Insights into the World of a Bartender
Working behind the bar isn't just about mixing cocktails and pouring drinks. It's a journey that takes you through a myriad of human interactions, each as unique as the next. As a bartender with over a decade of experience, I've seen a spectrum of behaviors from all kinds of customers. Some people treat me with respect and admiration, while others see my role as a mere servant. Here's a closer look at why and how people treat me the way they do.
Variable Experiences Week by Week
The way customers treat me as a bartender is highly dependent on a variety of factors. It ranges from the type of establishment, such as a night club, restaurant, hotel, pub, or bar, to the time of day or night. Different environments naturally attract different types of customers, and each brings their unique set of expectations and behaviors. Additionally, each bartender has their own personality and style that influences how they interact with customers.
The Spectrum of Customer Behavior
On one end of the spectrum, there are customers who are rude, insecure, and even show-offish. Many of these individuals, typically men, treat me as if I have no useful information or knowledge. This is often not the case; in fact, I have encountered situations where people know less than they believe and feel embarrassed when their intelligence is challenged. It's crucial to handle such customers with care, as they can be prone to taking offense easily.
On the other end, there are those who are respectful and polite, always saying please or thanks with each request. These customers generally treat me as they would any other service industry worker. They recognize the value I bring to their experience and are grateful for the service I provide.
Building Relationships with Regular Guests
Among the customers I've encountered, many have formed lasting relationships with me. Regular patrons often look forward to seeing me at the pub and are eager to try new cocktails or whiskeys. Some even ask me by name, bringing friends along for similar reasons. This constant interaction has allowed us to build trust and camaraderie, making the bar a more enjoyable place for everyone involved.
The Impact of Customer Behavior on Work Environment
While working with the general public has brought me many challenges, it has also been an enriching experience. It taught me to appreciate the diversity of human character and the importance of treating every customer with respect. However, it's important to acknowledge that many people believe they have a grandiose sense of entitlement once they are paying for a service. This can lead to unsettling behaviors and expectations that don't align with the natural give and take of a service-oriented job.
Despite the challenges, I've also had the privilege of meeting amazing people. Some have even become lifelong friends. I've received invitations to events, tickets, and even gifts like a car from generous customers. While these gestures were often unexpected, they reinforced the idea that hospitality and kindness can lead to exceptional experiences.
The Reward and Demands of Bartender Life
The job of a bartender is suited to a specific type of person who can handle the day-to-day stresses and demands of the role. If you are passionate, outgoing, and somewhat good-looking, it can truly be the best job in the world. However, it requires dedication, hard work, and a resilient personality to thrive. The job can be exhausting and sometimes frustrating, but the positive experiences and connections you build make it all worthwhile.
Ultimately, the way customers treat a bartender is a reflection of the overall atmosphere of the establishment and the personality of both the bartender and the customer. Whether you receive rude behavior or respectful treatment, it's important to remember that the role of a bartender does not give one superior status or the right to look down on a customer. In fact, it's the customer who needs the drink, and it should always be our priority to treat them with the respect and care they deserve.
So, the next time you go into a bar or pub, take a moment to consider how your behavior might affect the bartender behind the counter. Let's honor the trade and each other with respect and kindness.