In the hustle and bustle of the restaurant world, a server often acts as the face of the establishment, creating memorable dining experiences for guests.
Over our more than a decade-long journey of assisting thousands of restaurant staff, we’ve observed the transformative power of an impeccable server resume. Let’s dive into how to write a good server resume.
Why writing a good server resume is important?
A well-crafted server resume not only lands you the job but also ensures that you are perceived as a competent and professional individual right from the start.
Server resume example
Jane Smith
Miami, FL | 305-555-0123 | [email protected]
Summary
Energetic and customer-oriented server with 4 years of experience ensuring customer satisfaction in high-paced dining environments. Proven ability to handle high-pressure situations and manage large tables without compromising service quality.
Education
South Miami High School
High School Diploma, 2020
Experience
Tropical Breeze Diner, Miami, FL, Server
March 2021 – Present
Efficiently managed a section of 8 tables during peak hours.
Assisted in training new staff, resulting in a 15% reduction in training time.
Maintained 95% positive feedback on customer surveys.
Seaside Restaurant, Miami, FL, Server
June 2018 – February 2021
Introduced a new system for order taking, decreasing errors by 10%.
Regularly upsold by 20% on daily specials and beverages.
Skills
- Customer Service
- POS System Mastery
- Upselling Techniques
- Time Management
- Team Collaboration
- Multitasking
- Menu Knowledge
Certifications
- Food Safety Certification, ABC Institute, 2018
- Responsible Beverage Service Training, 2019
What to include in a server resume?
Your server resume is a reflection of your professional journey in the hospitality industry. Ensuring that it’s comprehensive yet concise is key to catching an employer’s attention. Here’s what to focus on:
- Contact Information: Your name, location, phone number, and professional email address.
- Objective or Summary: A snapshot of your experience, skills, and aspirations.
- Education: Your educational qualifications.
- Experience: Past roles, emphasizing any achievements or milestones.
- Skills: Relevant skills like customer service, upselling, or POS system knowledge.
- Certifications: Any industry-relevant certifications.
- References: Usually mentioned as “available upon request.”
How to create a server resume (step-by-step)
Crafting an impeccable server resume requires methodical planning and attention to detail. Follow these steps to ensure your resume stands out:
Step 1: Start with a Strong Header
Your header should contain your full name, contact details, and a professional email address.
Example: “Jane Smith | Miami, FL | [email protected]”.
Step 2: Craft a Compelling Summary
Summarize your experience and key strengths.
Example: “Energetic server with 4 years of experience in fast-paced dining environments.”
Step 3: List Your Education
Mention your highest educational qualification and any relevant coursework.
Step 4: Detail Your Work Experience
Start with your most recent job. Use bullet points to describe your roles and responsibilities.
Step 5: Highlight Key Skills
List relevant skills such as “Customer Service” or “Time Management”.
Step 6: Mention Certifications
Any relevant industry certifications can be a great addition.
Step 7: Opt for a Clean Layout
Use a professional font and ensure there’s enough white space.
Step 8: Proofread
Eliminate any grammatical or spelling errors.
Step 9: Include References if Relevant
Usually “available upon request” unless specifically asked for.
Server skills and certifications
As a server, possessing a certain set of skills and certifications can set you apart in the restaurant industry.
Skills for Server:
- Time Management
- Effective Communication
- Problem-solving
- Teamwork
- Menu Memorization
- Conflict Resolution
- Sales Techniques
Certifications for Server:
- Food Handling License
- Alcohol Service Certification
- CPR and First Aid
Tips for creating a server resume
Perfecting a server resume requires attention to detail and understanding what potential employers seek. Here are some tips to guide you:
- Highlight Relevant Experience: Showcase your accomplishments, not just responsibilities.
- Use Action Words: Words like “managed”, “served”, “led” can make your resume more dynamic.
- Tailor Your Resume: Customize your resume for each job application.
- Quantify Achievements: Use numbers to demonstrate your impact.
- Stay Updated: Ensure certifications are current.
- Choose a Clean Format: Avoid cluttered or overly busy layouts.
- Proofread: Ensure there are no typos or grammatical errors.
Key Takeaways
- A server’s role is pivotal in shaping a guest’s dining experience.
- An impactful resume summarizes your key strengths in the beginning.
- Customizing your resume for each application can increase chances of a callback.
- Certifications, while not always mandatory, can give you an edge.
- Proofreading is essential to ensure professionalism.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I need a resume for a server job?
Yes, a well-crafted resume can significantly increase your chances of landing a server job by showcasing your experience and skills.
How do I create a resume for a server with no experience?
- Focus on relevant skills like communication and teamwork.
- Mention any volunteer work or roles that required customer interaction.
- Highlight educational achievements.
- Consider certifications like food handling.
- Emphasize your eagerness to learn and adapt.
Can I include non-restaurant jobs on my server resume?
Yes, any job that demonstrates transferable skills like customer service, sales, or teamwork can be relevant and beneficial.
