Lessons from a Restaurant

All I needed to know about people I learned when I was a waitress.

When someone comes in, say hello. Do it quickly - even if you can’t get them what they want right way.

If someone shows up often, let them know you’ve noticed. Try to make them feel at home. 

If someone asks you for something you don’t have, tell the truth.

Don’t waste their time and don’t insult their intelligence. Do what you can to meet their needs, but admit when you can’t meet them exactly.

Admit when you don’t understand them.

Where possible, offer them alternatives.

At all times treat people (even difficult people) with respect.

Keep an open mind and try to understand their perspective. 

Difficult people are the ones that teach us the most.

Comments

[ann michael]

Hi Mary!

Absolutely - waitressing is a great way to learn about preventative rather than only reactive indicators and actions. (I bet you handled the bull rider just fine too!).

Ann

[Mary Schmidt]

I'd add (from my waitressing days) - Constantly scan those tables! Don't make a customer have to wave their arms or - worse yet - get up and come find you.

And - for some real power people management skills - work as a cocktail waitress in a live music country western club in rural Oklahoma! (Owner: "Mary, could you go talk that drunk bullrider into paying his tab? He won't hurt you.")