How To Get Into The Bartending Trade And Excel At It

Are you looking to make a career change and become a bartender? You’re in luck: bartending is one of the most exciting trades around, allowing you to be your own boss, create unique drinks for customers, and earn good money. But it takes more than an eager attitude; becoming a successful bartender requires skill and knowledge – two things that can take time to develop. In this blog post, we’ll offer insight into what it takes to master the art of bartending—including tips on how to land gigs as well as hone your craft. Read on if you want to learn how to excel in the world of bartenders!

Brush up on your knowledge of local laws regarding serving alcohol 

Serving alcohol can be a delicate matter and it’s important to have a firm understanding of your local laws regarding alcohol service. Depending on where you live, there may be different regulations and guidelines that bartenders must adhere to. For example, in some states in the U.S., bartenders are required to complete specific training or obtain certifications before they can legally serve alcohol. For example, Arizona Alcohol Certification is a common certification that allows bartenders to legally serve alcohol in the state. If you’re serious about bartending, it’s important to make sure you are properly trained and certified in accordance with local laws. It’s also crucial to stay up-to-date on any changes or updates in laws and regulations, as they can impact your career greatly.

Learn the basics of making drinks

Whether you’re an aspiring bartender or already working in the industry, it’s important to have a solid foundation when it comes to making drinks. Start by familiarizing yourself with the most popular types of cocktails and mastering their recipes. This will not only impress your customers but also help you work more efficiently behind the bar. Additionally, make sure you know how to properly handle and pour different types of alcohol, as well as how to mix ingredients and create various garnishes. The more knowledgeable you are about drinks, the better equipped you will be to handle any situation that comes your way. When in doubt, don’t be afraid to ask for help or advice from more experienced bartenders.

Understand the psychology of people and how to deal with different personalities

People are complex individuals, each with their own unique set of personality traits, that can greatly affect how they behave in different situations. Understanding these personalities and how to deal with them is crucial to becoming a successful bartender. For example, some customers may be more outgoing while others may be reserved and introverted. Knowing how to interact with each type of personality can make all the difference in creating a positive experience for your customers. Understanding body language and cues can help you anticipate needs and provide exceptional service to your customers. If you need more guidance in this area, consider taking a course or reading books on psychology and communication.

Develop a good sense of customer service 

Most importantly, being a successful bartender means having excellent customer service skills. A friendly and welcoming attitude can go a long way in creating a positive atmosphere for both you and your customers. Make sure to always greet customers with a smile, listen attentively to their requests, and handle any issues or complaints with patience and professionalism. And while most customers will be pleasant, it’s inevitable that you will encounter difficult ones. Learning how to handle these situations calmly and effectively is key to maintaining a good reputation and keeping customers happy. In the end, great customer service will not only keep customers coming back but also increase your chances of landing gigs and earning good tips. If you’re new to bartending, don’t underestimate the value of customer service skills.

Research which bars are looking for bartenders and contact them directly 

If you’re in search of a bartending gig, why not skip the tedious process of scouring job boards and reaching out to staffing agencies? Take control of your search and go straight to the source by reaching out to bars directly. Not only will this save you time, but it can also make you stand out as a proactive and motivated candidate. Plus, you’ll be able to ask questions and get a feel for the establishment before applying, giving you a better chance of finding the perfect fit. Do some research on bars in your area and start reaching out – you never know where it might lead.

Create a memorable personality by learning about different liquors and wines 

Introducing customers to new and exciting drinks is one of the best parts of being a bartender. To take it to the next level, go beyond just memorizing drink names and ingredients. Learn about the different types of liquors, wines, and their origins. This will not only impress your customers but also allow you to make informed recommendations based on their preferences. Additionally, learning about different liquors and wines can help you create unique and delicious drinks that will keep customers coming back for more. And who knows, you may even discover a new favorite of your own! Never stop learning about the world of beverages – it’s an essential part of excelling as a bartender.

Establish yourself as an expert in mixology by joining bartender networks or associations

Mixology is an art form that requires creativity, knowledge, and practice. If you’re passionate about making drinks and want to establish yourself as an expert in mixology, joining bartender networks or associations could be the answer. These groups provide an opportunity to connect with other professionals, share recipes, discuss techniques, and stay up-to-date with industry trends. In addition to gaining new insights and refining your craft, you’ll also build your reputation as a mixologist and expand your network of contacts. If you’re ready to take your skills to the next level, consider joining a bartender network or association today.

If you want to break into the bartending industry, now is the time to act. Gather up your skills and qualifications and take the first steps towards becoming a successful bartender. Create an online portfolio of your work, research different opportunities available locally and in your region as well as contact employers directly. Get involved in professional associations and join networks of like-minded individuals. Developing your skillset, whether it’s knowledge of wines and spirits, mixology techniques, or dealing with customers, will help you further solidify your position in the job market. Embrace the challenge and become an expert in bartending – when it comes to making drinks, no one can beat you!