Welcome to the World of a Bartender: Handling Drunk Guests
Bartenders are the lifeline of any bar. They are the ones who ensure that the patrons leave feeling satisfied and entertained. However, not every guest leaves on a high note. The moment a patron steps out of the bar, the bartender's immediate reaction can vary widely depending on the situation. Let's explore the common responses and the strategies bartenders use when faced with a drunk person heading towards the exit.
Handling Drunk Guests: Common Reactions
The atmosphere in a bar can often be a mix of excitement and nervousness for both patrons and bartenders. Patrons might leave at different stages of intoxication, and it's the bartender's responsibility to ensure everyone's safety and well-being. Here are some common reactions bartenders might have when a drunk person leaves the bar.
1. Relief: 'Fall on Their Knees and Thank the Almighty God'
Many a bartender has felt an intense wave of relief when a particularly drunk person departs. The relief is a mix of gratitude and frustration. Gratitude for the escape, and frustration over the trouble that person might have caused during their stay. The sense of relief stems from the knowledge that potential problems are resolved - now the bartender can focus on serving other customers or planning the next round of drinks or events. It's a sigh of relief that often comes with a moment of prayer or gratitude, almost as if they are thanking the almighty for alleviating themselves of a challenging situation.
2. Concern: 'It's Not Over'
Some bartenders, though not all, may feel a twinge of concern or anxiety when a drunk patron departs. They may wonder about the potential consequences or outcomes once the patron is out of sight. Questions may race through their minds about how the patron will navigate the way home, and whether they might end up causing trouble off the premises. Concern may also include worry about potential legal issues or liability for the bartender themselves. Despite these concerns, the bartender's primary responsibility remains to ensure the immediate environment remains safe and enjoyable for other guests.
3. Indifference: 'Let Them Go'
There are bartenders who prefer a hands-off approach and view their job as one of serving drinks rather than dealing with patrons' personal issues. These professionals may see the drunk patron as the responsibility of someone else, such as a ride service or local authorities. They might believe that it's not their place to interfere and might feel that their next customer is more deserving of their attention. This attitude can stem from various reasons, including busier workloads, personal preferences, or a belief that they haven't provided enough support for the drunk patron to change their behavior.
Strategies for Dealing with Drunk Guests
No bartender prides themselves on having drunk guests leave their establishment. However, there are specific strategies that can help manage such situations effectively.
Offering Alternatives: Bartenders might recommend alternative options such as calling a taxi, taking a ride-sharing service, or even their personal car as a last resort. Sometimes, bartenders might even offer to call a ride service or taxi for the patron, ensuring they get home safely.
Encourage Responsible Drinking: Encouraging patrons to drink responsibly is always a good idea, especially for regular visitors. Regular chats and reminders about moderation can make a significant difference. For new customers, bartenders might provide flyers or information about safer drinking practices.
Call for Assistance: If a situation escalates, bartenders might call for assistance from local authorities or designated staff if the bar has them. Immediate intervention by trained personnel can ensure that the situation doesn't spiral out of control.
Creating a Safe Environment: Having a safe environment, with easy access to points of contact for ride services and ensuring that the bar remains a welcoming space for both inebriated and sober patrons, can significantly reduce the frequency of drunk patrons needing assistance.
Conclusion: The Bartender's Role in Ensuring Customer Safety
Ultimately, bartenders play a pivotal role in ensuring the safety and enjoyment of their customers. Whether they feel relief, concern, or indifference, their primary goal should be to help patrons leave in a safe, controlled manner. By implementing the strategies mentioned, bartenders can offer the best possible experience for all guests, creating a memorable and enjoyable atmosphere for everyone involved.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How can bartenders prevent drunk guests from leaving the bar?
A: Bartenders can prevent drunk guests from leaving by monitoring intoxication levels, encouraging responsible drinking, and offering safe alternatives. They can also establish clear house rules and provide information on local ride-sharing services.
Q: What are the legal implications of bartending for drunk patrons?
A: Bartenders have a responsibility to prevent customers from leaving inebriated. Liability and legal issues can arise if a drunk patron causes accidents or harm to others. Therefore, it's essential to act responsibly and provide safe alternatives.
Q: Are there any specific training programs bartenders can take for dealing with drunk guests?
A: Bartenders can participate in training programs focused on responsible service, recognizing signs of intoxication, and providing support. These programs can help them handle situations more effectively and ensure the safety of all patrons.