What is a bartender and how can I become one?

If you enjoy connecting with people, delivering unique experiences and mastering the art of mixology, bartending could be your ideal career path. In the US alone, around 426,000 people work across various locations, from prestige hotels and luxury resorts to trendy urban bars and clubs.

They don’t just serve delicious and beautifully presented drinks either; they also act as ambassadors for the business and set the tone. Working as a bartender allows you to engage with a variety of people and improve your communication skills and creativity.

This article will look at bartending jobs, responsibilities, skills and the steps you can take to become one.

What is a bartender?

While their main responsibilities are serving alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, bartenders have a range of other responsibilities too, including:

• Mixing drinks: preparing and serving cocktails, beers, wines and other beverages according to standard recipes or customer specifications
• Customer service: engaging with patrons and guests, taking orders and ensuring their satisfaction throughout their visit
• Maintaining cleanliness: keeping the bar area clean and organized, including washing glasses, cleaning counters and disposing of trash
• Inventory management: monitoring stock levels of ingredients and supplies and restocking as necessary to ensure all items are available when needed
• Cash handling: managing transactions accurately by processing payments, giving change and maintaining a balanced cash register
• Compliance: adhering to all health and safety regulations, including checking identification to verify legal drinking age
• Mixology knowledge: staying up to date on the latest drink trends and recipes to provide a varied and exciting menu
• Team collaboration: working effectively with other staff members to ensure smooth operation during busy periods
• Problem solving: handling customer complaints or issues promptly and professionally to maintain a positive environment
• Event support: helping set up special functions and serving drinks

Bartender vs mixologist

Although both work behind the bar, their methods and expertise set them apart. Bartenders typically focus on serving classic drinks efficiently, prioritizing speed and customer service. They excel in managing a range of drink orders and maintaining a lively atmosphere.

In contrast, mixologists specialize in the art of cocktail creation, emphasizing creativity and innovation in their concoctions. They have an in-depth understanding of flavor profiles, spirits and mixers, allowing them to craft unique and complex drinks.

Where do bartenders work?

Drink servers can work in a variety of places, ranging from casual to upscale. Some of the venues you may see bartenders at work include:

• Bars and pubs: these venues focus on providing a relaxed atmosphere for socializing, often featuring a wide selection of beers, wines and spirits
• Restaurants: many dining establishments offer full bar service, providing drinks to complement meals and improve the dining experience
• Nightclubs: known for their energetic vibe, these spots often feature live music or DJs, with drink servers responsible for keeping the party going with creative cocktails and speedy service
• Hotels: many have bars or lounges where guests can relax with a drink
• Cruise ships: serving passengers in various bars and lounges on board
• Casinos: gambling venues often have multiple bars and lounges, providing drinks to patrons enjoying gaming activities
• Special events and catering: private parties, weddings and corporate events frequently require skilled drink servers
• Resorts and spas: bars and poolside service are a key feature of upmarket resorts, creating a relaxing atmosphere for guests to enjoy

Skills and qualities for bartending

Excelling in mixing and serving drinks requires a unique blend of abilities and personal attributes. Some of the soft skills and personal qualities a bartender needs include:

• Communication: clear and friendly interaction with customers helps create a welcoming atmosphere and encourages repeat business
• Multitasking: handling multiple orders at once, especially during busy periods, is vital for maintaining efficient service
• Customer service: anticipating needs and responding promptly to customer requests ensures a positive experience
• Physical stamina: long hours on your feet, often in a fast-paced environment, demand physical endurance
• Creativity: crafting unique cocktails and experimenting with new recipes can set you apart and keep the menu interesting
• Knowledge of beverages: a thorough understanding of various drinks, including their ingredients and preparation methods, is necessary for making recommendations and creating quality beverages
• Problem solving: quickly and calmly resolving issues, such as incorrect orders or customer complaints, maintains a smooth operation
• Attention to cleanliness: keeping the bar area clean and organized is essential for hygiene and efficiency
• Numerical ability: accurate handling of cash and keeping track of tabs are important for managing transactions correctly
• Teamwork: strong team spirit helps ensure service runs smoothly, particularly during busy times

What is the career outlook for bartenders?

Due to the consistent popularity of dining and entertainment establishments, the demand for skilled drink servers is expected to stay consistent.

Job market trends

The trend towards craft cocktails and premium beverages has increased demand for knowledgeable drink servers who can create unique and high-quality drinks. The rise of gastropubs and specialty bars has also created more specialized roles within the field.

Employment projections

While there are around 113,500 bartender job openings each year in the US, drink server employment is projected to increase by 3% by 2032, driven by the growth of the hospitality and food service industry, particularly in urban areas and popular tourist destinations.

Growth opportunities

Many bartenders progress to managerial roles, such as head bartenders or bar managers, overseeing operations and managing staff. They may also eventually become beverage directors, responsible for the overall management of the bar, including inventory and menu development.

Others may open their own bars or become consultants for new establishments. Specializing in mixology or wine expertise can also provide avenues for professional development.

Salary expectations

Depending on experience and expertise, drink servers earn between $20,395 to $26,922 per year. High-end establishments or positions in metropolitan areas may offer even higher salaries and additional perks such as tips and bonuses. Earnings can be different based on location, establishment type and experience level.

In upscale restaurants, high-end bars and major metropolitan areas, they tend to earn higher wages. Tips also constitute a substantial portion of income, with busy and high-traffic venues offering the potential for greater earnings.

Excelling in any type of hospitality, including working in a bar, requires the right customer service skills. With a hospitality degree from a prestigious school, you can improve your career outlook and earning potential as a bartender or bar manager.

How to get a job as a bartender?

Entering the exciting bartending world requires more than just the ability to pour drinks; it demands skill, creativity and finesse. Breaking into this industry involves a blend of experience, networking, passion and a range of skills, from mastering cocktail recipes to perfecting customer service. Some of the steps you can take to become a bartender are:

• Education and training: while gaining a formal education is not always necessary for bartending jobs, a hospitality-related degree will enable you to learn essential skills such as customer service
• On-the-job training: many establishments will train those in entry-level positions, allowing you to learn while working under experienced bartenders
• Gain experience: start by working as a barback (bartender’s assistant) or server in a restaurant or bar to familiarize yourself with the environment and observe bartenders in action
• Learn the basics: study popular drinks, recipes, cocktail preparation techniques and proper bartending etiquette through books, online resources or mentorship from experienced professionals
• Practice: set up a home bar to experiment with mixing drinks and refining your skills in a low-pressure environment
• Obtain certifications: while not always required, credentials such as ServSafe Alcohol and TIPS (Training for Intervention ProcedureS) can strengthen your resumé and demonstrate your commitment to responsible serving practices
• Networking: attend industry events, join professional associations and connect with other bartenders to stay informed about job opportunities and further your hospitality career

How can a hospitality school help you build a career in bartending

Attending a prestigious hospitality institution such as Glion provides a comprehensive foundation for mastering high-end luxury hospitality, which can be incredibly useful for those seeking a bartending career.

Pursuing a bachelor’s degree in a hospitality-related field equips students with a deep understanding of the industry’s intricacies, including the role of bartending in creating exceptional guest experiences. Through specialized coursework and practical projects, students gain insights into the strategic aspects of hospitality management, including revenue optimization and guest satisfaction.

Hospitality internships also provide invaluable real-world experience, allowing you to apply theoretical knowledge in actual luxury settings. These provide hands-on training in high-end environments, where students can refine their  skills under the guidance of industry professionals. 

Conclusion

Bartending offers a rewarding career path for those with excellent customer service skills and passionate about mixology and hospitality. Individuals can thrive in this exciting role with the right skills and credentials obtained through education, training and networking.

Bartenders with the right qualifications and dedication can enjoy fulfilling and lucrative careers, whether aspiring to manage a bar, become a mixologist or open their establishment. With continuous learning and passion, the possibilities are vast and promising.

Enrolling in a renowned institution such as Glion is a great way of laying the foundations for an amazing career in bartending. 

Photo Credits:
Main Image: Getty Sofie Delauw