Barback Onboarding Process
Are you looking for help setting up a staff orientation process so that when your new Barback starts their role, they can learn about their responsibilities and your company as quickly as possible? Whether you’re keen to use buddy onboarding, want to automate your Hospitality onboarding experience or just need an onboarding checklist for your new Barback, you’re in the right place. We’ve put together a sample Barback onboarding checklist below and have created onboarding templates & resources to help.
Barback Onboarding Checklist
1. Orientation: The first task for a new barback would be to attend an orientation session. This session would provide an overview of the company’s policies, procedures, and expectations. It may cover topics such as workplace safety, customer service standards, and company culture. The HR department or a designated trainer would typically conduct this task.
2. Introduction to the team: It is important for a new barback to meet and get acquainted with the rest of the team. This task involves introducing the new hire to the bartenders, servers, and other staff members they will be working closely with. The bar manager or a senior team member would typically perform this task.
3. Training on bar equipment and tools: As a barback, it is crucial to be familiar with the various equipment and tools used in the bar. This task involves providing training on how to operate and maintain equipment such as blenders, ice machines, and glassware. The bar manager or an experienced bartender would typically perform this task.
4. Inventory management: A barback is responsible for assisting with inventory management, including restocking supplies, monitoring stock levels, and organizing storage areas. This task involves training the new hire on the company’s inventory management system, procedures for ordering supplies, and how to conduct regular stock checks. The bar manager or a designated inventory manager would typically perform this task.
5. Cleaning and sanitation procedures: Maintaining cleanliness and adhering to sanitation standards is crucial in the hospitality industry. This task involves training the new barback on the proper cleaning and sanitation procedures for the bar area, including cleaning glassware, wiping down surfaces, and sanitizing equipment. The bar manager or a senior team member would typically perform this task.
6. Assisting with bar setup and breakdown: A barback plays a vital role in setting up and breaking down the bar area before and after service. This task involves training the new hire on how to properly set up the bar, including arranging bottles, garnishes, and utensils. It also includes training on how to efficiently break down the bar at the end of the shift. The bar manager or a senior team member would typically perform this task.
7. Learning drink recipes and menu knowledge: A barback should have a basic understanding of drink recipes and menu items to assist bartenders and provide excellent customer service. This task involves training the new hire on the company’s drink recipes, including popular cocktails, beer, and wine selections. The bar manager or experienced bartenders would typically perform this task.
8. Customer service training: While a barback’s primary role is to support the bartenders, they may also interact with customers. This task involves providing customer service training to ensure the new hire understands how to engage with customers, handle inquiries, and provide a positive experience. The bar manager or a senior team member would typically perform this task.
9. Emergency procedures and safety training: In the hospitality industry, it is essential to be prepared for emergencies and prioritize safety. This task involves training the new barback on emergency procedures, such as fire evacuation plans, first aid protocols, and handling unruly customers. The bar manager or a designated safety officer would typically perform this task.
10. Shadowing experienced barbacks and bartenders: To gain practical experience and learn on-the-job skills, a new barback should have the opportunity to shadow experienced barbacks and bartenders. This task involves pairing the new hire with a mentor who can guide them through their daily tasks, answer questions, and provide hands-on training. The bar manager or a senior team member would typically perform this task
Setting Up Your Employee Onboarding Process
From reading through the items in the example Barback checklist above, you’ll now have an idea of how you can apply best practices to getting your new Barback up to speed and working well in your Hospitality team. Scroll up to see the link to our onboarding templates & resources or get in touch to discuss getting help setting up your systems and processes in this area.