What Skills Do You Need to Work in a Bar?

Bartending can be a profitable and enjoyable career, but it takes a certain set of abilities to be successful.

In this article, we’ll explore the essential skills for bartenders, and what you can do to develop and improve these skills.

Customer Service Skills

One of the most important skills for bartenders is customer service.

Bartenders must be friendly, personable, and able to communicate effectively with customers. This includes:

1. Listening Skills

Bartenders must be able to listen to customers and understand their needs and preferences. This includes listening to customer orders, requests, and feedback.

2. Communication Skills

Bartenders must be able to communicate effectively with customers, including answering questions, providing recommendations, and making conversation.

3. Problem-Solving Skills

Bartenders must be able to solve problems quickly and effectively, such as handling customer complaints or addressing issues with orders.

Mixology Skills

Another essential skill for bartenders is mixology or the art of mixing drinks. This includes:

1. Knowledge of Different Types of Alcohol

Bartenders must have a basic knowledge of different types of alcohol, including their flavor profiles and how they are made.

2. Knowledge of Different Mixing Techniques

Bartenders must be familiar with different mixing techniques, such as shaking, stirring, and blending, and know when to use each technique.

3. Creativity

Bartenders must be creative and able to develop new and unique drinks that showcase their skills and appeal to customers.

4. Attention to Detail

Bartenders must have attention to detail, as even small mistakes in mixing drinks can affect the taste and quality of the drink.

Time Management Skills

Working in a bar can be a fast-paced and demanding job, which requires good time management skills.

This includes:

1. Ability to Prioritize Tasks

Bartenders must be able to prioritize tasks, such as taking customer orders, mixing drinks, and cleaning up the bar area.

2. Ability to Work Under Pressure

Bartenders must be able to work well under pressure, such as during busy periods or when dealing with difficult customers.

3. Ability to Multitask

Bartenders must be able to multitask, such as mixing multiple drinks at once or taking orders while preparing drinks.

Organization Skills

Bartenders must be organized and able to keep the bar area clean and well-stocked.

This includes:

1. Ability to Keep Track of Inventory

Bartenders must be able to keep track of inventory, such as alcohol, mixers, and garnishes, and ensure that they are well-stocked.

2. Ability to Maintain a Clean and Tidy Bar Area

Bartenders must be able to maintain a clean and tidy bar area, including wiping down surfaces, cleaning glasses and utensils, and disposing of trash.

3. Ability to Follow Procedures

Bartenders must be able to follow procedures, such as measuring ingredients accurately and following recipes, to ensure consistency in drink quality.

Math Skills

Bartenders must have basic math skills to calculate drink prices, handle cash, and make changes.

This includes:

1. Ability to Calculate Drink Prices

Bartenders must be able to calculate drink prices accurately, taking into account the cost of ingredients and any additional charges.

2. Ability to Handle Cash and Make Change

Bartenders must be able to handle cash and make change accurately, and be familiar with different payment methods, such as credit cards and mobile payments.

Interpersonal Skills

Bartenders must have good interpersonal skills to build relationships with customers and work effectively with colleagues.

This includes:

1. Ability to Build Relationships with Customers

Bartenders must be able to build relationships with customers, such as remembering their names and preferences and making them feel welcome and valued.

2. Ability to Work Effectively with Colleagues

Bartenders must be able to work effectively with colleagues, such as communicating effectively and supporting each other during busy periods.