Contrary to common belief it is not an easy task being a good waiter. Sometimes it can be a paradoxical situation for you, like how do you persuade your customers to spend more and order the more expensive dishes, when they may see you as being too pushy and not leave you a tip!
Here is some advice on how to be a good waiter but no matter what the attitude of your customers always act in a courteous, smiling and helpful manner. Never ever cause the soup to slop into their lap or put the plates down heavily!
Let the customer decide about what they want to select from the menu. Stand in the background to await their order. Do not be pushy and suggest that ‘the special of the day; is the best selection. Although it does no harm to politely make a personal suggestion, or that the chef would recommend a certain dish.
You may think that the more expensive the meal ordered the greater will be your tip. This is not always true. Many customers are appreciative of good friendly service no matter what value the meal. If you want to persuade the customer into trying something more expensive try making a friendly comment, ‘that all of your previous customers have thoroughly enjoyed the dish’.
Do not play the part of a dumb waiter! After you have served the first course of soup or an appetizer and are clearing the dishes, smile at the customers and ask for their thoughts about the quality of the dish.
Following the main course, and certainly when the meal is over and you are clearing the plates ask or make the statement ‘you look like you enjoyed that meal wasn’t it just delicious’? It will tend to make the customer realize just how good the food and the service really was, thus adding to your tip.