Never say
These past two nights I have been working in an industry that I never though possible. I am part of a team of catering staff and have the role as a waiter. If I had this thought, or saw myself doing this kind of job two years ago, I would have had a tummy ache or even headache. This is no joke or attempt to keep you reading. That is the physical response I would have had because of stress. Off course nobody would have known or seen this except for my speech and maybe the skin colour and sweat on my face.
So I am a waiter. And I am gaining a new perspective on the role of waiters during big events and also what is happening in the kitchen,the so called “behind the curtains” veiw. The two events that I have worked at so far is at a Christmas party and a racing event. It is fast-paced and you are expected to maintain a high level of service all the time. Everyone is addressed as “Sir” or “Madam”, and smiling is compulsory. Speaking with eloquence is a nice challenge, especially in the beginning, but I haven’t had any tummy ache experiences. I am looking forward to improving and perfecting my waiter skills as this will boost confidence and my tip ratios. I am meeting a lot of nice people and have a overall I-have-had-a-good-days-work feeling when I go home at night. My contact number comes to the sum of 5065.
One thing that I have never thought about but now seems logical is that a waiter is never to answer any question with “I do not know”. Thinking from a paying customer’s point of view this immediately creates an unhelpful feeling, and a helpless feeling for the waiter. Both are uncomfortable feelings. They thus taught me to say “I will find out for you, sir” and go try to find the answer to the question or request. You then return with the correct answer or if you cannot find an answer a self-assured “Yes” or “No” according to your own logic. Either way will leave you and the customer with the feeling that you are giving excellent service or that you have made at least a sincere and honest attempt. Another one of those small behaviours and attitude adjustments that will add positive feedback in your mind.
