7 Skills and Requirements You Need To Be a Bartender

1. Earn a high school diploma. While a college degree isn’t required to become a bartender, you should have a high school diploma or GED. …
2. Attend bartending school. …
3. Gain experience and work your way up. …
4. Work as a barback. …
5. Practice your skills.

For recent graduates and those interested in the craft of making cocktails and other mixed drinks, bartending is a fantastic career choice. The requirements to work as a bartender vary depending on the location and the state. Although most employers do not demand formal education, you might need to complete on-the-job training. Another choice is to enroll in bartending courses at a technical college to obtain a recognized certification.

How To Become A Bartender – What Do Bars Look For When Hiring A Bartender? –

7 skills or requirements you need to need to be a bartender

Bartender training laws and regulations typically vary by state. For instance, some states mandate that bartenders be at least 18 years old, while others demand that they be at least 21. Other typical qualifications or abilities that employers look for when hiring bartenders include the following:

1. Necessary training

The majority of bartenders receive on-the-job training to help them get ready for their daily responsibilities. This process often includes training for:

Depending on your location and the employing bar, each of these training topics may change. For instance, some bars might only serve beer, reducing the need for you to mix drinks. More expensive bars may require specialized drink mixing classes. Other states might demand OSHA training in order to learn about safety and hygiene procedures, such as how to properly sanitize glasses and conduct efficient bathroom cleaning techniques.

2. Education

Bartending schools offer in-depth courses that could help you become a better bartender. These programs might include lessons on how to mix drinks, deal with customers directly, and maintain proper sanitation. Programs typically take 40 hours or more to complete. Although not strictly required in most states, these schools reduce your need for on-the-job training, which makes it simpler and faster to succeed in a bartending role. By mastering various drink preparation techniques and controlling customers’ drink intake and safety, you may find success.

To find out more about local bartending schools, think about getting in touch with your state’s licensing officials for alcohol. Most states have several training options available. Before applying, try to find those who are accredited and licensed by your state. There may also be nationally accredited programs available to pursue.

3. State licensing

Some states demand that potential bartenders obtain licenses or certifications before applying for positions Other states may require training in bartender schools to receive:

If unsure, think about getting in touch with your state’s liquor board to find out what you need to do. Most states recommend bartender training but dont make it mandatory. Even so, aspiring bartenders frequently attend training because it may help them stand out from competitive applicants.

4. Effective drink mixing skills

Bartending is a busy profession, and during a busy shift, bartenders frequently don’t have time to double-check drink recipes. As a result, having a strong memory for drink combinations is essential for success as a bartender.

Bartenders should frequently adapt to the demands and needs of each customer they interact with. For instance, customers at a brewery may only ask for draft pours, making knowledge of drink blending less necessary. However, customers at a cocktail bar may ask bartenders to create custom drinks for them, making knowledge of drink blending essential. Think about the kind of employer you want to work for and adjust your skill and knowledge development accordingly.

5. Advanced customer service abilities

Bartenders often interact with several customers during an average shift. As a bartender, its often helpful to:

6. Active and energetic personality

Many employers are looking for outgoing, gregarious, and fun bartender candidates. Many successful bartenders:

These characteristics are often sought after by bars, which may prioritize them over more technical abilities like drink mixing.

7. Stamina

Bartenders spend the majority of their shift standing, so they must have adequate stamina and concentration. Bartenders who maintain their physical fitness typically complete orders more quickly, maintain their energy throughout a shift, and make fewer errors as a result.

What is the average salary for a bartender?

Please note that Indeed is not affiliated with any of the businesses mentioned in this article.

FAQ

How do I start to become a bartender?

1. Get a Bartending License. …
2. Get Hired as a Barback. …
3. Start at a Restaurant Bar. …
4. Find a Bartending Mentor. …
5. Learn How to Pour Drinks. …
6. Practice Mixology. …
7. Be Patient and Available. …
8. Don’t Rely On Bartending School Alone.

What qualities do you need to be a bartender?

• 1) Knowledgeable about drinks. A professional must know their craft.
• 2) Maintains cleanliness. …
• 3) Good customer service skills. …
• 4) Great time management and memory. …
• 5) Situational awareness.

How hard is it to be a bartender?

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.

What should a beginner bartender have?

• this handheld cocktail smoker. Smoking Gun. …
• this adorbs cocktail shaker. 20-Ounce Cocktail Shaker. …
• these top-rated ice trays. …
• this essential mixology book. …
• this nifty ice maker. …
• this colorful cocktail print. …
• this chic bar cart. …
• this personalized recipe notebook.