Top skills you need to crush it in a Waiting job

Looking to land a job as a waiter or waitress? You’re in the right place! 

At Greene King, we know that being successful in a waiting job isn’t just about carrying plates - it’s about creating amazing experiences for our customers. 

Dive into the top skills you need to thrive in this role, and how you can bring a little extra something to the table. 

1. People skills

Let’s face it, being a waiter or waitress is all about interacting with people. You’re the face of the restaurant, and making sure customers feel welcome and well taken care of is your top priority. In fact, one of our core values is being customer-first. 

Whether it’s greeting customers with a smile, helping them navigate the menu, or just chatting with them about their day, being a people person is key. It’s all about making connections and leaving a positive impression, so brush up on those people skills! 

2. Multitasking magic

Ever tried balancing a tray full of drinks while taking orders and answering customer questions? Yeah, it’s a lot. Being able to multitask like a pro is essential in this job. 

You’ve got to juggle taking orders, serving food, checking in on tables, and maybe even handling payments - all at the same time. It can be hectic, but if you can keep calm and carry on, you’re already halfway there. 

3. Attention to detail

The little things matter - whether it’s remembering that a customer asked for no onions or making sure the drinks are topped up before they even ask. 

Having a keen eye for detail ensures that everything runs smoothly and that customers are happy. 

It’s the difference between a good experience and a great one. So, stay sharp, and don’t let anything slip through the cracks!

4. Teamwork makes the dream work

You’re not in this alone! Being a successful waiter or waitress means working closely with your colleagues - whether it’s the kitchen staff, other servers, or the bar team. 

Our culture is deeply rooted in friendships, relationships and camaraderie. It's our teams who help keep this culture alive and are the reason our customers come back time and time again. 

Great communication and a team-first attitude go a long way in making sure everything runs smoothly. When everyone’s on the same page, it’s a recipe for success. 

5. Time management

In the fast-paced world of hospitality, timing is everything. You need to be on the ball with getting orders in, checking on tables, and making sure customers aren’t left waiting. 

It’s all about managing your time wisely so that every customer feels like they’re your top priority. Plus, when you’re efficient, the tips tend to be better too!

6. Problem-solving skills

Things don’t always go to plan, but that’s okay. Whether the kitchen is running behind, or there’s a mix-up with an order, being able to think on your feet and solve problems quickly is a must. 

Customers appreciate it when you handle hiccups smoothly, so being a quick thinker will definitely set you apart. 

Let your waiting job skills shine at Greene King 

Now that you’ve got the lowdown on what it takes to be a superstar in the waiting game, it’s time to put those skills to work. 

So, get out there, show off your skills, and who knows? You might just become the go-to person everyone wants serving their table. 

We’re hiring for waiting staff at Greene King. Submit your application today, no CV needed.

Here’s to making every customer experience a memorable one!