In this article, we’ll look at the best practices for onboarding your new Waiter Or Waitress. We’ll look at the employee onboarding process/steps you can add to your own reusable Waiter Or Waitress checklist.
Need help with onboarding new Hospitality team members? See the templates and resources we recommend for successful onboarding experiences.
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Are you looking for help setting up a staff orientation process so that when your new Waiter Or Waitress 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 Waiter Or Waitress, you’re in the right place. We’ve put together a sample Waiter Or Waitress onboarding checklist below and have created onboarding templates & resources to help.
1. Uniform and Appearance: The task involves providing the new waiter or waitress with the necessary uniform and explaining the company’s dress code policy. This task is typically performed by the human resources department or the manager.
2. Introduction to Company Policies: The new employee should be familiarized with the company’s policies and procedures, including safety guidelines, customer service standards, and any specific rules related to food handling or alcohol service. This task is usually conducted by the manager or a designated trainer.
3. Training on POS System: Since waiters and waitresses often use a point-of-sale (POS) system to take orders and process payments, it is crucial to provide comprehensive training on how to operate the system. This training is typically conducted by a senior staff member or a designated trainer.
4. Menu Familiarization: The new employee should be given a thorough understanding of the menu offerings, including ingredients, preparation methods, and any special dietary considerations. This task is usually performed by the manager or an experienced waiter/waitress.
5. Table Setting and Service: The new waiter or waitress should be trained on how to properly set tables, arrange cutlery, and provide attentive and efficient service to customers. This training is typically conducted by a senior staff member or a designated trainer.
6. Food and Beverage Knowledge: It is essential for waitstaff to have a good understanding of the food and beverage options available, including the ingredients, flavors, and recommended pairings. This knowledge can be imparted through training sessions conducted by the manager or experienced staff members.
7. Customer Service Skills: Waiters and waitresses should be trained on effective communication, active listening, and problem-solving skills to ensure exceptional customer service. This training can be conducted by the manager or a designated trainer.
8. Cash Handling and Payment Processing: Waitstaff should be trained on how to handle cash, process credit card payments, and reconcile cash registers at the end of their shifts. This training is typically conducted by the manager or a senior staff member.
9. Health and Safety Training: Waiters and waitresses should receive comprehensive training on health and safety protocols, including proper food handling, sanitation practices, and emergency procedures. This training is usually conducted by the manager or a designated trainer.
10. Teamwork and Collaboration: Waitstaff should be encouraged to work collaboratively with other team members, such as kitchen staff and bartenders, to ensure smooth operations and excellent customer service. This aspect can be emphasized during team meetings or through ongoing coaching by the manager.
11. Upselling Techniques: Waiters and waitresses should be trained on effective upselling techniques to increase sales and enhance the customer experience. This training can be conducted by the manager or experienced staff members.
12. Conflict Resolution: Waitstaff should be equipped with conflict resolution skills to handle difficult situations or customer complaints professionally and efficiently. This training can be provided by the manager or through role-playing exercises with experienced staff members.
13. Shift Scheduling and Time Management: The new employee should be familiarized with the company’s shift scheduling system and taught how to manage their time effectively to ensure punctuality and smooth transitions between shifts. This task is typically performed by the manager or a designated scheduler.
14. Introduction to Company Culture: The new waiter or waitress should be introduced to the company’s values, mission, and overall culture to foster a sense of belonging and alignment with the organization. This task is usually performed by the manager or a designated trainer.
15. Ongoing Performance Feedback: Regular performance feedback sessions should be conducted to provide constructive criticism, acknowledge achievements, and identify areas for improvement. This task is typically performed by the manager or a designated supervisor
From reading through the items in the example Waiter Or Waitress checklist above, you’ll now have an idea of how you can apply best practices to getting your new Waiter Or Waitress 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.
