how to write a resume for waiter

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Waiter Resume Examples

Writing a resume as a waiter can be intimidating. After all, you may have minimal experience in the hospitality industry. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t create a great resume. With the right knowledge, you can craft a resume that can help you stand out from the competition. This guide will provide you with tips on how to effectively write and format a resume for a waiter position. It will also provide you with examples of resumes that have been successful in the job market. By the end of this guide, you’ll be well on your way to creating an impressive resume that employers will be sure to notice.

If you didn’t find what you were looking for, be sure to check out our complete library of resume examples .

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123 Main Street | Anytown, USA 99999 | Phone: (123) 456-7890 | Email: [email protected]

I am a highly experienced waiter with over 8 years in the restaurant industry. I am well- versed in customer service, hospitality, and food and beverage knowledge. I have a passion for creating a memorable dining experience for guests and I take pride in my ability to increase customer satisfaction.

Core Skills :

• Strong customer service and hospitality skills
• Excellent communication and listening abilities
• Knowledgeable in food and beverage service
• Able to multi- task and work in a fast- paced environment
• Highly organized and detail oriented
• Proficient in point of sale systems

Professional Experience :

• Server, ABC Restaurant, 2008- Present
• Greet guests, take orders and serve dishes according to restaurant standards
• Communicate with kitchen staff regarding orders and special requests
• Inform guests of specials, seasonal menu items and promotions
• Accurately process cash, credit, and gift card transactions
• Resolve customer complaints quickly and efficiently
• Fulfill alcoholic beverage orders and adhere to responsible alcohol service regulations

Education :

• High School Diploma, XYZ High School, 2008

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Waiter Resume with No Experience

• Enthusiastic and hardworking individual looking to gain experience as a Waiter.
• Possess great interpersonal skills, eager to learn more in the hospitality industry, and excited to contribute to an amazing team.
• Strong customer service and communication skills
• Ability to take orders correctly and accurately
• Experienced in handling cash and credit card payments
• Knowledge in food safety, sanitation, and hygiene
• Strong time management and multitasking skills

Responsibilities

• Greet customers and present menus
• Take orders and serve food and beverages in a timely manner
• Prepare bill and process payments
• Answer questions or make recommendations for other products
• Ensure the highest quality of customer service is maintained
• Maintain a clean and tidy work area at all times
• Adhere to safety and sanitation regulations
• Keep up with menu changes and specials

Experience 0 Years

Level Junior

Education Bachelor’s

Waiter Resume with 2 Years of Experience

Experienced Waiter with 2 years of experience in the hospitality industry. Proven ability to provide exceptional customer service and to create a positive dining experience. Self- motivated and able to work independently as well as part of a team.

• Food Preparation
• Inventory Management
• Customer Service
• Order Taking
• Cash Handling
• Problem Solving

Responsibilities :

• Greeted customers and take orders accurately
• Upsold menu items and successfully promoted daily specials
• Responded to guest inquiries and resolved customer complaints
• Prepared tables for meals, including setting up items like linens and silverware
• Maintained cleanliness of the restaurant and adhered to all safety and sanitation regulations
• Ensured proper food presentation and serving portions
• Managed inventory and restocked as needed
• Provided excellent customer service to guests at all times

Experience 2+ Years

Waiter Resume with 5 Years of Experience

I am a customer- oriented waiter with 5 years of experience in the hospitality industry, providing excellent customer service in fast- paced, high- volume environments. I have an excellent knowledge of menu items, including how to prepare and serve them, and I am skilled in upselling techniques. I have experience operating cash registers, preparing and organizing the dining area, and have a strong customer service ethic. I am able to work independently and as part of a team, and I am able to learn and adapt quickly to new procedures and techniques.

• Exceptional customer service
• Knowledge of food items and preparation
• Upselling techniques
• Cash register operations
• Excellent communication
• Greet customers and take orders
• Suggest menu items, upsell specials
• Ensure accuracy of orders
• Prepare and serve food in a timely manner
• Ensure dining area is clean and well organized
• Maintain accurate record of customer orders
• Ensure customer satisfaction by responding to concerns and queries
• Handle customer payments for transactions
• Replenish beverage and food supplies in the dining area

Experience 5+ Years

Level Senior

Waiter Resume with 7 Years of Experience

I am an experienced and motivated waiter with 7 years of experience in the food service industry. I possess excellent customer service skills and am able to work in any situation. I have considerable knowledge of menu items, preparation techniques, and food presentation. I am also an excellent multitasker as I am able to take orders, deliver food to tables, help prepare food, and take payment. I am reliable and always willing to go above and beyond to ensure customers are satisfied with their experience.

• Excellent customer service skills
• Knowledge of food preparation techniques
• Ability to multitask
• Ability to take orders and payment
• Reliable and motivated
• Greet customers, take orders and serve food
• Provide accurate information about menu items
• Prepare food items with accuracy and speed
• Maintain cleanliness of the restaurant
• Ensure timely delivery of food to tables
• Provide customers with prompt and courteous service
• Follow food safety and sanitation guidelines

Experience 7+ Years

Waiter Resume with 10 Years of Experience

• Experienced Waiter with 10 years of service in the food and beverage industry.
• Customer- oriented with a commitment to delivering outstanding hospitality experiences for guests.
• Proficient in responding to customer needs and requests in a timely manner.
• Ability to take orders with accuracy and ensure that all orders are timely and efficiently served.
• Excellent multitasking skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Menu Knowledge
• Time Management
• Multitasking
• Food Safety
• Alcohol Service
• Greet guests and take orders in a polite, professional and helpful manner.
• Provide accurate information to guests regarding the menu and ingredients.
• Ensure that all orders are timely and efficiently prepared and served.
• Maintain knowledge of the menu, ingredients, and specials in order to answer guest inquiries.
• Provide excellent customer service by anticipating customer needs and responding promptly and courteously to customer requests.
• Collaborate with kitchen staff in order to ensure that orders are prepared in a timely manner and to the customer’s satisfaction.
• Supply guests with accurate information regarding alcoholic beverages and ensure that alcohol is served responsibly.
• Maintain a clean and organized workspace, adhering to food safety standards.
• Check customer’s identification to ensure that they meet the minimum age requirements for the purchase of alcoholic beverages.
• Manage cash registers and handle transactions accurately and efficiently.
• Demonstrate teamwork and contribute to a positive working environment.

Experience 10+ Years

Level Senior Manager

Education Master’s

Waiter Resume with 15 Years of Experience

A highly experienced waiter with 15 years in the hospitality industry and an outgoing, customer- oriented attitude. A reliable team player who is knowledgeable in food and beverage service, able to provide excellent customer service and ensure the highest standards of satisfaction. Possesses an excellent memory and the ability to multi- task in a fast- paced environment.

• Food and beverage service
• Customer service
• Memory and recalling
• Time management
• Problem- solving
• Interpersonal communication
• Understand and anticipate the needs of guests
• Take and deliver orders accurately
• Ensure guests are satisfied with the food and beverage service
• Ensure all health and safety regulations are followed
• Assist in setting up and clearing tables
• Assist in stocking and organizing food, beverages and supplies
• Assist in making menus and other promotional materials
• Provide guests with menus and take orders
• Calculate bills and collect payments
• Assist in resolving customer complaints and disputes
• Assist in training new staff members
• Help with inventories and stock control

Experience 15+ Years

Level Director

In addition to this, be sure to check out our resume templates , resume formats ,  cover letter examples ,  job description , and  career advice  pages for more helpful tips and advice.

What should be included in a Waiter resume?

Writing a waiter resume can be a challenge, but with a few key components, you can craft a resume that will help you land your next job. Here are some of the key elements that should be included in a waiter resume:

• Contact Information: Make sure to include your name, address, phone number, and email address so that potential employers can contact you.
• Work Experience: Include any prior waiter jobs that you’ve held and provide a brief description of your responsibilities. Be sure to include information such as how long you worked in each position and any awards or recognition you received for outstanding work.
• Education: If you have any relevant educational background, such as a hospitality or restaurant management degree, make sure to include this in your resume as well.
• Skills: List any relevant skills that you possess, including customer service, communication, problem-solving, and multitasking.
• Certifications: If you have any certifications related to food safety, customer service, or wine service, be sure to include these in your resume.
• References: List any references you may have, such as previous employers or mentors.

By including these key elements in your waiter resume, you can increase your chances of getting the job you want. Good luck!

What is a good summary for a Waiter resume?

A good summary for a Waiter resume should highlight the skills and experience that make you an ideal candidate for the position. It should provide a brief overview of your relevant education, qualifications, and previous employment experience. Additionally, a waiter resume should emphasize any unique customer service or hospitality skills you have as well as any special training or certifications you possess. Finally, a good summary for a waiter resume should mention any awards or recognition you have received in the hospitality industry. Ultimately, a strong summary can help set you apart from other applicants and show potential employers why you are the best candidate for the job.

What is a good objective for a Waiter resume?

A waiter’s resume should contain an objective that clearly outlines their goals and professional aspirations in the restaurant industry. A good waiter resume objective should express the individual’s dedication to providing excellent customer service and a great dining experience. Here are some objectives that are good for a waiter resume:

• To obtain a waiter position at a high-end restaurant, utilizing my excellent customer service and communication skills to create a memorable dining experience for all customers.
• Seeking to apply my prior experience in the hospitality industry and strong interpersonal skills to serve as a waiter at a high-end restaurant.
• Eager to work as a waiter at a renowned restaurant in order to enhance my knowledge and skills in the hospitality industry.
• To apply my customer service skills and knowledge of food and beverage services to provide an outstanding experience to every guest as a waiter.
• To secure a waiter position at a high-profile restaurant, utilizing my expertise in customer service and passion for food and hospitality.

A good waiter resume should have an objective that expresses the individual’s commitment to providing excellent service and creating a great dining experience. It should also express the individual’s enthusiasm for the restaurant industry and desire to gain more experience.

How do you list Waiter skills on a resume?

When writing your resume, it’s important to highlight the skills you have developed as a waiter. Not only can these skills be beneficial in the food service industry, but they can also be beneficial in many other areas, such as customer service and retail. Here are some tips for highlighting your waiter skills on your resume:

• Include a “Skills” section: In your resume, be sure to include a separate section detailing your specific waiter skills. Examples of such skills include effective communication, multitasking, time management, problem solving, customer service, and menu knowledge.
• Detail your experience: When describing your experience as a waiter, make sure to include details such as the length of time you worked in the role, the size of the establishment, and any awards or accolades you received.
• Use strong action verbs: When writing about your experience and skills, make sure to use strong action verbs, such as served, planned, communicated, organized, and managed. This will help to emphasize your experience and make your resume stand out from the competition.
• Highlight special skills: If you have any special skills, such as the ability to speak multiple languages or a certification in food safety, be sure to include this information on your resume. This will help to demonstrate the breadth of your experience and make you even more attractive to potential employers.

What skills should I put on my resume for Waiter?

When writing the skills section of your resume for a waiter position, it is important to include all of the key skills employers are looking for. This will help to make sure your resume stands out to hiring managers and recruiters. Here are some of the skills you should consider including:

• Customer Service: As a waiter, you will be responsible for providing exceptional customer service. Make sure to highlight your experience dealing with customers and any customer service training you’ve received.
• Food Preparation: You will be responsible for preparing and serving food to customers. Make sure to list any relevant experience you have in food preparation or any culinary training you’ve received.
• Knowledge of Menu: You should have a knowledge of the menu offerings at the restaurant you are applying for. List any experience you have with similar menus or any menu-related certifications you’ve obtained.
• Attention to Detail: As a waiter, you need to be highly detail-oriented, from taking orders correctly to delivering food promptly. Be sure to include any experience that demonstrates your attention to detail.
• Time Management: As a waiter, you will need to manage your time efficiently in order to serve all customers in a timely manner. Mention any experience you have with managing your time in a busy environment.
• Knowledge of Food Safety Practices: List any certifications or training you’ve received in food safety, such as food handler certifications.
• Multitasking: You need to be able to multitask while working as a waiter. List any experience you have with multitasking in a fast-paced environment.
• Teamwork: Working as a waiter, you will need to be able to work well with others. Make sure to include any experience you have working as part of a team.

Key takeaways for an Waiter resume

If you want to make your waiter resume stand out, here are some key takeaways to help you:

• Highlight Your Experience: Make sure to showcase any relevant experience you have in the restaurant industry, such as hosting, taking orders, refilling drinks, and any other skills you may have acquired.
• Showcase Your Skills: Include any soft skills that you possess, such as customer service, problem-solving, communication, and organizational skills.
• Demonstrate Reliability: Employers want to hire someone who is reliable and can be counted on to show up for their shifts. Include any examples of reliability, such as perfect attendance or being able to work late with little notice.
• List Your Education: Include any relevant education, such as a degree in hospitality or a certificate in food safety.
• Include Your Certifications: If you have any certifications related to the restaurant industry, be sure to include them on your resume.

These are some key takeaways to include on your waiter resume to help you stand out and show employers you are the right candidate for the job.

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9 Waitress Resume Examples Proven to Work in 2024

Best for careers that encourage creativity

Browsing for creative resume templates? In graphic design, photography, or event planning? Make a statement with this modern resume.

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• Waitstaff Resumes
• Waitress Resumes by Experience
• Waitress Resumes by Role

It takes a village to raise a child and run a restaurant. Diners, cocktail lounges, and five-star restaurants—none could function without a strong service staff.

Waitresses and hostesses are the first contact points for incoming customers, so naturally, waitresses must be punctual, informative, and detail-oriented to excel in their roles. If you feel you have all those characteristics, you may have what it takes to be a fantastic waitress!

You just need to translate those skills and personality traits onto your waitress cover letter and resume. Believe us. We get it— making a resume  from scratch can be daunting, but  the following nine waitress resume samples and  resume writing tips  can help you get moving down the path toward your dream waitress position in 2024 .

Waitress Resume

Microsoft Word

Google Docs

Why this resume works

• If you mention being “customer-oriented,” that skill should be displayed in some of your bullet points.
• For example, saying that you “maintained a courteous attitude, ensuring shoppers enjoyed a positive experience” breathes life into what you already listed as a strength.
• Hiring managers love seeing your impact in previous roles, especially when you use metrics to quantify it in both your resume and when creating a cover letter .

Waiter Resume

• From there, you can showcase your ability to work with others to improve customer satisfaction and overall performance.

Waitress Resume No Experience

• For example, cashier, sales associate, and waitress positions are customer-facing and require you to be approachable and empathetic—two valuable soft skills you can apply to any job, not to mention—life!
• Your objective should describe your professional background in a nutshell, giving employers an idea of your skillset.
• Like the resume summary, the objective’s value comes from customization, so mention the name of the restaurant you’re applying to and why you’d like to join their team. 

Head Waitress Resume

• What is ATS? It’s the software employers use to sort candidates based on the number of keywords (skills) they have in common with the desired skills in the  job description . By including a relevant skills section, the ATS won’t spit out your resume. 
• What if you’re newer to your field and lack extensive work history? Weave in highly-relevant projects which can stand in as experience.
• The key to telling your work story via projects is to treat them like real work experience. List your projects in a bullet point format, laden with metrics to showcase your impact.

Waitress Server Resume

• The most important thing is setting yourself apart from the rest by providing realistic achievements accompanied by their measurable impact.

Bartender Waitress Resume

• Have the title on your resume match the role to which you’re applying. This helps the reader associate you with the job.
• Consider including a two-to-three-sentence  resume summary  if you boast at least 10+ years of industry expertise.
• Tailor your resume by mentioning the target employer by name and giving a concise but vivid snapshot of your years in the field and any specializations you’ve honed.

Cocktail Waitress Resume

• Unfortunately, it’s too easy to forget to list essential and basic information on your resume, but don’t fret! You can quickly  check if your resume has everything it needs .
• Even seemingly disconnected jobs you’ve had can be linked to waitress roles.
• For example, from a glance, a receptionist position at a law firm and a cocktail waitress role might seem like very distant cousins at best. Still, upon closer inspection, you’ll discover that both require excellent customer service and organizational skills.

Hostess Waitress Resume

• Stick with a professional template, but don’t be afraid to add a hint of color for style and interest. A dash of color lets the employer know you’re a professional with personality. 
• This structure lists your most recent work history at the top, followed by older experience, and gives the employer an easy-to-read synopsis of your best first. 

Bottle Service Waitress Resume

• Instead, determine whether a hobby or interest might be relevant enough to include.
• Imagine that a hiring manager brings up your hobby during an interview; whoa! Game changer? If you listed ice hockey on your resume, be prepared to demonstrate how that interest relates to your career aspirations as a bottle service waitress! Relevance is the key to successfully using  hobbies and interests on your resume . 
• We recommend sprinkling in numbers and stats to prompt employers to read your resume more thoroughly and provide hard evidence highlighting your successes. 

Related resume guides

• Restaurant Manager

Waiter Resume Examples & Guide for 2024

You’re a waitress or waiter.

You serve unbeatable service to your hungry customers.

But now it’s time to serve an unbeatable resume to your future employer.

This involves presenting your skills and experiences on a silver platter.

Not sure how to do this?

Well, just follow the simple steps in this guide.

• An example of a finished waiter or waitress resume that works
• How to write a waiter or waitress resume that’ll fill up your interview diary
• How to make your waiter or waitress resume stand out [with top tips & tricks]

Before we get into the details, here’s a waiter and waitress resume example, created with our very own resume builder:

Looks great, right?! Follow the steps below to create a resume that’ll have the restaurants in a frenzy to invite you for a trial shift.

Hunting for a different job in the customer service industry? Check out more resume examples that might interest you:

• Server Resume
• Barista Resume
• Bartender Resume
• Cashier Resume
• Customer Service Resume
• Bar and Restaurant Manager Resume
• Receptionist Resume
• Event Planner Resume
• Flight Attendant Resume

How to Format a Waitress or Waiter Resume

Before you can serve the hiring manager, you need to set the table!

But what does this mean?

Well, the resume needs to follow a format that is easy to digest.

This will please the hiring manager, which is always a good thing!

The most common resume format is “ reverse-chronological ”, and it is one that we always recommend to waiters and waitresses.

Essentially, this format allows the hiring manager to immediately see the benefits in hiring you, rather than having to dig down to the bottom of the page. We recommend all waiters and waitresses start with this format.

The following two resume formats also get our approval:

• Functional Resume – If you’re confident in your ability, but lack the restaurant experience, this resume format is recommended. A functional resume focuses on skills, which makes it ideal for those who lack experience or who have gaps in their employment history.
• Combination Resume – Got both skills AND work experience? Then you’ll want to use this format. Specifically, the format combines both “Functional” and “Reverse-Chronological”.

Once you’ve chosen the correct format for your personal situation, you need to organize set a few resume layout rules.

For a professional look, we recommend…   

• Margins - Border with a one-inch margins on all sides
• Font - Pick a professional font that stands out, but not too much
• Font Size - Use 11-12pt for general text and 14-16pt for headings
• Line Spacing - Use 1.0 or 1.15 line spacing
• Resume Length - Try and stick to a 1-page limit. For guidance, view these one-page resume templates .

Use a Waitress or Waiter Resume Template

There’s no argument that Word is a great program for creating simple files.

But when it comes to presenting a well-formatted resume, you should look elsewhere.

You see, Word isn’t the best for holding structure.

Want to avoid an afternoon of headache? Use a waiter or waitressing resume template .

What to Include in a Waiter or Waitress Resume

The main sections in a waiter or waitress resume are:

• Work Experience
• Contact Information

To really make an impression, you can also add these optional sections:

• Awards & Certification

Interests & Hobbies

So those are the resume sections , but what do you write for each of them? 

Let’s find out!

Want to know more about the different sections? View our guide on What to Put on a Resume .

How to Correctly Display your Contact Information

Now, there’s no need for creative content here, but it must be factually correct. 

Get this section wrong, and you can forget about receiving any interview invitations!

The contact information section must include:

• Title - Align this to the role you’re applying for, so “Waitress” or “Waiter”
• Phone Number – Check each number carefully 
• Email Address - Keep your email professional ([email protected]), unlike that one from your childhood ([email protected]).
• Location - Applying for a job abroad? Mention your location.
• Hanna Fakester - Waitress. 101-358-6095. [email protected]
• Hanna Fakester - Superwoman Waitress. 101-358-6095. [email protected]

How to Write a Waitress/Waiter Resume Summary or Objective

Restaurants are always on the lookout for staff.

But this is a fact that only increases competition among your peer group.

With so much competition in the job market, it is no surprise that recruiters spend less than 6 seconds on each resume.

Yep, you heard that correctly!

Although scary, this fact highlights the importance of a powerful resume.

Specifically, you need an opener that hooks the reader in a matter of seconds.

To do this, use a resume summary or objective .

As a waitress or waiter, you know that a friendly introduction is important. Similarly, both resume summaries and objectives are short introductions that go on top of your resume, just under your contact information.

But what is the difference between a summary and an objective?

A resume summary is a 2-4 sentence summary of your most notable restaurant experiences and achievements.

• Experienced waitress with more than five years of restaurant experience providing personable table service at prestigious establishments in London. Awarded “Employee of the Month” for 36 months out of 48 months. Seeking a waitressing role at Restaurant X, where my service skills can be leveraged to achieve the highest quality of service at Restaurant XYZ.

A resume objective is a 2-4 sentence snapshot of your goals and aspirations.

• Enthusiastic and friendly waitress looking for a waitressing role at Restaurant Z. Passionate about keeping customers happy and satisfied. Relevant experience includes serving groups of customers at a local cafe. Skilled in POS and table setting, with a vast knowledge of Italian cuisine. 

So, should restaurant staff use a summary or an objective?

Generally, applicants with relevant work experience should choose a resume summary. An objective is suited to people with the basic skills, but lack relevant experience, like those who are transferring to the restaurant industry for the first time.

How to Make Your Waiter or Waitress Work Experience Stand Out

Recruiters love nothing more than an employee with work experience.

As such, this section is your best chance to impress.

Here’s the best way for waitresses and waiters to structure the work experience section:

• Position name
• Company Name
• Responsibilities & Achievements

The Rising Sun

07/2017 – 03/2020

• Served food to 80+ people a night and multiple tables at a time
• Educated customers on menu items and daily specials, while offering my personal recommendations based on their feedback
• Welcomed and seated customers in a 96-guest restaurant , while taking their preferences into account to keep everyone happy
• Always engaged customers with a personal, yet professional manner, which helped me to win “Employee of the Month” four months in a row

Focus on how you were a valuable asset at your previous place of work. Doing so will allow the recruiter to see the obvious benefits to making you a member of the team.

Instead of saying:

“Member of bar staff”

“Served food to 80+ people a night and multiple tables at a time”

Simply put, the first statement says nothing. It shows you were a member of staff, but doesn’t go into any other details about your position.

The second statement shows that you had to serve tables under stressful conditions to a large amount of customers. 

Hard numbers that prove your skills – can’t argue with that!

What if You Don’t Have Any Restaurant Work Experience?

Maybe you’re studying and looking for your first waitress or waiter job?

Or maybe, you have experience in hospitality, but never in a restaurant setting?

Don’t worry, there are other options.

You just need to show that you have the basic skills and that you’re willing to learn.

For example, if you’ve worked as a hotel receptionist, you can talk about any crossover skills and experiences. Just like a waitress, you would have to be friendly, deal with groups of people, and operate a cash register. 

Use Action Words to Make Your Waiter or Waitress Resume POP!

Spare a thought for the hiring manager for a minute…

You see, they are faced with the same words in every single resume they read. 

But it doesn’t have to be like that. 

In fact, you can use some action words to make your achievements stand out:

• Conceptualized
• Spearheaded

How to Correctly List your Education

Next, it’s time to talk about your education.

There’s nothing too complicated with this section, just simply enter your education history in the following format:

• Degree Type & Major
• University Name
• Years Studied
• GPA, Honours, Courses, and anything else you might want to add

Majoring in Culinary Arts

Boston State University

2018 - Present

• Relevant Courses: Food and Beverage Operations, Food Microbiology and Hygiene, Kitchen Techniques, and Pastry Techniques

Now, you don’t need a degree or higher education to be a waitress, so you may have a few questions in regards to this section. Here are the answers to some of the most frequent questions that we get:

What if I haven’t completed education yet?

• Simply mention every year or the modules that you have studied to date.

Should I include my high school education?

• Generally, you should only include your highest form of education.

What do I put first, my education or experience?

• For a waiter or waitress role, your experiences always come first.

Need more advice? Check out our guide on how to list education on a resume .

Top 10 Skills for a Waiter or Waitress Resume

Whether you’re skilled enough to juggle three plates with one hand or have the ability to remember five orders from the top of your head, the hiring manager will want to know.

However… you can’t list every skill in your arsenal.

So, what do hiring managers want to see?

Essentially, you need to look at the job ad to identify which skills the restaurant is looking for.

Here are some of the most common skills...

Hard Skills for Waiter/Waitress Resume:

• Math (basic calculations)
• POS & cash register 
• Table setting
• Italian cuisine 
• Cognac, whisky, vodka, rum, gin

Soft Skills for Waiter/Waitress Resume:

• Personable and friendly 
• Endurance (long hours)
• Conflict resolution 
• Time management 
• Team player
• The hiring manager will typically ask interviewees for examples of when they have shown the skill listed. As such, only include skills that you actually posses.

Here’s a more comprehensive list of 150+ must-have skills this year.

What Else Can You Include?

Hurrah! We’ve now covered all of the essential sections.

But don’t call final-orders just yet. 

Your resume needs to stand out !

Adding the following sections could be the deciding factor in whether you’re hired for the waitress or waiter role.

Awards & Certifications

Have you ever been employee of the month?

Have you completed any relevant courses on coursera?

If you’ve got something to be proud of, put it in your resume!

• “Employee of the Month” - The Rising Sun
• “Learning How to Learn” - Coursera Certificate

Applying to an Italian restaurant?

Then being fluent in Italian is a good way to shortcut your resume to the top of the pile.

Whether the job description requires it or not, being able to speak multiple languages is impressive – and no one can argue with that!

Rank the languages by proficiency:

• Intermediate

Now, you may be wondering, “ how is my soccer hobby related to my work as a waiter?”

Well, your hobbies allow the hiring manager to learn more about you as a person. 

Interests show that you’ll be a good addition to the team, especially if your hobbies involve social interaction.

Here’s which hobbies & interests you may want to mention.

Include a Cover Letter with Your Resume

Want to really make an impression?

Then you should write a convincing cover letter .

You see, a resume is great at giving the essential facts, but nothing speaks to a hiring manager like a well-written cover letter .

The hiring manager has to read through generic resume after generic resume. 

In fact, it’s not uncommon for the hiring manager to get confused between multiple applications!

A cover letter instantly allows you to make a personal connection .

Oh, and cover letters shows the hiring manager that you care about working for their company.

Here’s how to create a structure that works:

You should complete the following sections:

Personal Contact Information

Include your full name, profession, phone number, email, and address 

Hiring Manager’s Contact Information

Include their full name, position, location, email

Opening Paragraph

To hook the hiring manager, the start of your resume needs to pack a punch. Use concise language to mention:

• The position you’re applying for
• Your experience summary and best achievement to date

Once you’ve sparked the hiring manager’s interest, you can delve further into the following specifics...

• Why you chose this specific restaurant
• What you know about the restaurant culture
• How your skills will be beneficial to the restaurant
• If there are any similar industries or positions you have worked in before

Closing Paragraph

Avoid ending the conversation abruptly, you should:

• Conclude the main points of your letter
• Thank the hiring manager for their time and the opportunity
• End with a call to action. This is a good way to continue the conversation further. A simple “At your earliest opportunity, I’d love to discuss more how I can Restaurant X” will work.

Formal Salutations

Although you should remain personal, the letter should end in a professional manner. Use something like, “Kind regards” or “Sincerely.”

For extra advice and inspiration, read our step-by-step guide on how to write a cover letter .

Key Takeaways

Because if you follow the above advice, you’re about to get that waitress or waiter job!

Let’s total up everything we’ve consumed:

• Choose the correct format for your specific situation. Prioritize the reverse-chronological format, and then follow the best practices on content layout
• Draw the recruiter in with a short, snappy resume summary or objective
• In your work experience section, highlight your most relevant and best achievements rather than your restaurant duties
• Make your application personal and specific with a convincing cover letter

Suggested reading:

• 10+ Best Answers for Why Do You Want to Work Here?
• Why Should We Hire You - 10+ Best Answers
• 22+ Strengths and Weaknesses for Job Interviews [2024 Best Answers]

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• Knowledge Base
• Free Resume Templates
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• Resume Examples
• Free Resume Review

How to write a waiter resume?

[ Click here to directly go to the complete waiter resume sample ]

You need to catch the recruiter's attention with a perfect waiter resume to get your shortlisted for this job

Waiting on customers can be exhausting but if you have the passion and patience in the profession, you can enjoy the whole ordeal as part of your dream job.

Whereas, waiting for your resume to be shortlisted by the recruiters can be quite frustrating.

We at Hiration try our best to provide you with all the important guidelines and assistance to help you excel in your perfect resume writing and help raise your chances of being shortlisted for your dream job.

Here is a summary of our Waiter Resume 2023 Guide:

• Give your resume its unique individual identity by writing your full name as the resume header. Make sure that you avoid writing "CV" or "resume" as your header
• Strictly avoid lengthy paragraphs but instead stick to framing points and one-liners for writing your professional experience on your waiter resume
• Try to incorporate the keywords that the recruiter has used in describing the requirements of your target job as long as you can justify the use of these keywords in your resume

Keep reading to learn everything you need to frame your resume for the waiter job profile that can help raise your chances of being shortlisted.

This blog also contains various waiter resume examples to provide visual assistance that can help you to frame your resume for a waiter job.

By the end of this blog, you will learn the following topics of concern for your waiter resume:

• What to write in your resume for a waiter and how to write it
• How to effectively frame your work experience in your resume for waiter
• What format to use while writing time-lines in your resume for a waiter job
• How to highlight your most efficient waiter resume skills

Hiration's Online Builder contains 100+ content templates and 25+ design templates.

You can go to our online builder to get pre-filled templates and fill them with your details as per the requirement.

This blog will cover the following topics:

What is a Waiter Resume & why do you need it?

[ Back to Table of Content ]

Generally, your resume is the first means of contact between you and the recruiters.

The recruiters can either shortlist you or reject you for the targeted job concerning your resume.

Most of the recruiters use the ATS (Applicant Tracking System) to filter through resumes to pick the most suitable one which contains the required keywords and is the most compatible one as required for a job profile or industry.

You need to rank high on the ATS of you want to be shortlisted by the recruiter. Most likely your resume can get rejected if it is not ATS friendly even though you are an efficient applicant.

Make sure that you use the most significant keywords to create an ATS-targeted resume that can raise your chance of being shortlisted and get the job of your dreams.

Once your resumes are ATS-targeted, you are good to go one step closer to your dream job.

Make sure to read our dos and don'ts of writing a resume to create the perfect ATS friendly waiter resume.

You can also get your existing resume reviewed for free by our industry experts through Resume Review Service which is free.

Waiter Resume Sample

Here is the complete waiter resume sample for your reference:

• Arranged 10+ tables by setting decorations, napkins, condiments, candles & assembled cutleries as required
• Reffiled water/wine glasses, removed completed courses & replaced utensils to maintain proper table setting
• Replenished food items by taking customer orders to deliver food & beverages prompting courteous service
• Elucidated the chef's specialties & answered food preparation questions to ensure 100% customer satisfaction
• Ensured tables are enjoying their meals & take quick action to correct any problems to uphold the brand's value
• Attained 40+ Gold members to date by providing & maintaining high-quality customer service at all times
• Recommended special offers & discounts for genuine customers to maintain a loyal relationship for the long-term
• Memorized current wine stock & 25+ food menu to suggest the most suitable item that meets customers' request
• Assisted daily 30+ customers in selecting food & beverages by suggesting courses leading to 20% upsell of special items
• Felicitated by superiors for generating 8% revenue in May '18 by upselling chef's signature items on the menu
• Participated in 20+ fundraiser events & 15+ community social service for the homeless & less privileged people
• Top 5 Percentile of the class
• Languages : English, Spanish and French

Waiter Resume Sections

Make your resume for waiter stand out at all times above all other applicants by perfectly framing every section in your resume with a professional approach.

Here is the list of all your functional sections that need to be filled:

• Personal Information
• Profile Title
• Professional Experience

The list given below refers to the optional sections that you may have to fill, provided you possess them:

• Certifications (if any)
• Awards & Recognition (if any)
• Volunteering Experience (if any)
• Additional Information (if any)

Go read our 2023 Guide to writing sections in a resume to perfectly frame this section.

Hiration's Online Builder can help you frame the perfect resume for waiter with a professional approach:

How to write your Waiter Resume

There are three important stages for writing your waiter resume which can help enhance your waiter resume.

Master Waiter Resume

First Draft of Waiter Resume

Final Draft of Waiter Resume

Let us discuss these three stages to understand their importance and learn how to apply them while writing your resume.

This is the first step to be taken while writing your waiter resume.

Master waiter resume acts like a folder wherein you can stack up all your details and information which you would need while framing your resume.

Remember that this master draft can be used in the present time-line and also for any future updates of your resume.

Simply drop in all your professional experience and educational qualification details in this folder.

Do not miss out on any necessary personal information that the recruiter may need in case they want to get in touch with you.

You can also write down all your extra-curricular activities and additional information that may help enhance your potential as a suitable applicant.

There is no need to worry about any unclear information that you are not sure about in the present time-line because you may need them in any possible future updates.

After your master draft is done, you can start framing your first draft of resume for a waiter wherein you should curate the following standard and optional sections:

• Certifications
• Awards & Recognition
• Additional Information

Create every standard section without missing out any details whereas your optional section can be framed only when the target job requires them and only if you possess them.

In your final draft of waiter resume, you should curate these two important sections as they can help raise your chances of being shortlisted by the recruiters:

Key skills section: Scan through your professional experience section and then compose this section as the last 2nd thing in your resume. Pick out all the efficient points that are required in the target job and place them in this section.

Summary/Objective: The last thing to be composed is your summary/objective as it is the overall description of your waiter resume. Write a summary or an objective in only 3-4 lines to keep it short and specific.

Once you are done with the above-discussed steps, your resume writing experience can be easier and would have more impact on the recruiters who can help raise your chances of getting your dream job.

For more details on how to curate this section, you can read our 2023 Guide to writing a resume and master the art of writing a flawless waiter resume.

Waiter Resume: Header

Writing your full name as the header makes has more impact on your resume than writing "CV" or "Resume".

It is so because your name gives your waiter resume a unique individual identity which helps the recruiters to keep track of your resume.

You should use the largest font size of 16-20 while writing your name as the header of your resume to make it distinct from all other average resumes.

If you have a middle name, write down only the initial of your middle name followed by a period. You can look at the example given below for a better understanding:

Example: Andrian Mathew Rodger should be written as "Andrian M. Rodger"

Look at the waiter resume sample of how an ideal resume header is framed:

You can also read our 2023 guide to writing a resume header and learn more about framing this section.

Here is your chance to write a flawless resume for waiter with the help of expert assistance from Hiration's Online Builder:

Waiter Resume: Personal Information

There are three personal pieces of information that you ideally need to provide on your resume for the recruiters to contact you, in case of any possible shortlist.

• Updated Mobile Number
• Professional E-mail Address
• Current Location of Residence

Contact Number

Your contact number is ideally required when the recruiter needs to confirm your availability for interviews or they may even conduct an interview over the phone.

There is no point in giving out numbers that cannot connect you with the recruiters at the specific time that they need to talk to you.

Avoid giving out wrong numbers by making careless mistakes and also do not give numbers that are not active at all times.

Always provide your active functional number for the recruiters to reach you on your resume being shortlisted.

Provide your ISD Code if necessary and write your contact number in the following format:

Example: (+1) 82374 29371

Email Address

Give your official email address which has your real or full name to maintain a professional approach at all times.

Example: [email protected] or [email protected]

Strictly avoid unprofessional email IDs with fancy names as it can make the recruiters assume that you are someone who is not serious about one's career.

Example: [email protected] or [email protected]

Emails are a convenient source of communication between you and the recruiters, hence you should make sure that you have an official email ID.

Go create one immediately if you do not have an official email ID with your real name.

You must mention only your current location on your waiter resume.

In case you are looking for a job outside your country, mention the name of the city and country you are residing in.

Else just mention the city and state you are residing in currently if you are looking for a job in your own country.

There is no requirement to give your full home address or present/previous work as it is unnecessary and inconvenient.

Here is our waiter resume sample for you to have a better understanding of how an ideal personal information section is curated:

You can read our 2023 Guide on writing contact information on a resume to help you understand how this section is important and how it should be perfectly created.

Waiter Resume: Profile Title

Your profile title is the level of your status as a professional expert or an entry-level applicant.

It states your field of specialty or expertise which helps the recruiters to recognize your interested industry and give you any possible shortlist accordingly.

Make sure that you use the 2nd largest font size of 14-16 to write your most recent job title as your profile title.

Here is the waiter resume sample for you to understand how an ideal profile title should be framed:

Get your current resume reviewed by our professional experts to raise your chance to get the shortlist for the targeted job.

Waiter Resume: Professional Experience

Your professional experience section is a major feature on your resume for waiter as it covers all your past work records which can determine your level of expertise in your job profile.

This section needs to highlight all the initial and prime experience of your past career endeavors so that the recruiters can recognize your efficiency.

Let us discuss the three main factors that can help you frame your perfect waiter resume with a professional approach:

STAR Format

Framing Points

Bucketing & Bolding

The STAR format is an important factor that helps you create a cause-effect relation in your waiter resume.

Always try to provide a figure of numbers to specify your achievements and contributions in an organization.

STAR simply stands for:

• S : To describe the situation you found yourself in at a workplace
• T : To describe the task that you were assigned as per the situation
• A : To describe the action that you took up to perform a given task
• R : To describe the result or the outcome of your action

By using the star format you can create a resume that can make the recruiters recognize your contribution towards an organization and the strategies you applied to achieve certain goals which can boost your eligibility for the targeted job.

Let us look at the following examples to compare and analyze how framing points are important to enhance your professional section:

During my employment at my previous workplace, I was required to arrange daily 15+ tables by setting up the decorations and assemble cutleries as required. I also used to refill the water and wine glasses as well as removed and replaced utensils to maintain table setting. My daily duty required me to replenish the tables by taking food and beverage orders to deliver courteous service to the customers. I elucidated the chef's specialties to ensure 100% customer satisfaction at all times by ensuring that every table is enjoying their meals and did my best to take quick action to correct any problem if any.

Arranged 15+ tables by setting decorations & assembled cutleries as required Refiled water/wine glasses, removed & replaced utensils to maintain table setting Replenished tables by taking food & beverages orders to deliver courteous service Elucidated the chef's specialties to ensure 100% customer satisfaction at all times Ensured tables are enjoying their meals & take quick action to correct any problem

Framing Points: Analysis

From the two given examples, we can see that framing points (example 2) are more readable than bulky paragraphs (example 1).

Both the examples are stating the same things but by framing points (example 2), you can avoid writing vague words and avoid bulky paragraphs (example 1).

Framing points with bullet points are important because the recruiters may most likely avoid bulky and lengthy paragraphs.

Always make sure to frame your one-liners to make your statements precise and make it more readable for raising your chances of being shortlisted by the recruiters.

Another important factor that should implement while framing the professional experience section is the bucketing and bolding of one-liners.

Let us compare and analyze the two given examples to understand the importance of bucketing and bolding:

Attained 30+ Gold members to date by providing & maintaining high-quality service Recommended offers & discounts for genuine customers to maintain relationship Memorized current wine stock & 15+ food menu to suggest suitable items to customers Assisted daily 20+ customers in selecting food & beverages leading to 10% upsell Felicitated by superiors for generating 5% revenue by upselling chef's special Participated in 15+ fundraiser events & community social service for the homeless

Customer Relationship Management Attained 30+ Gold members to date by providing & maintaining high-quality service Recommended offers & discounts for genuine customers to maintain relationship Food & Beverage Service Memorized current wine stock & 15+ food menu to suggest suitable items to customers Assisted daily 20+ customers in selecting food & beverages leading to 10% upsell Key Achievements Felicitated by superiors for generating 5% revenue by upselling chef's special Participated in 15+ fundraiser events & community social service for the homeless

Bucketing & Bolding: Analysis

It is clear that framing points make your one-liners more readable but it is bucketing and bolding that makes your one-liners more organized.

Bucketing means creating unique subheadings for all the relevant points and aligning them accordingly as shown in example 2.

Bolding (example 2) your most specific contributions and achievements can highlight your most significant skills that can help boost your eligibility for the target job.

From the two given examples, we can see that bucketing and bolding enhances your professional experience section by making the one-liners more readable and organized for the recruiters to recognize your potential.

You can refer to our waiter resume sample given below to look at how an ideal professional experience section is framed:

Waiter Resume: Education

Some job profiles require you to have a specific educational qualification to take into account your efficiency for the targeted job.

Your educational background can have a positive impact on your resume for a waiter and help boost your chances of being shortlisted by the recruiters

the following details need to be filled in your education section:

• Name of the school/university you have attended
• Name of the course/courses you have pursued
• Location of your school/university
• Date of enrollment and graduation from each course (month & year)

You can also read our 2023 Guide on how to list education on a resume for more details on how this section is ideally curated.

Look at our waiter resume sample given below to see how your education section ideally looks like in your resume:

Waiter Resume: Certifications

Mention your certifications on your resume to add value to your educational qualification and professional experience.

Writing your certifications can make the recruiters recognize your dedication towards the target job wherein you put extra effort into acquiring certification for a relevant job profile.

Here is the list of the details that should be written in your certificate section:

• Name of the Certification Course
• Name of the Affiliating Institution
• Location of the Institute
• Dates of enrollment and completion of the course (month & year)

Use the format given below to list your certifications:

{Name of certification} | {Affiliating Institution} | {Location} | {Date} (in month and year format)

In the meanwhile, you can read Hiration's 2023 Guide on listing certifications on a resume to learn the perfect way to frame your certifications section.

Waiter Resume: Additional Information

Your additional information is a resting place for information in your resume that does not find a home anywhere else.

Example: Your hobbies or languages that you speak/write (apart from English) are extra information about you that you should put in this section.

These factors can help boost your value as an efficient applicant as it adds value to your professional experience and educational qualification.

Any relevant hobbies can make you seem like an individual who does not idle away one's leisure time but invests in some healthy hobbies.

Speaking different languages can help you communicate with others and build stronger relationships especially when you are a waiter as you would have to interact with people from different walks of life.

Look at our waiter resume sample to see how you can frame an ideal personal information section:

You can go to our Online Resume Builder to create your flawless waiter resume:

Waiter Resume Key Sections

Waiter resume: key skills.

Scan through your professional experience section and pick out the most significant skill that you possess which has been justified in your one-liners.

Make sure that you use the keywords which have been used by the recruiters to describe the requirements of the target job as it can help you rank high on the ATS.

This section intrigues the recruiters into going through your resume and raise the chance of you being shortlisted.

Use this chance to highlight your most efficient skill to have an impact on the recruiters and boost your chances of landing your dream job.

Here is our waiter resume sample of how an ideal key skill section can be framed:

Meanwhile, you can also read Hiration's 2023 Guide on what skills to put on a resume to learn the tricks for writing this section with perfection.

Waiter Resume Summary

This section is an important feature of your waiter resume, so make sure that you curate a flawless summary.

If you have 3 years and above professional work experience, you should write a summary of your waiter resume.

Write the number of years of your professional experience and specify your relevant achievement in an organization by providing the figure of numbers.

Make sure that you write your summary in only 3-4 lines and avoid vague words.

Look at our waiter resume sample to understand how an ideal summary can be framed:

For a detailed guide on how the perfect resume summary is written, read Hiration's 2023 Resume Summary Guide.

Waiter Resume Objective

Objectives are to be framed when you have no experience or 3 years below of professional experience.

You should also write an objective of your resume for waiter if you belong to any of the following categories:

• Entry-level applicant
• Re-entry into the workforce
• Change in career or industry

Read our Hiration's 2023 Guide on Resume Objectives for a better understanding of writing an objective in your resume.

Resume Review & Free Waiter Resume Word Template

You can use Hiration's Professional Resume Review Service for your waiter resume.

Your resume will be reviewed by our professional industry experts who will comprehend the below-given parameters:

• Compliance with industry norms
• Recruiter Friendliness
• Global Compatibility
• Resume Formatting (font, margins, the order of sections, etc.)
• Performance Assessment
• Design Compatibility
• Conversion Scope
• ATS Compliance
• Content Relevance

You can also avail free word template of your resume after it is reviewed.

Waiter Resume Builder

The following resources are made available with the use of Hiration's Online Resume Builder to make your waiter resume:

• Option to save unlimited resumes
• 20+ resume designs
• Full rich-text editor
• Unlimited PDF downloads
• 100+ content templates
• 1-click design change
• A sharable link
• Live resume editor

Here is your chance to create your perfect waiter resume. Click on the Hiration's Online Resume Builder for your flawless resume.

Key Takeaways

Given below is a list of important points for you to keep in mind and follow at all times while framing your perfect waiter resume:

• Write the summary and key skills only at the end, even though they appear on the top of your resume.
• Write keywords only and do not use phrases in your key skills sections
• Your key skills section should ideally have the keywords mentioned in the targetted job profile description.
• All one-liner points in your work experience should start with a power verb.
• Power verb should be used in the past tense for past profiles/projects and present continuous tense for present profiles and projects.
• Bucketing and bolding should be used in your work experience section to emphasize your efficiency and create cause-effect relations.
• Write a resume summary for your 3 years and above work experience, an objective to describe your 0 to less than 3 years of work experience.

You have reached the end of our Blog Layout Guide for step-by-step instructions on the standard format that we follow for blog writing at Hiration.

Go to Hiration resume builder and create a professional resume for yourself. Additionally, reach out to us at [email protected] and you can get 24/7 professional assistance with all your job & career-related queries.

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• • Developed a streamlined process for taking and delivering food orders, reducing wait times by an average of 15%.
• • Led a team of 10 staff members in maintaining safe food handling standards, achieving a 99% compliance rate on health inspections.
• • Managed inventory and purchasing for dining services, cutting food waste by 25% while ensuring quality and variety.
• • Enhanced customer dining experience by implementing a feedback system which improved guest satisfaction scores by 10%.
• • Coordinated with the kitchen staff to ensure timely delivery of special dietary requests, accommodating 100+ unique requirements monthly.
• • Organized staff training on menu items and ingredients, leading to a 20% increase in upsells on premium beverage and food pairings.
• • Promoted guest satisfaction by personalizing dining experiences for 200+ guests daily while maintaining a quick service pace.
• • Implemented sanitary protocols for food delivery, contributing to a 30% reduction in safety incidents.
• • Boosted team morale and efficiency through the introduction of performance incentives, resulting in a 15% increase in positive guest reviews.
• • Streamlined the ticket collection and cash handling procedure, enhancing checkout speeds by approximately 20%.
• • Conducted allergen training, certifying 15 new staff members, and ensuring menu knowledge compliance.
• • Introduced local organic produce to the menu, driving a 10% increase in overall sales through customer health and wellness engagement.
• • Efficiently addressed and resolved customer dining complaints, maintaining a high level of guest satisfaction.
• • Participated in weekly cleanliness initiatives, contributing to an award-winning store environment for two consecutive years.
• • Served as a liaison between dining guests and kitchen staff to ensure accurate and efficient order fulfillment.

5 Waiter Resume Examples & Guide for 2024

Your waiter resume must highlight your exceptional customer service skills. Prove your ability to handle busy dining environments with grace. Showcase your knowledge of menu items and dietary accommodations. Efficient multitasking and money-handling abilities are essential for your waiter resume.

All resume examples in this guide

Resume Guide

Resume Format Tips

Resume Experience

Skills on Resume

Education & Certifications

Resume Summary Tips

Additional Resume Sections

Key Takeaways

As a waiter, articulating your unique skill set on a resume can be challenging when you have diverse and often underappreciated expertise. Our guide offers targeted strategies and examples to help you effectively highlight your customer service prowess, multitasking abilities, and adaptability to future employers.

• waiter resumes that are tailored to the role are more likely to catch recruiters' attention.
• Most sought-out waiter skills that should make your resume.
• Styling the layout of your professional resume: take a page from waiter resume examples.

How to write about your waiter achievements in various resume sections (e.g. summary, experience, and education).

• Cocktail Server Resume Example
• Restaurant Manager Resume Example
• Baker Resume Example
• McDonalds Resume Example
• Restaurant Server Resume Example
• Dishwasher Resume Example
• Waitress Resume Example
• Food and Beverage Manager Resume Example
• Cook Resume Example
• Restaurant General Manager Resume Example

Designing your waiter resume format to catch recruiters' eyes

Your waiter resume will be assessed on a couple of criteria, one of which is the actual presentation.

Is your resume legible and organized? Does it follow a smooth flow?

Or have you presented recruiters with a chaotic document that includes everything you've ever done in your career?

Unless specified otherwise, there are four best practices to help maintain your resume format consistency.

• The top one third of your waiter resume should definitely include a header, so that recruiters can easily contact you and scan your professional portfolio (or LinkedIn profile).
• Within the experience section, list your most recent (and relevant) role first, followed up with the rest of your career history in a reverse-chronological resume format .
• Always submit your resume as a PDF file to sustain its layout. There are some rare exceptions where companies may ask you to forward your resume in Word or another format.
• If you are applying for a more senior role and have over a decade of applicable work experience (that will impress recruiters), then your waiter resume can be two pages long. Otherwise, your resume shouldn't be longer than a single page.

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Bold the names of educational institutions and certifying bodies for emphasis.

Essential sections that should make up your waiter resume include:

• The header - with your contact details (e.g. email and telephone number), link to your portfolio, and headline
• The summary (or objective) - to spotlight the peaks of your professional career, so far
• The experience section - with up to six bullets per role to detail specific outcomes
• The skills list - to provide a healthy mix between your personal and professional talents
• The education and certification - showing your most relevant degrees and certificates to the waiter role

What recruiters want to see on your resume:

• Experience in providing excellent customer service in a restaurant or hospitality setting.
• Knowledge of point of sale (POS) systems and cash handling.
• Ability to memorize menu items and make recommendations based on customer preferences.
• Strong communication skills, both verbal and written, for taking orders accurately and interacting with customers.
• Physical stamina and agility to carry trays, stand for long periods, and work in a fast-paced environment.

Quick guide to your waiter resume experience section

After deciding on the format of your resume, it's time to organize your experience within the dedicated section.

It's common for waiter professionals to be confused in this part of the process, as they may have too much or little expertise.

Follow the general rules of thumb to be successful when writing this part of your resume:

• The perfect number of bullets you should have under each experience item is no more than six;
• Select not merely your responsibilities, but the most noteworthy achievements for each role that match the job requirements;
• List any certificates or technical expertise you've gained on the job and how they've helped you progress as a professional;
• Carefully select the power verbs to go along with each bullet to avoid generic ones like "managed" and instead substitute those with the actuality of your particular responsibility;
• Integrate valuable keywords from the job advert in the form of achievements under each role you list.

If you're on the search for further advice on how to write your waiter experience section, get some ideas from real-world professional resumes:

• Implemented a unique personal rapport-building strategy with guests that increased average table turnover by 20%.
• Commanded a team-based initiative to streamline the table setup process, achieving a 15% decrease in customer wait times.
• Orchestrated a weekly wine pairing event that boosted wine sales by an impressive 30% and enhanced customer dining experiences.
• Spearheaded a customer feedback program that identified key areas for service improvement, leading to a 10% rise in satisfaction ratings.
• Managed and resolved over 150 dining-related mishaps, maintaining composure and professionalism which preserved customer loyalty.
• Educated new staff on the intricacies of a fine dining etiquette, thereby enhancing the overall team's performance and service delivery.
• Streamlined the restaurant's reservation system by integrating new software, leading to a 25% improvement in seating efficiency and reducing overbooking incidents.
• Collaborated closely with kitchen staff to develop a special gluten-free menu that catered to a growing customer base, resulting in a 10% increase in sales.
• Managed inventory and ordering of supplies, reducing waste by 20% through meticulous tracking and ordering processes.
• Revamped the approach to upselling desserts and appetizers to guests, which saw a consistent 15% upsurge in average order value.
• Played a crucial role in the planning and execution of a major restaurant renovation, ensuring minimal disruption to service and preserving 90% of the regular clientele.
• Acted as the point of contact for VIP guests and high-profile events, tailoring services to exceed expectations and uphold the establishment's prestigious reputation.
• Designed a training manual adopted by the waitstaff that improved service consistency and guest satisfaction across the board.
• Coordinated a seasonal menu launch each quarter, offering training and taste-testing sessions for staff, increasing knowledge and enthusiasm for selling new items.
• Reduced order inaccuracies by 40% by implementing a new order taking protocol that emphasized active listening and confirmation techniques.
• Leveraged strong multitasking skills to manage up to 15 tables simultaneously while maintaining high-quality service standards.
• Played a pivotal role in the adaptation to a contactless payment system which streamlined billing, reducing table closure time by an average of 10 minutes.
• Facilitated a cross-training program that allowed waitstaff to proficiently assist with bartending duties, increasing operational flexibility and staff utilization.
• Initiated a weekly live music program that attracted an average of 50 more customers per night, translating to a significant boost in beverage sales.
• Negotiated with local vendors to secure premium ingredients at a reduced cost, thus improving menu quality without sacrificing profit margins.
• Launched a successful loyalty program that incentivized repeat business and increased the customer return rate by 25% within the first year.
• Introduced an effective communication channel between the kitchen and the front-of-house teams, resulting in a 35% reduction in order preparation time.
• Facilitated the establishment's participation in a city-wide restaurant festival, which garnered the business prestigious culinary awards and a surge in patronage.
• Developed a guest profile system that tracked preferences and allergies, personalizing the dining experience and resulting in high praise on review platforms.
• Instrumental in transitioning the eating establishment to a farm-to-table concept, enhancing the freshness of dishes and customer trust in the brand.
• Conducted in-depth training sessions on wine characteristics and pairing suggestions, empowering staff to increase wine sales by 18%.
• Pioneered a volunteer program allowing staff to engage with the community, enhancing the restaurant's image and fostering goodwill.
• Orchestrated the implementation of a digital ordering system, significantly expediting order processing time and reducing errors by 22%.
• Curated special event nights that drew in crowds and amplified sales—a Taco Tuesday night became a local favorite, increasing midweek profits by 35%.
• Championed the introduction of an organic cocktail menu that catered to health-conscious patrons, successfully contributing to a 20% uplift in bar revenue.

Quantifying impact on your resume

• Include the number of tables you manage per shift to demonstrate your ability to handle volume and multi-task efficiently.
• State the average customer satisfaction score you received if available, showcasing your commitment to service excellence.
• Report the percentage of up-selling success you achieve with menu items and specials to highlight your sales skills.
• Mention the number of repeat customers you typically serve to underline your ability to create a loyal customer base.
• Specify the size of the largest party you have successfully served, indicating your capability to manage high-pressure situations.
• Detail the amount of daily sales you are responsible for to show your contribution to the restaurant's revenue.
• Quantify any improvements you contributed to service efficiency or cost reduction, such as reduced table turnover time.
• Include the number of new staff you trained, underscoring your leadership skills and ability to mentor others.

Action verbs for your waiter resume

Waiter resume without experience: a walk-through guide

If you don't happen to have any relevant experience yet, you can substitute this with:

• Short-term gigs and stunts - like month-long internships, that you have done during your university days
• Contract work - be specific about the relevance and outcomes of each role you include
• Resume format that prioritizes your skills - the functional-skill-based format or hybrid format could work
• Research roles - feature those especially prominently if you've participated in a noteworthy project or your role was of utmost importance to the project's success.

Recommended reads:

• How to List GPA on Your Resume
• How to Put Cum Laude on Your Resume

If you failed to obtain one of the certificates, as listed in the requirements, but decide to include it on your resume, make sure to include a note somewhere that you have the "relevant training, but are planning to re-take the exams". Support this statement with the actual date you're planning to be re-examined. Always be honest on your resume.

Waiter resume skills: the essential hard skills and soft skills checklist

Ultimately, your Waiter resume should hint to recruiters that you possess an array of talents that are indispensable to the role.

For example, listing the technologies and software you're apt at using (or your hard skills) and how you apply them in your day-to-day responsibilities would ensure you meet the technical requirements of the role.

But is this enough to ensure that you make a good impression on recruiters?

Go a step further by detailing the soft skills or personality traits you've attained thanks to your work and life experience.

The best way to balance hard skills and soft skills on your Waiter resume is by:

• Highlighting up to three of your most noteworthy career accomplishments in a separate section.
• Listing at least one hard skill and one soft skill you've used to solve a particular challenge or problem.
• Feature niche skills and technologies that would help you stand out amongst candidates.
• Think back on the social impact your efforts have had towards improving the work environment - were you able to always maintain a professional ethic, while enhancing the team culture? Write about your contribution to the role, department, or organization itself as a metric of success.

The skills section of your resume provides you with plenty of opportunities to detail your technical and personal traits.

All you have to do is select the talents that best fit your application and expertise. Make note of some of the most prominent hard and soft skills across the industry from our list:

Top skills for your waiter resume:

Table setting and etiquette

Knowledge of menu items

Cash register operation

Point of Sale (POS) system usage

Basic food and beverage preparation

Food safety and hygiene

Order taking

Table service procedures

Bill calculation and processing

Drink mixing and serving techniques

Customer service

Interpersonal communication

Active listening

Conflict resolution

Time management

Multitasking

Attention to detail

Stress management

If you're in the process of obtaining your certificate or degree, list the expected date you're supposed to graduate or be certified.

Listing your education and certifications on your waiter resume

Don't underestimate the importance of your resume education section . As it may hint at various skills (and experience) that are relevant to the job. When writing your education section:

• Include only higher education degrees with information about the institution and start/end dates
• If you're in the process of obtaining your degree, include your expected graduation date
• Consider leaving off degrees that aren't relevant to the job or industry
• Write a description of your education if it presents you with an opportunity to further showcase your achievements in a more research-focused environment

When describing your certifications on your resume, always consider their relevancy to the role. Use the same format to describe them as you would for your education. If you're wondering what the best certificates out there are for waiter roles, check out the list below.

The top 5 certifications for your waiter resume:

• Food Handler's Certificate (FHC) - National Restaurant Association
• Tips Alcohol Certification (TIPS) - Training for Intervention Procedures
• ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification (ServSafe FP) - National Restaurant Association
• Certified Restaurant Server (CRS) - American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute
• First Aid & CPR Certification (FA/CPR) - American Red Cross or American Heart Association
• Perfecting the Education Section on Your Resume
• How To List Certifications On A Resume (Examples Included)

Practical guide to your waiter resume summary or objective

First off, should you include a summary or objective on your waiter resume?

We definitely recommend you choose the:

• Resume summary to match job requirements with most noteworthy accomplishments.
• Resume objective as a snapshot of career dreams

Both the resume summary and objective should set expectations for recruiters as to what your career highlights are.

These introductory paragraphs (that are no more than five sentences long) should help you answer why you're the best candidate for the job.

Industry-wide best practices pinpoint that the waiter resume summaries and objectives follow the structures of these samples:

Resume summaries for a waiter job

• Dedicated server with over 6 years of experience in fast-paced, high-end restaurant environments, proficient in POS systems and wine pairings. Recognized for consistently surpassing sales targets by 20% and awarded ‘Employee of the Month’ four times for exceptional customer service and teamwork.
• Energetic career switcher with a decade in customer service management, seeking to bring transferable skills to the food service industry. Excelled in building customer relations and staff leadership, aiming to apply strong communication and organizational abilities to enhance guest dining experiences.
• Former retail supervisor eager to leverage 5 years of customer-centric service, inventory management, and team leadership into the hospitality sector. Adept at handling high-pressure situations and committed to creating memorable dining experiences through attention to detail and a warm, engaging manner.
• With 8 years of experience as a bistro waiter, adept in menu presentation and bespoke customer service, having increased customer retention by 30%. Recognized for a keen ability to upsell specials and wine selections, contributing significantly to the restaurant’s revenue growth.
• As an enthusiastic individual with a passion for hospitality and customer engagement, my objective is to deliver exceptional dining experiences by utilizing strong interpersonal skills and a quick-learning aptitude in a fast-paced restaurant environment.
• Seeking to begin a career in hospitality as a waiter, with a focus on developing expert-level knowledge in customer service, fine dining etiquette, and beverage service to contribute to memorable meal experiences and enhance the establishment’s reputation.

Showcasing your personality with these four waiter resume sections

Enhance your waiter expertise with additional resume sections that spotlight both your professional skills and personal traits. Choose options that not only present you in a professional light but also reveal why colleagues enjoy working with you:

• My time - a pie chart infographic detailing your daily personal and professional priorities, showcasing a blend of hard and soft skills;
• Hobbies and interests - share your engagement in sports, fandoms, or other interests, whether in your local community or during personal time;
• Quotes - what motivates and inspires you as a professional;
• Books - indicating your reading and comprehension skills, a definite plus for employers, particularly when your reading interests align with your professional field.

Key takeaways

• Pay special attention to the tiny details that make up your waiter resume formatting: the more tailored your application to the role is, the better your chances at success would be;
• Select the sections you include (summary or objective, etc.) and formatting (reverse-chronological, hybrid, etc.) based on your experience level;
• Select experience items and, consequently, achievements that showcase you in the best light and are relevant to the job;
• Your profile will be assessed both based on your technical capabilities and personality skills - curate those through your resume;
• Certifications and education showcase your dedication to the particular industry.

Looking to build your own Waiter resume?

• Resume Examples

How to Update Your Resume: Simple Changes With Big Effects

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Waiter/Waitress Resume: Example and Writing Tips for Success

As a waiter or waitress, your resume can make a great impression when applying for a job. It can showcase your skills, experience, and personality, essentially making or breaking your chances of getting hired. In this article, we will explore the importance of having a strong waiter/waitress resume and what makes a good one. We will also provide tips and examples to help you create a resume that stands out from the competition.

Importance of having a strong waiter/waitress resume

Having a strong resume is crucial when applying for a job as a waiter or waitress. It will not only highlight your relevant skills and experience but also demonstrate your professionalism and dedication to your craft. A well-crafted resume will give employers a glimpse of your personality, work ethic, and passion for providing excellent customer service. Additionally, it can serve as a tool to outweigh any lack of experience you may have by emphasizing your strengths and transferable skills.

What makes a good waiter/waitress resume

A good waiter/waitress resume should be clear, concise, and tailored to the position you are applying for. It should highlight your relevant skills, such as your ability to multitask, take orders accurately, and handle difficult customers. Additionally, it should include any industry-specific training, such as knowledge of wine or beer pairings and familiarity with POS systems.

Your resume should be easy to read, with bullet points and white space to break up long blocks of text. It should also be free of errors and grammatically correct since attention to detail is crucial in the food service industry. Finally, the resume should convey your personality and passion for the job, making you stand out as someone who is dedicated and enthusiastic about providing excellent customer service.

Overview of the article contents

This article will begin by discussing the importance of having a strong waiter/waitress resume, followed by what makes a good one. We will then delve into the specifics of crafting a stand-out resume, including the use of strong action verbs, how to present your relevant experience, and what to include (and not include) in your resume. In addition, we will provide sample resumes and tips for tailoring your resume to specific jobs or industries. Finally, we will provide tips for writing an effective cover letter and how to prepare for your job interview. By the end of this article, you will have a comprehensive understanding of what it takes to create a successful waiter or waitress resume and land your dream job.

Choosing the Right Format for Your Waiter/Waitress Resume

When it comes to crafting your waiter/waitress resume, choosing the right format is essential. The format you choose will determine how effectively you are able to showcase your skills, experiences, and qualifications to potential employers. There are three main resume formats to consider, each with its own strengths and weaknesses:

1. Chronological Resume Format

The chronological resume format is the most traditional and commonly used format. It showcases your work history in reverse chronological order, starting with your most recent position and working backwards. This format is ideal for individuals who have a strong work history and want to highlight their experience and career progression.

Advantages:

• Highlights career growth and accomplishments
• Easy to follow and understand
• Preferred by most employers

Disadvantages:

• May expose gaps in employment history
• May not effectively showcase transferable skills

2. Functional Resume Format

The functional resume format emphasizes your skills and experiences rather than your work history. It is ideal for individuals who have limited work experience or who want to highlight specific skills and accomplishments that may not be tied to a specific job.

• Highlights skills and achievements
• Ideal for job seekers with limited work experience
• Effective for individuals looking to change careers
• Doesn’t showcase work history or career progression
• May raise questions about your employment history or experience

3. Combination Resume Format

The combination resume format combines elements of both the chronological and functional formats. It includes a brief work history, followed by a detailed list of skills and achievements. This format is ideal for individuals who want to highlight both their work experience and transferable skills.

• Highlights both work history and relevant skills
• Ideal for job seekers with diverse experiences
• Requires careful selection and organization of information
• May not be suitable for individuals with limited work experience

Tips on How to Choose the Right Format

Choosing the right resume format for your waiter/waitress resume can be a daunting task, but there are several things to consider that can make the decision easier:

Consider your work experience: If you have a strong work history, the chronological format may be the best choice. If you have limited work experience or career gaps, the functional or combination format may be more effective.

Think about your desired position: The position you are applying for can also influence your choice of format. Review the job description and tailor your resume format to highlight the skills and experience most relevant to the position.

Keep it concise: Regardless of the format you choose, make sure your resume is concise and easy to read. Use bullet points and clear formatting to highlight your key qualifications and achievements.

Seek feedback: Before submitting your resume, seek feedback from trusted friends, family, or colleagues.

Writing a Waiter/Waitress Resume Objective or Summary Statement

As a waiter/waitress, your resume objective or summary statement is the first thing that potential employers read. This section should briefly introduce yourself and highlight your qualifications, work experience, and career goals. The objective/summary statement has two main purposes: to grab the employer’s attention and to give them a reason to read the rest of your resume.

How to Write a Waiter/Waitress Objective/Summary Statement

To write an effective objective/summary statement for your waiter/waitress resume, follow these tips:

Be brief and to the point: Keep your statement short and sweet, no longer than two or three sentences.

Highlight your relevant skills: Identify the skills that you possess that are most relevant to the position you are applying for.

Emphasize your accomplishments: If you have any specific accomplishments, such as awards or accolades, make sure to mention them in your statement.

Be specific: Avoid vague statements, and be as specific as possible about the type of position you are seeking.

Tailor your statement to the position: Customize your statement to the job you are applying for. Look at the job description and make sure to incorporate any relevant keywords.

Examples of Effective Objective/Summary Statements

Here are some examples of objective/summary statements for a waiter/waitress resume:

“Highly skilled and experienced waiter seeking a position in a fine dining establishment. Proficient in menu descriptions, wine pairings, and delivering exceptional customer service.”

“Motivated and reliable waitress with 5 years of experience in casual and upscale dining settings. Skilled in taking orders, serving food and drinks, and handling customer complaints with ease.”

“Enthusiastic and friendly server with a passion for hospitality seeking a position in a fast-paced restaurant. Proven ability to multitask, work well under pressure, and deliver prompt service.”

By following these tips and incorporating specific details about your experience and qualifications, you can create an effective objective/summary statement that will make a lasting impression on potential employers.

Crafting the Perfect Waiter/Waitress Resume Skills Section

When it comes to crafting the perfect waiter/waitress resume, the skills section plays a critical role. This section helps a hiring manager evaluate whether you have the necessary skills to carry out the responsibilities of the role successfully. Therefore, it is essential to ensure that your skills section is crafted well and effectively showcases your skills.

Importance of a strong skills section

The skills section of your waiter/waitress resume is essential because it helps highlight your abilities and qualifications for the job. It is the section that a hiring manager will review to understand your capabilities and make an informed decision on whether you fit their needs. So, having a strong skills section will help you stand out from other candidates and make a positive impact on the hiring manager.

Essential skills for a waiter/waitress resume

A waiter/waitress resume should include skills that align with the job’s requirements. Some essential skills that should be included in this section include:

• Customer service skills: This is one of the most important skills for a waiter/waitress. You should have excellent communication skills, be friendly and polite, and know how to handle customers effectively.
• Attention to detail: You should have an eye for detail to ensure that orders are taken and delivered accurately and timely.
• Time management: As a waiter/waitress, you are likely to work in a fast-paced environment, so you should be able to manage your time effectively to ensure that food and drinks are served on time.
• Teamwork: A good waiter/waitress should be able to collaborate and work with others effectively to ensure that everything runs smoothly.
• Flexibility: You should be able to adapt to sudden changes in duties or work schedules without compromising your performance.

Tips on how to showcase your skills effectively

To showcase your skills effectively, you should focus on:

• Keeping it concise: The skills section should be brief and to the point. Avoid using wordy descriptions or detailing irrelevant skills.
• Using bullet points: Using bullet points will make it easier for the hiring manager to scan through your skills quickly.
• Tailoring your skills: Tailor your skills to the job description by identifying the required skills and highlighting them in your skills section.
• Adding metrics: Adding metrics to your skills section can help quantify your abilities and make an impact. For example, “Increased restaurant sales by 20% through upselling techniques.

Waiter/Waitress Resume Example (with Annotations)

As an experienced waiter or waitress, your resume should reflect your skills and accomplishments in the food service industry. A well-constructed resume can help you stand out from the competition and secure your next role.

Overview of the key components of the resume:

Contact information:.

Including your contact information at the top of the page is essential to ensure that potential employers can easily get in touch with you. This should include your full name, phone number, email address, and possibly your home address.

Resume Summary/Objective Statement:

A well-crafted summary statement can give potential employers a brief insight into what makes you a great fit for the job. This can include your experience, skills, and qualifications.

Work History:

This section should highlight your previous experience in the food service industry. It should include the name of the business, your job title, and the dates you worked there. It’s important to be specific about the duties you performed and any accomplishments you achieved.

Education and Training:

If you have any relevant education or training, be sure to include it on your resume. This can include any certifications you’ve earned, any courses you’ve taken, or any degrees or diplomas you’ve earned.

Your skills section should highlight any skills that are relevant to the food service industry. This can include everything from communication skills to customer service skills.

Explanation of the design choices and language used:

When designing a waiter or waitress resume, it’s important to keep a few things in mind. First, you want the design to be professional and easy to read. This means using a clean, modern font and avoiding anything too flashy or bold.

It’s also important to use language that is clear and concise. Bullet points are a great way to organize your information and make it easy to read. When describing your job duties, focus on specific accomplishments rather than vague statements.

In terms of design elements, it’s recommended to use a color scheme that is simple and neutral. Avoid using too many colors or any distracting graphics. Instead, let the content of the resume speak for itself.

By following these tips, you can create a professional, well-crafted waiter or waitress resume that will help you stand out from the competition and secure your next job in the food service industry.

Waiter/Waitress Resume Writing Tips

When it comes to writing a standout waiter/waitress resume, there are some key tips and strategies you can use to showcase your skills and experience while avoiding common mistakes.

How to Make Your Resume Stand Out

To make your resume stand out, it’s important to focus on your unique value proposition and highlight the skills and experience that make you an ideal candidate for the job. Here are some tips to help you create a standout waiter/waitress resume:

• Start with a strong summary statement that highlights your top skills and experience
• Use bullet points to break up text and make your resume easy to scan
• Emphasize your customer service skills and ability to work in a fast-paced environment
• Include any relevant certifications or training you’ve received, such as food safety or alcohol service certifications
• Use strong action verbs to describe your accomplishments and responsibilities, such as “managed,” “coordinated,” and “delegated”
• Quantify your achievements as much as possible by including things like sales figures, customer satisfaction ratings, or the number of tables you were responsible for
• Customize your resume for each job you apply to by incorporating keywords and phrases from the job description.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To avoid common resume mistakes, make sure you:

• Proofread your resume carefully to catch typos or grammatical errors
• Use a professional format and avoid overly fancy or difficult-to-read fonts
• Don’t include irrelevant information or personal details that could be used to discriminate against you, such as your age, race, or marital status
• Avoid exaggerating or lying about your experience or qualifications.

Specific Tips for Waiter/Waitress Resumes

In addition to the general tips above, here are some specific tips for crafting a great waiter/waitress resume:

• Emphasize your relevant experience in the food service industry, including any previous jobs as a waiter/waitress, busser, or host/hostess
• Highlight your ability to work as part of a team and communicate effectively with both customers and coworkers
• Showcase your knowledge of different types of cuisine, wine pairings, and other relevant food and beverage knowledge
• Include any experience with point-of-sale systems or other restaurant technology
• List any language skills you have that could be useful in a restaurant setting, such as proficiency in Spanish or French.

Using Keywords to Optimize Your Resume for Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS)

Many large companies use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to screen resumes before they’re even seen by a recruiter or hiring manager. To optimize your resume for ATS, make sure you:

• Include keywords and phrases from the job description throughout your resume
• Use industry-specific terms and jargon that will signal to the system that you have relevant experience
• Use a professional font, formatting, and file format (such as .

Adding Work Experience to Your Waiter/Waitress Resume

As a waiter or waitress, your work experience is an important part of your resume. It not only shows your ability to work in a fast-paced environment, but it also shows your relevant experience in the service industry. Here are some tips on how to add your work experience to your resume effectively:

Importance of Relevant Work Experience

When applying for a waiter or waitress position, it’s important to have relevant work experience on your resume. This could include previous server positions, customer service roles, or jobs that require communication and interpersonal skills. Having relevant work experience shows hiring managers that you have a solid understanding of the industry and that you can handle the demands of the job.

How to List Your Work Experience Effectively

When listing your work experience on your resume, it’s important to include the following information:

• The name of the company you worked for
• Your job title
• The dates of your employment
• A short description of your duties and responsibilities

Make sure to highlight any accomplishments or specific skills that make you stand out as a great candidate. Use bullet points to make your job duties and responsibilities easy to read and scan.

Examples of Effective Work Experience Sections

Here are some examples of effective work experience sections for a waiter or waitress resume:

Server ABC Restaurant July 2018 – Present

• Greet and seat customers
• Take and deliver orders accurately and efficiently
• Maintain knowledge of menu items and specials
• Upsell menu items and promotional deals
• Handle customer complaints effectively

Server Assistant XYZ Bar and Grill January 2017 – June 2018

• Assisted servers with preparing tables and ensuring cleanliness
• Kept beverage and dishware stocked and organized
• Communicated directly with customers to meet their needs
• Managed closing procedures and ensured restaurant was ready for next shift

Using these tips and examples can help you effectively highlight your relevant work experience on your resume, making you a more attractive candidate for the job. Good luck with your job search!

Education and Certifications in Your Waiter/Waitress Resume

One of the most important aspects of a successful waiter/waitress resume is highlighting your education and certifications. These can help demonstrate your qualifications, expertise, and dedication to the profession. Here are some best practices to follow when including your education and certifications in your resume:

Education section best practices

• Start with your most recent education experience and work backwards
• Include the name of the institution, the degree or credential earned, and the graduation date
• Add any relevant coursework, honors, or awards received
• If you have limited education or it is not related to the industry, consider creating a separate section for relevant training or certifications

Certifications to consider adding

• ServSafe Food Handler Certification: This certification is often required in the food service industry and demonstrates your knowledge of food safety and sanitation.
• Certified Specialist of Wine (CSW): This certification is ideal for waiters/waitresses in fine dining establishments or those with extensive wine menus.
• CPR and First Aid Certification: This certification is especially useful in emergency situations and can demonstrate your ability to handle unexpected events.

Make sure to highlight any relevant certifications or training you have received in your resume, as they can help set you apart from other candidates.

Should you include your GPA?

Including your GPA is not necessary, but may be beneficial if it is above average or if you are a recent graduate with limited work experience in the industry. However, if your GPA is not impressive or your education is not related to the industry, it may be better to leave it out.

Examples of education and certification sections

By following these best practices for your education and certification sections, you can create a well-rounded and impressive waiter/waitress resume that catches the attention of potential employers.

Waiter/Waitress Resume Sample (with Annotations)

If you’re looking for a job as a waiter or waitress, having a great resume is essential to getting hired. A well-crafted resume can make you stand out from other applicants and showcase your skills and experience. In this section, we’ll provide a complete sample of a waiter/waitress resume, along with an overview of its key components and an explanation of the design choices and language used.

Waiter/Waitress Resume Sample

[Insert resume with relevant personal information removed, using appropriate formatting such as font, spacing, and bullet points]

Key Components of the Resume

Contact Information:  This section should include your name, phone number, email address, and any relevant social media profiles. Make sure that this information is up-to-date and professional.

Summary Statement:  This section should provide a brief overview of your qualifications, including your experience as a waiter or waitress, any relevant training or certifications, and your top skills.

Professional Experience:  This section should include all of your relevant work experience, including your job duties, the name of the company or restaurant where you worked, and the dates of employment.

Education and Training:  This section should include any relevant education or training you have received, such as a high school diploma, college degree, or certification from a hospitality or restaurant training program.

Skills:  This section should highlight your top skills, such as excellent customer service, strong communication skills, and the ability to work well in a team.

Design Choices and Language Used

The design of your resume is important because it can help make it stand out from other applicants. Some key design choices to consider include using bulleted lists to make your skills and experience easy to read, choosing a clean and easy-to-read font, and using clear section headings to organize your resume.

In terms of language, it’s important to use strong action verbs and descriptive language to highlight your experience and skills. For example, instead of simply listing your job duties, use language that emphasizes the impact of your work, such as “Managed a team of servers to ensure excellent customer service and satisfaction.”

The key to a successful waiter/waitress resume is to showcase your experience and qualifications in a clear and compelling way. By using a clean design and strong language, you can make your resume stand out to potential employers and increase your chances of getting hired.

Formatting and Design Tips for Your Waiter/Waitress Resume

When it comes to creating a successful waiter/waitress resume, formatting and design play a crucial role. A visually appealing resume can make a great first impression and help you stand out from other applicants.

Here are some tips on formatting and design to keep in mind when crafting your waiter/waitress resume:

Choosing the Best Font and Size

First and foremost, it’s important to choose a font and size that is easy to read and professional-looking. Avoid using fancy or overly decorative fonts that may be difficult for hiring managers to read.

Stick to standard fonts such as Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman and use a font size of 10-12 points. Be consistent with your font choice throughout the entire resume.

Tips on Creating a Visually Appealing Resume

To create a visually appealing resume, consider using a simple and clean layout. Use plenty of white space to make the content easy to read and visually appealing.

You may also want to consider using color strategically to draw attention to certain sections of your resume. For example, you could use a different color for your headers or section headings.

However, be cautious not to use too many different colors or fonts, as this can make your resume look cluttered and amateurish.

Using Bullet Points and Spacing Effectively

Using bullet points is a great way to make your resume easy to scan and read quickly for hiring managers. Use bullet points to highlight your key accomplishments, skills, and experiences.

Additionally, make sure to use proper spacing to keep your resume looking clean and organized. Use spacing between sections and paragraphs as necessary to create a cohesive and visually appealing layout.

Choosing the right font and size, creating a visually appealing layout, and using bullet points and spacing effectively can help your waiter/waitress resume stand out from the crowd. With these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to creating a winning resume that showcases your skills and experiences in the best possible light.

Waiter/Waitress Cover Letter Tips and Examples

When applying for a waiter/waitress position, having a strong cover letter can set you apart from other candidates. A cover letter serves as an introduction to your potential employer and allows you to showcase your unique qualifications and experiences.

Importance of a Strong Cover Letter

A well-written waiter/waitress cover letter can demonstrate your attention to detail, professionalism, and passion for the industry. It can also highlight any relevant skills or experience that may not be reflected in your resume, such as customer service or food and beverage knowledge.

A strong cover letter can also show your personality and enthusiasm for the role, which can make you more memorable to the hiring manager. Ultimately, a strong cover letter can help you stand out and increase your chances of landing an interview.

Essential Elements of a Cover Letter

A successful waiter/waitress cover letter should include the following essential elements:

Introduction: Start by introducing yourself and stating the position you’re applying for.

Body paragraphs: Use the body paragraphs to highlight your relevant skills and experience, and explain why you’re a good fit for the role. Be sure to mention any specific achievements or contributions you’ve made in previous roles.

Closing: End your letter with a strong closing statement that summarizes your interest in the position and thanks the employer for considering your application.

Waiter/Waitress Cover Letter Examples

Here are a few examples of effective waiter/waitress cover letters:

Dear [Hiring Manager],

As an experienced waiter with over five years of experience in the industry, I was excited to see the job posting for the waiter position at [Restaurant Name]. I am confident that my skills and experience make me a strong candidate for the role.

In my previous roles at [Previous Restaurant Name] and [Other Previous Restaurant Name], I was responsible for ensuring excellent customer service and creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere for guests. I have a deep understanding of food and beverage service, and I am able to anticipate the needs of customers before they even ask. Additionally, I have experience handling cash and managing a point-of-sale system.

I am a team player who is always willing to go above and beyond to ensure that guests have an exceptional dining experience. I am excited about the opportunity to bring my skills and experience to the team at [Restaurant Name], and I look forward to hearing from you.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely, [Your Name]

I am thrilled to be applying for the waiter position at [Restaurant Name]. I have always been passionate about the restaurant industry and providing exceptional service to guests.

In my previous roles at [Previous Restaurant Name] and [Other Previous Restaurant Name], I was responsible for creating a welcoming atmosphere for guests and ensuring their dining experience was memorable.

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Waiter Resume Examples & Writing Guide for 2024

In an industry so dynamic and competitive, you always need to have a great waiter resume ready at hand. But how to prepare it? If you're looking for tips and examples that actually work, you're in the right place. Our easy-to-follow guide, accompanied with real-life waiter resume samples and templates, is here for you!

Keep reading to learn all about: 

• Highlighting your best skills in a waiter resume. 
• Including relevant certifications and education.
• Showcasing your POS and systems experience. 
• Mentioning any additional hospitality skills. 
• Accessing top resources for job-seeking waiters

Still looking for a job? These 100+ resources will tell you everything you need to get hired fast.

1. Highlight your best skills in a waiter or waitress resume

Service industry roles, like waiters, spend the majority of their time interacting with customers. The rest of their time is spent coordinating with the rest of the restaurant staff. That’s why service and communication skills are highly desirable among waiters. Often known as soft skills .

It’s much easier to teach someone the basic skills of being a waiter, like how to take orders or navigate a restaurant. However, soft skills can be much harder to train. In many situations, restaurant managers will prioritize hiring waiters with the right personal skills over professional ones.

Here are some soft skills that you can help make your resume’s skills section stand out as a waiter

• Problem-solving
• Customer service
• Conflict resolution
• Attention to detail
• Team player
• Communication skills

You can also highlight these skills more organically directly within your work experience. 

Here are some good examples of communicating specific skills within role descriptions

• Conflict resolution – Effectively communicated with management and customers to resolve customer disputes.
• Customer service – Consistently received customer survey feedback indicating that customer expectations were exceeded.
• Team player – Worked closely with the host team and kitchen staff to provide guests a seamless experience during high-season.
• Detail-oriented – Efficiently inputted orders, resulting in 98% accuracy in customer orders.

If you’ve never worked in a restaurant setting as a waiter and are hoping to break into the industry, soft skills are the place where you can make an impact on the hiring manager. Just make sure that you’ve tied those key skills into the requirements on the job description.

Use artificial intelligence to create your resume — FAST!

2. include any relevant certifications and education in your waiter or waitress resume.

While waiter roles can sometimes be considered entry-level, there are often basic skills and education that are required. Some regions may also require specific certifications in order for waiters to handle food or alcohol. The names and types of certifications can vary significantly based on your location and restaurant type.

Even if there are no formal requirements, having relevant certifications is a great way to validate your skills and experience.

Some relevant certifications and education that are beneficial to include on a waiter resume

• Food handler certification
• Food safety certification
• First aid and CPR certification

If you have any other hospitality-related certifications, you may want to include these as well. For example, if you’re applying for a role in fine dining, a wine pairing certification would likely catch the eye of a hiring manager.

3. Showcase your POS and systems experience in a waiter or waitress resume

One of the biggest investments in a new employee is training. Before you can start navigating your new role independently, you’ll need to be familiar with any technology or software that is used. Being familiar with a potential restaurant’s point-of-sale system would make your application more attractive.

Popular POS systems for restaurants include Square, Lightspeed, TouchBistro, and more.

While having experience with the exact software is always helpful, it’s not always necessary. The skills are often transferable between software. Simply make it clear that you’ve used similar platforms. 

Here are some examples for effectively communicating your skills and systems experience in your resume

• Efficiently managed customer orders through [software name]
• Managed cash and customer payments through [software] with 98% accuracy
• Maintained menu updates regularly using [software name]

Find out your resume score!

4. Mention any additional hospitality skills in your waiter or waitress resume

When we say additional skills, we’re not talking about random skills like playing basketball or juggling. (Although some restaurants may appreciate these impressive skills!)

Depending on the specific restaurant, managers will often value new employees with diverse skill sets. This allows them to move you between different roles as required. 

Here are some examples of additional skills that would be beneficial to include in a waiter resume

• Hosting and table seating strategies – many roles require waiters work closely or in tandem with hosts.
• Bartending – restaurants with bars often like to hire waiters who can double as bartenders
• Language proficiency – being fluent or even proficient in other languages can help improve the customer experience for guests, particularly in tourist areas.

Having additional skills listed on your resume can make you more employable.

5. Top resources for job-seeking waiters

You know the drill. Job seeking inevitably means hours and hours spent behind a computer screen. And a lot of that precious time gets wasted on trying to figure out where to look for job postings in the first place. If you're currently stuck in this exact place, you may find the following sources all the more useful. 

• Industry-specific job boards: Websites such as Hcareers , Hospitality Online , and Caterer.com specialize in hospitality jobs, including waiter/waitress positions, offering a wide range of listings from casual dining to high-end restaurants.
• Indeed : Indeed is one of the largest online job boards that advertises job offers from all over the world. Just enter relevant keyphrases into the search bar and make your pick. 
• Glassdoor : Apart from job postings, Glassdoor also offers insights into the company culture and salaries through employee reviews. Get to know your potential employer before you submit your application! 
• LinkedIn : LinkedIn is the perfect means to explore the world of professional waiters. You can get in touch with hiring managers directly, or gain new and useful contacts by networking.
• Local restaurant websites and social media pages: Don't underestimate the power of the internet! You can reach out to establishments through their social media accounts or web pages. Take a chance!
• Continuous learning: Upskilling can make any resume more appealing to the eyes of recruiters. Take your time and browse through websites like Coursera , Udemy , or edX to find a course that best suits your goals.

Regardless of what restaurant you’re hoping to join, your resume needs to fit the bill of a waiter. You’re more than just someone delivering food and your resume is the place to prove it. Including the right skills and experience can help your CV stand out in a stack of resumes.

If you need some ideas to get you started, these Kickresume waiter resume examples are guaranteed to impress any restaurant manager.

Waiter Resume FAQ

Make sure to highlight both your soft and hard skills relevant to waiting tables. For soft skills, emphasize your customer service, communication, and multitasking abilities. For hard skills, list any experience with POS systems, knowledge of wine pairing, and fluency in foreign languages if applicable. And also use bullet points to detail how you've applied these skills in past roles.

Use a reverse-chronological format, listing your most recent job first. For each position, include the job title, employer's name, and the dates of your employment. Again, under each job, use bullet points to describe your responsibilities and achievements, focusing on those that demonstrate your competence and impact. You can also use quantifiers when it's possible.

Quantify your successes wherever possible. For example, " Increased upsell of premium wines by 30% through knowledgeable recommendations " or " Achieved a 98% customer satisfaction score based on feedback surveys. " These concrete numbers provide tangible evidence of your skills and effectiveness.

It's more space-efficient to note that references are available upon request rather than listing them on your resume. This approach also gives you the opportunity to inform your references ahead of time if a potential employer requests their contact information.

Use a simple, clean layout without headers, footers, or graphics, which can confuse ATS software. Stick to standard fonts and incorporate the keywords featured in the job posting throughout your resume: in your summary, work experience, education, certificates, and skills sections. Save your resume in a widely accepted format, such as .docx or PDF , to ensure it's readable by the ATS.

Martin Poduška

Martin is a resume expert and career advice writer at Kickresume. In his five years at Kickresume, he has written hundreds of in-depth, painstakingly researched resume advice articles and, as chief editor, he has also edited and revised every single article on this website. Tens of thousands of job seekers read Martin’s resume advice every month. He holds a degree in English from the University of St Andrews and a degree in Comparative Literature from the University of Amsterdam .

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All waiter resume examples

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How to List Experience as a Server on Your Resume

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What job details should be included in a server resume?

How to describe previous server experience on a resume, examples of server resume job experience.

As a waitress or a waiter, there are several types of details that you can include in your work experience section of your resume. The type of job descriptions you include in your resume should reflect your experience working in the hospitality industry. For instance, you might include examples of your customer service skills, how you have helped past restaurants create repeat business or other professional accomplishments that show employers your competency as a server. You can also include examples of your job responsibilities and the tasks you may perform, both regular duties and additional tasks.

There are several approaches you can use to highlight your serving experience on your resume. For instance, you might start with your most recent job first and provide details about the skills you developed and the positive effects you had in your past role. 

You can refer to the following steps to help you include server experience on your resume:

1. First, include your most recent serving job

Start with your most recent serving position first. Include where you worked and the duties you were responsible for. You can also give brief examples of how your customer service skills help you succeed as a server or how you were able to solve customer problems. Employers generally like to see that servers can demonstrate exceptional customer service skills.

2. Second, list your serving experiences in chronological order

Include only the jobs you have performed as a server. As an example, if you’re applying to a five-star restaurant you may want to omit your work experience if it is unrelated to the requirements of working in an upscale environment. Instead, you might include your job experiences that are relevant to working with restaurant staff, customers and the hospitality industry.

3. Third, provide clear examples

For each work experience description you list in your resume, you should provide clear examples of how you succeeded in your role. For example, maybe you were voted server of the month for your exceptional ability to create customer relationships. Or maybe you increased your past company’s customer base by succeeding as a brand ambassador. If you have an example of how you can benefit the employer you’re applying to, consider including it in your job description.

4. Fourth, highlight your customer service skills

In each role you performed, you might consider highlighting how you applied your customer service skills. For instance, if a customer received a meal they did not order and you helped solve the conflict, highlight your customer service skills to describe how effective you are at conflict resolution. Since working as a server can rely heavily on your customer service skills, you might think about including these details in your resume.

5. Fifth, include your accomplishments for the business

If you have any accomplishments in your past serving experience, you might consider including them in your resume. For instance, if you created and helped launch a fundraising event, a new product menu or a new type of food service like take-out or delivery, you can include details of these accomplishments in your work history. Employers typically like to see that potential hires value their company’s values and overall mission.

6. Sixth, describe your hard skills

You might also consider including your hard skills like handling money transactions, running a cash register or using point-of-service (POS) order input software to take and communicate customer orders. You might also include how you keep your serving sections organized or other examples of your hard skills.

When formatting your work experience, it can be a good idea to list each job description in chronological order, and you can use specific examples within the details. You might also format a bulleted list of relevant skills, responsibilities and examples of your performance. 

The following examples can help outline how you might format this section in your resume:

Server, The Farmer’s Table Restaurant, August 2015 – October 2019

• Responsible for taking customer orders and ensuring customer satisfaction
• Recommending daily specials and discounts to successfully up-sell limited-time food products
• Successfully solved customer conflict and problems when mistakes were made with orders and payments
• Processing payments and handling cash and credit transactions
• Demonstrated creativity by developing brand new menus for the restaurant
• Introduced customers to new menu items and successfully built and fostered customer relationships

Server and Restaurant Host, Grill -n- Chill Pub, January 2013 – July 2015

• Greeted and welcomed customers and seated pub patrons
• Successfully obtained a state liquor license to legally serve alcoholic beverages
• Implemented customer surveys to provide feedback on service quality
• Built and maintained customer relationships
• Responsible for taking orders and communicating with kitchen and other pub staff

This example can help you format and write your job descriptions for your resume. You might also consider adding quantifiable results if it applies to your accomplishments as a server.

Top 17 Waiter Resume Objective Examples

Updated July 19, 2023 12 min read

A resume objective is a short statement at the top of your resume that outlines your career goals and ambitions. It's a great way to show employers what you can bring to their restaurant and how your skills can help them achieve their goals. When writing an objective for a waiter position, focus on showing how you can provide excellent customer service, handle multiple tasks, and excel in a fast-paced environment. Examples of objectives may include: "Seeking a waiter position at ABC Restaurant to utilize my 5+ years of experience in customer service and multitasking." or "Motivated individual seeking to use exceptional communication skills as a waiter at ABC Restaurant to deliver outstanding customer service." Make sure that the language used in your resume objective matches the job description provided by the employer.

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Top 17 Waiter Resume Objective Samples

• To obtain a position as a Waiter utilizing excellent customer service and communication skills.
• To secure a Waiter position with an established organization that offers career growth opportunities.
• To work as a Waiter in an environment where I can use my interpersonal and organizational skills to provide exceptional customer service.
• Seeking employment as a Waiter in an establishment that values dedication and hard work.
• To obtain the position of Waiter with a reputable restaurant, leveraging my experience in the food service industry.
• To gain employment as a Waiter at an upscale restaurant, utilizing my knowledge of fine dining etiquette and customer service techniques.
• Aiming to join an esteemed organization as a Waiter, bringing enthusiasm and dedication to the role.
• Looking for an opportunity to work as a Waiter at a high-end restaurant, offering excellent customer service and hospitality skills.
• Seeking the position of Waiter at ABC Restaurant, offering strong attention to detail and excellent multitasking abilities.
• Applying for the role of Waiter at XYZ Restaurant, bringing enthusiasm for providing outstanding customer service and quality food presentation.
• To utilize my professional experience in the hospitality industry by obtaining a position as a Waiter with ABC Company.
• Aspiring to join XYZ Restaurant as a waiter, offering expertise in menu items selection, table setting and efficient order taking/serving methods.
• Desiring to obtain the position of Waiter at ABC Restaurant where I can utilize my passion for delivering superior customer service while working with others in an efficient manner.
• Aiming to join XYZ Company's team of waiters by demonstrating exceptional interpersonal skills along with extensive knowledge about food safety regulations and standards.
• Searching for an opportunity to serve customers efficiently as part of ABC Restaurant's team of waiters by applying my excellent communication skills along with friendly attitude towards guests' needs.
• Seeking employment as a waiter at XYZ Restaurant where I can apply my ability to create positive experiences for customers through efficient order taking/serving methods while maintaining high standards of cleanliness throughout the restaurant premises.

How to Write a Waiter Resume Objective

A waiter resume objective is an important part of the resume because it provides employers with a snapshot of your work experience, skills, and abilities. The objective should be concise, yet highlight why you are the perfect candidate for the job. When crafting a waiter resume objective, here are some tips to keep in mind:

1. Start by emphasizing your relevant experience. If you have prior experience as a waiter or in restaurant management, make sure to include this information in your resume objective. This will demonstrate to employers that you understand the role and its expectations.

2. Highlight key skills and qualities that make you stand out from other applicants. Examples of desirable qualities include excellent customer service skills, knowledge of food safety regulations, multitasking ability, and familiarity with point-of-sale systems.

3. Demonstrate how you can contribute to the team’s success. Employers want to hire wait staff who can help increase sales and customer satisfaction levels. Show them how your skills can contribute to achieving these goals.

4. Keep it short but sweet! Your resume objective should be no longer than one or two sentences long — any more than that and employers may lose interest in reading it all the way through!

By following these tips when writing a waiter resume objective, you can ensure that employers take notice of your application and consider giving you an interview!

Related : What does a Waiter do?

Key Skills to Highlight in Your Waiter Resume Objective

Crafting a compelling waiter resume objective is crucial in capturing the attention of potential employers. This section is your first opportunity to showcase your skills and abilities that make you an ideal candidate for the role. In this competitive industry, it's essential to highlight key skills that set you apart from other applicants. These can range from excellent customer service abilities, knowledge of food and beverage pairings, to proficiency in handling cash transactions. In this section, we will delve into the key skills you should emphasize in your waiter resume objective to increase your chances of landing that coveted position.

1. Time management

As a waiter, you are often required to handle multiple tasks at once, such as taking orders, serving food, and clearing tables, all while providing excellent customer service. Good time management skills ensure that you can efficiently juggle these responsibilities and serve customers in a timely manner. This can lead to increased customer satisfaction and repeat business. Including this skill in your resume objective shows potential employers that you can effectively manage your duties and contribute to the smooth operation of their restaurant.

2. Active listening

Active listening is crucial for a waiter because it ensures they accurately understand customers' orders and any specific requests or dietary needs they may have. This skill also aids in providing excellent customer service, as patrons feel heard and valued. Mentioning active listening in a resume objective can indicate the candidate's ability to effectively communicate and meet customer needs.

3. Menu knowledge

Having a thorough knowledge of the menu is crucial for a waiter as it enables them to answer customer queries accurately, make recommendations, and upsell items effectively. This skill demonstrates the waiter's ability to provide excellent customer service and contribute positively to the dining experience, which is important in achieving the objective of customer satisfaction and repeat business.

4. Upselling techniques

A waiter's primary role involves serving customers, and upselling techniques are crucial to increase the establishment's sales. By including this skill in a resume objective, it indicates the candidate's ability to effectively promote and sell additional items or upgrades to customers, contributing to higher revenue for the business. It also demonstrates their persuasive communication skills and understanding of customer service.

5. Tableside etiquette

Tableside etiquette is a crucial skill for a waiter as it demonstrates their ability to interact professionally and courteously with customers. This includes understanding how to properly serve food, refill drinks, clear tables, and respond to customer needs or complaints. Highlighting this skill in a resume objective can show potential employers that the candidate has the necessary experience and knowledge to provide excellent customer service in a dining setting. It also indicates that the candidate is aware of the importance of maintaining high standards of conduct in hospitality roles.

6. Multitasking abilities

A waiter often has to handle multiple tasks at once, such as taking orders, serving food, clearing tables, and providing customer service. Demonstrating strong multitasking abilities in a resume objective shows potential employers that the candidate can efficiently manage these responsibilities simultaneously, ensuring smooth operations and high customer satisfaction.

7. Conflict resolution

As a waiter, you often encounter situations where customers may be unhappy or dissatisfied with their service. Having conflict resolution skills shows potential employers that you are capable of handling these situations calmly and professionally, ensuring customer satisfaction and maintaining the reputation of the restaurant. This skill is crucial in minimizing potential disruptions and creating a pleasant dining experience for all guests.

8. Customer service

A waiter's primary role involves interacting with customers, taking their orders, answering their queries, and ensuring they have a pleasant dining experience. Excellent customer service skills are crucial for this role as it can lead to customer satisfaction, repeat business, and positive word-of-mouth for the restaurant. Including this skill in a resume objective shows potential employers that you understand the importance of providing high-quality service to patrons and can contribute positively to the establishment's reputation.

9. POS system proficiency

Proficiency in a Point of Sale (POS) system is crucial for a waiter as it directly impacts their ability to efficiently process orders, payments, and manage tables. This skill demonstrates the waiter's ability to handle the technical aspects of the job, which can significantly enhance customer service by reducing errors and wait times. Including this on a resume objective shows potential employers that the candidate is capable of performing essential job functions effectively.

10. Team collaboration

A waiter often works as part of a larger team, including other wait staff, kitchen staff, and management. Team collaboration is essential in ensuring smooth restaurant operations, timely delivery of orders, and providing excellent customer service. Highlighting this skill in a resume objective can show potential employers that the candidate can work well in a team-oriented environment and contribute to a positive work atmosphere.

In conclusion, your waiter resume objective should effectively highlight the key skills that set you apart as a candidate. These skills should not only align with the job description but also demonstrate your ability to excel in a fast-paced, customer-focused environment. It's crucial to remember that your resume objective is often the first impression a potential employer will have of you, so make sure it communicates your strengths and abilities concisely and persuasively. By carefully crafting this section, you can significantly increase your chances of landing an interview and ultimately securing the job.

Related : Waiter Skills: Definition and Examples

Common Mistakes When Writing a Waiter Resume Objective

Writing a resume objective for a waiter position is an important step in the job search process. It can be difficult to craft a well-written, concise statement that captures the essence of who you are and what you have to offer as a waiter. Unfortunately, many job seekers make common mistakes when writing their resume objectives that can significantly reduce their chances of getting hired.

One mistake that is often made is writing an overly long resume objective. A resume objective should be kept to one or two sentences at most; any longer and it will likely be too wordy and unfocused. Job seekers should focus on making sure their objectives are succinct, yet still convey the necessary information about themselves and why they would make a great addition to the team.

Another common mistake is not tailoring the resume objective to fit the specific job opening. Many job seekers use generic statements such as “seeking an opportunity to utilize my skills” in their objectives, which won’t help them stand out from other applicants. Instead, they should focus on how their experience aligns with the requirements of the position they are applying for and how they would use those skills in order to contribute positively to the restaurant’s operations.

Finally, some people also make the mistake of forgetting to include relevant keywords in their resume objectives. Keywords are essential when it comes to catching recruiters’ attention, so job seekers should make sure that they incorporate words related to waiter positions into their objectives (e.g., customer service, food safety). This will ensure that your resume stands out from the competition and increases your chances of being noticed by employers.

In conclusion, there are several common mistakes when writing a waiter resume objective that must be avoided if you want your application materials to stand out from other applicants. By keeping your statement brief and focused on how you can contribute positively to the restaurant’s operations, as well as including relevant keywords throughout your objective statement, you will increase your chances of getting hired for this position.

Related : Waiter Resume Examples

A right resume objective for a waiter would be to acquire a position that allows me to utilize my hospitality and customer service skills in order to provide excellent service, whereas a wrong resume objective for a waiter would be to acquire a position that allows me to make as much money as possible.

Editorial staff

Brenna Goyette

Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

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