As a bartender, you know that crafting the perfect cocktail is an art form. But, just as important as mastering the art of mixology is showcasing your skills on a resume. A well-crafted resume is essential to landing an interview and, ultimately, your dream bartending job. In this article, we’ll dive into the world of bartending skills and show you how to list them on a resume that will make you stand out from the crowd.
Understanding the Bartending Industry and the Skills Employers Look For
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of listing bartending skills on a resume, it’s essential to understand the industry and what employers look for in a candidate. The bartending industry is highly competitive, and employers are looking for candidates who possess a unique combination of skills, experience, and personality.
Skill Sets in High Demand
Employers in the bartending industry look for candidates who possess a range of skills, including:
- Technical skills: Knowledge of spirits, wines, and beers, as well as the ability to craft classic and signature cocktails.
- Interpersonal skills: Excellent communication and customer service skills, with the ability to handle difficult customers and work well under pressure.
- Time management skills: Ability to multitask, manage cash and credit transactions, and maintain a clean and organized workspace.
- Adaptability: Willingness to adapt to changing situations, such as a sudden increase in customers or a last-minute shift change.
Creating a Bartending Resume That Stands Out
Now that you understand the skills and qualities employers look for, it’s time to create a resume that showcases your unique strengths and experience as a bartender.
Choosing the Right Format
When it comes to formatting your resume, there are three main types to choose from:
- Chronological resume: A traditional format that lists work experience in reverse chronological order.
- Functional resume: A format that focuses on skills and qualifications rather than work history.
- Combination resume: A hybrid format that combines the best of both chronological and functional resumes.
For bartenders, a combination resume is often the most effective, as it allows you to highlight your skills and experience while still showcasing your work history.
Writing a Compelling Summary Statement
Your summary statement, also known as a professional summary, is a brief overview of your experience, skills, and achievements as a bartender. This should be a concise, 2-3 sentence statement that showcases your unique strengths and sets you apart from other candidates.
Example: “Seasoned bartender with 5+ years of experience in high-volume bars and restaurants, skilled in craft cocktail creation and exceptional customer service. Proficient in point-of-sale systems and inventory management, with a passion for delivering memorable guest experiences.”
Listing Bartending Skills on a Resume
Now that we’ve covered the basics of creating a bartending resume, it’s time to dive into the nitty-gritty of listing your skills.
Certifications and Licenses
If you’ve obtained certifications or licenses related to bartending, such as a TIPS certification or a food safety certification, be sure to list them prominently on your resume.
| Certification/License | Date Obtained |
|---|---|
| TIPS Certification | February 2018 |
| Food Safety Certification | June 2019 |
Cocktail Creation and Mixology Skills
As a bartender, your ability to craft unique and delicious cocktails is a major selling point. Be sure to list your cocktail creation and mixology skills, including any signature cocktails you’ve created.
- Extensive knowledge of spirits, wines, and beers, with the ability to craft classic and signature cocktails.
- Skilled in molecular mixology and craft cocktail creation, with a focus on seasonal ingredients and flavor profiles.
Point-of-Sale and Inventory Management Skills
As a bartender, you’re responsible for managing cash and credit transactions, as well as maintaining a clean and organized workspace. Be sure to list your point-of-sale and inventory management skills, including any software or systems you’re proficient in.
- Proficient in point-of-sale systems, including Aloha and Micros.
- Skilled in inventory management, with the ability to track and order supplies, as well as maintain a clean and organized workspace.
Customer Service and Interpersonal Skills
As a bartender, you’re often the face of the establishment, and your customer service skills are essential to ensuring a positive guest experience. Be sure to list your customer service and interpersonal skills, including any relevant experience.
- Excellent communication and customer service skills, with the ability to handle difficult customers and work well under pressure.
- Skilled in conflict resolution, with a focus on maintaining a positive and professional demeanor.
Tips for Writing a Standout Bartending Resume
As you create your bartending resume, keep the following tips in mind:
- Be specific: Avoid general terms like “good communication skills” and instead opt for specific examples, such as “excellent communication skills, with the ability to handle a high-volume of customers during peak hours.”
- Use action verbs: Action verbs like “managed,” “created,” and “developed” help to create a sense of accomplishment and achievement on your resume.
- Quantify your experience: Instead of saying “experienced bartender,” say “5+ years of experience as a bartender in high-volume bars and restaurants.”
- Edit and proofread: A single typo or grammatical error can make a significant difference in the impact of your resume. Be sure to edit and proofread carefully before submitting your application.
By following these tips and showcasing your unique skills and experience, you’ll be well on your way to landing your dream bartending job. Remember to stay focused, be creative, and always keep your resume updated and tailored to the job you’re applying for. Happy mixing!
What are the most important bartending skills to list on a resume?
When it comes to listing bartending skills on a resume, it’s essential to highlight your expertise in mixology, customer service, and time management. Employers want to see that you can craft delicious drinks efficiently while providing exceptional service to patrons. Be sure to include skills like cocktail creation, beer and wine knowledge, and ability to multitask during peak hours.
Additionally, highlighting your certification in bartending, such as TIPS or ServSafe, can give you an edge over other applicants. If you have experience with point-of-sale systems or inventory management, be sure to include those as well. By showcasing a well-rounded set of skills, you’ll increase your chances of landing an interview.
How do I quantify my bartending experience on a resume?
When quantifying your bartending experience, it’s essential to use numbers and statistics to demonstrate your accomplishments. Instead of simply stating that you worked as a bartender, try to include specific metrics like “Served 500+ customers per week” or “Increased drink sales by 25% within six months.” This will give potential employers a clear idea of your capabilities and the impact you can have on their establishment.
Another way to quantify your experience is to highlight any achievements or awards you’ve received while working as a bartender. For example, you might mention being named “Bartender of the Month” or receiving a “Certificate of Excellence” from a prominent spirits company. By including these types of metrics and achievements, you’ll be able to showcase your value as a bartender and make your resume stand out.
Should I include soft skills on my bartending resume?
Yes, including soft skills on your bartending resume is just as important as highlighting your technical skills. Soft skills like communication, teamwork, and problem-solving are essential for success in a fast-paced bartending environment. By showcasing these skills, you’ll demonstrate to potential employers that you’re not only a skilled bartender but also a valuable team player.
Some examples of soft skills you might include on your resume are “Excellent communication and interpersonal skills” or “Able to work well under pressure and resolve conflicts efficiently.” You might also highlight your ability to adapt to new situations or think creatively to solve problems. By including these soft skills, you’ll be able to round out your resume and demonstrate your full range of abilities.
How do I tailor my bartending resume to a specific job or establishment?
When tailoring your bartending resume to a specific job or establishment, it’s essential to research the employer and the position thoroughly. Study the job description and requirements, and make sure you’re highlighting the skills and experiences that align with what they’re looking for. You should also research the establishment’s values and mission to get a sense of their company culture.
By tailoring your resume to the specific job and establishment, you’ll be able to show the employer that you’re genuinely interested in the position and that you have the skills and experience they’re looking for. This will increase your chances of getting noticed and landing an interview. Additionally, tailoring your resume will help you stand out from other applicants who may be submitting generic resumes.
Can I include relevant coursework or training on my bartending resume?
Yes, including relevant coursework or training on your bartending resume is a great way to demonstrate your commitment to the profession and your desire to continually improve your skills. If you’ve completed a bartending course or certification program, be sure to highlight it on your resume. You might also include relevant coursework, such as hospitality management or culinary arts, if it’s relevant to the position you’re applying for.
By including relevant coursework or training, you’ll be able to show potential employers that you’re proactive and dedicated to your craft. This is especially important if you’re new to the industry or don’t have a lot of direct experience. By highlighting your educational background, you’ll be able to demonstrate your potential and eagerness to learn and grow as a bartender.
How do I highlight transferable skills from other industries on my bartending resume?
When highlighting transferable skills from other industries on your bartending resume, it’s essential to think creatively about how your skills can be applied to a bartending role. For example, if you have experience in customer service or sales, you can emphasize your ability to provide excellent service and upsell drinks. If you have experience in the food industry, you can highlight your knowledge of food safety and preparation.
By highlighting transferable skills, you’ll be able to demonstrate to potential employers that you have a strong foundation of skills that can be applied to a bartending role. This is especially important if you’re new to the industry or don’t have direct experience as a bartender. By showcasing your transferable skills, you’ll be able to increase your chances of getting noticed and landing an interview.
What’s the best way to format my bartending resume for maximum readability?
When it comes to formatting your bartending resume for maximum readability, it’s essential to keep it clean, concise, and easy to scan. Use a clear and simple font, such as Arial or Helvetica, and choose a standard font size, such as 10 or 11 points. Use bullet points and white space to break up large blocks of text and make your resume easy to scan.
Additionally, consider using a reverse chronological format, where your most recent experience is listed first. This will help potential employers quickly see your most recent skills and experiences. By keeping your formatting clean and simple, you’ll be able to make a strong first impression and increase your chances of getting noticed.