How to make unapproachable guests easy to serve!

In my previous post, I shared some ideas on how to use your restaurant job as a networking device. While restaurants are great places for meeting people of all types, there are some customers that will not want to be bothered with anything you have to say; rather, they would just "get in and get out." Dealing with these customers can often cause impatience and frustration, but here are some ideas on how to make unapproachable guests easy to deal with!

Usually, you can tell whether or not someone will be friendly and personable. If they do not look inviting, do not force yourself on them. Do not be rude in return. Remember, the customer is always right no matter what! Still, approach them with a smile, letting them know that even if they do not want to be friendly from the start, you are willing to be there for them during their experience.

If you do have one of these customers, do not be over-bearing. Unless they ask you certain questions or ask your opinion, it may not be necessary to share it with them. If your restaurant requires you to suggest specific appetizers, entrees, desserts, and drinks as some corporate restaurants do, go about it in a simple way. For example: "Just so you know, we are featuring some new appetizers and entrees on our menu tonight, if you had a question about anything in particular, I'd be happy to help!" Leave them to look at the menu and remember what you said. You will be surprised that stating your greeting in a more roundabout way may often allow them to feel like they are leading the conversation, which will make them feel you are more approachable.

Finally, NEVER bother a guest like this when they are eating. I have learned through many experiences that if the guest is not approachable from the start, they do NOT want to be bothered while they are eating. Keep a close eye on them from a distance, but do not ever check the table continuously. During the winter season especially, the restaurant business is often slow, which causes servers and bartenders to have fewer customers. Just because you may only have one bar guest or two tables you are waiting on, does not mean that you need to check on your guests every five seconds. Let them eat and enjoy their restaurant experience in peace.

It is important to pay attention to their body language, as well. They will let you know when they are finished. If their plates are piled on the edge of the table, they are obviously finished. However, try not to let it get to that point. Rather, observe how long it has been since their last bite, or walk by every so often without saying anything, but still checking on the table.

You will discover that if you allow these guests to enjoy their restaurant experience in the fashion that they prefer, they will often be returning! They will have found a place that suits them and allows them their personal space while providing them with consistently great service, and that is what's most important.

Restaurants and Networking

I have worked in the restaurant business for at least six years now. First as a server, then as a manager. I have come to realize that restaurants truly are the best place for college students to network. So, how do you do it? How do you put yourself out there to meet many individuals ranging from corporate types to small-business owners, and more?

First and foremost, do not be afraid to put yourself out there. Try to connect with people on a personal level. Tell them you are in school. Talk to them about your pets. You will be surprised to learn how interested your customers or guests really are.

Second, keep a smile on. Smiling invites people in and lets them know you are open to communication. Walking around without a smile makes people doubt that they will be able to connect with you in any way.

If they have kids, show them that you are good with them. It might sound silly, but people who know their kids will connect with someone are much more likely to be open to conversation.

Third, if they talk to you about school or anything else, tell them how many hours you work at the restaurant! If anyone knows you have a good work ethic, they will not only connect with you, but depending on their position, may think highly of you in the future for a job, or something else!

Finally, make sure you reiterate your name to them. Find out their name to make the conversation more personal. When they are leaving, say something like "Bye Bob, hope to see you in here soon..and if you ever want to talk again, I'd be glad to serve you..my name is Mallory." Your name will be the last thing in their mind and you will be shocked to learn how many people will come back and request to see you.

Building relationships and friendships is not always easy, but the restaurant business is the best place for networking.