Mixologist vs. Bartender – What’s the difference? | A Bar Above
How to become a mixologist
The following six steps will help you become a mixologist:
1. Get your certification
Although there are different requirements to become a mixologist, investing in mixology and bartending classes or becoming a certified bartender is advantageous to developing your career. Here are some to consider:
Most employers offer on-the-job training, and only a small number of states require certification and licensure options.
2. Gain experience
Being a mixologist may benefit from prior bartending experience, and experience in other hospitality or restaurant positions can also be considered. Start out as a barback and work your way up to bartender before becoming a mixologist, or start out as a server or hostess at a restaurant and work your way up to behind the bar after proving your worth.
3. Invest in tools
Working with the right tools as a mixologist is important. To ensure that they are durable, rustproof, and simple to clean, look for stainless steel that is food-grade and intended for professional use. Be mindful of novelty mixology kits geared toward home bars.
4. Join a professional organization
Consider joining regional or national organizations for the hospitality, mixology, and bartending industries to broaden your network. These groups could promote cooperation, connections, and opportunities; some might even host contests for prizes.
5. Practice and keep learning
Since mixologists are naturally creative, they should keep experimenting with different ingredients, flavors, and aromas. To stay relevant in your industry, keep up with the latest styles, ingredients, and flavor profiles. Here are a few ways to stay inspired:
6. Continue your education
Although a degree or higher education are not typically required for hospitality jobs, it is something to keep in mind if you want to work as a manager or business owner. To advance their careers or start their own businesses, some mixologists decide to pursue an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in business or hospitality management. You can create a business plan and forecast the appropriate budgets, staffing, and inventory needed to make a profit by enrolling in courses in finance, marketing, administration, and management.
What does a mixologist do?
For customers, a mixologist crafts, concocts, and blends alcoholic beverages that push the boundaries of flavor and experience. Some people view mixology as an art form, and there are duties that go beyond those of a typical bartender. Mixologists have a thorough understanding of cocktail ingredients as well as premium spirits, liquors, cordials, and bitters. They also care about the guest experience. They are skilled at blending simple syrups and other ingredients, and they enjoy experimenting with different methods and flavors to create distinctive cocktails. They frequently come up with seasonal menus or special drinks for events.
You can anticipate late shifts, weekends, holidays, and long periods of standing when working as a mixologist. As a mixologist, you can find employment in a range of hospitality and retail industries, including:
Salary of a mixologist
Combining hard and soft skills will help you succeed in your career as a mixologist. Here are some to consider:
FAQ
What are the qualifications of a mixologist?
Along with having a thorough understanding of beers and cocktails, mixologists, also known as bartenders, also have strong interpersonal and communication skills. A high school diploma or equivalent may also be beneficial for those interested in applying for one of these positions. Applicants must be at least 18 years old.
How hard is it to be a mixologist?
- Stock your bar with essential spirits and mixers. …
- Own the necessary bar tools. …
- Squeeze your own fresh juice. …
- Learn how to properly serve each type of cocktail. …
- Up your ice cube game.
How long does it take to learn mixology?
Although it is a social job with many enjoyable aspects, it is also difficult work, both mentally and physically. Seriously. You’ll be on your feet all day, dealing with numerous people who are all vying for your attention, and you’ll always be moving. When bars get busy, bartending becomes stressful.
