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What are the most complicated obstacles in the bartending business?

#bartending #hospitality

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Misty’s Answer

Hi Kihmo.

I was a bartender for 4 years and while I will say that I did make some great money at it, the nights were long, and having to deal with people who drink way too much and get extremely angry when you refuse to serve them is not fun at all. You have to be a good judge of people due to the fact that you are in control of telling someone when they have had enough even though they do not think they have. You could get in alot of trouble if you were to continue to serve someone who was already intoxicated and they were to leave and either cause harm to themselves or others. Not only could that come back on you but also the establishment you are working for. Other than that, I had alot of fun and it can be alot of fun.

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Amber’s Answer

Hi there! I bartended for years and while it is a very fun job, it does come with a lot of challenges. Primarily, I found the schedule the most difficult - You will work nights and weekends because that is when people are at bars, parties or events. It is difficult to break into because it is typically the highest earning position within a restaurant or venue, sometimes even higher earning than the managers. So, often people will get started in the industry as a busser, server, or Barack, and work their way up to bartending. Classes for bartending are often not taken seriously, as they do little to provide you with real-time experience handling customers and managing the volume. I agree that customers who are drinking are also challenging, and can sometimes be rude. Also, the hospitality industry is notorious for turnover, so you will often be asked to work extra shifts or cover for your colleagues. There are usually little to no benefits - No health insurance, paid time off, or retirement savings plans.

Amber recommends the following next steps:

Try working in a restaurant or venue as a server, busser, barback or host.
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Valentina’s Answer

Hi Kihmo!

The hospitality world can seem glamourous at times however there can be long nights, weekend shifts and of course dealing with some difficult customers.

In saying that, I personally found working in bars and hospitality venues over 5 years after leaving school was a key aspect of my personal and professional development, ultimately leading me to my dream role where I am today in recruitment.

You can learn some very valuable transferable skills that you can take with you to any role! You may also have the opportunity to meet some great people and make friends for life. If you have a true passion for bartending, it can be a well-travelled career path however keep in mind that the hours may be shift work, evenings and weekends.

Good luck!
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Kiirsten’s Answer

Hi Kihmo!

When I think of "complicating obstacles" for bartending, I definitely think about having to cut someone off when they've had too much to drink. Some people who have had too much to drink may become argumentative and aggressive, it's important if you can, to communicate with your manager throughout the night to make sure all of your guests are having a good, safe, and responsible time.

Good luck!
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