition.

A good bartender commands respect behind the Stick, a respect that indubitably conveys who is in charge. Dispensing alcohol is not for the meek, so characteristic number one is garnering respect from those who sit a mere few inches away. Respect does not mean an intimidating physical presence, though machismo still rules certain bars. The respect comes when a bartender must make a decision about serving alcohol for someone who appears over the legal limit.

Good bartenders know how to handle alcohol issues by ascertaining intoxication levels, intervening to prevent over consumption, and ensuring every bar patron safely arrives to their final destination without placing others in harm's way. Failure to implement alcohol intervention strategies may lead to severe ramifications from legal authorities. Bartenders and the establishments they represent are both legally liable for serving intoxicated customers. Preventing business and career ending alcohol related lawsuits is the primary characteristic of a good bartender.

Other characteristics of a good bartender include:

Honesty

The bartending profession is notorious for employing thieves and cheats. My bar mentor once told me that a nun would be enticed to steal the first shift she worked behind the Stick. The reason most establishments and companies hire secret shoppers is to discern bar theft. Liquor generates the highest revenue margin in a restaurant. Dishonesty erodes the profit margin

Honesty is not a trait measured during an interview. Honesty is a trait that has a verifiable record of accomplishment.

Energy

Nothing turns a bar patron off more than a slovenly bartender who takes forever to pour drinks and make transactions. Bartending demands someone who is effusive and is the life of the party.

Equal Attention

A good bartender spends time with all of his or her patrons. People who sit at a bar are looking for social interaction, which never manifests when a bartender slouches and talks with the same person throughout the evening.

Well Versed

Bartenders play the role of psychologist, political wonk, and avid sports fan. A good bartender does not need to be an expert in any one discipline, but

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