It still amazes me when coworkers come to work, unprepared to do their job. When a new server joins our team, they spend many days training with some of us on our different shifts. During these “training days” they show you the ropes, the box and everything you need. While these new girls are training, they are using our pens and calculators. This is when we emphasize that they need to bring their own tools. I’m always the one shaking my head when the same person keeps showing up empty-handed, shift after shift.
I’ll give you a list of the top 15 items that I think every waitress should have on hand, or in a locker or purse at work, with a brief explanation of why.
1) Handful of pens– yes, a handful would be useful. You need to write something for this job. Perhaps writing a food order, a customer or two need to sign a credit card, a pen runs out of ink, a customer needs to borrow one to jot down a phone number or a message, a pen mysteriously disappears, and of course, keeps one. Helpful for the new coworker who comes to work empty-handed every shift!
two) Calculator– useful for creating cross-server tips in one tab. It is also good to check the calculations.
3) Pair of scissors– they are always useful for something and when they are not around, this is the moment when it seems that you need them the most.
4) Headband– masking tape is used to marry a torn ticket, an out of service sign may be needed to affix to the cigarette or lottery machine. How are you supposed to stick the “Kick ME” sign on the back of … just kidding!
5) Felt marker– I use my marker a couple of times a week to lend it to a dancer to sign her posters. Used to mark names on booking posters and sign stag party t-shirts.
6) Aspirin– to get rid of headaches so you can get through the rest of your shift painlessly.
7) Tums– for stomach pains.
8) Gum or mints– Good to have on hand after eating stinky foods like garlic or onion. If you have a cold, it helps alleviate bad breath. If you tend to chew gum like a cow, stay away and have a mint instead.
9) Lipstick or lipstick– You know why.
10) Extra black skirt– in the event of an accident, such as a spill or a broken zipper.
eleven) Additional top– in most cases, an accident like a spill or something like hot sauce.
12) Sweater– especially useful in the winter months. Put on a sweater and don’t waste time with the temperature gauge on the bar. Keep it in the comfort of the clients in the room and not for you.
13) Extra footwear– a sole breaks or a zipper breaks on the boots. Sometimes a shoe change is a welcome change to ease pressure points so you can finish those last hours of a shift in some comfort.
14) Shock absorbers– Yes, I did.
fifteen) “Serving him well” card– Keep it in your bag at all times and even a photocopy at work. This card is required for any server serving alcohol to customers in BC, Canada. Find out the rules about the local alcohol law.
This list is just the beginning. Over time, you will add items that you deem necessary in your work. By being organized and ready to tackle any change, you’ll feel in control and look professional. In the end, you will be handsomely rewarded with good advice!
