sample resume profile for waiter

Waiter Resume Examples & Guide for 2024

You’re a waitress or waiter.

You serve unbeatable service to your hungry customers.

But now it’s time to serve an unbeatable resume to your future employer.

This involves presenting your skills and experiences on a silver platter.

Not sure how to do this?

Well, just follow the simple steps in this guide.

• An example of a finished waiter or waitress resume that works
• How to write a waiter or waitress resume that’ll fill up your interview diary
• How to make your waiter or waitress resume stand out [with top tips & tricks]

Before we get into the details, here’s a waiter and waitress resume example, created with our very own resume builder:

Looks great, right?! Follow the steps below to create a resume that’ll have the restaurants in a frenzy to invite you for a trial shift.

Hunting for a different job in the customer service industry? Check out more resume examples that might interest you:

• Server Resume
• Barista Resume
• Bartender Resume
• Cashier Resume
• Customer Service Resume
• Bar and Restaurant Manager Resume
• Receptionist Resume
• Event Planner Resume
• Flight Attendant Resume

How to Format a Waitress or Waiter Resume

Before you can serve the hiring manager, you need to set the table!

But what does this mean?

Well, the resume needs to follow a format that is easy to digest.

This will please the hiring manager, which is always a good thing!

The most common resume format is “ reverse-chronological ”, and it is one that we always recommend to waiters and waitresses.

Essentially, this format allows the hiring manager to immediately see the benefits in hiring you, rather than having to dig down to the bottom of the page. We recommend all waiters and waitresses start with this format.

The following two resume formats also get our approval:

• Functional Resume – If you’re confident in your ability, but lack the restaurant experience, this resume format is recommended. A functional resume focuses on skills, which makes it ideal for those who lack experience or who have gaps in their employment history.
• Combination Resume – Got both skills AND work experience? Then you’ll want to use this format. Specifically, the format combines both “Functional” and “Reverse-Chronological”.

Once you’ve chosen the correct format for your personal situation, you need to organize set a few resume layout rules.

For a professional look, we recommend…   

• Margins - Border with a one-inch margins on all sides
• Font - Pick a professional font that stands out, but not too much
• Font Size - Use 11-12pt for general text and 14-16pt for headings
• Line Spacing - Use 1.0 or 1.15 line spacing
• Resume Length - Try and stick to a 1-page limit. For guidance, view these one-page resume templates .

Use a Waitress or Waiter Resume Template

There’s no argument that Word is a great program for creating simple files.

But when it comes to presenting a well-formatted resume, you should look elsewhere.

You see, Word isn’t the best for holding structure.

Want to avoid an afternoon of headache? Use a waiter or waitressing resume template .

What to Include in a Waiter or Waitress Resume

The main sections in a waiter or waitress resume are:

• Work Experience
• Contact Information

To really make an impression, you can also add these optional sections:

• Awards & Certification

Interests & Hobbies

So those are the resume sections , but what do you write for each of them? 

Let’s find out!

Want to know more about the different sections? View our guide on What to Put on a Resume .

How to Correctly Display your Contact Information

Now, there’s no need for creative content here, but it must be factually correct. 

Get this section wrong, and you can forget about receiving any interview invitations!

The contact information section must include:

• Title - Align this to the role you’re applying for, so “Waitress” or “Waiter”
• Phone Number – Check each number carefully 
• Email Address - Keep your email professional ([email protected]), unlike that one from your childhood ([email protected]).
• Location - Applying for a job abroad? Mention your location.
• Hanna Fakester - Waitress. 101-358-6095. [email protected]
• Hanna Fakester - Superwoman Waitress. 101-358-6095. [email protected]

How to Write a Waitress/Waiter Resume Summary or Objective

Restaurants are always on the lookout for staff.

But this is a fact that only increases competition among your peer group.

With so much competition in the job market, it is no surprise that recruiters spend less than 6 seconds on each resume.

Yep, you heard that correctly!

Although scary, this fact highlights the importance of a powerful resume.

Specifically, you need an opener that hooks the reader in a matter of seconds.

To do this, use a resume summary or objective .

As a waitress or waiter, you know that a friendly introduction is important. Similarly, both resume summaries and objectives are short introductions that go on top of your resume, just under your contact information.

But what is the difference between a summary and an objective?

A resume summary is a 2-4 sentence summary of your most notable restaurant experiences and achievements.

• Experienced waitress with more than five years of restaurant experience providing personable table service at prestigious establishments in London. Awarded “Employee of the Month” for 36 months out of 48 months. Seeking a waitressing role at Restaurant X, where my service skills can be leveraged to achieve the highest quality of service at Restaurant XYZ.

A resume objective is a 2-4 sentence snapshot of your goals and aspirations.

• Enthusiastic and friendly waitress looking for a waitressing role at Restaurant Z. Passionate about keeping customers happy and satisfied. Relevant experience includes serving groups of customers at a local cafe. Skilled in POS and table setting, with a vast knowledge of Italian cuisine. 

So, should restaurant staff use a summary or an objective?

Generally, applicants with relevant work experience should choose a resume summary. An objective is suited to people with the basic skills, but lack relevant experience, like those who are transferring to the restaurant industry for the first time.

How to Make Your Waiter or Waitress Work Experience Stand Out

Recruiters love nothing more than an employee with work experience.

As such, this section is your best chance to impress.

Here’s the best way for waitresses and waiters to structure the work experience section:

• Position name
• Company Name
• Responsibilities & Achievements

The Rising Sun

07/2017 – 03/2020

• Served food to 80+ people a night and multiple tables at a time
• Educated customers on menu items and daily specials, while offering my personal recommendations based on their feedback
• Welcomed and seated customers in a 96-guest restaurant , while taking their preferences into account to keep everyone happy
• Always engaged customers with a personal, yet professional manner, which helped me to win “Employee of the Month” four months in a row

Focus on how you were a valuable asset at your previous place of work. Doing so will allow the recruiter to see the obvious benefits to making you a member of the team.

Instead of saying:

“Member of bar staff”

“Served food to 80+ people a night and multiple tables at a time”

Simply put, the first statement says nothing. It shows you were a member of staff, but doesn’t go into any other details about your position.

The second statement shows that you had to serve tables under stressful conditions to a large amount of customers. 

Hard numbers that prove your skills – can’t argue with that!

What if You Don’t Have Any Restaurant Work Experience?

Maybe you’re studying and looking for your first waitress or waiter job?

Or maybe, you have experience in hospitality, but never in a restaurant setting?

Don’t worry, there are other options.

You just need to show that you have the basic skills and that you’re willing to learn.

For example, if you’ve worked as a hotel receptionist, you can talk about any crossover skills and experiences. Just like a waitress, you would have to be friendly, deal with groups of people, and operate a cash register. 

Use Action Words to Make Your Waiter or Waitress Resume POP!

Spare a thought for the hiring manager for a minute…

You see, they are faced with the same words in every single resume they read. 

But it doesn’t have to be like that. 

In fact, you can use some action words to make your achievements stand out:

• Conceptualized
• Spearheaded

How to Correctly List your Education

Next, it’s time to talk about your education.

There’s nothing too complicated with this section, just simply enter your education history in the following format:

• Degree Type & Major
• University Name
• Years Studied
• GPA, Honours, Courses, and anything else you might want to add

Majoring in Culinary Arts

Boston State University

2018 - Present

• Relevant Courses: Food and Beverage Operations, Food Microbiology and Hygiene, Kitchen Techniques, and Pastry Techniques

Now, you don’t need a degree or higher education to be a waitress, so you may have a few questions in regards to this section. Here are the answers to some of the most frequent questions that we get:

What if I haven’t completed education yet?

• Simply mention every year or the modules that you have studied to date.

Should I include my high school education?

• Generally, you should only include your highest form of education.

What do I put first, my education or experience?

• For a waiter or waitress role, your experiences always come first.

Need more advice? Check out our guide on how to list education on a resume .

Top 10 Skills for a Waiter or Waitress Resume

Whether you’re skilled enough to juggle three plates with one hand or have the ability to remember five orders from the top of your head, the hiring manager will want to know.

However… you can’t list every skill in your arsenal.

So, what do hiring managers want to see?

Essentially, you need to look at the job ad to identify which skills the restaurant is looking for.

Here are some of the most common skills...

Hard Skills for Waiter/Waitress Resume:

• Math (basic calculations)
• POS & cash register 
• Table setting
• Italian cuisine 
• Cognac, whisky, vodka, rum, gin

Soft Skills for Waiter/Waitress Resume:

• Personable and friendly 
• Endurance (long hours)
• Conflict resolution 
• Time management 
• Team player
• The hiring manager will typically ask interviewees for examples of when they have shown the skill listed. As such, only include skills that you actually posses.

Here’s a more comprehensive list of 150+ must-have skills this year.

What Else Can You Include?

Hurrah! We’ve now covered all of the essential sections.

But don’t call final-orders just yet. 

Your resume needs to stand out !

Adding the following sections could be the deciding factor in whether you’re hired for the waitress or waiter role.

Awards & Certifications

Have you ever been employee of the month?

Have you completed any relevant courses on coursera?

If you’ve got something to be proud of, put it in your resume!

• “Employee of the Month” - The Rising Sun
• “Learning How to Learn” - Coursera Certificate

Applying to an Italian restaurant?

Then being fluent in Italian is a good way to shortcut your resume to the top of the pile.

Whether the job description requires it or not, being able to speak multiple languages is impressive – and no one can argue with that!

Rank the languages by proficiency:

• Intermediate

Now, you may be wondering, “ how is my soccer hobby related to my work as a waiter?”

Well, your hobbies allow the hiring manager to learn more about you as a person. 

Interests show that you’ll be a good addition to the team, especially if your hobbies involve social interaction.

Here’s which hobbies & interests you may want to mention.

Include a Cover Letter with Your Resume

Want to really make an impression?

Then you should write a convincing cover letter .

You see, a resume is great at giving the essential facts, but nothing speaks to a hiring manager like a well-written cover letter .

The hiring manager has to read through generic resume after generic resume. 

In fact, it’s not uncommon for the hiring manager to get confused between multiple applications!

A cover letter instantly allows you to make a personal connection .

Oh, and cover letters shows the hiring manager that you care about working for their company.

Here’s how to create a structure that works:

You should complete the following sections:

Personal Contact Information

Include your full name, profession, phone number, email, and address 

Hiring Manager’s Contact Information

Include their full name, position, location, email

Opening Paragraph

To hook the hiring manager, the start of your resume needs to pack a punch. Use concise language to mention:

• The position you’re applying for
• Your experience summary and best achievement to date

Once you’ve sparked the hiring manager’s interest, you can delve further into the following specifics...

• Why you chose this specific restaurant
• What you know about the restaurant culture
• How your skills will be beneficial to the restaurant
• If there are any similar industries or positions you have worked in before

Closing Paragraph

Avoid ending the conversation abruptly, you should:

• Conclude the main points of your letter
• Thank the hiring manager for their time and the opportunity
• End with a call to action. This is a good way to continue the conversation further. A simple “At your earliest opportunity, I’d love to discuss more how I can Restaurant X” will work.

Formal Salutations

Although you should remain personal, the letter should end in a professional manner. Use something like, “Kind regards” or “Sincerely.”

For extra advice and inspiration, read our step-by-step guide on how to write a cover letter .

Key Takeaways

Because if you follow the above advice, you’re about to get that waitress or waiter job!

Let’s total up everything we’ve consumed:

• Choose the correct format for your specific situation. Prioritize the reverse-chronological format, and then follow the best practices on content layout
• Draw the recruiter in with a short, snappy resume summary or objective
• In your work experience section, highlight your most relevant and best achievements rather than your restaurant duties
• Make your application personal and specific with a convincing cover letter

Suggested reading:

• 10+ Best Answers for Why Do You Want to Work Here?
• Why Should We Hire You - 10+ Best Answers
• 22+ Strengths and Weaknesses for Job Interviews [2024 Best Answers]

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Waiter/Waitress Resume Examples and Templates for 2024

• Resume Examples
• Resume Text Examples
• How To Write a Waiter/Waitress Resume
• Entry-level
• Senior-level

Waiter/Waitress Text-Only Resume Templates and Examples

Clark Ryan (123) 456-7890 | [email protected] | Philadelphia, PA 12345 | www.linkedin.com/example

Energetic Waiter with 2+ years of experience in a high-volume chain restaurant. Provide courteous, attentive service while driving sales of daily specials, appetizers, and desserts. Fast learner who adapts readily to new work challenges and conditions.

• Customer Service & Satisfaction
• Efficiency Improvement
• Food & Beverage Service
• High-Volume Restaurant Operations
• Lightspeed POS
• Menu & Order Memorization
• Payment Processing
• Task Prioritization
• Team Collaboration
• Time Management

Work Experience

Waiter, Applebee’s, Philadelphia, PA | October 2020 to Present

• Quickly and courteously serve food and beverage orders to ~30 customers per shift
• Use Lightspeed POS system to process cash, credit, debit, and gift card payments
• Support other servers and kitchen staff by completing side work such as cleaning, restocking, and food running

Highlight :

• Used cross-selling methods to increase personal appetizer and dessert sales by 25%

Receptionist, LMN Incorporated, Philadelphia, PA | September 2019 to September 2020

• Consistently praised for strong efficiency and customer relations in a fast-paced environment

Candidate: Bachelor of Arts (BA) in English, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA | expected May 2023

Certification

• ServSafe Food Handler, National Restaurant Association

Carly Williams (123) 456-7890 | [email protected] | Philadelphia, PA 12345 | www.linkedin.com/example

Collaborative Waitress with nearly seven years’ experience at popular Italian restaurants. Enjoy working on a team to provide guests a memorable and positive dining experience. Bilingual: Fluent in English and Spanish.

• Customer Relations & Service
• Menu & Ingredient Memorization
• POS Systems (Toast, Upserve)
• Process Streamlining
• Product Sales & Promotions

Professional Experience

Waitress, Le Virtu, Philadelphia, PA | April 2019 to Present [Rustic Italian restaurant with 75 seats]

• Take and serve food and drink orders to patrons of this popular local restaurant
• Proactively learn new seasonal food and cocktail menus to provide guests up-to-date information on menu and specials
• Use POS system to input orders and process cash, debit, credit, and gift card payments
• Perform side work (including setup, sanitization, restocking, and assisting other servers) to help maintain a clean, efficient facility
• — Named “Employee of the Month” 3 times for top-quality customer service and team support

Waitress, Birra, Philadelphia, PA | June 2016 to April 2019 [Casual Italian restaurant with 90 seats]

• Took orders and promptly delivered food and beverages to guests
• Increased personal sales 20% by effectively promoting specials and food-alcohol pairings
• Fluency in Spanish

Julie Bonner (123) 456-7890 | [email protected] | Philadelphia, PA 12345 | www.linkedin.com/example

Personable Waitress with 10+ years of experience in fast-paced restaurant settings. Skilled at memorizing menus, training new hires, and providing top-caliber service to customers. Draw on strong knowledge of POS systems, including Toast, TouchBistro, and Upserve.

• Cross-Team Collaboration
• New Hire Training
• Personnel Management
• Point-of-Sale (POS) Systems
• Team Leadership & Motivation

Head Server, The Capital Grille, Philadelphia, PA | December 2019 to Present [Upscale restaurant with 100 seats]

• Oversee shifts of 10-12 servers in a high-pressure work environment
• Take food and drink orders for ~40 guests per shift
• Memorize daily specials, seasonal cocktail list, and regular menu to quickly address customer questions and advise on possible allergens and substitutions
• Onboarded and trained 20 new servers to date

Waitress, Talula’s Garden, Philadelphia, PA | October 2016 to November 2019 [Farm-to-table restaurant with 50 seats]

• Served food and drink orders to ~20 guests per shift
• Studied extensive list of locally sourced ingredients to accurately answer guests’ menu questions
• Anticipated customers’ needs by promptly refilling drinks, providing extra napkins, and clearing away empty plates
• Recommended food-beverage pairings on request

Waitress, Cantina Los Caballitos, Philadelphia, PA | August 2012 to September 2016 [Popular casual Mexican restaurant]

• Served food and drink orders to guests in a fast-paced work setting
• Performed side work such as cleaning and restocking to help maintain a pleasant, efficient facility
• Processed cash, credit, debit, and gift card payments on POS system
• Bachelor of Arts (BA), Temple University, Philadelphia, PA

How to Write a Waiter/Waitress Resume

You can write a great resume for your waiter or waitress job search by showing you provide guests with a positive dining experience. To convince hiring managers you’re right for their restaurant, you’ll want to emphasize relevant skills such as engaging with customers, working quickly with kitchen staff, or handling special orders and menu questions. You can also enhance your resume by giving background details that align with your job targets, such as the types of cuisine you’ve served or the size of restaurants you’ve worked at.

The following tips and examples will help you organize your best information into a resume that gets you closer to your next waiter or waitress job.

1. Write a dynamic profile summarizing your waiter/waitress qualifications

In a brief paragraph, your Profile should describe your top qualifications for your target waiter or waitress role. Think about the ways you’ve excelled in past service jobs and what you’ve been praised for by restaurant managers, customers, or other waitstaff. For instance, maybe you’ve shown high efficiency in bringing food and drink orders to customers. Or you’ve taken on training duties for junior waitstaff at your current restaurant and want to continue those in your next role. You may also want to cite your experience in a similar dining environment or type of cuisine, if possible, so restaurant managers see that you’d train quickly.

Entry-Level Profile Example

Senior-level profile example, 2. outline your waiter/waitress experience in a compelling list.

A strong Experience section describes not just your relevant duties but also the positive impact of those duties on each restaurant where you’ve worked.

You can show your impact as a waitress or waiter by giving specific numbers on your performance. These may include how many customers you served, how much revenue you brought in, or where you ranked on your team for guest satisfaction. When data isn’t available, you can still show results by explaining how the job responsibility promoted the restaurant’s overall success. For instance, if one of your task areas was side work like cleaning and restocking, you could mention how these duties helped the kitchen staff stay efficient and on-task preparing food orders.

Entry-Level Experience Example

Waiter , Applebee’s, Philadelphia, PA | October 2020 to Present

Mid-Career Experience Example

Waitress , Le Virtu, Philadelphia, PA | April 2019 to Present

[Rustic Italian restaurant with 75 seats]

• Proactively learn new seasonal food and cocktail menus
• Named “Employee of the Month” 3 times for top-quality customer service and team support

3. Include your waiter/waitress-related education and certifications

For purposes of finding a waiter or waitress job, your education and certifications are probably less important than any service experience you have. But know that for some restaurant managers, a school diploma or relevant certification can give you an edge over other applicants, so you’ll want to include those credentials. Also, consider citing any formal training you’ve had on safe food handling since that’s a requirement for servers in some states.

Below are templates and examples to help you format your education and certification details on your resume. Note that optional template areas are in [brackets].

• Degree Name — [Major], School Name, City, ST | [Year]
• Certification Name or Title, [Awarding Organization] | [Year]

4. List your waiter/waitress-related skills and proficiencies

You can enhance your waiter or waitress resume with a “Key Skills” section covering customer relations, payment processing, and food and beverage service. In addition to these core areas, you may want to add any skills you have in restaurant POS systems.

Also, consider using this section to show your background in the type of dining environment you’re now seeking. For instance, if you’d like to work in a high-volume restaurant and have experience, include the phrase “High-Volume Restaurant Operations.” Below is a list of common skills for waitress or waiter resumes:

How to Pick the Best Waiter/Waitress Resume Template

As with most vocations, waitresses and waiters should use a resume template that’s clear and straightforward. Choose a visual format that lets the hiring manager quickly review your most impressive career details. Select a simple resume font , and avoid any template that has an overly colorful or elaborate design.

Chris Shatto - Hospitality Recruiter and Expert Contributor, Linkedin

Meet our Expert: Chris is a respected hospitality leader with over 20 years of experience in upscale and luxury hotels and clubs, and is the owner of Gecko Hospitality, a renowned recruiting firm.

1. What are the most in-demand skills for waitstaff that should be featured on a candidate’s resume? -

Hard skills:

• Knowledge of POS systems: Familiarity with common restaurant software and hardware is crucial.
• Food safety knowledge: Understanding of food handling and sanitation guidelines.
• Menu knowledge: Ability to explain menu items, make recommendations and answer customer queries.

Soft skills:

• Communication: Articulate, clear, and patient communication with guests and team members.
• Multitasking: Managing multiple tasks at once, keeping cool under pressure.
• Conflict resolution: Handling customer complaints and issues calmly and effectively.

Additional qualities:

• Teamwork: Collaborating effectively with kitchen and front-of-house staff.
• Professionalism: Maintaining a positive attitude, even in stressful situations.
• Certifications/awards: Any relevant recognitions, such as ServSafe certification or 'Employee of the Month' awards.

2. What work experience and other accomplishments are hiring managers looking for in a waitstaff? -

• Prior serving experience: This is often the first thing hiring managers look for. Whether it's in a fast food joint, a casual dining establishment or a high-end restaurant. Your ability to handle customers, take orders, serve food, and clear tables efficiently and professionally can significantly boost your chances.
• Customer handling: You should have experience dealing with a variety of customers. This includes handling complaints, providing excellent service, and creating a welcoming atmosphere for all guests.
• Food and drink handling: Experience with handling food and drinks is crucial. This includes knowledge of different types of cuisine, beverages, and the appropriate serving etiquette.
• Menu familiarity: You should demonstrate a thorough understanding of the restaurant's menu, including the ability to make recommendations and answer questions about ingredients, preparation methods, and dish pairings.
• POS system experience: Experience with Point of Sale (POS) systems is often required.
• Knowledge of safety and health guidelines: Understanding and adhering to health and safety guidelines, such as food handling procedures and cleanliness standards, is essential in this role.
• Communication and teamwork skills: These are key in a busy restaurant environment. You must be able to communicate effectively with customers, kitchen staff, and other waitstaff to ensure smooth operations.
• Adaptability: Restaurants are fast-paced environments. Your ability to quickly adapt to changing circumstances, such as sudden rushes or unexpected issues, will be highly valued.
• Extended hours capability: The ability to work long hours, often on your feet, is a common requirement in the restaurant industry.
• Personal attributes: Hiring managers also value personal qualities like attentiveness, patience, and a positive attitude. These traits can greatly enhance the dining experience of customers.

3. What else besides a resume should a waitstaff candidate be prepared to provide hiring managers? -

• Cover letter: A well-crafted cover letter allows us to gauge your communication skills and understand your motivation for applying to our restaurant. It also shows their knowledge about our establishment, demonstrating their commitment and interest.
• Sample menu: Candidates who provide a sample menu with suggested drinks and dishes demonstrate creativity and an understanding of our cuisine and branding. This could be especially beneficial for restaurants that frequently change menus or have a unique culinary focus.
• Recommendations: Letters of recommendation from previous employers give us insights into their work ethic, reliability, and team spirit. This is crucial in the fast-paced hospitality industry, where teamwork is key.
• Certifications: Relevant certifications, such as food safety or alcohol service training, underscore a candidate's dedication to professional development and adherence to industry standards.
• Additional job experiences: Experiences outside of waitstaff roles, perhaps in customer service, event planning, or even theater (for performance and presentation skills), can bring additional value to their role within our restaurant.
• Availability schedule: A candidate's schedule gives us an idea of their flexibility. In the restaurant industry, the ability to work during peak hours, weekends, and holidays is often a necessity.
• Personal testimonials: Testimonials from previous customers can provide a firsthand account of the candidate's customer service skills, attentiveness, and ability to create a positive dining experience.

4. What advice would you give a waitstaff candidate about their job search? -

• Optimize your LinkedIn profile: Recruiters often use LinkedIn to find potential candidates. Make sure your profile is up-to-date, includes a professional photo, and showcases your skills and experience. Consider asking colleagues or previous employers for recommendations to boost your profile's credibility.
• Network: Reach out to contacts within the hospitality industry. Attend industry events, join online forums or groups related to your profession. Networking can often open doors to opportunities that aren't advertised.
• Research potential employers: Before applying, research each restaurant to understand their style, values, and customer base. This information will help you tailor your applications and prepare for interviews.
• Apply to relevant job opportunities: Use job search engines, industry-specific job boards, and company websites to find suitable opportunities. Don't limit yourself to advertised positions; consider sending speculative applications to restaurants you're interested in.
• Prepare for interviews: Anticipate common interview questions and prepare thoughtful responses. Practice makes perfect. Also, think about questions you can ask the interviewer to show your interest in the role.
• Follow-up: After an interview, send a thank you note expressing your continued interest in the role. If you haven't heard back within the expected timeframe, it's acceptable to follow up with a polite inquiry.

Frequently Asked Questions: Waiter/Waitress Resume Examples and Advice

What are common action verbs for waiter/waitress resumes +.

You might do dozens of things during a busy shift to provide guests with a great dining experience. But it can be hard to put that in writing on your resume. You may find yourself running out of action verbs to describe your work. To help you vary the language in your job descriptions, we put together this list of strong resume verbs for waiters and waitresses:

How do you align your waiter/waitress resume with a job posting? +

The Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasts that jobs for waiters and waitresses will increase by about ten percent between 2021 and 2031. This growth rate is faster than the average for all US jobs.   You can get more interviews in this growing field if you tailor your resume for each application. One great way to do this is by adding brief descriptions of the restaurants where you’ve worked in brackets right next to or below the restaurant name. Restaurant descriptions let you show any similarities between your past workplaces and the one that posted the job. For instance, maybe you’ve worked for restaurants of a similar size, cuisine, or service philosophy. By adding these details to your descriptions, you can make your resume that much more relevant to each new waiter or waitress job opportunity.

What is the best waiter/waitress resume format? +

In nearly all cases, you should use a Combination (or Hybrid) resume because it’s easiest for hiring managers to learn about your pertinent skills and experience – it’s also easiest for you to modify based on your job goals.   With the Combination format, you highlight your most relevant skills and experience in your Experience or Work History section and an intro section. (This combination of work history and intro content is where the format gets its name.) Usually, your resume intro should include a Profile summary and a Key Skills section. You may also include an Awards or Career Highlights section. Choose the details for these intro sections carefully. Make sure each item helps show your overall excellence as a waitress or waiter.

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Jacob Meade

Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW, ACRW)

Jacob Meade is a resume writer and editor with nearly a decade of experience. His writing method centers on understanding and then expressing each person’s unique work history and strengths toward their career goal. Jacob has enjoyed working with jobseekers of all ages and career levels, finding that a clear and focused resume can help people from any walk of life. He is an Academy Certified Resume Writer (ACRW) with the Resume Writing Academy, and a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) with the Professional Association of Resume Writers & Career Coaches.

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Build a Resume to Enhance Your Career

• How to Show Your Customer Service Skills on a Resume Learn More
• How to Turn Basic Duties Into Powerful Achievements on Your Resume Learn More
• How Far Back a Resume Should Go Learn More

Essential Guides for Your Job Search

• How to Write a Resume Learn More
• How to Write a Cover Letter Learn More
• Thank You Note Examples Learn More
• Resignation Letter Examples Learn More

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3 Waiter Resume Examples to Land Your Next Job in 2024

Waiter Resume

Formal waiter resume, elegant waiter resume.

• Waiter Resume Writing 101

You take orders and make any amendments with speed and accuracy. You fulfill food and drink orders ASAP, process payments, and tidy each table in between guest parties.

But which resume template allows you to best present your versatility, endurance, and customer service skills? What are recruiters looking for that will show them why you should be their new waiter?

Don’t worry, we’ve got this. After helping people in the food industry for years, we’ve developed three waiter resume examples and a cover letter ai generator to assist you on your journey to success!

or download as PDF

Related resume examples

• Bartender waitress
• Beginner waitress
• Cocktail waitress
• Waitress hostess

What Matters Most: Your Skills & Work History

Your job skills are like the “appetizer” of your resume, giving recruiters a quick taste of what you’re capable of. Pique their appetite for more information about your readiness for the job by basing your skills list on the job description .

Don’t pitch your fine dining experiences too much if you’re applying to work at a small fried food place! Make sure your focus matches the restaurant’s by studying the job description .

Your skills should be as exclusive to the waiter role as possible. That means listing abilities like “guest greeting” instead of “customer service.” Recruiters should be able to review your skills list and immediately know your profession (and your niche within it).

9 most popular waiter skills

• Guest Greeting
• Table Layout
• Wine Pairings
• Reservations
• Restaurant365

Sample waiter work experience bullet points

That’s a nice-looking skills list! But recruiters are hungry for how you’ve applied your abilities in a restaurant, bar, or catered event setting. How do your skills from your previous cashier job translate to your ability to service diners as a waiter?

Work experiences take your skills and put them in context to give a more accurate overview of your capabilities. Make sure you share your best success stories. Every bullet point should nail why you’re a good fit for this job .

And don’t forget metrics! Quantifiable data is the “missing ingredient” on a lot of resumes, so don’t leave ratings, percentages, or other data out of yours.

Here are a few samples:

• Collaborated effectively with kitchen staff and fellow waitstaff, leading to a 21% reduction in order-to-table delivery time
• Participated in Typsy staff training sessions, leading to an improvement in menu knowledge accuracy and an enhanced ability to answer customer queries, earning a personal feedback rating of 4.8/5 stars
• Achieved an average table turnover rate of 12 minutes by leveraging Marketman, leading to a 22% decrease in wait times for customers
• Operated dishwasher machinery and achieved an average of 99% cleanliness and quality of washed items

Top 5 Tips for Your Waiter Resume

• We know we mentioned this earlier, but it’s worth remembering. Even if previous jobs you’ve worked were unrelated to waiting tables, they still build your credibility if they gained you skills that you use as a waiter.
• Not to boast, but we think our resume templates are pretty good! Try each one and see which looks best with your arrangement of qualifications. Everyone’s balance of restaurant experiences and digital payment skills is different, so pick the template that highlights your best selling points.
• No matter how great your waiter experiences are, they probably won’t be read if they’re on page two! Recruiters only have a few seconds for you to wow them, so play around with different sections until everything is streamlined and fits nicely on one page.
• If you’ve struggled to pare down your resume to the appropriate length, keep your cover letter in mind. Any experience points that make your resume bulky could be perfect for a cover letter that’ll complement your resume and help land you the job!
• It might sound boring, but you should read the job description several times and visit the organization’s website! Your waiter resume will come across as way more well-informed, and your dedication to the role will already be established.

That’s a pretty cool idea, but ensure you keep color use to a minimum. You don’t want to visually distract recruiters from the qualifying information that makes you a uniquely good fit as their next waiter. Keep fonts sleek and simple, too!

All of them, as long as they relate to the job role, like OSHA or a Food Service Management Certificate. These extra credentials will set you apart and fit nicely alongside your education or skills section on your resume.

If you aren’t new to waiting tables, you probably have little to gain from an objective statement . Your experiences might speak strongly enough for themselves. But you might want to utilize an objective if you’re new or a resume summary if your work history is extensive!

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Waiter resume examples & templates

Resume header

If you’re looking for a job as a waiter, chances are you won’t have difficulty finding an open position. Hospitality workers are in high demand at the moment, meaning you’ll have a choice when it comes to finding a higher-paying waiter job with hours that suit you. To get that great gig, however, you’ll need a well-crafted resume that puts your service skills on display.

Whether you’re looking for your first job or are well into your career as a waiter, Resume.io is here to help. With 350+ resume examples and occupation-specific writing guides, we’re an expert resource for every job seeker. This resume guide, along with the corresponding resume example will cover the following topics:

What does a waiter do?

• How to write a waiter resume (tips and tricks)
• The best format for a waiter resume
• Advice on each section of your resume (summary, work history, education, skills)
• Professional resume layout and design hints.

One-third of all Americans got their first job in a restaurant! A waiter job is a great opportunity for those looking for their first professional experience. Source: National Restaurant Association

A waiter is a restaurant or dining establishment staff member who is primarily responsible for taking customer orders, bringing food to tables, and checking on the needs of the diners throughout their meal. Waiters, often called servers, are key members of front-of-house staff where they work alongside hosts and restaurant managers. They also interact with the kitchen staff and may even be responsible for light kitchen tasks like preparing drinks or adding garnishes to dishes.

A waiter’s role can take on many different facets, but here are some of the most common responsibilities:

• Memorizing menu items, allergens, ingredient lists, and wine pairings
• Greeting customers and taking their orders while answering any menu questions
• Offering recommendations and upselling desserts and drinks
• Preparing drink orders and bringing them quickly to the table
• Serving food and bringing additional items to the table as needed
• Clearing plates away and taking payment from customers
• Helping with light decorating tasks, table setting, or inventory work

How to write a waiter resume

The very first step in writing your waiter resume is understanding what sections to include. Your CV should contain the following elements:

• The resume header
• The resume summary (aka profile or personal statement)
• The employment history section
• The resume skills section
• The education section

Since hospitality jobs are highly skills-based, many applicants for waiter positions do not spend much time on their resumes. While this is a mistake on their part, it means that with a bit of time and effort, you can easily rise above the competition and prove your professionalism to a restaurant manager. 

The first step to writing a great waiter resume is to do your research. Even if you’re a hospitality veteran, each business is a bit different and it’s important to know the type of work environment you are applying to. Make sure to research the restaurant online and visit it in person if possible. Take note of the menu offerings, the location, and the type of clientele. What type of uniform does the waitstaff wear? Is the interior elegant and upscale or more casual and family-oriented? How big is the menu and what are the average prices? These may seem like basic questions, but they can help you tailor your resume to the exact needs of the employer, increasing your chances of landing the job.

For a waiter position, you may or may not have a job description. If you do, make sure to read it closely to better understand the types of skills the employer is looking for. Make sure to place any specific, technical skills on your resume using the employer’s exact language to increase your chances of standing out.

Choosing the best resume format for a waiter

Waiters have a few options when it comes to choosing the best resume format. If you have a few restaurant or industry-related experiences under your belt, you will likely want to opt for the reverse chronological resume format. This format gets its name from its focus on the employment history section where previous positions are listed starting with the most recent and working backward through the past ten years of experience. This is the format you will see in our waiter resume sample because it is the one most hiring managers expect to receive.

However, waiter positions can make for great first jobs. If you’re looking to get your professional start, you may choose a functional or hybrid resume. A functional resume focuses on skills and may also include an “Experience” section where you can list any unrelated jobs, volunteer work, or school activities. The hybrid format is a combination of both types and often starts with the skills section before including a shorter work history section. These alternative resume types are best suited for students and those applying for their first job. If you have some experience in the field, the reverse chronological format is the way to go.

Found at the top, or occasionally the side, of your resume, the header is the section that captures your name and contact details so that the employer can identify your application and contact you easily to set up an interview. For a waiter, your name and phone number are generally the only contact details you will need to include, although you may also choose to add a location. The resume header also helps to add a touch of attractive formatting which should be appropriate for the restaurant you are applying to. We’ll discuss design questions later on in this guide.

Resume summary example

The resume summary is the first section following the header. These 3 to 5 sentences serve as the introduction to your resume and are meant to highlight your top skills and experiences. As a waiter, your personality and ability to make a great first impression are essential to your work, so the resume summary is the best place to prove that you have the right personality for the job. 

Make sure to use descriptive language and action verbs to show that you’re a charming and effective waiter. Mention your top attributes in the summary and leave the details for the rest of the resume. If you’ve done a good job with this section, the employer should be excited to read on. See our adaptable resume example below.

Dedicated, energetic service professional with a keen talent for providing guests with premium service in fine dining environments. Strong talent for cultivating authentic connections that delight and satisfy, building a loyal guest base of repeat patrons.

The summary is the most freeform part of your resume so you may want to take a look at our related resume samples for inspiration. Start with our:

• Pastry chef resume sample
• Food service worker resume sample
• Barista  resume sample
• Hotel management  resume sample 
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Employment history sample

The employment history section is the main course of your resume. This is where you’ll get into the details of your previous waiter positions or other hospitality jobs. For each entry, create a subheading with the job title, employer (restaurant) name, dates worked, and location. Then, add 4 to 5 bullet points with your duties, skills, and any noteworthy accomplishments like being chosen as employee of the month or a record sales number. 

Instead of just listing your responsibilities, make sure to craft each bullet point in a way that shows your value to the business and convinces the prospective employer that you could do the same for their restaurant. Numbers, statistics, and concrete information can all help to convey your impact. Check out our employment history resume sample below for more insight.

Waiter at Ivan's Stakehouse, New York, NY  June 2018 - April 2023 

• Delivered exceptional dining experiences for guests, offering personalized service and food/beverage recommendations to ensure satisfaction.
• Collaborated with back-of-house staff to develop menu options, utilizing insights gleaned from customer interactions to recommend new, trend-driven recipes.
• Quickly responded to guest issues and conflicts, finding resolutions in partnership with restaurant management to maintain positive experiences.

Head Waiter at Pearl Asian Fusion, New York, NY  January 2014 - May 2018 

• Guided guests through a unique menu, recommending popular dishes based on unique customer taste preferences and dietary restrictions.
• Engaged with high-profile clientele, delivering stellar service and hospitality to elevate restaurant reputation.
• Offered prompt service in a high-volume environment, closely attending to all guest needs and wants.

Waiter at Le Coucou, New York, NY  January 2012 - January 2014 

• Upsold desserts and drinks through expert pairing suggestions.
• Provided premiere service for high-profile, high-value clientele, cultivating trusted relationships through hands-on engagement.
• Maintained expert knowledge of all menu items, wine pairing suggestions, and allergens to offer guidance to guests.

CV skills example

Skills are at the forefront of your work as a waiter, so make sure to complete this CV section with care. First, reread the job description, if you have one, and pick out any duties or knowledge emphasized by the employer. The skills section usually takes the form of a bullet-point list, so you’ll want to choose the top 4 to 5 skills that are most relevant to the job you’re applying to.

As a waiter, it’s very important to include a mix of hard and soft skills. Hard skills are technical knowledge like bartending, POS systems, and inventory management. Soft skills are the personality traits like a welcoming disposition, attentiveness, and efficiency that allow you to give customers a great dining experience. See our resume example below.

• Customer Service
• Food & Beverage Pairings
• Wine Recommendations
• Guest Experiences
• Knowledge of Food Allergies
• Conflict Resolution

Waiter resume education example

One of the great things about working as a waiter is that you won’t need an advanced degree in order to earn a consistent income. However, as the education section is part of any complete resume, you’ll still need to include one no matter the level of education completed.

As you did with the employment history section, make sure to list your previous educational experiences from most recent to oldest. Include the degree name, school, dates attended, and location. Under each entry, you can also add a bullet point or two to mention anything relevant to a waiter role. Leadership positions, hospitality classes, or honors can all make for worthwhile additions. See our resume example below.

Bachelor of Arts in Performance, New York University, New York, NY  January 2007 - May 2011

Waiters often complete continuing education courses or certificates relevant to their role. If you’ve done any food safety, management, CPR, or bartending courses, make sure to add them to the education section of your resume.

Resume layout and design

Just as the look of a restaurant tells the client something about the dining experience they’ll have, the layout and design of your resume tell the employer about your skills and seriousness about the position.

Make sure to tailor the layout and design to the prospective employer. A pop of color in the header can help you fit into a family-oriented establishment while an upscale, fine-dining restaurant may prefer a neutral color scheme. Professionally-designed resume templates can help you quickly try out different styles and even create different versions of your resume when applying to multiple jobs.

Here are a few more formatting tips to follow:

• Keep a balance of white space to text to make your resume easy to read.
• Add a touch of color to make your resume stand out.
• Use bolded section titles and bullet points to keep your resume organized.
• Adjust your margins to cram in more information or to make your experience fill the page.
• Use more than one or two font styles.
• Forget to proofread before you submit!

Key takeaways for a waiter resume

• Waiters and other hospitality workers are in high demand so now is a great time to write that resume and land a new opportunity!
• The summary serves as an introduction to your resume and should help present you as a friendly and effective waiter.
• Don’t forget to use numbers and statistics to show the impact you had in previous waiter roles.
• Our adaptable resume sample can help you get started creating the layout for your own waiter resume.

Beautiful ready-to-use resume templates

• • Developed a streamlined process for taking and delivering food orders, reducing wait times by an average of 15%.
• • Led a team of 10 staff members in maintaining safe food handling standards, achieving a 99% compliance rate on health inspections.
• • Managed inventory and purchasing for dining services, cutting food waste by 25% while ensuring quality and variety.
• • Enhanced customer dining experience by implementing a feedback system which improved guest satisfaction scores by 10%.
• • Coordinated with the kitchen staff to ensure timely delivery of special dietary requests, accommodating 100+ unique requirements monthly.
• • Organized staff training on menu items and ingredients, leading to a 20% increase in upsells on premium beverage and food pairings.
• • Promoted guest satisfaction by personalizing dining experiences for 200+ guests daily while maintaining a quick service pace.
• • Implemented sanitary protocols for food delivery, contributing to a 30% reduction in safety incidents.
• • Boosted team morale and efficiency through the introduction of performance incentives, resulting in a 15% increase in positive guest reviews.
• • Streamlined the ticket collection and cash handling procedure, enhancing checkout speeds by approximately 20%.
• • Conducted allergen training, certifying 15 new staff members, and ensuring menu knowledge compliance.
• • Introduced local organic produce to the menu, driving a 10% increase in overall sales through customer health and wellness engagement.
• • Efficiently addressed and resolved customer dining complaints, maintaining a high level of guest satisfaction.
• • Participated in weekly cleanliness initiatives, contributing to an award-winning store environment for two consecutive years.
• • Served as a liaison between dining guests and kitchen staff to ensure accurate and efficient order fulfillment.

5 Waiter Resume Examples & Guide for 2024

Your waiter resume must highlight your exceptional customer service skills. Prove your ability to handle busy dining environments with grace. Showcase your knowledge of menu items and dietary accommodations. Efficient multitasking and money-handling abilities are essential for your waiter resume.

All resume examples in this guide

Resume Guide

Resume Format Tips

Resume Experience

Skills on Resume

Education & Certifications

Resume Summary Tips

Additional Resume Sections

Key Takeaways

As a waiter, articulating your unique skill set on a resume can be challenging when you have diverse and often underappreciated expertise. Our guide offers targeted strategies and examples to help you effectively highlight your customer service prowess, multitasking abilities, and adaptability to future employers.

• waiter resumes that are tailored to the role are more likely to catch recruiters' attention.
• Most sought-out waiter skills that should make your resume.
• Styling the layout of your professional resume: take a page from waiter resume examples.

How to write about your waiter achievements in various resume sections (e.g. summary, experience, and education).

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Designing your waiter resume format to catch recruiters' eyes

Your waiter resume will be assessed on a couple of criteria, one of which is the actual presentation.

Is your resume legible and organized? Does it follow a smooth flow?

Or have you presented recruiters with a chaotic document that includes everything you've ever done in your career?

Unless specified otherwise, there are four best practices to help maintain your resume format consistency.

• The top one third of your waiter resume should definitely include a header, so that recruiters can easily contact you and scan your professional portfolio (or LinkedIn profile).
• Within the experience section, list your most recent (and relevant) role first, followed up with the rest of your career history in a reverse-chronological resume format .
• Always submit your resume as a PDF file to sustain its layout. There are some rare exceptions where companies may ask you to forward your resume in Word or another format.
• If you are applying for a more senior role and have over a decade of applicable work experience (that will impress recruiters), then your waiter resume can be two pages long. Otherwise, your resume shouldn't be longer than a single page.

Upload & Check Your Resume

Drop your resume here or choose a file . PDF & DOCX only. Max 2MB file size.

Bold the names of educational institutions and certifying bodies for emphasis.

Essential sections that should make up your waiter resume include:

• The header - with your contact details (e.g. email and telephone number), link to your portfolio, and headline
• The summary (or objective) - to spotlight the peaks of your professional career, so far
• The experience section - with up to six bullets per role to detail specific outcomes
• The skills list - to provide a healthy mix between your personal and professional talents
• The education and certification - showing your most relevant degrees and certificates to the waiter role

What recruiters want to see on your resume:

• Experience in providing excellent customer service in a restaurant or hospitality setting.
• Knowledge of point of sale (POS) systems and cash handling.
• Ability to memorize menu items and make recommendations based on customer preferences.
• Strong communication skills, both verbal and written, for taking orders accurately and interacting with customers.
• Physical stamina and agility to carry trays, stand for long periods, and work in a fast-paced environment.

Quick guide to your waiter resume experience section

After deciding on the format of your resume, it's time to organize your experience within the dedicated section.

It's common for waiter professionals to be confused in this part of the process, as they may have too much or little expertise.

Follow the general rules of thumb to be successful when writing this part of your resume:

• The perfect number of bullets you should have under each experience item is no more than six;
• Select not merely your responsibilities, but the most noteworthy achievements for each role that match the job requirements;
• List any certificates or technical expertise you've gained on the job and how they've helped you progress as a professional;
• Carefully select the power verbs to go along with each bullet to avoid generic ones like "managed" and instead substitute those with the actuality of your particular responsibility;
• Integrate valuable keywords from the job advert in the form of achievements under each role you list.

If you're on the search for further advice on how to write your waiter experience section, get some ideas from real-world professional resumes:

• Implemented a unique personal rapport-building strategy with guests that increased average table turnover by 20%.
• Commanded a team-based initiative to streamline the table setup process, achieving a 15% decrease in customer wait times.
• Orchestrated a weekly wine pairing event that boosted wine sales by an impressive 30% and enhanced customer dining experiences.
• Spearheaded a customer feedback program that identified key areas for service improvement, leading to a 10% rise in satisfaction ratings.
• Managed and resolved over 150 dining-related mishaps, maintaining composure and professionalism which preserved customer loyalty.
• Educated new staff on the intricacies of a fine dining etiquette, thereby enhancing the overall team's performance and service delivery.
• Streamlined the restaurant's reservation system by integrating new software, leading to a 25% improvement in seating efficiency and reducing overbooking incidents.
• Collaborated closely with kitchen staff to develop a special gluten-free menu that catered to a growing customer base, resulting in a 10% increase in sales.
• Managed inventory and ordering of supplies, reducing waste by 20% through meticulous tracking and ordering processes.
• Revamped the approach to upselling desserts and appetizers to guests, which saw a consistent 15% upsurge in average order value.
• Played a crucial role in the planning and execution of a major restaurant renovation, ensuring minimal disruption to service and preserving 90% of the regular clientele.
• Acted as the point of contact for VIP guests and high-profile events, tailoring services to exceed expectations and uphold the establishment's prestigious reputation.
• Designed a training manual adopted by the waitstaff that improved service consistency and guest satisfaction across the board.
• Coordinated a seasonal menu launch each quarter, offering training and taste-testing sessions for staff, increasing knowledge and enthusiasm for selling new items.
• Reduced order inaccuracies by 40% by implementing a new order taking protocol that emphasized active listening and confirmation techniques.
• Leveraged strong multitasking skills to manage up to 15 tables simultaneously while maintaining high-quality service standards.
• Played a pivotal role in the adaptation to a contactless payment system which streamlined billing, reducing table closure time by an average of 10 minutes.
• Facilitated a cross-training program that allowed waitstaff to proficiently assist with bartending duties, increasing operational flexibility and staff utilization.
• Initiated a weekly live music program that attracted an average of 50 more customers per night, translating to a significant boost in beverage sales.
• Negotiated with local vendors to secure premium ingredients at a reduced cost, thus improving menu quality without sacrificing profit margins.
• Launched a successful loyalty program that incentivized repeat business and increased the customer return rate by 25% within the first year.
• Introduced an effective communication channel between the kitchen and the front-of-house teams, resulting in a 35% reduction in order preparation time.
• Facilitated the establishment's participation in a city-wide restaurant festival, which garnered the business prestigious culinary awards and a surge in patronage.
• Developed a guest profile system that tracked preferences and allergies, personalizing the dining experience and resulting in high praise on review platforms.
• Instrumental in transitioning the eating establishment to a farm-to-table concept, enhancing the freshness of dishes and customer trust in the brand.
• Conducted in-depth training sessions on wine characteristics and pairing suggestions, empowering staff to increase wine sales by 18%.
• Pioneered a volunteer program allowing staff to engage with the community, enhancing the restaurant's image and fostering goodwill.
• Orchestrated the implementation of a digital ordering system, significantly expediting order processing time and reducing errors by 22%.
• Curated special event nights that drew in crowds and amplified sales—a Taco Tuesday night became a local favorite, increasing midweek profits by 35%.
• Championed the introduction of an organic cocktail menu that catered to health-conscious patrons, successfully contributing to a 20% uplift in bar revenue.

Quantifying impact on your resume

• Include the number of tables you manage per shift to demonstrate your ability to handle volume and multi-task efficiently.
• State the average customer satisfaction score you received if available, showcasing your commitment to service excellence.
• Report the percentage of up-selling success you achieve with menu items and specials to highlight your sales skills.
• Mention the number of repeat customers you typically serve to underline your ability to create a loyal customer base.
• Specify the size of the largest party you have successfully served, indicating your capability to manage high-pressure situations.
• Detail the amount of daily sales you are responsible for to show your contribution to the restaurant's revenue.
• Quantify any improvements you contributed to service efficiency or cost reduction, such as reduced table turnover time.
• Include the number of new staff you trained, underscoring your leadership skills and ability to mentor others.

Action verbs for your waiter resume

Waiter resume without experience: a walk-through guide

If you don't happen to have any relevant experience yet, you can substitute this with:

• Short-term gigs and stunts - like month-long internships, that you have done during your university days
• Contract work - be specific about the relevance and outcomes of each role you include
• Resume format that prioritizes your skills - the functional-skill-based format or hybrid format could work
• Research roles - feature those especially prominently if you've participated in a noteworthy project or your role was of utmost importance to the project's success.

Recommended reads:

• How to List GPA on Your Resume
• How to Put Cum Laude on Your Resume

If you failed to obtain one of the certificates, as listed in the requirements, but decide to include it on your resume, make sure to include a note somewhere that you have the "relevant training, but are planning to re-take the exams". Support this statement with the actual date you're planning to be re-examined. Always be honest on your resume.

Waiter resume skills: the essential hard skills and soft skills checklist

Ultimately, your Waiter resume should hint to recruiters that you possess an array of talents that are indispensable to the role.

For example, listing the technologies and software you're apt at using (or your hard skills) and how you apply them in your day-to-day responsibilities would ensure you meet the technical requirements of the role.

But is this enough to ensure that you make a good impression on recruiters?

Go a step further by detailing the soft skills or personality traits you've attained thanks to your work and life experience.

The best way to balance hard skills and soft skills on your Waiter resume is by:

• Highlighting up to three of your most noteworthy career accomplishments in a separate section.
• Listing at least one hard skill and one soft skill you've used to solve a particular challenge or problem.
• Feature niche skills and technologies that would help you stand out amongst candidates.
• Think back on the social impact your efforts have had towards improving the work environment - were you able to always maintain a professional ethic, while enhancing the team culture? Write about your contribution to the role, department, or organization itself as a metric of success.

The skills section of your resume provides you with plenty of opportunities to detail your technical and personal traits.

All you have to do is select the talents that best fit your application and expertise. Make note of some of the most prominent hard and soft skills across the industry from our list:

Top skills for your waiter resume:

Table setting and etiquette

Knowledge of menu items

Cash register operation

Point of Sale (POS) system usage

Basic food and beverage preparation

Food safety and hygiene

Order taking

Table service procedures

Bill calculation and processing

Drink mixing and serving techniques

Customer service

Interpersonal communication

Active listening

Conflict resolution

Time management

Multitasking

Attention to detail

Stress management

If you're in the process of obtaining your certificate or degree, list the expected date you're supposed to graduate or be certified.

Listing your education and certifications on your waiter resume

Don't underestimate the importance of your resume education section . As it may hint at various skills (and experience) that are relevant to the job. When writing your education section:

• Include only higher education degrees with information about the institution and start/end dates
• If you're in the process of obtaining your degree, include your expected graduation date
• Consider leaving off degrees that aren't relevant to the job or industry
• Write a description of your education if it presents you with an opportunity to further showcase your achievements in a more research-focused environment

When describing your certifications on your resume, always consider their relevancy to the role. Use the same format to describe them as you would for your education. If you're wondering what the best certificates out there are for waiter roles, check out the list below.

The top 5 certifications for your waiter resume:

• Food Handler's Certificate (FHC) - National Restaurant Association
• Tips Alcohol Certification (TIPS) - Training for Intervention Procedures
• ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification (ServSafe FP) - National Restaurant Association
• Certified Restaurant Server (CRS) - American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute
• First Aid & CPR Certification (FA/CPR) - American Red Cross or American Heart Association
• Perfecting the Education Section on Your Resume
• How To List Certifications On A Resume (Examples Included)

Practical guide to your waiter resume summary or objective

First off, should you include a summary or objective on your waiter resume?

We definitely recommend you choose the:

• Resume summary to match job requirements with most noteworthy accomplishments.
• Resume objective as a snapshot of career dreams

Both the resume summary and objective should set expectations for recruiters as to what your career highlights are.

These introductory paragraphs (that are no more than five sentences long) should help you answer why you're the best candidate for the job.

Industry-wide best practices pinpoint that the waiter resume summaries and objectives follow the structures of these samples:

Resume summaries for a waiter job

• Dedicated server with over 6 years of experience in fast-paced, high-end restaurant environments, proficient in POS systems and wine pairings. Recognized for consistently surpassing sales targets by 20% and awarded ‘Employee of the Month’ four times for exceptional customer service and teamwork.
• Energetic career switcher with a decade in customer service management, seeking to bring transferable skills to the food service industry. Excelled in building customer relations and staff leadership, aiming to apply strong communication and organizational abilities to enhance guest dining experiences.
• Former retail supervisor eager to leverage 5 years of customer-centric service, inventory management, and team leadership into the hospitality sector. Adept at handling high-pressure situations and committed to creating memorable dining experiences through attention to detail and a warm, engaging manner.
• With 8 years of experience as a bistro waiter, adept in menu presentation and bespoke customer service, having increased customer retention by 30%. Recognized for a keen ability to upsell specials and wine selections, contributing significantly to the restaurant’s revenue growth.
• As an enthusiastic individual with a passion for hospitality and customer engagement, my objective is to deliver exceptional dining experiences by utilizing strong interpersonal skills and a quick-learning aptitude in a fast-paced restaurant environment.
• Seeking to begin a career in hospitality as a waiter, with a focus on developing expert-level knowledge in customer service, fine dining etiquette, and beverage service to contribute to memorable meal experiences and enhance the establishment’s reputation.

Showcasing your personality with these four waiter resume sections

Enhance your waiter expertise with additional resume sections that spotlight both your professional skills and personal traits. Choose options that not only present you in a professional light but also reveal why colleagues enjoy working with you:

• My time - a pie chart infographic detailing your daily personal and professional priorities, showcasing a blend of hard and soft skills;
• Hobbies and interests - share your engagement in sports, fandoms, or other interests, whether in your local community or during personal time;
• Quotes - what motivates and inspires you as a professional;
• Books - indicating your reading and comprehension skills, a definite plus for employers, particularly when your reading interests align with your professional field.

Key takeaways

• Pay special attention to the tiny details that make up your waiter resume formatting: the more tailored your application to the role is, the better your chances at success would be;
• Select the sections you include (summary or objective, etc.) and formatting (reverse-chronological, hybrid, etc.) based on your experience level;
• Select experience items and, consequently, achievements that showcase you in the best light and are relevant to the job;
• Your profile will be assessed both based on your technical capabilities and personality skills - curate those through your resume;
• Certifications and education showcase your dedication to the particular industry.

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Waiter Resume & Writing Guide

How to produce a kick-ass (waitress) waiter resume? We suggest starting by checking out our top-notch Waiter resume samples!

You want to make sure your resume gets noticed from the rest of the applications by being both informative and entertaining to read, without overwhelming the recruiter or hiring manager with too much information.

How you create a resume into an interview-winning document, we will explain to you in detail below with our: How to Make a Resume Guideline for Waitresses and Waiters

Waitress & Waiter Resume Examples

Or download these examples in PDF at the bottom of this page for free

Waitress Resume Writing Guide

Resume sections.

1. Contact Details:

• Phone Number
• Email Address
• Driver's license

2. Career Summary : This is the crucial introduction that sets the tone for your resume. Include no more than 1-3 sentences giving a broad overview of your background, years of industry experience, and why you would be a good fit for the role. You should be specific and state which role you are applying to and what value you can add to the business. > See out examples below!

3. Qualifications Summary: Provide accurate details about the certifications and qualifications you have completed with the institution, qualification name, and dates. Don’t forget to include the qualifications you are currently completing. Also, add any in-house training or courses you have done.

4. Relevant Waitering/Serving Experience : Clearly state your employment history from your in-service training (if applicable) up to your current position. Use short bulleted sentences to list the most important daily activities under each role you have had.

5. Other Waiting/Serving Experience: This will include events or work history outside the formal food and beverage industry field, but which may be important for the employer to know about, like part-time waiting gigs at your high school functions or once-off events you were part of waitering at a neighbor's wedding or serving drinks at a special family event. This section is paramount if you are looking for your first job without formal experience as a Waiter or waitress.

6. Skills Summary/Key Skills: Incorporates keywords from the job posting and your specific skill set. This adds much-needed credibility to your resume.

7. Education/Licenses/Certifications/Relevant Coursework/Training: Start with your formal food and beverage certifications (if you have any) and post-school diplomas or accreditations if you are a member of a Culinary Training Institute. List any professional development that supplements your competencies as a Waiter like food preparation or food and wine pairing courses.

What to Highlight in a Waiter Resume

In conjunction with your work experience in restaurants, hospitality or corporate events, there are specific details employers and recruiters look for to ensure that you are the right culture fit.

Be sure to highlight the types of food and beverage environments you have worked in as a waiter. These may include the following establishments:

• Restaurants
• Guesthouses
• Private clubs
• Contract caterers
• Other establishments that serve food
• Hotel/Restaurant Caterers
• Private Caterers

Other examples of waiting gigs may include special events like weddings, anniversaries, and birthday celebrations or corporate events such as product launches, banquets, charity fundraisers, or annual Christmas parties. The types of industry areas you have worked in need to be included both in the summary at the top section of your resume and within each position description.

Furthermore, employers want to see specific details regarding the nature of your working environment. Did you waiter at a laid-back coffee shop, in a busy diner or an upmarket country club. If you are working in a permanent job at a hotel or restaurant, you may want to mention the average hours you work during a month and indicate if you work during weekends as well.

*Cool Tip for a stellar resume

You can create a positive first impression by dividing your job description according to the main responsibility areas of a Waiter.

Menu Presentation : Presents menus to customers and suggests or recommends certain items. Taking orders for food and drinks

Serving : Notifying the kitchen of orders and fetching them, serving food and beverages to patrons, and removing empty dishes from the table throughout their meal.

Upselling : Make sure that customers are satisfied and that they have everything they need but also recommend additional courses like desserts or after-dinner drinks

Checks : Issues charge slips and take payment

Cleaning : Removes dirty dishes and sets and cleans tables

Inventory : Keeps the service area well stocked with the necessary items

Supervisory : If you are a Senior Waitress responsible for managing other waiting staff, include your duties here such as timekeeping, in-service training, scheduling shifts, and making salary payments

Make sure to include:

• The locations you are available to work in and whether you are willing to travel to events with your own transport
• The ratings and marks you have attained during your culinary schooling if applicable
• Special skills like wine pairing, specialty cocktails, booking systems or billing applications
• A list of all the industry areas you have worked in for example restaurants, country clubs, hotels, wedding venues, pubs, events companies, catering coordinators and so forth

Waitress Career Summary & Examples

Restaurant, Food and Beverage, and catering managers usually receive many applications for permanent as well as part-time roles. Your resume needs to stand out amongst the applications. Keep your career summary concise and to the point. Add the most important information first to capture their attention while they’re quickly skimming your resume.

Start your career summary with your years of experience in the industry and the main tasks you have performed. When deciding what duties to add, use the job description as your guide. For instance, if the job you are applying emphasizes expertise in fine-dining plating or the ability to carry heavy trays for buffet presentation, use those phrases in your resume if you have that type of skill. The more your resume mirrors the job description of keywords, the better fit you will seem.

Secondly, add a blurp that highlights any outstanding qualities that may add value to the company. A hiring manager would like to know whether you have “excellent customer service skills, creative problem-solving abilities and if you can ‘’think on your feet in times of crises. It’s important to note that these qualities should be proven in the professional experience section to amplify your message.

Finally, end with your educational degrees/diplomas and certifications/licenses you may have that are pertinent to the job like your Bachelor of Hotel and Hospitality Management Degree or a Certificate in Culinary Arts. Usually, a waiter job does not require anything more than a high school diploma, but if you are applying to a 5-Star Hotel or posh catering institution post-school qualifications are usually required and necessary if you want to move up the ranks into managerial roles.

Two examples of different career summaries:

Career summary example 1.

‘Energetic head waitress with 6+ years of expertise in a fast-paced Greek restaurant. Achieved county-best culinary satisfaction rating according to regional food critic (98.16%). Knowledge of various beverage options, including wines, cocktail, and beer and imported spirits.'

Career Summary Example 2

‘Dedicated waitress with four years of part-time service in the food service industry. Committed to providing exemplary service to patrons. Demonstrate active listening and communication skills. Familiar with various restaurant settings, including bars, diners, canteens, family restaurants, cafeterias, banquets, and room service. Comfortable serving patrons of all ages and cultural backgrounds.'

Career Summary Example 3

“ Customer-focused Hospitality Waitress with 8+ years’ experience serving patrons at New York’s Senses and Tastes. Served to up to 40+ guests per night and guaranteed all meals were served timeously. Conducted the restaurant’s payment transactions with 100% accuracy. “

Summary Example 4

“ Efficient college student with 1+ years’ experience as a weekend barista. Comfortable with fast-paced environments and accurate with bills (99% correct cash transactions). Received the “Barista of the Month” award in 2018. Excited to support the wait staff team at Hans and Lloyd. Hard-working Hospitality Waiter-to-be. Interested in the opening for the serving position at Hans and Lloyd. Previous experience includes bartending. “

Pro Tip: Leave your Hospitality Waiter resume summary/ objective only at the end after you’ve written the other sections. It’s easier to gather the best material.

Waitress Job Descriptions, Responsibility and Duty Examples

A hiring manager would expect to see certain foundational skill sets in your resume application.

An entry-level stage Waitress (less than 1 year experience) may:

• Responsible for collecting menu requests from patrons
• Serve meals to patrons and collect dishes and cutlery
• Clean tables and remove dirty plates and cutlery items
• Replenish clean linens, glassware, silverware, and dishes
• Supply service staff with food
• Serve patrons with water, coffee, and condiments
• Clean and polish furniture, shelves, walls, and equipment.
• Stocked refrigerators with alcoholic beverages
• Guaranteed quality service of up to 65 guests per night without order mistakes.
• Providing weekly menu items training to other Hospitality Waiters and bartenders.
• Facilitated problematic situations, managing to resolve all issues.
• Organized the kitchen-service order flow and observed client satisfaction regularly.

A Waiter at the mid-career stage (2-4 years’ experience) may

• Sets up, decorate, and prepare serving and dining areas according to specific directions and layout plans established by the catering manager
• Take orders from customers and timeously serve food and beverages to them
• Do consistent check-ins with patrons to ensure satisfaction and address complaints swiftly
• Answer questions about the menu items and make recommendations when asked.
• Assist in the preparation of appetizers, salads, and cold dishes
• Assist front-of-house by greeting, seating, and thanking customers
• Communicate with kitchen staff directly and via computerized systems to place and follow up on orders
• Created a system for task management, assisting in quickening workflow by 23%.
• Decreased diners’ waiting time by 19% due to a new table placement method.

A Waitress at experienced stage (4-6 years’ experience) may:

• Supervise a team of junior waiters and servers
• Attend to problematic issues and complaints from patrons
• Responsible for timekeeping and shift scheduling
• Assist junior waiters in servicing larger patron groups
• Inspect dishes before they get served
• Handle finishing touches and elaborate plating of food items

Highlight Your Accomplishments

You may be tempted to copy and paste the list of job tasks you performed as detailed in your job description. The drawback to doing this, though, is that you won’t stand out from the other applicants with similar experience. When listing accomplishments, you need to highlight those aspects that set you apart from the rest of the candidates. What you are most proud of, or what you achieved in your previous roles. Then communicate these through action-packed statements that will grab the reader’s attention.

Flat, Simple Duty (WHAT NOT TO DO):

• Taking orders and serving meals to customers. 

Accomplishment Statement (DO THIS RATHER):

• Managing an average of 20 tables per shift, and HANDLING orders and serving of up to 7 tables at once. 

Quantifying Your Resume

When writing your resume think about providing numeric statements like “ How many ?” or “ How often ?” For example:

• How many hours do you work during a week?
• What is the average bill amount or turnover you achieve per table?
• How many tables do you take orders from per night?
• ‘Was part of a team of 6 waiters working in the busy diner with 40 tables, serving an average of 20 patron groups per shift.'
• ‘Worked as a part-time waitress at a catering company and handled four wedding receptions, one banquet, and three product launches during the last six weeks.'
• Devised a task management system that assisted in speeding up workflow by 27%.
• Decreased diners’ waiting time by 18% due to a new table placement idea.
• Kept up 93.2% rating for customer satisfaction 20 months in a row.

Waiter Education Section & Examples

You don’t necessarily need a crazy degree to get a gig as a waitress. That doesn’t change the fact that you must document the education you do have efficiently. Otherwise, no one will give your resume a second glance. Include your school name, accreditations, and finishing date if you have plenty of work experience. 

You can truly make a real impact with this section. Formal training obviously must be listed, but please don’t forget any diplomas, in-house training, and/or courses you’ve done or are doing. All you need to indicate is the What, Where, and When for your qualifications, certifications, or industry licenses achieved. Your qualification's name, the institution name, and the date you finished is more than enough. 

2020 Bachelor of Culinary Science, Majoring in Food and Nutrition. University of Alaska Anchorage, Anchorage, AK. 

• Applicable Coursework: Food and Culture, Nutritional Biochemistry, Microbiology, Medical Nutrition Therapy, Food Service Management, Nutrition Care Process, Environmental Science, Nutritional Journalism, Nutrition and Exercise Physiology. 

2015 Mountain Springs High School, High School Diploma Mountain Springs, LA

2016 – 2017 Certificate in Wine and Food Pairing, Culinary Institute of America, San Antonio, TX  

What to Write in a Catering Resume Skills Section

Although the food and beverage industry requires specific technical skills, employers also consider soft skills. These are the personality traits you have that relate to your fitness as a potential employee who will add value, has adequate knowledge, sufficient experience, and will be easy to manage. Incorporate these into your summary and your accomplishment statements.  

Technical Skills Examples

• Educational Attainment: A university degree is not required to become a Waiter, but if you want to have a better probability of moving up into a Restaurant Manager role later, it is advantageous to have some form of tertiary education. This is especially applicable if your qualification is in a field related to the industry you are pursuing, for example, a Bachelors's in Hotel Management or Culinary Arts.

• Technical Aptitude: Waitress need to be task-orientated and meticulous to handle more than one table of patrons simultaneously and get the correct meals out to the right table. They need to be physically fit to handle long periods on their feet and also to carry heavy trays to tables

• Other Technical Skills: Booking systems, Telephone etiquette, Customer Service, Sales, Marketing, Quality Control.

Waitress Soft Skill Examples

Technical skills

Qualifications associated with Waitresses

Action Verbs for your Waiter Resume

Industries using Waiters:

• Restaurants & Pubs
• Holiday Resorts and Wedding Venues
• Event Companies
• Catering Consultants
• Conventions
• Guest Houses
• Coffee Shops

Professional information of Waitresses

Sectors : Food & Beverage , Hospitality, Events Career Type : Functional, Task Orientated, People Orientated Person type : Worker, Assisting, Helper, Server, Sales Education levels : From High School Diploma to Bachelor Degree Salary indication : From $22k to $31k annually / $4 – $21 per hour Labor market : Subject to 9% growth from 2016 – 2026 Organizations : Restaurants, Pubs, Hotels, Catering Venues, Holiday Resorts, Canteens, Diners, Country Clubs

Hospitality Waitress Word Resume Download

• Hospitality Waiter Word Resume 1.docx

• Hospitality Waiter Word Resume 2.docx

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Waiter and Waitress Resume Examples

Get the best tips and examples from HR experts for your waiter/waitress resume

Server Resume Samples

1. Candidate seeking waiter position

Part-time student with 4 years of experience as waiter, looking for a new role with responsibilities in customer care and basic food handling. Proficient with different payment methods with a welcoming, friendly demeanour.

• Dealt promptly with customer queries and complaints to find suitable solutions
• Cleaned and set restaurant for 70 diners
• Provided adequate recommendations according to menu and information supplied
• Communicated efficiently between kitchen, bar staff, and clients

2. Candidate seeking waitress position

Experienced waitress with food handling certificate keen to fill new role as responsible waitress and kitchen assistant. Efficient serving abilities, IT and numerical skills, and excellent communication.

• Maintained cleanliness of restaurant for 50 people, clearing tables, bar, and self-service areas
• Worked with team to improve product knowledge and learn more about menu options to provide better customer service and ultimately increased overall tips by 35%
• Resolved any queries or problems as they arose, liaising with bar staff and kitchen
• Informed of specials and offers available on a daily basis

Waiter and Waitress Resume Vocabulary & Writing Tips

Finding the rights word to include in your waiter/waitresses resume  can sometimes be difficult. It is important to note that you must add words in your resume that are related to the hospitality industry in case the company you are applying to uses  Applicant Tracking Software (ATS)  to screen their candidates. This could be common practice in large restaurant or hotel chains.

Using a  waiter/waitresses resume example , candidates can tailor their information to the specific job that they’re applying to, employing particular  resume keywords  which correspond to the job and establishment, taken from the job description and vacancy advertisement or company’s website.

Resume adjectives  must properly describe the individual and his/her experience. It is important to note that the  resume vocabulary  should not be too exaggerated because it can become overwhelming for the reader. Remember that the content is just as important as the appearance of your resume.

It is important to  crosscheck the resume for grammar and spelling errors . It gives a very bad impression if your resume is filled with silly mistakes.

Words to Use

• POS (Points of sale)
• Hospitality
• Multitasking
• Responsible
• Customer service
• Problem-solving
• Food service
• Bar service

Action Verbs

• Communicate

Waiter and Waitress Resume Tips and Ideas

The rise in the hospitality industry  has increased the demand for more waiters and waitresses, meaning recruiters are now faced with more and more choice. If you want to land job interviews and get through your job search easily and successfully, you need an  impressive waiter or waitress resume  for your applications.

Writing an attention-grabbing waiter/waitress resume  is an achievable task when you have the right tips and ideas. For you to stand out and be a successful candidate for waiter/waitress jobs, your resume has to contain the necessary information and be written in the proper way. Look over these tips to get started on writing and fine-tuning your tailored  waiter/waitress resume. 

A waiter/waitresses resume should include a  professional summary  or  resume objective . This is where you would summarize your work experience and any other activities you’ve done that are related to the job vacancy. It is an opportunity for you to  sell yourself to your prospective employer .

A waiter/waitress resume must also  include the individual’s education and training . The resume should reflect the passion and enthusiasm of the individual to work in the hospitality industry and also show their commitment to learning new methods in the field.

Prospective employees need to consider whether they would prefer a  bar or a restaurant job  before applying in order to construct the resume in a way that would suit the specific job requirements.

• The ideal resume format is the chronological or combination layout
• Entry-level waiter/waitresses could employ the functional resume format
• Try using an online resume builder for examples
• Titles, subtitles
• White space
• Infographics
• Contact details
• Resume objective

Work experience

• Volunteer experience
• Hobbies and interests

Resume Length

1 x Letter Page – 8.5” x 11”

When writing a resume, it is important to identify  which resume format should be used . For an entry-level waiter/waitress resume, a  functional resume  is a possibility, whereas often it would not be ideal for other professions. It is  organized into sections, which highlight the skills  of the individual. The abilities they have acquired through past work experiences and professional training.

The  chronological format  is another option for experienced waiter/waitress resumes. This format  emphasizes your waiting duties, dining floor experience, and waiting work history . You’ll list your most recent work positions first, and go back through past jobs in  reverse-chronological order  from there. As the most standard format, it tends to be the easiest to read and scan for hiring managers.

A well-prepared waiter/waitress resume  should be easy to read and presented with consistent use of font style, font size, and color. Write your resume in black with your name boldly presented at the top of the document using a medium sized font. The body of your resume should be compiled using  font size 10 or 12 . The most common font styles used include Arial, Verdana, and Calibri. Whichever font style you choose, make sure you apply it consistently throughout your resume.

The design for a waiter/waitress resume   has to be simple and straight to the point .

What is important for all waiter/waitress jobseekers is creating a resume where the content is catchy and attractive to the reader, which means making sure to  optimize the design aspects  used.

Consider the  titles and subheadings for categories  and ensure they are visible and understandable throughout, as well as making sure to use  enough white space  so the resume doesn’t look cluttered.

The design of the resume must reflect the fact that you are familiar with the hospitality industry. Your job as a waiter or waitress has to do with  maintaining good customer relations and having excellent communication skills , therefore, it is vital that jobseekers are able to present their candidacy in a comprehensive manner.

It’s not necessary to include graphics or images when writing a waiter/waitress resume.

In the United States, adding a photo to a resume is not advisable.  This practice is highly discouraged by employers because photos give information that shouldn’t contribute to a hiring decision. Therefore, resumes in the U.S. don’t need and shouldn’t have photos.

Outside the U.S., many countries/employers require a photo and it is more customary to include a headshot. Also, if the job requirements request that you add a photo, then you should. If not, it is advisable not to.

Sections of a Waiter and Waitress Resume

Various restaurants and institutions require different information from their prospective employees, but some of the  main waiter/waitress resume sections  are:

It is very important in a waiter/waitress resume to include the candidate’s work experience.

Other optional sections to include that can make your resume stand out from the rest are:

• Seminars or conferences attended
• Professional training programs
• Honors and awards

Also, another section that you could include, if relevant, is one dedicated to any  additional languages  you can speak. This can  increase your chances of getting employed,  especially when the establishment has customers from varying cultures.

A waiter or waitress resume should be written on  one page  or, in some rare cases for more experienced professionals, a  maximum of two pages.

Naturally, the more experience you have as a waiter or waitress, the more information you would need to put on your resume. However, if your resume extends over more than two pages, you must edit and summarize the content to fit within two pages.

Waiter and Waitress Resume Section Headings

The hospitality industry sees a significant amount of resumes from  people of many backgrounds and experiences.  One way you can stand out from the rest is by making your resume especially pertinent to that specific job vacancy or company.

Often waiter/waitress resumes include excess information that is not necessary nor  adheres to the demands of the employer . It can be frustrating for hiring managers to review piles of resumes that discuss details that are irrelevant to the jobseeker’s candidacy. Therefore,  focusing on the principal sections  can give you the edge you need to grab the reader’s attention.

The  work experience  section of a waiter/waitress resume is one of the most important parts of writing the resume.

This is where candidates can include all  relevant work experience , paid or voluntary .

To complete an efficient  waiter/waitress work experience  resume section, make sure you start from the last or current position held and list backward, no more than 10 – 15 years. This helps the reader to gauge an idea of your career progress and variety of experiences. This is why it is advisable for most candidates to apply the  reverse chronological resume format  as opposed to the combination or functional layout.

Some may be under the misguided impression that the job of a waiter/waitress is simply to serve food and drinks to customers. However, there are many other  responsibilities undertaken by professional waiters and waitresses , and it is vital that they possess certain skills in order to be successful in the position.

The  skills section  is where you would need to highlight the abilities you have that are relevant to the job requirements. The  waiter/waitress resume skills  section should focus on the capabilities needed to perform the principal duties of a waiter or a waitress.

Waiters and waitresses should include aspects such as  communication, interpersonal and customer relationship skills . Also, their arithmetic skills should be properly stated.

When  writing a waiter/waitresses resume , it is also important to create a section where you would include your educational qualifications.

This is equally as important as your work experience or skills. Many individuals who apply for jobs as a waiter/waitress usually  graduate from high school or have their GED .

It would be an added advantage if you have other  educational or professional qualifications  you can include. Some certifications could help to set you apart from other applicants. It is also important to  verify that your certificate is relevant  in the state you’re applying to work in before including it.

Being a waiter/waitress is a vocational job, therefore, candidates should also  highlight any relevant training courses  they have taken, such as those relating to workplace safety, hygiene, food and drink, and other related hospitality training programs.

When presenting your qualifications and training, make sure you  list the names of institutions  (places you’ve worked or received training), dates, subjects, and certifications.

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Restaurant Waiter Resume Examples

A restaurant waiter is an important position in the hospitality industry. As a waiter, you are responsible for providing excellent customer service, being knowledgeable about the menu, and being able to take orders accurately. Writing a great resume for this position is essential to stand out from the competition and secure a job as a restaurant waiter. This guide provides tips on how to write a restaurant waiter resume and includes restaurant waiter resume examples to help you get started.

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Restaurant Waiter

123 Main Street | Anytown, USA 99999 | Phone: (123) 456-7890 | Email: [email protected]

I am an experienced restaurant waiter with a strong background in providing excellent customer service and creating a memorable experience for each guest. My ability to communicate effectively, work efficiently, and remain calm during busy times are key strengths that I bring to the restaurant industry. I am dedicated to understanding restaurant procedures and providing outstanding customer service that exceeds customer expectations. I am looking to leverage my experience and skills in an environment where I can continue to grow and develop professionally.

Core Skills :

• Excellent customer service
• Ability to multi- task
• Knowledge of food and beverage service
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Highly organized and efficient
• Proficient in POS system and cash handling
• Flexible work schedule

Professional Experience :

Waitress, ABC Restaurant – June 2012 to April 2020

• Greeted and acknowledged customers, provided accurate wait times, and managed their seating needs
• Took food and beverage orders, then served them to customers in a timely manner
• Checked food orders for accuracy and quality
• Collected payments from customers and gave change where needed
• Ensured all customer interactions were polite, friendly, and professional
• Followed all food safety rules and regulations
• Performed maintenance duties such as restocking glassware and dishes

Education :

High School Diploma, ABC High School – June 2012

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Restaurant Waiter Resume with No Experience

Friendly and enthusiastic individual with a passion for customer service and providing excellent dining experiences. Ready to leverage my substantial enthusiasm and eagerness to learn new skills to excel as a waiter.

• Excellent customer service skills
• Ability to work in a fast- paced environment
• Willingness to learn new skills
• Knowledge of food safety and food handling procedures
• Basic computer skills
• Attention to detail

Responsibilities

• Greet customers and present menus
• Explain menu items and make recommendations
• Take customer orders and enter them into the computer
• Bring food and drinks to the customers
• Serve food and drinks to customers
• Clear and reset tables
• Assist with restocking
• Respond to customer feedback and complaints
• Follow health and safety guidelines
• Follow sanitation procedures
• Ensure cleanliness and organised dining area

Experience 0 Years

Level Junior

Education Bachelor’s

Restaurant Waiter Resume with 2 Years of Experience

Experienced waiter with two years of experience in the hospitality industry. Possesses excellent customer service skills and a knack for providing excellent service. Good at multi- tasking and able to handle large crowds and busy shifts. Skilled in taking orders, answering questions about menu items, and ensuring guests have an enjoyable dining experience.

• Customer Service
• Multi- tasking
• Excellent Communication Skills
• Food & Beverage Knowledge
• Order Taking
• Cash Handling
• Problem Solving

Responsibilities :

• Greeting and seating customers
• Taking accurate food and beverage orders
• Answering questions about menu items
• Ensuring customer satisfaction with the food and beverage items
• Recommending menu items
• Assisting in the preparation and presentation of food items
• Handling customer complaints in a professional manner
• Processing cash, credit and debit payments
• Maintaining cleanliness and organization in the restaurant
• Ensuring adherence to safety regulations and sanitation standards

Experience 2+ Years

Restaurant Waiter Resume with 5 Years of Experience

A highly experienced waiter with over 5 years of experience providing exceptional service in restaurant settings. Proven ability to efficiently manage customer orders and ensure satisfaction. Detail- oriented and organized, with excellent interpersonal and communication skills.

• Food handling and serving
• Product knowledge
• Cash handling
• Problem- solving
• Food safety and sanitation
• Greet and seat customers promptly and courteously.
• Take orders accurately and bring food and beverages promptly.
• Provide customers with information about menus, food and beverages.
• Follow all safety and sanitation guidelines.
• Handle customer complaints and provide appropriate solutions.
• Upsell additional products when appropriate.
• Process payments and provide change and receipts.
• Maintain cleanliness of dining area, lobby, restrooms and all service areas.
• Adhere to all food safety and sanitation guidelines.
• Assist with kitchen operations as needed.

Experience 5+ Years

Level Senior

Restaurant Waiter Resume with 7 Years of Experience

Motivated and experienced waiter with seven years of professional experience in the industry. Skilled in providing excellent customer service and ensuring patrons have a pleasant dining experience. Expert in offering menu suggestions and upselling. Adept at efficiently managing orders, handling payments, and providing detailed descriptions of dishes. Committed to providing courteous, professional, and timely service.

• Delivering exceptional customer service
• Maintaining knowledge of menus and specials
• Taking orders and serving food and beverages
• Upselling and recommending menu items
• Updating and maintaining records of all dining transactions
• Managing cash, credit cards, and other payment transactions
• Addressing customer service issues and complaints
• Enforcing health and safety standards
• Cleaning and setting tables
• Building relationships with customers
• Greet customers in a professional and courteous manner.
• Explain menu options, specials, and modifiers to customers.
• Accurately take orders and enter them into the computer.
• Serve food and beverages to customers in a timely manner.
• Upsell menu items and recommend additional menu items.
• Handle payments and resolve discrepancies.
• Clear and reset tables.
• Ensure that all restaurant policies and regulations are adhered to.
• Ensure compliance with health and safety regulations.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area.
• Uphold the highest level of customer service standards.

Experience 7+ Years

Restaurant Waiter Resume with 10 Years of Experience

A highly motivated, reliable, and personable restaurant waiter with 10 years of experience in the hospitality industry. Possesses excellent customer service and communication skills, with a strong attention to detail. Proven ability to work in high pressure environments while maintaining enthusiasm and professionalism. Able to effectively manage large groups while staying on top of the needs of each individual customer.

• Excellent customer service and communication skills
• Ability to handle high pressure situations professionally
• Proficient multitasking skills
• Well- developed organizational skills
• Knowledge of food and beverage menus
• Ability to upsell additional products
• Greet customers and answer questions about the food and beverage menus
• Take orders and serve food and drinks in a timely manner
• Ensure that all orders are accurate and delivered to the correct table
• Assist in bussing tables and resetting them for the next customer
• Monitor customer satisfaction and address any complaints or concerns
• Provide recommendations for food and wine pairings
• Ensure that all customers’ needs are met and followed up on
• Clear dirty dishes and silverware and ensure proper sanitation of all areas
• Maintain knowledge of specials, menu items, and services in order to answer questions and provide recommendations

Experience 10+ Years

Level Senior Manager

Education Master’s

Restaurant Waiter Resume with 15 Years of Experience

Highly experienced Restaurant Waiter with over 15 years of experience in providing excellent service in the restaurant industry. Possesses an outgoing personality as well as excellent customer service and problem- solving skills. Experienced in taking orders, serving customers, and cleaning up tables. Knowledgeable in the food and beverage industry and equipped to handle any situation efficiently and professionally.

• Food Handling
• Table Setting
• Table Clean- up
• Multitasking
• Greeting customers, taking orders, and delivering food and beverages to tables
• Delivering accurate orders in a timely manner
• Checking customer satisfaction and resolving any issues that arise
• Ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations
• Handling payments and providing accurate change
• Cleaning and setting up tables and chairs
• Providing excellent customer service and building relationships with customers
• Maintaining a positive and professional attitude at all times

Experience 15+ Years

Level Director

In addition to this, be sure to check out our resume templates , resume formats ,  cover letter examples ,  job description , and  career advice  pages for more helpful tips and advice.

What should be included in a Restaurant Waiter resume?

A restaurant waiter resume should include relevant information about your experience in the field, your education and qualifications, and your skills and abilities. Your resume should be tailored to the specific job for which you are applying. Here are some essential elements that should be included in a restaurant waiter resume.

• Work Experience: List all prior restaurant waiter jobs you’ve held, including the restaurant’s name, city and state, your job title, and the dates you worked. Describe your accomplishments and responsibilities in each role.
• Education: Include the name and location of any post-secondary schooling you have completed, and any additional certifications, licenses, or credentials you have earned.
• Skills and Abilities: List any restaurant-specific skills that you have, such as knowledge of POS systems, food safety, wine knowledge, and customer service. Don’t forget to mention any language abilities or special certifications you have.
• Personality Traits: Describe any special qualities or characteristics you possess that would make you a good fit for the job. These might include being a team player, a strong leader, or someone who is organized and reliable.
• References: Include references from previous employers or supervisors who can speak to your ability to serve as an effective restaurant waiter.

Your resume should clearly communicate your qualifications and experience in a concise and organized manner so that the hiring manager quickly gets a sense of who you are and why you’re the right person for the job. With the right combination of job experience, education, skills, and personality traits, you can craft an impressive resume that will help you stand out as a top candidate for the job.

What is a good summary for a Restaurant Waiter resume?

A Restaurant Waiter resume should provide a succinct summary of the job seeker’s experience and abilities in the food service industry. This summary should include the job seeker’s knowledge of restaurant operations, customer service skills, and experience working in a fast-paced environment.

The summary should also highlight any additional skills and qualifications the job seeker has that set them apart, such as knowledge of foreign languages, food and beverage knowledge, and the ability to take orders accurately and efficiently. The summary should also be tailored to the specific restaurant position the job seeker is applying for and should emphasize the qualifications that are most relevant to the job.

Including a brief statement about why the job seeker would be a great fit for the job is also important in a Restaurant Waiter resume summary. This statement should show the job seeker’s enthusiasm and passion for the industry and demonstrate their dedication to providing excellent customer service.

By providing a concise and compelling summary, the job seeker can increase the chances of the resume being noticed by employers and ultimately getting the job.

What is a good objective for a Restaurant Waiter resume?

Waiting tables is a demanding job that requires certain skills and qualities. If you want to apply for a restaurant waiter position, then you should make sure that your resume is well-crafted and highlights the specific skills and experience that make you the best candidate for the job. Here are a few objectives you can include on your resume to make it stand out:

• Highlight your customer service and hospitality skills: Focus on your ability to provide excellent customer service, attend to guests’ needs, and be hospitable to every customer.
• Demonstrate your knowledge of food service: Show that you understand the restaurant industry, from food preparation, to food presentation, to customer service.
• Emphasize your organizational and multitasking abilities: Restaurant waiters are expected to juggle multiple orders, keep track of customer orders, and ensure that they are delivered promptly.
• Mention your commitment to excellent customer service: Show that you are committed to providing customers with a positive dining experience.

By adding these objectives to your resume, you can make sure that employers take notice of your qualifications and make you stand out amongst other restaurant waiters.

How do you list Restaurant Waiter skills on a resume?

When applying for a job as a restaurant waiter, it can be helpful to list relevant skills on your resume in order to demonstrate your knowledge and experience. Here are some of the key skills you should include:

• Interpersonal Communication: Restaurant waiters must have strong interpersonal skills in order to effectively interact with guests, take orders, and serve food.
• Organization: Restaurant waiters must be organized in order to keep track of multiple orders and keep the dining area clean and tidy.
• Knowledge of Menu Items: Restaurant waiters must have knowledge of the menu items in order to accurately serve guests and address any questions or dietary restrictions.
• Problem Solving: Restaurant waiters must have the ability to troubleshoot any issues that may arise during service.
• Multitasking: Restaurant waiters must have the ability to multitask in order to serve customers efficiently.
• Time Management: Restaurant waiters must be able to manage their time in order to ensure orders are taken and served promptly.

What skills should I put on my resume for Restaurant Waiter?

When applying for a restaurant waiter position, you’ll need to highlight the skills and experience you have that make you an ideal candidate.

A successful waiter should possess a combination of customer service, food service and hospitality skills. Below are some important skills and abilities you may want to consider adding to your resume if you’re applying for a restaurant waiter job:

• Food and Beverage Knowledge: Demonstrate your knowledge of food and beverage service, including the different types of food, wine and beer, and standard serving sizes.
• Teamwork: Prove you can effectively collaborate with other restaurant staff, such as chefs, hosts and servers.
• Customer Service: Show your ability to provide superior customer service and ensure the highest level of guest satisfaction.
• Organization: Demonstrate that you’re organized and able to efficiently manage multiple tasks and remain calm under pressure.
• Good Memory: Include examples of how you effectively remember and process orders as well as special requests from customers.
• Interpersonal Skills: Demonstrate your ability to effectively communicate with customers, staff and management.
• Cash Handling: Show your understanding of proper cash handling techniques and familiarity with Point-of-Sale systems.

Whether or not you have prior experience, these skills can help you land a job as a restaurant waiter. Make sure to include any relevant qualifications and certifications on your resume, to give employers an even better sense of your qualifications and abilities.

Key takeaways for an Restaurant Waiter resume

When hiring for a waiter position, employers look for someone who is friendly, outgoing, and reliable. In order to stand out from the competition, your resume must demonstrate these qualities and make a great first impression. Here are a few key takeaways for what you should include on your restaurant waiter resume:

• Highlight Your Experience: Your resume should include any experience you have working in a restaurant setting. Include the name of the restaurant, the duration of employment, and a brief description of the duties you performed. This will show prospective employers that you have the necessary skills and experience to take on the role of a waiter.
• Include Relevant Skills: Provide a list of the skills you have acquired while working in the restaurant industry. This could include customer service, basic food preparation, food safety, and beverage knowledge.
• Demonstrate Your Versatility: In addition to your waitstaff experience, you should also highlight any other experiences that make you a great candidate. If you have experience in other restaurant-related positions such as bartender or host, be sure to include them on your resume. This will show employers that you are a well-rounded candidate.
• Be Knowledgeable About Food and Beverage: Employers will be looking for someone who is knowledgeable about food and beverage menus. When detailing your experience, be sure to include any menu items you are familiar with and any experience you have with preparing them. This will show employers that you are confident and capable of helping customers find something they like.

By following these key takeaways, you are sure to make a great impression on employers and stand out from the competition. With a resume that accurately showcases your experience, skills, and knowledge, you have the edge you need to land your next restaurant waiter job.

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• Career Blog

Waiter Resume: Examples, Skills, Job Description & Tips

As the restaurant industry continues to grow, the demand for skilled and experienced waiters is on the rise. A waiter, also known as a server, is responsible for providing excellent customer service, taking orders, and delivering food and beverages to tables.

In today’s competitive job market, having a strong waiter resume can make all the difference in landing your dream job. A well-crafted resume not only showcases your skills and experience but also highlights your ability to work in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment.

In this article, we will explore the essential components of a strong waiter resume, including examples, skills, job description, and tips. Whether you’re starting your career as a waiter or looking to advance to a higher-level position, a well-written resume is the first step in distinguishing yourself from the competition. So, let’s dive in and learn what it takes to create a standout waiter resume!

Key Sections of a Waiter Resume

When writing a waiter resume, it’s essential to include the right information in order to impress hiring managers.

Contact Information

This is the first section of any resume, and it should include your name, phone number, email address, and physical address (optional). Make sure this information is accurate and up-to-date, and use a professional-sounding email address.

Objective or Summary Statement

This section should be a brief statement that summarizes your career goals and qualifications as a waiter. This statement should be tailored to the specific job you are applying for, and it should highlight your most relevant skills and experiences.

Work Experience

The work experience section is where you showcase your previous experience as a waiter. Make sure to include the names of the restaurants or establishments where you worked, your job titles, dates of employment, and your key responsibilities and accomplishments. Quantify your achievements wherever possible, as this makes your resume more compelling.

The skills section is where you highlight the specific skills you possess that make you a great candidate for the job. This can include everything from knowledge of specific cuisines or beverages to communication skills, customer service skills, and time management skills.

Even if you don’t have a degree in hospitality or a related field, including your education on your resume is important. List any relevant coursework, such as food and beverage courses or restaurant management classes. Include the name of the educational institution, your degree or certification, and the date of graduation.

Certifications

If you have any certifications related to the hospitality industry or serving, be sure to include them in your resume. This can include Wine and Spirits Education Trust (WSET) certifications, ServSafe certification, or TIPS (Training for Intervention ProcedureS) certification.

Awards and Achievements

Finally, showcase any awards or achievements you have earned during your career as a waiter. This can include anything from being named “Employee of the Month” to receiving a prestigious industry award. These achievements demonstrate your dedication to the industry and show that you are committed to delivering the best possible customer experience.

A strong waiter resume should include the right balance of contact information, a concise objective or summary statement, robust work experience, relevant skills, education, certifications, and awards and achievements. By following these guidelines, you can create a winning resume that will help you stand out from the crowd and land your dream job in the hospitality industry.

Waiter Skills

Being a waiter requires a unique combination of skills that go beyond just taking orders and delivering food. A good waiter must possess excellent customer service, time management, multitasking, communication, sales, problem-solving, and detail-oriented skills.

Customer Service Skills

As a waiter, the ability to provide outstanding customer service is crucial. One must be friendly, patient, and attentive to customers’ needs, ensuring their dining experience is enjoyable and memorable. The waiter should be able to handle and even diffuse any negative feedback or complaints from customers, ensuring that they leave satisfied.

Time Management Skills

In the fast-paced hospitality industry, time management is an essential skill for any waiter. One must be able to prioritize tasks and manage their time efficiently to provide prompt service to all customers. For example, a waiter must be able to take customers’ orders quickly, deliver food promptly, and even handle multiple tables simultaneously without compromising the quality of service.

Multitasking Skills

Waiters must perform various tasks simultaneously, making multitasking an important skill for the job. A waiter must be able to greet customers, take orders, prepare drinks, and serve food, all while keeping track of multiple tables. The ability to handle multiple tasks effectively while delivering outstanding service is the hallmark of a good waiter.

Communication Skills

Effective communication is critical for a waiter to perform their job correctly. A waiter must be able to communicate with customers, colleagues, and kitchen staff. They must listen carefully to customers’ orders and even read non-verbal cues to understand their needs. Good communication skills also extend to working well with colleagues and kitchen staff.

Sales Skills

Waiters have a great opportunity to upsell menu items and increase revenue for the restaurant. A good waiter must be able to recommend menu items, provide information about the specials, and showcase the most popular dishes. By utilizing proper sales techniques, a waiter can increase the chances of customers buying more and returning in the future.

Problem-Solving Skills

In the unpredictable hospitality industry, unexpected problems may arise at any time, making problem-solving an essential skill for a waiter. A waiter must have the ability to think on their feet and come up with solutions quickly. For example, a waiter may need to handle a customer dispute or accommodate a last-minute seating arrangement change. The ability to resolve problems quickly and efficiently is a sign of an excellent waiter.

Detail-Oriented Skills

Attention to detail is another critical skill for a waiter. A waiter must pay attention to small details, such as knowing menu items inside and out and serving dishes to specific customers correctly. They must also be mindful of keeping the restaurant tidy and ensuring that all tables are clean and ready for the next group of customers.

Being a waiter requires a unique combination of skills that go beyond just taking orders and serving food.

Job Description of a Waiter

As a waiter, your job is essential in providing exceptional customer service and ensuring a positive dining experience for all guests. Here are the key details of the job description:

Roles and Responsibilities

• Greet and seat guests promptly
• Take orders from guests and answer menu questions
• Serve food and drinks
• Prepare tables for new guests
• Handle cash and credit card payments
• Keep dining area clean and tidy
• Address any guest complaints or concerns promptly and courteously

Work Environment

Waiters work in restaurants, cafes, bars, and other dining establishments. The job requires long periods of standing and walking, interacting with guests, and carrying trays, which can be physically demanding. The pace can be fast-paced and stressful during peak hours, so the ability to work efficiently under pressure is necessary.

Salary and Benefits

The average salary of a waiter in the United States is around $22,000 per year, plus tips. Benefits may include health insurance, meal discounts, and paid time off, but these may vary depending on the employer.

Opportunities for Advancement

Many waiters start in entry-level positions and can advance to supervisory or managerial roles with experience. There may also be opportunities to work in higher-end establishments, which could offer higher pay and benefits.

Difference between Waiter and Waitress

The main difference between a waiter and a waitress is their gender. Traditionally, “waiter” was used to refer to male servers, while “waitress” was used for female servers. However, many establishments now use gender-neutral terms, such as “server” or “waitstaff.”

In terms of job responsibilities, there is no major difference between waiters and waitresses. They both perform the same duties and are expected to provide the same level of service to guests.

Being a waiter requires a combination of customer service skills, attention to detail, and physical endurance. If you can handle the demands of the job, it can be a rewarding and fulfilling career with opportunities for advancement.

Waiter Resume Examples

To help you create a strong and effective resume as a waiter or waitress, we’ve put together the following list of examples highlighting different skills, backgrounds, and levels of experience in the industry. Browse through these waiter resume examples to get a better idea of which format and content might work best for your unique qualifications and goals.

Entry-Level Waiter Resume Example

If you’re looking to break into the hospitality industry and start your journey as a waiter or waitress, this entry-level example is a great place to start. Emphasis is placed on relevant skills and any previous customer service experience you may have.

Contact Information: Phone: (123) 456-7890 Email:  [email protected]

Objective: Energetic and enthusiastic individual seeking an entry-level waiter position to kick-start a career in the hospitality industry. Strong passion for delivering exceptional customer service and a keen eye for detail. Possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Education: High School Diploma XYZ High School, City, State Year

• Outstanding customer service skills
• Ability to multitask and work in a fast-paced environment
• Strong communication and active listening abilities
• Attention to detail and accuracy
• Basic knowledge of food safety and hygiene practices

Experience: Customer Service Representative | ABC Retail Store, City, State | 20XX – 20XX

• Assisted customers with inquiries, provided product information, and handled transactions
• Maintained cleanliness and organization of the store
• Collaborated with team members to ensure a positive shopping experience for customers

Additional Skills:

• Proficient in using point-of-sale (POS) systems
• Ability to work effectively in a team
• Excellent time management and organization skills

References: Available upon request

Experienced Waiter Resume Example

For those with a few years of experience waiting tables, this example showcases your knowledge of the industry as well as your ability to handle a busy dining room. Highlight your achievements in this experienced waiter resume to show potential employers that you make a difference in your role.

Objective: Experienced waiter with a proven track record of providing exceptional service in high-volume dining establishments. Seeking a position that allows me to utilize my knowledge of the industry and my ability to handle challenging situations with grace.

Experience: Senior Waiter | XYZ Restaurant, City, State | 20XX – Present

• Greeted and seated guests, provided menu recommendations, and took orders
• Demonstrated extensive knowledge of the menu and made wine pairing suggestions
• Oversaw the training and mentoring of new waitstaff
• Managed guest inquiries, complaints, and requests in a professional manner

Achievements:

• Consistently recognized for maintaining a high level of customer satisfaction and receiving positive feedback from guests
• Implemented a new system to streamline table turnover, resulting in a 20% increase in customer seating capacity
• Awarded “Employee of the Month” for outstanding performance and exceptional teamwork
• Excellent knowledge of food and beverage offerings
• Strong organizational and time management skills
• Ability to remain calm and composed under pressure
• Exceptional interpersonal and communication abilities
• Proficient in using POS systems and handling cash transactions

Education: Associate Degree in Hospitality Management ABC College, City, State Year

Combination Waiter Resume Example

Combining the best of both worlds, this resume style includes elements of both an entry-level and experienced resume. It’s perfect for waiters and waitresses with some work history, but perhaps not enough to fill an entire resume.

Objective: Experienced waiter with a diverse background in various dining establishments, seeking a challenging role to utilize my skills and contribute to a customer-focused team. Offering a strong blend of customer service, organizational, and problem-solving abilities.

Experience: Waiter | ABC Bistro, City, State | 20XX – Present

• Greeted and seated guests, took orders, and provided menu recommendations
• Delivered exceptional customer service by ensuring prompt and accurate order delivery
• Collaborated with kitchen staff to ensure timely preparation and presentation of dishes
• Assisted in training new waitstaff on service standards and procedures
• Excellent customer service and interpersonal skills
• Ability to handle multiple tables and prioritize tasks efficiently
• Proficient in POS systems and cash handling
• Knowledge of food and wine pairings
• Strong attention to detail and ability to work in a fast-paced environment

Additional Experience: Server | DEF Steakhouse, City, State | 20XX – 20XX

• Provided attentive service to high-profile guests and handled special requests
• Assisted in coordinating private events and ensured guest satisfaction
• Demonstrated knowledge of fine dining etiquette and proper table settings

Highlighting Skills in a Waiter Resume Example

This resume focuses on the specific skills required of waiters or waitresses – such as interpersonal, communication, and multitasking abilities. Use this example to showcase your essential qualities as a top-notch waiter or waitress.

Objective: Dedicated and customer-oriented waiter with excellent interpersonal and communication skills. Seeking a position in a reputable restaurant where I can utilize my strong multitasking abilities, attention to detail, and passion for delivering exceptional service.

• Exceptional customer service skills with a friendly and approachable demeanor
• Ability to handle high-pressure situations while maintaining professionalism
• Excellent communication skills and active listening abilities
• Strong multitasking and time management skills

Experience: Waiter | XYZ Café, City, State | 20XX – Present

• Ensured timely and accurate order delivery while maintaining a high level of customer satisfaction
• Handled cash transactions and managed POS system
• Collaborated with kitchen staff to ensure food quality and presentation
• Addressed guest inquiries, concerns, and special requests promptly and professionally

Education: High School Diploma ABC High School, City, State Year

• Knowledge of food and beverage offerings
• Ability to work effectively in a team-oriented environment
• Attention to detail in maintaining cleanliness and organization
• Proficient in using various communication platforms for order coordination

Waiter Resume Sample with no Experience

Are you looking for your first job as a waiter or waitress, but don’t have any prior experience in a restaurant setting? Don’t worry – this sample resume provides tips on how to highlight transferable skills and demonstrate your passion for customer service, even if you don’t have direct experience in the industry.

Objective: Motivated and detail-oriented individual seeking a waiter position in a restaurant environment. Although I have no prior experience in the industry, I am confident in my ability to provide exceptional customer service and contribute to a positive dining experience.

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment
• Excellent attention to detail
• Passion for delivering exceptional customer service

Additional Skills: \

• Proficient in using technology, including POS systems and order management apps
• Ability to adapt and learn quickly
• Strong work ethic and willingness to go the extra mile
• Excellent time management and organizational abilities

Volunteer Experience: Wait Staff Volunteer | Local Community Center | 20XX – 20XX

• Assisted in serving meals to community members in a friendly and efficient manner
• Ensured cleanliness and sanitation of dining areas
• Collaborated with team members to meet the needs of the guests

With the vast variety of waiter resume examples above, you can easily create your own tailored resume that stands out and showcases your unique strengths to potential employers. Remember, the key is to highlight both your interpersonal and technical skills, as well as any relevant working experience, to create a well-rounded snapshot of your capabilities as a waiter or waitress.

Tips for Creating a Standout Waiter Resume

Tailoring for specific jobs.

When applying for a waiter job, it’s important to tailor your resume to the specific job requirements. Analyze the job posting and highlight the skills and experience that match the job description. Emphasize your relevant skills and experience, and include examples of how you have successfully performed your duties in previous roles.

Customizing for Different Establishments

Not all waiter jobs are the same. Customizing your resume for different types of establishments will help you demonstrate your fit for the role. For example, a fine dining restaurant may require more formal language and attention to detail, while a casual restaurant may value your ability to work in a fast-paced environment and handle customer requests with ease.

Use Action Words and Power Phrases

Use action words and power phrases throughout your resume to showcase your skills and accomplishments. For example, instead of saying “Performed wait duties,” say “Managed a section of the dining room with 10 tables and consistently achieved high customer satisfaction ratings.”

Highlight Relevant Skills and Experience

Highlighting your relevant skills and experience is key to standing out in a sea of applicants. Make sure to include your expertise in menu knowledge, customer service, handling payments, and teamwork. Any additional skills such as language proficiency, wine knowledge, or bartending experience are also worth highlighting.

Use of Keywords for Applicant Tracking Systems

Many employers use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to screen resumes. To increase your chances of getting through these automated systems, use keywords that match the job posting. For example, if the job posting includes the phrase “excellent communication skills,” make sure to use that exact phrase in your resume.

Formatting and Design

While the content of your resume is crucial, the formatting and design are also important. Choose a clear and easy-to-read font, format your text correctly, and use bullet points to highlight your skills and experiences. Your resume should be visually appealing, professional, and easy to navigate.

Tailoring your resume for specific jobs and establishments, using action words and power phrases, highlighting relevant skills and experience, using keywords for ATS, and ensuring proper formatting and design are all essential tips for creating a standout waiter resume. By doing so, you’ll increase your chances of getting noticed and ultimately securing the job you want.

Mistakes to Avoid in a Waiter Resume

To create a winning waiter resume, it’s important to eliminate any mistakes that could cost you the job. Here are five mistakes to avoid:

Grammatical and Spelling Errors

Nothing puts off an employer more than grammatical and spelling errors. Make sure you proofread your resume several times and even get someone else to check it for you.

Lengthy Resumes

Keep in mind that hiring managers are often overworked and have to go through several resumes before shortlisting candidates. A lengthy resume will only bore them. Keep your resume brief and relevant.

Irrelevant Information

Ensure that all the information on your resume is relevant to the job you are applying for. Don’t include any irrelevant experiences or details that won’t add value to your application.

Lies and Streched Truths

Don’t exaggerate your achievements or qualifications on your resume. Any lies or stretched truths will catch up with you during the interview process.

Overusing Cliché Phrases

Overused clichés such as “team player” or “hardworking” fail to impress hiring managers. Be creative and use unique, descriptive words to highlight your achievements and qualifications.

By avoiding these five mistakes, you’ll increase your chances of getting hired for the waiter position you desire.

Waiter Resume Dos and Don’ts

Crafting a well-written and well-designed resume is important when applying for a waiter position. It can make a difference between getting hired or not. Here are some dos and don’ts to keep in mind when creating your waiter resume.

Highlight your relevant skills : Focus on the skills that are relevant to the waiter position such as customer service, communication, and problem-solving skills. Use specific examples to highlight your skills, such as a time when you handled a difficult customer with professionalism and tact.

Showcase your experience : Briefly list your previous work experience, emphasizing your experience in the food or hospitality industry. Mention the restaurants or establishments where you worked and describe the roles you held.

Include your education : Add your education credentials, such as high school diploma, GED or a college degree, and relevant courses or certifications that would demonstrate your knowledge of the food industry or customer service.

Mention your availability : Make sure to indicate your availability and any schedule limitations you may have. This will help employers gauge if you are the right fit for their restaurant’s schedule.

Tailor your resume to the job : Customize your resume to match the job posting’s requirements. Use keywords from the job description and tailor your skills and experience to reflect what the employer is looking for. This will help you stand out among other applicants.

Don’ts

Don’t include irrelevant information : Avoid adding details that do not pertain to the waiter position. This could include including personal information, hobbies or interests, or unrelated work experiences.

Don’t oversell yourself : Be honest and truthful about your skills and experience. Avoid exaggeration or stretching the truth as this could lead to embarrassment or being fired later.

Don’t use errors : Make sure to proofread and edit your resume for spelling and grammar mistakes. Remember that your resume is your first introduction to the employer, so errors could make a bad impression.

Don’t include photos : Unless it is required to submit a photo with the application, do not add a photo of yourself. This could lead to bias towards the employer’s hiring decision.

Don’t use a generic resume : Avoid using a generic resume that is not tailored to the specific job posting. This could make you appear lazy and not serious about getting the job.

By following these dos and don’ts when crafting your waiter resume, you can showcase your skills and experience to potential employers and increase your chances of landing a job offer. Remember to customize your resume to match the job description, highlight your relevant skills and experience, and proofread for errors. Good luck in your job search!

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How to write a waiter resume?

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You need to catch the recruiter's attention with a perfect waiter resume to get your shortlisted for this job

Waiting on customers can be exhausting but if you have the passion and patience in the profession, you can enjoy the whole ordeal as part of your dream job.

Whereas, waiting for your resume to be shortlisted by the recruiters can be quite frustrating.

We at Hiration try our best to provide you with all the important guidelines and assistance to help you excel in your perfect resume writing and help raise your chances of being shortlisted for your dream job.

Here is a summary of our Waiter Resume 2023 Guide:

• Give your resume its unique individual identity by writing your full name as the resume header. Make sure that you avoid writing "CV" or "resume" as your header
• Strictly avoid lengthy paragraphs but instead stick to framing points and one-liners for writing your professional experience on your waiter resume
• Try to incorporate the keywords that the recruiter has used in describing the requirements of your target job as long as you can justify the use of these keywords in your resume

Keep reading to learn everything you need to frame your resume for the waiter job profile that can help raise your chances of being shortlisted.

This blog also contains various waiter resume examples to provide visual assistance that can help you to frame your resume for a waiter job.

By the end of this blog, you will learn the following topics of concern for your waiter resume:

• What to write in your resume for a waiter and how to write it
• How to effectively frame your work experience in your resume for waiter
• What format to use while writing time-lines in your resume for a waiter job
• How to highlight your most efficient waiter resume skills

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What is a Waiter Resume & why do you need it?

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Generally, your resume is the first means of contact between you and the recruiters.

The recruiters can either shortlist you or reject you for the targeted job concerning your resume.

Most of the recruiters use the ATS (Applicant Tracking System) to filter through resumes to pick the most suitable one which contains the required keywords and is the most compatible one as required for a job profile or industry.

You need to rank high on the ATS of you want to be shortlisted by the recruiter. Most likely your resume can get rejected if it is not ATS friendly even though you are an efficient applicant.

Make sure that you use the most significant keywords to create an ATS-targeted resume that can raise your chance of being shortlisted and get the job of your dreams.

Once your resumes are ATS-targeted, you are good to go one step closer to your dream job.

Make sure to read our dos and don'ts of writing a resume to create the perfect ATS friendly waiter resume.

You can also get your existing resume reviewed for free by our industry experts through Resume Review Service which is free.

Waiter Resume Sample

Here is the complete waiter resume sample for your reference:

• Arranged 10+ tables by setting decorations, napkins, condiments, candles & assembled cutleries as required
• Reffiled water/wine glasses, removed completed courses & replaced utensils to maintain proper table setting
• Replenished food items by taking customer orders to deliver food & beverages prompting courteous service
• Elucidated the chef's specialties & answered food preparation questions to ensure 100% customer satisfaction
• Ensured tables are enjoying their meals & take quick action to correct any problems to uphold the brand's value
• Attained 40+ Gold members to date by providing & maintaining high-quality customer service at all times
• Recommended special offers & discounts for genuine customers to maintain a loyal relationship for the long-term
• Memorized current wine stock & 25+ food menu to suggest the most suitable item that meets customers' request
• Assisted daily 30+ customers in selecting food & beverages by suggesting courses leading to 20% upsell of special items
• Felicitated by superiors for generating 8% revenue in May '18 by upselling chef's signature items on the menu
• Participated in 20+ fundraiser events & 15+ community social service for the homeless & less privileged people
• Top 5 Percentile of the class
• Languages : English, Spanish and French

Waiter Resume Sections

Make your resume for waiter stand out at all times above all other applicants by perfectly framing every section in your resume with a professional approach.

Here is the list of all your functional sections that need to be filled:

• Personal Information
• Profile Title
• Professional Experience

The list given below refers to the optional sections that you may have to fill, provided you possess them:

• Certifications (if any)
• Awards & Recognition (if any)
• Volunteering Experience (if any)
• Additional Information (if any)

Go read our 2023 Guide to writing sections in a resume to perfectly frame this section.

Hiration's Online Builder can help you frame the perfect resume for waiter with a professional approach:

How to write your Waiter Resume

There are three important stages for writing your waiter resume which can help enhance your waiter resume.

Master Waiter Resume

First Draft of Waiter Resume

Final Draft of Waiter Resume

Let us discuss these three stages to understand their importance and learn how to apply them while writing your resume.

This is the first step to be taken while writing your waiter resume.

Master waiter resume acts like a folder wherein you can stack up all your details and information which you would need while framing your resume.

Remember that this master draft can be used in the present time-line and also for any future updates of your resume.

Simply drop in all your professional experience and educational qualification details in this folder.

Do not miss out on any necessary personal information that the recruiter may need in case they want to get in touch with you.

You can also write down all your extra-curricular activities and additional information that may help enhance your potential as a suitable applicant.

There is no need to worry about any unclear information that you are not sure about in the present time-line because you may need them in any possible future updates.

After your master draft is done, you can start framing your first draft of resume for a waiter wherein you should curate the following standard and optional sections:

• Certifications
• Awards & Recognition
• Additional Information

Create every standard section without missing out any details whereas your optional section can be framed only when the target job requires them and only if you possess them.

In your final draft of waiter resume, you should curate these two important sections as they can help raise your chances of being shortlisted by the recruiters:

Key skills section: Scan through your professional experience section and then compose this section as the last 2nd thing in your resume. Pick out all the efficient points that are required in the target job and place them in this section.

Summary/Objective: The last thing to be composed is your summary/objective as it is the overall description of your waiter resume. Write a summary or an objective in only 3-4 lines to keep it short and specific.

Once you are done with the above-discussed steps, your resume writing experience can be easier and would have more impact on the recruiters who can help raise your chances of getting your dream job.

For more details on how to curate this section, you can read our 2023 Guide to writing a resume and master the art of writing a flawless waiter resume.

Waiter Resume: Header

Writing your full name as the header makes has more impact on your resume than writing "CV" or "Resume".

It is so because your name gives your waiter resume a unique individual identity which helps the recruiters to keep track of your resume.

You should use the largest font size of 16-20 while writing your name as the header of your resume to make it distinct from all other average resumes.

If you have a middle name, write down only the initial of your middle name followed by a period. You can look at the example given below for a better understanding:

Example: Andrian Mathew Rodger should be written as "Andrian M. Rodger"

Look at the waiter resume sample of how an ideal resume header is framed:

You can also read our 2023 guide to writing a resume header and learn more about framing this section.

Here is your chance to write a flawless resume for waiter with the help of expert assistance from Hiration's Online Builder:

Waiter Resume: Personal Information

There are three personal pieces of information that you ideally need to provide on your resume for the recruiters to contact you, in case of any possible shortlist.

• Updated Mobile Number
• Professional E-mail Address
• Current Location of Residence

Contact Number

Your contact number is ideally required when the recruiter needs to confirm your availability for interviews or they may even conduct an interview over the phone.

There is no point in giving out numbers that cannot connect you with the recruiters at the specific time that they need to talk to you.

Avoid giving out wrong numbers by making careless mistakes and also do not give numbers that are not active at all times.

Always provide your active functional number for the recruiters to reach you on your resume being shortlisted.

Provide your ISD Code if necessary and write your contact number in the following format:

Example: (+1) 82374 29371

Email Address

Give your official email address which has your real or full name to maintain a professional approach at all times.

Example: [email protected] or [email protected]

Strictly avoid unprofessional email IDs with fancy names as it can make the recruiters assume that you are someone who is not serious about one's career.

Example: [email protected] or [email protected]

Emails are a convenient source of communication between you and the recruiters, hence you should make sure that you have an official email ID.

Go create one immediately if you do not have an official email ID with your real name.

You must mention only your current location on your waiter resume.

In case you are looking for a job outside your country, mention the name of the city and country you are residing in.

Else just mention the city and state you are residing in currently if you are looking for a job in your own country.

There is no requirement to give your full home address or present/previous work as it is unnecessary and inconvenient.

Here is our waiter resume sample for you to have a better understanding of how an ideal personal information section is curated:

You can read our 2023 Guide on writing contact information on a resume to help you understand how this section is important and how it should be perfectly created.

Waiter Resume: Profile Title

Your profile title is the level of your status as a professional expert or an entry-level applicant.

It states your field of specialty or expertise which helps the recruiters to recognize your interested industry and give you any possible shortlist accordingly.

Make sure that you use the 2nd largest font size of 14-16 to write your most recent job title as your profile title.

Here is the waiter resume sample for you to understand how an ideal profile title should be framed:

Get your current resume reviewed by our professional experts to raise your chance to get the shortlist for the targeted job.

Waiter Resume: Professional Experience

Your professional experience section is a major feature on your resume for waiter as it covers all your past work records which can determine your level of expertise in your job profile.

This section needs to highlight all the initial and prime experience of your past career endeavors so that the recruiters can recognize your efficiency.

Let us discuss the three main factors that can help you frame your perfect waiter resume with a professional approach:

STAR Format

Framing Points

Bucketing & Bolding

The STAR format is an important factor that helps you create a cause-effect relation in your waiter resume.

Always try to provide a figure of numbers to specify your achievements and contributions in an organization.

STAR simply stands for:

• S : To describe the situation you found yourself in at a workplace
• T : To describe the task that you were assigned as per the situation
• A : To describe the action that you took up to perform a given task
• R : To describe the result or the outcome of your action

By using the star format you can create a resume that can make the recruiters recognize your contribution towards an organization and the strategies you applied to achieve certain goals which can boost your eligibility for the targeted job.

Let us look at the following examples to compare and analyze how framing points are important to enhance your professional section:

During my employment at my previous workplace, I was required to arrange daily 15+ tables by setting up the decorations and assemble cutleries as required. I also used to refill the water and wine glasses as well as removed and replaced utensils to maintain table setting. My daily duty required me to replenish the tables by taking food and beverage orders to deliver courteous service to the customers. I elucidated the chef's specialties to ensure 100% customer satisfaction at all times by ensuring that every table is enjoying their meals and did my best to take quick action to correct any problem if any.

Arranged 15+ tables by setting decorations & assembled cutleries as required Refiled water/wine glasses, removed & replaced utensils to maintain table setting Replenished tables by taking food & beverages orders to deliver courteous service Elucidated the chef's specialties to ensure 100% customer satisfaction at all times Ensured tables are enjoying their meals & take quick action to correct any problem

Framing Points: Analysis

From the two given examples, we can see that framing points (example 2) are more readable than bulky paragraphs (example 1).

Both the examples are stating the same things but by framing points (example 2), you can avoid writing vague words and avoid bulky paragraphs (example 1).

Framing points with bullet points are important because the recruiters may most likely avoid bulky and lengthy paragraphs.

Always make sure to frame your one-liners to make your statements precise and make it more readable for raising your chances of being shortlisted by the recruiters.

Another important factor that should implement while framing the professional experience section is the bucketing and bolding of one-liners.

Let us compare and analyze the two given examples to understand the importance of bucketing and bolding:

Attained 30+ Gold members to date by providing & maintaining high-quality service Recommended offers & discounts for genuine customers to maintain relationship Memorized current wine stock & 15+ food menu to suggest suitable items to customers Assisted daily 20+ customers in selecting food & beverages leading to 10% upsell Felicitated by superiors for generating 5% revenue by upselling chef's special Participated in 15+ fundraiser events & community social service for the homeless

Customer Relationship Management Attained 30+ Gold members to date by providing & maintaining high-quality service Recommended offers & discounts for genuine customers to maintain relationship Food & Beverage Service Memorized current wine stock & 15+ food menu to suggest suitable items to customers Assisted daily 20+ customers in selecting food & beverages leading to 10% upsell Key Achievements Felicitated by superiors for generating 5% revenue by upselling chef's special Participated in 15+ fundraiser events & community social service for the homeless

Bucketing & Bolding: Analysis

It is clear that framing points make your one-liners more readable but it is bucketing and bolding that makes your one-liners more organized.

Bucketing means creating unique subheadings for all the relevant points and aligning them accordingly as shown in example 2.

Bolding (example 2) your most specific contributions and achievements can highlight your most significant skills that can help boost your eligibility for the target job.

From the two given examples, we can see that bucketing and bolding enhances your professional experience section by making the one-liners more readable and organized for the recruiters to recognize your potential.

You can refer to our waiter resume sample given below to look at how an ideal professional experience section is framed:

Waiter Resume: Education

Some job profiles require you to have a specific educational qualification to take into account your efficiency for the targeted job.

Your educational background can have a positive impact on your resume for a waiter and help boost your chances of being shortlisted by the recruiters

the following details need to be filled in your education section:

• Name of the school/university you have attended
• Name of the course/courses you have pursued
• Location of your school/university
• Date of enrollment and graduation from each course (month & year)

You can also read our 2023 Guide on how to list education on a resume for more details on how this section is ideally curated.

Look at our waiter resume sample given below to see how your education section ideally looks like in your resume:

Waiter Resume: Certifications

Mention your certifications on your resume to add value to your educational qualification and professional experience.

Writing your certifications can make the recruiters recognize your dedication towards the target job wherein you put extra effort into acquiring certification for a relevant job profile.

Here is the list of the details that should be written in your certificate section:

• Name of the Certification Course
• Name of the Affiliating Institution
• Location of the Institute
• Dates of enrollment and completion of the course (month & year)

Use the format given below to list your certifications:

{Name of certification} | {Affiliating Institution} | {Location} | {Date} (in month and year format)

In the meanwhile, you can read Hiration's 2023 Guide on listing certifications on a resume to learn the perfect way to frame your certifications section.

Waiter Resume: Additional Information

Your additional information is a resting place for information in your resume that does not find a home anywhere else.

Example: Your hobbies or languages that you speak/write (apart from English) are extra information about you that you should put in this section.

These factors can help boost your value as an efficient applicant as it adds value to your professional experience and educational qualification.

Any relevant hobbies can make you seem like an individual who does not idle away one's leisure time but invests in some healthy hobbies.

Speaking different languages can help you communicate with others and build stronger relationships especially when you are a waiter as you would have to interact with people from different walks of life.

Look at our waiter resume sample to see how you can frame an ideal personal information section:

You can go to our Online Resume Builder to create your flawless waiter resume:

Waiter Resume Key Sections

Waiter resume: key skills.

Scan through your professional experience section and pick out the most significant skill that you possess which has been justified in your one-liners.

Make sure that you use the keywords which have been used by the recruiters to describe the requirements of the target job as it can help you rank high on the ATS.

This section intrigues the recruiters into going through your resume and raise the chance of you being shortlisted.

Use this chance to highlight your most efficient skill to have an impact on the recruiters and boost your chances of landing your dream job.

Here is our waiter resume sample of how an ideal key skill section can be framed:

Meanwhile, you can also read Hiration's 2023 Guide on what skills to put on a resume to learn the tricks for writing this section with perfection.

Waiter Resume Summary

This section is an important feature of your waiter resume, so make sure that you curate a flawless summary.

If you have 3 years and above professional work experience, you should write a summary of your waiter resume.

Write the number of years of your professional experience and specify your relevant achievement in an organization by providing the figure of numbers.

Make sure that you write your summary in only 3-4 lines and avoid vague words.

Look at our waiter resume sample to understand how an ideal summary can be framed:

For a detailed guide on how the perfect resume summary is written, read Hiration's 2023 Resume Summary Guide.

Waiter Resume Objective

Objectives are to be framed when you have no experience or 3 years below of professional experience.

You should also write an objective of your resume for waiter if you belong to any of the following categories:

• Entry-level applicant
• Re-entry into the workforce
• Change in career or industry

Read our Hiration's 2023 Guide on Resume Objectives for a better understanding of writing an objective in your resume.

Resume Review & Free Waiter Resume Word Template

You can use Hiration's Professional Resume Review Service for your waiter resume.

Your resume will be reviewed by our professional industry experts who will comprehend the below-given parameters:

• Compliance with industry norms
• Recruiter Friendliness
• Global Compatibility
• Resume Formatting (font, margins, the order of sections, etc.)
• Performance Assessment
• Design Compatibility
• Conversion Scope
• ATS Compliance
• Content Relevance

You can also avail free word template of your resume after it is reviewed.

Waiter Resume Builder

The following resources are made available with the use of Hiration's Online Resume Builder to make your waiter resume:

• Option to save unlimited resumes
• 20+ resume designs
• Full rich-text editor
• Unlimited PDF downloads
• 100+ content templates
• 1-click design change
• A sharable link
• Live resume editor

Here is your chance to create your perfect waiter resume. Click on the Hiration's Online Resume Builder for your flawless resume.

Key Takeaways

Given below is a list of important points for you to keep in mind and follow at all times while framing your perfect waiter resume:

• Write the summary and key skills only at the end, even though they appear on the top of your resume.
• Write keywords only and do not use phrases in your key skills sections
• Your key skills section should ideally have the keywords mentioned in the targetted job profile description.
• All one-liner points in your work experience should start with a power verb.
• Power verb should be used in the past tense for past profiles/projects and present continuous tense for present profiles and projects.
• Bucketing and bolding should be used in your work experience section to emphasize your efficiency and create cause-effect relations.
• Write a resume summary for your 3 years and above work experience, an objective to describe your 0 to less than 3 years of work experience.

You have reached the end of our Blog Layout Guide for step-by-step instructions on the standard format that we follow for blog writing at Hiration.

Go to Hiration resume builder and create a professional resume for yourself. Additionally, reach out to us at [email protected] and you can get 24/7 professional assistance with all your job & career-related queries.

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Waiter Resume Samples

A waiter is obligated to receive the customer in a restaurant and take care of their needs until the time they leave. Some of the key job duties that can be seen on a Waiter Resume are: to make menu suggestions , to take orders, to serve those orders, provide outstanding guest service , give bills to the customer and to receive payment.

To embark on this service-oriented career as a Waiter, some key characteristics and skills are deemed necessary, such as strong people skills, excellent communication skills, service-oriented approach, friendly and amicable nature, patient approach towards elderly customers and kids, a pleasing personality, a happy disposition, etc. The minimum education required for this role is a Bachelor’s Degree in the hospitality field. A Master’s Degree in the relevant field is considered as an added advantage. Several years of work experience in the relevant field is also expected. Even people with just a diploma with good experience can apply.

• Resume Samples
• Hospitality

Junior Waiter Resume

Objective : Fine Dining Waiter with over 2 years of experience and an excellent record of providing professional, high-quality service to clients. Developed a diverse background and skillset adaptable to new restaurants or dining concepts. Known for being a dependable team member who always makes a complete effort to give clients a dining experience which exceeds their expectations. To secure a position that will enable me to use my strong communication and customer service skills and the ability to work well with people.

Skills : Fork Lift Certified, Cooking, Customer Service, Trainer, Bilingual In English And Spanish

Description :

• Checking with customers to ensure that they are enjoying their meals and take action to correct any problems.
• Writing patrons' food orders on order slips, memorizing orders, or entering orders into computers for transmittal to kitchen staff.
• Checking patrons' identification to ensure that they meet minimum age requirements for consumption of alcoholic beverages.
• Serving food or beverages to patrons, and preparing or serving specialty dishes at tables as required.
• Presenting menus to patrons and answering questions about menu items, making recommendations upon request.
• Rolling silverware, setting up food stations or setting up dining areas to prepare for the next shift or for large parties.
• Stocking service areas with supplies such as coffee, food, tableware, and linens.
• Removing dishes and glasses from tables or counters, taking them to the kitchen for cleaning.
• Performing cleaning duties, such as sweeping and mopping floors, vacuuming carpet, tidying up server stations, taking out the trash, or checking and cleaning the bathroom.

Busser/Waiter Resume

Objective : Accomplished and motivated Busser/Waiter. A substantial history of achievement in the culinary and customer services industries. Personable and professional under pressure, while maintaining an organized and organized and prioritized work environment. Will bring a strong work ethic, great flexibility, excellent customer service and tremendous energy to the position. - Work with a dynamic and productivity-oriented company where I can hone my potentials to the full for mutual benefit and advantage.

Skills : Food Handling, Security, Social Networking, Cash Handling, Communications

• Accurately recorded orders and partnered with team members to serve food and beverages that exceeded guests' expectations.
• Demonstrated awareness of liability issues and the law by confirming legal drinking age and discontinuing service to intoxicated guests.
• Transported all dirty tableware from dining room to dishwashing area for proper cleaning.
• Consistently deliver exceptional customer service by quickly and efficiently clearing restaurant tables.
• Managed closing duties, including restocking items and reconciliation of the cash drawer.
• Regularly checked on guests to ensure satisfaction with each food course and beverages.
• Effectively communicated with kitchen staff regarding customer allergies, dietary needs, and other special requests.
• Maintained knowledge of current menu items, garnishes, ingredients and preparation methods.
• Assisted guests with making menu choices in an informative and helpful fashion.

Server/Waiter Resume

Objective : Server/waiter with over 3 years of experience in the food and beverage industry. Highly skilled in cleaning china, glass, and silver using the dishwashing machine hands-on experience in setting-up cleaning, and utilizing the silver burnishing machine, proven ability to safely utilize and store all cleaning compounds and chemicals, and materials. To secure a position in a highly recognized and established company that will help develop Career growth in my chosen field of study while meeting the company's mission and vision.

Skills : Reliable, Cooperative, Adaptable, Dependable, Ambitious, Determined, Honest, Hardworking, People-oriented

• Checked patrons' identification in order to ensure that they meet minimum age requirements for consumption of alcoholic beverages.
• Wrote patrons' food orders on order slips, memorized orders, or entered orders into computers for transmittal to kitchen staff.
• Checked with customers to ensure that they are enjoying their meals and take action to correct any problems.
• Served food and/or beverages to patrons, prepared and served specialty dishes at tables as required.
• Removed dishes and glasses from tables or counters, and took them to the kitchen for cleaning.
• Presented menus to patrons and answered questions about menu items, making recommendations upon request.
• Prepared hot, cold, and mixed drinks for patrons, and chill bottles of wine.
• Explained how various menu items are prepared, describing ingredients and cooking methods.
• Prepared tables for meals, including setting up items such as linens, silverware, and glassware.

Head Waiter Resume

Summary : Goal-driven Head Waiter dedicated to high levels of customer and employer satisfaction. Confident and personable with specialized knowledge in customer service and social sciences. In-depth knowledge of service ware and maintaining the same. 

Skills : Team Leadership, Great Communication, Self Motivated, Computer Literate, Detail Oriented, Positive Attitude

• Upheld the ability to multitask efficiently, catering to multiple tables as well as helping out my fellow co-workers.
• Maintained the highest level of service and developed great communication between guests and co-workers that will ensure the guest a great experience.
• Prepared tickets, salads, drinks, serve wine, serve champagne, open bottles at the table.
• Delegated responsibilities to servers and worked with the kitchen to deliver courses on time.
• Regularly worked with private parties (15-50 guests), managing all aspects of their food and beverage service.
• Generated several new relationships over time as a direct result of excellent service provided.

Senior Waiter Resume

Summary : Highly motivated, resourceful Senior Waiter with the ability to establish priorities and meet challenges head-on. Seeking a position that will enable me to use my business skills, interpersonal skills, and cultural skills acquired through my education, study abroad, and work experience. 

Skills : Team Leadership, Great Communication, Business Marketing, Self Motivated, Computer Literate, Detail Oriented, Positive Attitude, Relationship Building

• Assisting host or hostess by answering phones to take reservations or to-go orders, and by greeting, seating, and thanking guests.
• Bringing wine selections to tables with appropriate glasses, and pour the wines for customers.
• Scraping and stacking dirty dishes and carry dishes and other tableware to kitchens for cleaning.
• Performing food preparation duties such as preparing salads, appetizers, and cold dishes, portioning desserts, and brewing coffee.
• Proactively preparing for large parties and reservations, anticipating planning and staffing needs.
• Guiding guests through menus while demonstrating a thorough knowledge of the food, beverages, and ingredients.
• Keeping assigned tables neat and clean, giving guests a sense of comfort to eat in a clean environment.

Bartender/Waiter Resume

Objective : Bartender/Waiter driven to exceed sales goals and build long term relationships with customers. Delivers positive experiences through high-quality customer care. Looking for a Culinary Arts position with a growth-oriented company that offers challenging responsibilities and the potential for advancement.

Skills : Microsoft Office, Cooking, Customer Service, Trainer, Bilingual In English And Spanish

• Addressed diner complaints with kitchen staff and served replacement menu items promptly.
• Quickly recorded transactions in the micros system to deliver prompt service.
• Routinely cleaned work areas, glassware, and silverware throughout each shift.
• Immediately reported accidents, injuries or unsafe work conditions to manager.
• Developed and maintained positive working relationships with others to reach business goals.
• Demonstrated genuine hospitality while greeting and establishing rapport with guests.
• Guided guests through menus while demonstrating a thorough knowledge of the food, beverages, and ingredients.
• Effectively listened to, understood and clarified guest concerns and issues.
• Received frequent customer compliments for going above and beyond normal duties.

Dining Room Waiter Resume

Headline : Hardworking Dining Room Waiter who thrives under pressure and goes above and beyond to create unforgettable guest experiences. 5 years of experience serving up to 20+ dinner guests (events) at an upscale Dining restaurant environment. Focused Waiter successful at multi-tasking and delivering prompt and friendly service to all customers. Maintains a positive attitude and a great sense of humor during peak hours. Highly effective at anticipating and accommodating customer needs. Friendly, punctual and enthusiastic team player. Experienced in most any situation presented.

Skills : Organized And Efficient, Top-tier, Full-service, Committed Team Player, Quick Problem Solver, Courteous, Professional Demeanor, Up-selling Capability, Flexible Schedule Capability

• Exhibited exceptional communications skills and demonstrated the ability to get along well with others.
• Remained flexible and patient when communicating with guests and staff.
• Collected tickets and follow proper cash-handling procedures.
• Promoted a clean, safe and neat environment for guests.
• Maintained a high level of sensitivity and confidentiality regarding personal or medical information that is shared.
• Promptly addressed complaints or issues, relayed relevant information or complaints directly to the supervisor.
• Ensured that the dining room is properly set up prior to and after the service period.
• Kept the area clean and neat while meeting established sanitation standards.
• Operated a variety of equipment, including fire extinguishers, telephones, iced tea/soda machines, soup wells, and coffee machines.
• Worked with the staff of other departments to perform job duties during special events and functions.

Cashier And Waiter/Waitress Resume

Objective : Cashier And Waiter/Waitress who is well organized, self-starter, and can get the job done when needed. A respectful individual and a team player. Excellent listener when asked to do something. Seeking a full-time or part-time position using my strong communication, customer, and personal service as a landscaper, food server and maintenance associate for a production facility.

Skills : Reliable, Dependable, Hardworking, Special Needs, General Office, Sales

• Maintained clean and orderly tables and helps to organize stations.
• Stood by the table, ready to pull the chair for the ladies when guests arrive and depart.
• Provided personalized service. Replenished water, bread, butter, and other items as anticipated.
• Delivered food from the galley to restaurant stations.
• Maintained clean and orderly tables/stations, and assist guests with beverage orders.
• Responsible for the cleanliness, maintenance, and upkeep of all equipment and any other ship’s property that he /she is working with.
• Set tables with napkins and tableware. Refilled condiments and salt and pepper shakers.
• Set up and keeps salad and dessert counter supplied.
• Cleaned dining room tables and chairs and vacuums dining room.

Head Waiter/Bartender Resume

Objective : Head Waiter/Bartender who demonstrates exceptional ability in customer relations and team collaboration with 4+ years of experience. To excel my professional experience in the Hospitality field as well as remain knowledgeable in the field in the success of accelerating only my experience but possibly build better opportunities and growth within your company.

Skills : Microsoft Office, Customer Service, Sales, Special Needs, Basic Computer, Bilingual

• Cleared and reset counters or tables at conclusion of each course.
• Assisted in keeping dining tables and chairs, floors, linens and serving stations clean, bussed and stocked.
• Ensured a clean environment and that designated tables are properly arranged.
• Actively maintained a clean dining space for guests by clearing away empty glassware.
• Delivered all food items to tables in the correct order and to the appropriate customer.
• Checked in with assigned tables periodically to ensure a positive experience for guests.
• Greeted and welcome customers as they enter the restaurant and encouraged guests exiting to return soon.
• Provided a high level of customer service and promoted a restaurant-style dining atmosphere.
• Worked closely with the culinary service director and/or executive director to keep residents satisfied with food and dining programs.

Waiter Resume

Summary : Outgoing Waiter/Captain at Restaurant professional with three efficient years with strong interpersonal and coaching skills. Prior work in busy find-dining restaurants in FOH and BOH operations. Customer service and food handling expertise. Skilled at memorizing menu items and orders. Offering extensive knowledge of hospitality etiquette, food preparation, and superior customer service. To apply my skills, techniques, and education to further my advancement in the culinary industry.

Skills : Good Knife, Creative, Fast Paced, Focused Leader, Creativity, Customer Service, Commitment To Quality Communication, Attention To Detail

• Cleaning and sanitizing the carpet, tables, chairs, condiment containers, and equipment used in the dining room.
• Communicating resident likes and dislikes to the Director of Dining Services for menu planning purposes and resident satisfaction.
• Creating a strong sense of teamwork and cooperation among all staff.
• Attending Pre-Meal stand upheld for all dining and kitchen staff.
• Maintaining complete knowledge of all menu items, cooking methods and beverage selections available in the assigned outlet
• Maintaining complete knowledge of table/seat/station numbers, proper table setups, room capacity, hours of operation, menus, price range and dress code of assigned restaurant and/or outlet.
• Assisting the Server in ensuring each table assigned to them is set up, clean down and organized in accordance with company and rules and regulations prior to, during and at the end of service.
• Offering and refilling water, bread, butter, beverage, and any other items required.

Table of Contents

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Waiter Resume Examples & Writing Guide for 2024

In an industry so dynamic and competitive, you always need to have a great waiter resume ready at hand. But how to make it outstanding?

If you're looking for tips and examples that actually work, you're in the right place. Our easy-to-follow guide, accompanied with real-life waiter resume samples and templates, is here for you!

Keep reading to learn all about: 

• Navigating handy resume examples for waiters and waitresses
• Picking the best format for your resume
• Crafting an attention-grabbing resume summary or objective
• Highlighting your best skills in a waiter resume
• Showcasing your most relevant work experience
• Using powerful action words throughout your resume
• Including relevant education and certifications
• Selecting extra sections that'll make your resume stand out
• Avoiding common mistakes in a waiter resume
• Pairing your resume with a relevant waiter cover letter
• Exploring the average salary and job outlook for waiters and waitresses
• Accessing top resources for job-seeking waiters and waitresses

Still looking for a job? These 100+ resources will tell you everything you need to get hired fast.

Waitress resume example

Why does this resume example work?

• Clear profile statement: The candidate provides a concise and effective profile statement. It clearly outlines their experience, skills, and what they're looking for in a new position. This sets a positive tone and gives hiring managers a quick snapshot of their qualifications.
• Relevant experience: The work experience section is relevant and specific to the role being applied for. The candidate outlines responsibilities at La Maer Restaurant, showcasing abilities essential for a waiter, such as customer communication, managing payments, and maintaining cleanliness.

What could be improved?

• Lack of quantifiable details: The resume would benefit from more quantifiable details. For example, instead of saying "communicated with customers," the candidate could specify approximately how many customers were served per shift or any increase in sales contributed to. Numbers help to clearly demonstrate the level of impact.

Beverage server resume example

• Customer-focused profile:  The candidate clearly emphasizes a customer-focused approach in the profile statement. Highlighting over 2 years of experience and certification as a bartender immediately establishes credibility and relevance to the role.
• Achievement-driven work experience:  The work experience section not only lists responsibilities but also highlights quantifiable achievements. For instance, improving customer satisfaction from 92% to 98% is a concrete metric that showcases the candidate's impact.
• Expand on technical skills:  While the candidate lists inventory management and cash handling, it would be useful to specify any software or systems used. This shows familiarity with industry tools and can be a big plus.

Restaurant cashier resume sample

• Quantifiable impact in experience: The work experience section for Blenheim includes quantifiable achievements like "spearheaded a 70% increase in cash tallying efficiency." These metrics provide a clear picture of the candidate’s contributions and effectiveness.
• Relevant extracurricular activities: The educational background includes participation in clubs and sports teams, illustrating teamwork, leadership, and critical thinking skills. These are transferable skills that are valuable in a cashier role.
• Soft skills and personal qualities: There is mention of customer satisfaction and high energy levels, but adding more about soft interpersonal skills would be beneficial. Employers value soft skills greatly in service-oriented roles.

1. Pick the best format for your resume

Your waiter resume is like your first introduction to a potential employer — get it right, and you can open the door to that coveted restaurant job. Here’s how to format your resume to make sure you shine.

There are three main types of resume formats: chronological, functional, and combination. Each has its own strengths and is suited to different situations. Let’s break them down:

• The chronological format  is the most traditional and widely used. This format lists your work experience in reverse chronological order, starting with your most recent job. It’s best for those with a solid history of working in the restaurant industry without significant gaps. If you’ve worked as a waiter at multiple reputable restaurants, this format helps show your continuous growth and reliability.
• The functional format  focuses on your skills and experience rather than your work history. Instead of listing jobs in order, you group your experience by skill areas. This format is useful if you're changing careers, have employment gaps, or are just entering the workforce . It emphasizes what you can do rather than where you did it. If you’ve gained relevant skills through various jobs or experiences that don’t necessarily align with traditional restaurant roles but are still valuable, this format lets you highlight abilities like customer service, multitasking, and team collaboration.
• The combination format  blends elements of both the chronological and functional formats. It highlights your skills while also providing a timeline of your work history. If you have a strong set of skills and a steady employment history , this format allows you to showcase both. It’s particularly useful when you want to show a well-rounded picture of your experience and abilities.

Choosing the right format for your waiter resume is all about presenting your experience and skills in the best light possible. Whichever you choose, make sure it’s clear, concise, and directed at showing why you’re the perfect fit for the job.

Try our AI Resume Writer and have your resume ready in minutes!

2. write a strong resume summary or objective for a waiter job.

Crafting a compelling resume summary or objective is crucial for catching a hiring manager's attention, especially in a fast-paced industry like hospitality. Whether you choose a summary or an objective depends on your experience level and career goals.

When to use a summary vs. an objective:

Resume summary

Use a summary if you have several years of experience. It highlights your most notable accomplishments and skills, quickly showing employers why you're a great fit for the role.

Key elements for a resume summary:

• Experience:  Detail your years of experience in the field.
• Notable achievements:  Highlight significant accomplishments that make you stand out.
• Key skills:  Emphasize skills that are crucial for the job.
• Immediate value:  Show what you bring to the table right now.

Bad example of a resume summary

Experienced in food service, good at customer service, and looking for a new job.

Why is it so bad? This summary is too generic and doesn’t provide any tangible evidence of the candidate’s abilities. It lacks specifics and doesn’t differentiate the candidate from others.

Good example of resume summary

Experienced waiter with over 5 years in high-volume restaurant environments. Expert in delivering top-notch customer service, upselling menu items, and managing simultaneous tables with efficiency. Recognized for consistently receiving positive customer feedback and increasing repeat business.

Why is it strong? This summary is detailed and specific. It highlights the candidate’s extensive experience, key skills, and measurable achievements, making it clear why they would be an asset to the restaurant.

Resume objective

Use an objective if you're an entry-level candidate, changing careers, or have gaps in your employment. It focuses on your career goals and how you plan to use your skills in the new role.

Key elements for a resume objective:

• Career goals:  Clearly state what position you are seeking.
• Relevant skills:  Highlight skills pertinent to the job you want.
• Alignment with employer needs:  Explain how your background fits with what the employer is looking for.

Bad example of a resume objective

Looking for a challenging role where I can grow and learn new skills.

Why does it fall short? This objective is vague and self-centered. It doesn’t specify any particular experience or skills and doesn’t mention how the candidate can contribute to the employer.

Good example of a resume objective

Enthusiastic and customer-oriented waiter seeking a waitstaff position at XYZ Restaurant to apply exceptional hospitality and multitasking skills, ensuring a memorable dining experience for all patrons.

Why is it effective? This objective is specific and relevant. It highlights the candidate’s enthusiasm and key skills (hospitality and multitasking) and directly aligns with the responsibilities of a waiter.

Writing a strong resume summary or objective tailored to a waiter job involves focusing on relevant experience, specific skills, and aligning with the employer’s needs. Whether you opt for a summary or an objective, make sure it's clear and impactful, showcasing why you're the ideal candidate for the position.

3. Highlight your best skills in a waiter or waitress resume

Selecting the most relevant skills for your waiter resume is crucial for making a strong impression on potential employers. Understanding the difference between hard and soft skills , and highlighting the right ones, can surely boost your chances of landing the job.

Hard skills are specific, teachable abilities that can be quantified and measured. For a waiter, these skills might include knowledge of point-of-sale (POS) systems, food safety certifications , and cash handling .

Soft skills , on the other hand, are interpersonal attributes and personality traits that determine how you interact with others. These are particularly important for waiters as they directly impact customer satisfaction. Soft skills include customer service , communication , and teamwork .

It's essential to prioritize the skills mentioned in the job ad at the top of your resume. Employers often use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to scan resumes for specific keywords. Including these skills ensures your resume meets the initial screening criteria and gets noticed by hiring managers.

Here are some key skills to consider for your waiter resume:

Soft skills for waiter resume

• Customer service: Ensuring guests have a pleasant dining experience
• Communication: Clearly conveying information to guests and team members
• Teamwork: Collaborating effectively with kitchen staff and other servers
• Time management: Efficiently managing multiple tables and tasks
• Problem-solving: Addressing and resolving any issues that arise
• Attention to detail: Ensuring orders are accurate and special requests are fulfilled

Hard skills for waiter resume

• POS systems: Proficient in operating point-of-sale systems
• Menu knowledge: Understanding menu items and being able to make recommendations
• Food safety: Certified in food handling and safety protocols
• Cash handling: Accurately processing payments and handling cash
• Beverage preparation: Skilled in making and serving various drinks, including alcohol
• Order accuracy: Ensuring orders are correctly taken and delivered to the kitchen

By carefully selecting and presenting the most relevant skills, you'll create a meaningful connection between your qualifications and the needs of the employer. This focused approach makes your resume stand out and increases your chances of securing an interview.

4. Showcase your most relevant work experience

Your work experience and key projects section is essential for showcasing your qualifications and accomplishments. A well-structured format with clear descriptions can significantly impact how potential employers view your waiter resume.

When describing your work experience, use a bulleted list format to keep the information clear and easy to read. Each bullet point should contain your job title, the company’s name, the dates of employment, key responsibilities, and notable achievements. Providing quantifiable accomplishments where possible adds credibility and impact.

Bad example of a work experience entry

ABC Restaurant Waiter 2018 - Present

• Served food and drinks to customers.
• Took orders.
• Helped with cleaning.

Why is it completely weak? This example is too vague and lacks detail. It doesn’t highlight specific skills or accomplishments and fails to differentiate the candidate from others.

Good example of a work experience entry

ABC Restaurant Waiter January 2019 – December 2021

• Managed up to 15 tables in a high-traffic restaurant, ensuring timely service and customer satisfaction.
• Enhanced customer satisfaction scores by 20% through attentive service and effective problem-solving.
• Trained 10 new servers on restaurant protocols and service standards, improving team efficiency by 25%.
• Coordinated special events, such as private parties and corporate gatherings, resulting in increased revenue and customer loyalty.

Why is this example strong? It's detailed and specific, highlighting key responsibilities and achievements. What's more, the use of quantifiable data (e.g., “enhanced customer satisfaction scores by 20%”) adds credibility and demonstrates the candidate’s impact.

Fresh graduates: Stand out with these insider tips

If you’re a fresh graduate or have limited work experience, focus on relevant skills and any experience that can translate to a waiter role. Include:

• Part-time jobs
• Internships
• Volunteer work
• Relevant coursework
• Highlight transferable skills such as customer service , communication , teamwork , and multitasking

Example of a work experience entry for fresh graduates

XYZ Café, Boston, MA Intern June 2021 – August 2021

• Assisted waitstaff in taking orders and serving food, developing strong customer service skills.
• Supported the kitchen staff by prepping ingredients and ensuring a clean work environment.
• Managed the cash register, honed skills in cash handling and basic accounting.
• Assisted in organizing small events, gaining experience in event coordination.

Remember, your work experience and key projects section isn't just about listing past jobs — it's an opportunity to showcase your impact and growth in the hospitality industry. Use this section to tell your unique story through specific achievements and quantifiable results.

Find out your resume score!

5. Use powerful action verbs to boost your waiter resume

Using action words in your resume is crucial. They not only make your experience sound more dynamic but also demonstrate your accomplishments effectively. Conveying a sense of initiative and achievement, they help hiring managers visualize your contributions and understand your role.

In the context of a waiter resume, action words can highlight your ability to manage multiple tasks, provide excellent customer service, and work efficiently under pressure.

In a nutshell, action verbs:

• Grab attention: They make your resume engaging and impressive.
• Showcase abilities: They highlight specific skills and achievements.
• Increase readability: They make your resume easier to read and more dynamic.

Here are some tailored action words to boost your waiter resume

• Streamlined
• Coordinated

Let’s put these action words into action. Instead of "Took orders from customers," say "Efficiently managed customer orders to ensure timely service." "Increased daily specials sales by highlighting key menu items" sounds more impressive than "Promoted daily specials."

The key is to present yourself as proactive and effective, not just a doer but a problem-solver and an achiever.

All in all, including a wide range of powerful action words in your resume can transform a bland resume into a compelling narrative of your professional strengths. So, spice up your waiter resume with these powerful action words and watch it catch the eyes of hiring managers!

6. Include relevant education and certifications

Listing your education on a waiter resume might seem trivial at first, but it plays a crucial role. Whether you're advancing in the hospitality field or simply showcasing a well-rounded background, including your education provides a more complete picture of you as a candidate.

Education indicates a level of discipline and commitment. It can also highlight transferable skills like communication , problem-solving , and teamwork . Even if your degree isn't in hospitality, it shows you're capable of learning and achieving goals.

Imagine you have a degree in Economics. While it may not scream "waiter material," it still adds value:

Unrelated education section example

Bachelor of Arts in Economics XYZ University, Chicago, IL

• Graduated: May 2020
• Relevant Courses: Business Communication, Data Analysis, Organizational Behavior
• Dean's List (2018-2020)
• Completed a capstone project on consumer spending patterns

Here, courses like Business Communication and Organizational Behavior can be linked to effective customer service and teamwork, indirectly enhancing your qualifications.

Now, let’s say your degree is directly related to the field:

Related education section example

Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management ABC University, New York, NY

• Graduated: May 2022
• Relevant Courses: Food and Beverage Management, Customer Service Excellence, Event Planning
• Graduated with Honors
• Completed a project on improving restaurant customer service

Courses and projects clearly aligned with the waiter role add significant value to your resume, reflecting relevant knowledge and practical skills.

But there's one more thing you shouldn't overlook — certifications .  they can be game changers. For instance, adding a "Food Handler Certification" or " Certificate in Wine and Beverage Knowledge " makes you stand out. Certifications show you’ve taken the extra step to refine your skills.

Listing certifications on your resume

Certifications

• Food Handler Certification, National Restaurant Association, 2021
• Certificate in Wine and Beverage Knowledge, XYZ Institute, 2022

Including your education on your waiter resume is not just a formality. It serves as a testament to your broader capabilities and dedication. Whether your education directly relates to hospitality or not, it offers a fuller picture of your skill set and potential. And remember, don’t shy away from adding relevant certifications — they elevate your credibility and set you apart from the competition.

7. Select the right extra sections for your waiter resume

Choosing the right extra sections for your resume can set you apart from other candidates. Extra sections allow you to display additional skills, experiences, and qualities that don’t necessarily fit into the standard resume headings of Work Experience and Education.

When deciding which extra sections to include, focus on what enhances your profile as a candidate for a waiter position. Consider experiences and skills that demonstrate your ability to deliver excellent customer service, manage multiple tasks, and work effectively under pressure.

Here are three extra sections that can elevate your waiter resume:

• Volunteering: Can show that you're proactive, community-minded, and have experience in relevant environments.
• Awards and honors:  An Awards and Honors section can further demonstrate your achievements and dedication, both academically and professionally.
• Languages: Being multilingual can be a significant asset in a customer-facing role like waiting tables, especially in diverse or tourist-heavy locations.

Volunteering

• Served meals to over 100 individuals daily
• Coordinated with a team of volunteers to ensure efficient service
• Enhanced interpersonal skills by interacting with diverse populations

Why is it relevant? Volunteering in a food-related environment illustrates that you’re familiar with serving food and operating in a dynamic setting. It also showcases soft skills like teamwork and communication.

Awards and honors

• Recognized for exceptional customer service and reliability

Why is it relevant? This section underscores your commitment to excellence and recognition by others, whether through work or academic endeavors. It reinforces your reliability and team spirit.

• English (Native)
• Spanish (Fluent)
• French (Conversational)

Why is it relevant? Your language skills can enhance the customer experience by allowing you to communicate effectively with a broader range of patrons, making you a more valuable team member.

Including extra sections is not just about filling space on your resume. They provide deeper insights into your character, capabilities, and accomplishments. They help paint a fuller, richer picture of you as a candidate, showcasing qualities that make you a valuable addition to any hospitality team. Use these sections wisely to stand out and make a lasting impression on prospective employers!

8. Avoid common mistakes on a waiter resume

Creating an impressive waiter resume is crucial, but it's easy to make mistakes that can hurt your chances of landing the job. Here’s a concise guide on how to avoid these pitfalls and ensure your resume stands out for all the right reasons.

• Typos and grammatical errors: Nothing says unprofessional like a resume riddled with typos and grammatical errors. Use spell check tools, but don't rely on them completely. Have someone else proofread your resume to catch mistakes you might have missed. Attention to detail matters.
• Overloading with irrelevant information: While it's important to be thorough, including too much irrelevant information can dilute the impact of your resume. Focus on experiences and skills directly related to the role. For instance, your high school drama club participation might not be as relevant as your experience handling high-pressure environments or multitasking in a customer service setting.
• Using vague language: Avoid generic descriptions like "Worked as a waiter." Instead, use specific action words that convey your contributions and achievements. For example, "Delivered high-quality service to an average of 50 diners per shift, boosting customer satisfaction and generating repeat business."
• Neglecting to tailor your resume: One size does not fit all. Customize your resume for each job application by highlighting the most relevant experiences and skills. Analyze the job description and use keywords that match the employer’s requirements.
• Ignoring soft skills: While technical skills (like knowledge of POS systems or menu familiarity) are essential, don’t forget soft skills. Highlight abilities such as communication , teamwork , and problem-solving . Employers value waiters who can connect with customers and work well with colleagues.
• Omitting quantifiable achievements:  Numbers speak louder than words. Instead of saying you "Improved service," say you "Increased table turnover rate by 15% during peak hours." Quantifiable achievements give a clearer picture of your impact.
• Lack of formatting consistency:  A clean, easily readable resume makes a great impression. Use consistent fonts, bullet points, and spacing. Avoid cluttered layouts; keep it clean and professional. If you’re not sure about the design, stick to a simple template.

Avoiding these common mistakes can significantly enhance the quality and effectiveness of your waiter resume. Keep in mind, your resume is often your first introduction, so make it a memorable and professional one.

9. Include a relevant waiter cover letter

A cover letter can be a powerful addition to your job application. Think of it as your personal sales pitch, complementing your resume by adding more depth to your experiences and skills. But when should you include it, and how should it differ from your resume ?

While your resume provides a snapshot of your work history, skills, and achievements, your cover letter is your opportunity to introduce yourself more personally. The resume is a structured, factual document, while the cover letter allows you to tell your story and explain why you're the perfect fit for the role.

When to include a cover letter? Whenever the job posting requests it. Even if it's optional, submitting a cover letter can show you’re willing to go the extra mile, demonstrating your enthusiasm and professionalism.

Remember, your cover letter should be tailored specifically for the waiter position you’re applying for. Here’s how to make it relevant and compelling:

• Opening paragraph:  Introduce yourself and mention the job you’re applying for. Capture the reader’s attention with a brief but engaging opening statement.
• Middle paragraphs:  Explain why you’re interested in the role and the company. Highlight your relevant experience and skills by drawing on your resume. Use specific examples to demonstrate your abilities, like how you handled a particularly busy shift or improved customer service.
• Closing paragraph:  Summarize why you’re a good fit for the role and express your eagerness to discuss the opportunity further. Thank the reader for their time and consideration.

Pro tip: Use the same design for both your resume and cover letter. It creates a cohesive and professional look. Consistency in fonts, colors, and formatting across both documents helps reinforce your personal brand and makes your application look polished and well-thought-out.

All in all, including a well-crafted cover letter with your resume can significantly boost your application. While the resume provides the facts, the cover letter offers a narrative, drawing connections between your experience and the job you're applying for.

Create your cover letter fast with artificial intelligence.

10. average salary and job outlook for waiters.

Understanding the average salary and job outlook for waiters can help you make informed decisions about your career choices and expectations. According to the most recent data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average yearly salary for waiters and waitresses was $31,940 in May 2023. This figure provides a benchmark for what you might expect to earn and can vary based on location, employer, and experience.

The employment outlook for waiters and waitresses presents a mixed picture. While the overall employment is projected to decline by 3 percent from 2022 to 2032, there is a silver lining. Despite the projected decline, the industry will still generate about 440,000 openings for waiters and waitresses each year, on average, over the decade.

So what does this mean for you? Although the field may experience a slight decline in employment, the significant number of job openings indicates a steady demand for waiters and waitresses. This demand ensures that opportunities will be available, particularly for those who demonstrate strong customer service skills and a willingness to work in various settings.

Whether you're considering entering the field or are an experienced waiter looking to advance, these insights provide a perspective on what to expect and how to plan your career path effectively.

11. Top resources for job-seeking waiters

You know the drill. Job seeking inevitably means hours and hours spent behind a computer screen. And a lot of that precious time gets wasted on trying to figure out where to look for job postings in the first place. If you're currently stuck in this exact place, you may find the following sources all the more useful. 

• Industry-specific job boards: Websites such as Hcareers , Hospitality Online , and Caterer.com specialize in hospitality jobs, including waiter/waitress positions, offering a wide range of listings from casual dining to high-end restaurants.
• Indeed : Indeed is one of the largest online job boards that advertises job offers from all over the world. Just enter relevant keyphrases into the search bar and make your pick. 
• Glassdoor : Apart from job postings, Glassdoor also offers insights into the company culture and salaries through employee reviews. Get to know your potential employer before you submit your application! 
• LinkedIn : LinkedIn is the perfect means to explore the world of professional waiters. You can get in touch with hiring managers directly, or gain new and useful contacts by networking.
• Local restaurant websites and social media pages: Don't underestimate the power of the internet! You can reach out to establishments through their social media accounts or web pages. Take a chance!
• Continuous learning: Upskilling can make any resume more appealing to the eyes of recruiters. Take your time and browse through websites like Coursera , Udemy , or edX to find a course that best suits your goals.

Regardless of what restaurant you’re hoping to join, your resume needs to fit the bill of a waiter. You’re more than just someone delivering food and your resume is the place to prove it. Including the right skills and experience can help your CV stand out in a stack of resumes.

If you need some ideas to get you started, these Kickresume waiter resume examples are guaranteed to impress any restaurant manager.

Waiter Resume FAQ

How can i best showcase my skills on a waiter resume.

Make sure to highlight both your soft and hard skills relevant to waiting tables. For soft skills, emphasize your customer service, communication, and multitasking abilities. For hard skills, list any experience with POS systems, knowledge of wine pairing, and fluency in foreign languages if applicable. And also use bullet points to detail how you've applied these skills in past roles.

How should I format my work experience on a waiter resume?

Use a reverse-chronological format, listing your most recent job first. For each position, include the job title, employer's name, and the dates of your employment. Again, under each job, use bullet points to describe your responsibilities and achievements, focusing on those that demonstrate your competence and impact. You can also use quantifiers when it's possible.

What does it mean "to use quantifiers"?

Quantify your successes wherever possible. For example, " Increased upsell of premium wines by 30% through knowledgeable recommendations " or " Achieved a 98% customer satisfaction score based on feedback surveys. " These concrete numbers provide tangible evidence of your skills and effectiveness.

Should I include references on my waiter resume?

It's more space-efficient to note that references are available upon request rather than listing them on your resume. This approach also gives you the opportunity to inform your references ahead of time if a potential employer requests their contact information.

I'm submitting my resume via ATS. How can I make it ATS-friendly?

Use a simple, clean layout without headers, footers, or graphics, which can confuse ATS software. Stick to standard fonts and incorporate the keywords featured in the job posting throughout your resume: in your summary, work experience, education, certificates, and skills sections. Save your resume in a widely accepted format, such as .docx or PDF , to ensure it's readable by the ATS.

Julia Belak

Julia is a Certified Professional Résumé Writer (CPRW™) and an active member of the Professional Association of Résumé Writers & Career Coaches (PARWCC™). She is also a passionate translator and graphic designer. Julia holds degrees in translation and interpretation and has international work experience in various countries across Europe, as well as in China and Panama. Julia formerly taught academic writing and contributed as a graphic designer to outlets such as The Business of Business. You'll often find her with a book in one hand and a specialty coffee in the other, always on the lookout for new insights.

All hospitality resume examples

• Food Preparation
• Hotel Manager
• Housekeeping
• Restaurant Manager

All waiter resume examples

Related waiter cover letter examples

Resume guides

How to write a professional resume summary [+examples], how to put your education on a resume [+examples], how to describe your work experience on a resume [+examples], let your resume do the work..

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5 Amazing waiter Resume Examples (Updated 2023) + Skills & Job Descriptions

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Waiter: resume samples & writing guide, employment history.

• Serve food and beverages in a timely manner
• Participate in team meetings and trainings
• Provide excellent customer service
• Perform side work duties as assigned
• Follow all company policies and procedures
• Ensure that all orders are accurate and delivered to the guests promptly
• Process payments and provide change
• Maintain a clean and organized work area

Do you already have a resume? Use our PDF converter and edit your resume.

Professional Summary

• Ensure that guests receive prompt and courteous service
• Greet guests and take food and beverage orders
• Upsell menu items and specials
• Respond to guest inquiries and complaints in a professional manner
• Follow all safety and sanitation guidelines
• Assist in setting up and breaking down the dining area

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Table of Content

• Introduction
• Resume Samples & Writing Guide
• Resume Example 1
• Resume Example 2
• Resume Example 3
• Resume Example 4
• Resume Example 5
• Jobs Description
• Jobs Skills
• Technical Skills
• Soft Skills
• How to Improve Your Resume
• How to Optimize Your Resume
• Cover Letter Example

Waiting tables isn’t as easy as it looks.

The same can be said for putting together a resume.

At least, if you want to do it right . If you want more calls and requests to interview than you know what to do with. 

The problem is, whether this is your first time serving or you’ve done your fair share of waiting tables, it’s one of the best and easiest places to start a professional career.

That’s great in terms of the job itself. 

But that means you can’t lean back on formal education or any special certification to wow recruiters.

You have to craft a resume that displays your experience and skills in a way that convinces recruiters you can handle the job . 

How do you do that? 

That’s what this guide is about. 

Let’s dive into what makes a great waiter or waitress resume, section by section, and how you can craft one that gets you noticed. 

This guide is for you whether you’re:

• Just starting out and crafting the very first professional resume of your life
• Or you’re a seasoned waiter or waitress looking to prove to recruiters that you’re the best qualified server for the job

So whether you’re new to job hunting or you’re looking for your next job in the foodservice industry, it’s time to learn how to make a delectable resume. 

What this guide will cover

In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know to craft an eye-catching waiter or waitress resume that clearly shows recruiters you have the skills and desire to serve their establishment better than anyone else.

We’ll show you:

• Templates you can use to instantly take your resume to another level
• How to format your resume so that your best qualities are the first thing recruiters will notice
• How to write an effective profile that sets the tone for the rest of your resume and impresses recruiters right out of the gate
• How to write a great waiter resume even if you have little to not experience

With how many applicants you’re fighting against for the average waiter resume, it’s easy to think you have to go overboard with the design to stand out. 

But making an eye-catching, effective design without going overboard– and ensuring recruiters throw your resume in the trash before reading a single line– isn’t easy. 

So, check out Resumebuild’s full library of high-quality, read-made resume designs and make the job of creating a resume that gets you noticed quicker and easier.

Resume templates

How to write a waiter / waitress resume that helps you stand out from the crowd.

There’s writing a great resume. 

Then there’s writing a great waiter or waitress resume.

And then there’s writing a great waiter or waitress resume that’s so good, the restaurant recruiter says, “Wow, they’re perfect for the job.” 

The difference between those three things is the difference between you getting the interview (and maybe even the job)… or not. 

There are certain universal principles that go into writing a great resume . 

However, you need to do more than just put together a clear and professional objective, experience, and skills section.

You need to write those sections understanding what food establishment recruiters are looking for and how to format and word your resume in a way that shows them you’re a good fit for the job. 

So, let’s start with the first step to doing just that: how to format your resume so that your best qualities are impossible to miss.

1. How to format your resume to draw attention to your best qualities 

The presentation aspect of a great resume, your resume should be formatted in a way that makes your most attractive qualities stand out. 

Do you have extensive experience as a server? 

Do you have experience training other waiters? 

Or maybe you’re great at upsells and typically outperform the average waiter. 

Writing a great waiter resume is all about asking: How do I format my resume so that my best qualities stand out? 

Why is this so important?

Job applications are always crowded no matter the industry, but waiting tables is the 2nd most popular job in the U.S. according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. 

That means every job opening is going to be very, very crowded.

Your resume can’t just look like everyone else’s. That is, a block of formatting text.

Instead, it needs to help your most attractive qualities jump off the page, which will instantly help you both stand out and be memorable.

The ideal formatting for a waiter or waitress resume

The typical overarching format for a waiter resume is:

• Personal information
• Profile (objective or summary)
• Optional: Additional details (more on this later)

If you’re low on experience, a skills section might be better placed above experience.

However, in general, this is the best and most straightforward format for a waiter resume.

Now, let’s talk about how you would format your resume to help your best qualities, or “unique selling points” stand out. 

How to format your resume to help your best qualities stand out

There are two key elements to making your best qualities unmissable:

• Adjusting the position of elements so that the information is more prominent
• Using bold so that the recruiter’s eyes are drawn first to that information

Both strategies allow you to direct the recruiter’s attention to the information you believe will most effectively convince them to drop your resume into the interview pile. 

Let’s look at an example of positioning elements: 

BJ’s Bar and Grill – Tampa, FL

Waitress – Jan 2016 – Present

In this example, the name of the employer stands out above everything else.

Consider this simple change:

BJ’s Bar and Grill – Tampa, FL – Jan 2016 – Present

This might not seem like such a big deal, but every line they read is going to influence what they think of you. 

This becomes even more important if you have a variety of experience in the food industry, such as being a hostess or a busser. 

That way, the variety of roles– and, thereby, experience– stands out like a sore thumb, instead of just a list of previous employers. 

How to play with text to draw the recruiter’s eyes 

Next, let’s look at why playing with text with things like bold and, to a lesser extent, italics is useful in drawing a recruiter’s attention to the most convincing information on your resume.

Consider this example, a simple wall of text:

BJ’s Bar and Grill – Los Angeles, CA – June 2017 – Present

• Maintained wine and dessert upsells at an average of $195 a night, 30% higher than the average server
• Maintained 97% customer satisfaction rating over 2 years
• Trained 6 new hosts on how to provide the highest quality customer experience and maximize upsells
• Waited tables for a 140-seat establishment
• Answered customer questions beyond just my own tables to act in a semi-managerial capacity

Sure, the recruiter is likely to read the first point, but there’s no guarantee of that. 

What their eyes land on is up to chance, and you don’t want that. 

You want to control how they interact with your resume. 

Look at the same example with one simple change: 

All the information is in exactly the same place. However, how your eyes interact with it is entirely different.

By using bold to point out your unique achievements or skills from that previous role, you’re directing them to your most impressive points and making them more memorable. 

In the same way, you could have listed that same section out like this, burying those most notable points:

There are some really impressive points in that list. But many recruiters might pass up those key points altogether with the way they’re jumbled up.

Achievements are best put at the top of your experience list (if you have them) and other prominent parts of your resume. 

Plus, if you can cite something with real data, like, “Maintained wine and dessert upsells at an average of $195 a night, 30% higher than the average server,” you’ll impress recruiters in a big way. 

You can even separate your responsibilities and achievements like this to make them even harder to miss:

Achievements:

Responsibilities:

• Bussed tables and presented menus

However you choose to structure your resume, make sure you make your best qualities and most impressive selling points stand out using the abovementioned tricks. 

2. How do I know what recruiters are looking for?

What do recruiters want to see?

How can you make your resume more convincing so that your phone is ringing off the hook? 

Now that you know how to format your resume so that your unique selling points stand out, let’s talk about what skills, experience, and achievements you might want to make more prominent vs. others. 

As a waiter or waitress, your resume is centered mostly on the skills, responsibilities, and achievements you’ve acquired through previous experience . 

Preferably, in this order:

• Accomplishments within the foodservice industry
• Skills and responsibilities from previous experience within the foodservice industry
• Skills and responsibilities relevant to foodservice but from experience outside the foodservice industry

Think about it as a gradient in terms of how effective each level is at convincing a recruiter. 

The higher up on the list, the more effective the experience/skills you mention will be at convincing the recruiter you could be the right person for the job:

• Accomplishments prove you have a certain skill to accomplish the job
• Skills you cite within the foodservice industry strongly suggest you have what it takes to accomplish the job
• And skills relevant to the foodservice industry but outside the industry suggest you might have what it takes

So, the more accomplishments you can mention the better. 

If you don’t have any or enough to fill your resume (not likely), list as much foodservice experience or relevant skills as you have from within the industry. 

And, if you’re just starting out, think of any and all experience relevant to the foodservice industry you acquired from another job (or other experience) and list that out.

Put yourself into the mind of the recruiter for a moment. What are they thinking as they scan your resume?

They’re thinking: “Can this person do what we need them to do? How convincing is their resume?”

By structuring the skills and experience you mention in your resume in this order, you’ll ensure that your resume will be more likely to convince them. 

Okay, that tells us what all recruiters want to see in general. But what about a specific job opening? 

How to target your resume to each application

Want to know how to find out what a recruiter is looking for? 

They already told you– it’s in their job listing.

Take a few minutes to review the listing. Look at the language they use and the skills they mentioned wanting in the “ideal candidate”.

Chances are, they mentioned a few things that you have. 

For example, this was taken straight from a real listing: 

“Has exceptional communications skills and demonstrates ability to get along well with others. Is flexible and patient when communicating with guests and staff.”

If you’re great with guests and have the proof to back it up, you could mention the customer satisfaction rating you had at your previous employer somewhere in your resume:

“Maintained 95% customer satisfaction rating over the course of my employment at Roadhouse Grill.”

If you don’t have data like that you can cite but are great with customers, you can say this:

“Consistently received warm praise and repeat visits from customers I served throughout my employment at Roadhouse Grill.”

And if you have no experience at all but you want them to know that you have good communication skills and are great with people, you could say:

“Great communication skills, easy to get along with, and patient when working with others.”

Also, some recruiters will value experience over skills or vice versa. Some specifically state wanting to see results or achievements you’ve accomplished. 

Instead of listing your experience first, you could consider listing your achievements or specific skills you have at the top of your resume. 

ACHIEVEMENTS:

• Maintained 95% customer satisfaction rating while at Drum Roll
• Earned a 20% return customer rating through customer surveys, the highest of any survey while at Drum Roll

EXPERIENCE:

Drum Roll – Seattle, WA – June 2015 – March 2017

• Acted as host by presenting menus, answering customer questions, and resolving issues
• Waited tables for a 100-seat establishment
• Handled allergy and special dietary orders

Keep in mind that you don’t need to have any special achievements to nab an interview (or the job). 

But if you do, use them.

In the next section, we’ll talk about the first of several ways to stand out when you have little to no experience. 

3. How to write a resume objective (with examples) 

At the top of every resume should be some kind of summary of your most attractive qualities.

Something that immediately hits recruiters the moment they start reading your resume. 

Not only is this valuable because it’s at the top of your resume, so it’s often the first thing they read. 

It’s also valuable because, if done right, it can be a summary of the “highlights” listed throughout your resume.

Why is that so important?

The truth is, most recruiters don’t look at your resume for more than 6-7 seconds.

To put salt to the wound, they’re not reading, they’re glancing. Hence, why formatting properly is so important. 

For that reason, a well-written objective or summary at the top of your resume can help ensure that you communicate the best of what you have to offer to said recruiter.

Even if they only scan through a small portion of the rest of your resume.

When it comes to the profile at the top of your resume, you have two choices:

• Or an objective

A summary is great if you have previous experience . It’s typically a 2-4 sentence breakdown of your relevant experience.

An objective is great if you have little or not experience . It includes an explanation of your ambition or goals for the position and your career, giving them a glimpse into who you are. 

In general, you’ll want to focus more on one or the other depending on where you’re at in your career. 

For example, using a summary might be best if your experience speaks for itself.

Having said that, let’s first talk about what makes a great resume objective. 

As I mentioned earlier, an objective is one of the best tools if you have very little experience. 

So, if that’s you, read on. 

What makes a great, memorable resume objective?

The majority of a resume is centered around reporting pure facts about your experience and history.

An objective is unique, however, because it’s all about expressing who you are . 

Sure, you could mention some impressive past experience as a waiter or host, but it’s more about communicating your passion and ambition for the role.

A good objective makes the recruiter feel something about you that leaves an impression and helps you stand out. 

The great thing about that is it doesn’t matter how much experience you have, you can write a compelling objective with the right structure and wording.

A good objective generally includes 3 things:

• A short 1-2 sentence summary of your experience
• 1-Sentence summary of a key achievement or skills
• 1-Sentence statement describing your passion and interest for the position and, most importantly, what you’d like to accomplish

Let’s look at an example.

You’re applying to a job where the description specifically mentions wanting someone who is a people person with customer service experience.

Let’s say you don’t have experience as a waiter yet or in any customer service industry, but you did serve food to the homeless for the holidays over the past 3 years with some friends.

You could write:

Ambitious entry-level server with a patient, cheery disposition and experience serving food during charity events for the past 3 years. Looking to leverage my knowledge serving and delighting others to grow and develop as a waiter at Marriott Bonvoy. 

Now that’s an objective that would get you noticed, and definitely helps tip the scales in your favor if you don’t have any prior experience. 

Let’s look at another example.

The job post says they’re looking for someone who has experience managing a heavy serv9ce load while working as a host and occasionally bussing tables. 

Let’s say you have a bit of experience: 1 year at a local diner. 

Better than nothing, but you’re still not sure how to sell what little experience you have.

You could say:

Waitress with 1 ½ years of experience serving tables at a local diner. Looking to leverage my experience as a server into a waitress role at your restaurant. 

Hmm… this one needs some work.

First of all, you worked at a diner. 

Chances are, you have some experience hosting and bussing tables. And some experience is enough. 

Next, if you can, you always want to personalize your objective by mentioning the company’s name at the end instead of just “your company/restaurant/hotel/etc.”

Lastly, let’s add a little more emotion. 

So, let’s try that again:

Waitress with 1 ½ years of experience as a server at Sid’s Kitchen. As a server, I waited tables for the 80-seat diner and often served as host to many parties and bussed tables. Looking to leverage my experience as an eager, multi-faceted server and host into a waitress role at Darryl's. 

Much better. Same role but you sold yourself far better. 

After all, if you sat new parties, took drink orders, food orders, and often cleaned up, you are a multi-faceted server. 

So, don’t sell yourself short by thinking you don’t have enough experience to write an impressive resume. 

Even if you only have one good point you can mention relevant to what the job posting said they’re looking for, that’s a point you should emphasize and sell in your objective.

4. How to write a resume summary that brings together your best qualities

While many who get into serving are putting their feet into the workforce for the first time, if you have prior experience, it can go a long way. 

With a resume summary, you can hit recruiters with the valuable skills you’ve learned in previous positions, immediately helping you stand apart from those without any experience. 

How does this differ from a resume objective?

They’re similar but the main thing is this:

• No objective
• More about your experience

Let’s look at some good and bad examples.

This one is for a senior waitress and host: 

Waitress with 6+ years of experience as a server. Experience with waiting tables, managing payments, taking special orders, seating customers, offering recommendations, upselling, cleaning tables, and training new hosts. 

That’s pretty much just a big list of points ripped right from your experience section. 

Instead, let’s try something with a bit more intention:

Waitress with 6+ years of experience providing top-level customer service to diners and hotels in the Detroit Area. Experience with POS terminals, hosting, and managing orders as everything from a waitress to a host, catering assistant, and most recently senior waitress. Certified Food Handler with experience taking allergy and other special dietary orders. 

First, mentioning you have extensive experience in the area where the establishment exists is a positive because it means you know the people. 

Second, since you’re applying for a senior waitress/host position, mentioning your experience with payment terminals and managing orders sounds better than just rattling off a bunch of random skills. 

Lastly, you’ve further isolated yourself by mentioning you can handle special orders and have certification in food handling. 

That communicates that you can act in a managerial role in terms of orders, all things relevant to being a senior waitress. 

If you don’t have enough experience to craft the kind of summary that’s as compelling as this, an objective is ideal. 

However, if you have several years of experience in multiple roles, a resume summary is likely the route to go vs. an objective as your experience will help you stand apart from the pack. 

5. How to write a waiter / waitress resume with little or no experience

I know what you’re thinking...

“The objective part was useful, but I still don’t have any/much experience. Once their eyes scroll down… I’m a goner.”

It’s true that a good objective won’t typically seal the deal, but it’s a great start.

And it’s not all you can do. 

If you have 2-3 previous roles worth of experience, you’re doing really good.

Just make sure to format your resume so that your best qualities stand out and include a great summary. 

However, if you have one-to-no previous roles as a waiter or waitress, you still have options to beef up your experience section.

Let’s say this is all you have down:

Waitress / Dec 2018 – Jan 2020

The Big Pie – NYC

• Presented menus to guests
• Waited tables
• Bussed tables

That definitely needs some work. 

First, let’s start by sprucing up those descriptions.

Try to pull from any kind of data you have, such as how many tables the establishment had or number of guests you may have sat or bussed per night.

Quantifying the work you did really helps you look more impressive and it’s an easy thing to do.

Plus, by just adding a bit more description, particularly adjectives, you can make the same description sound so much more powerful.

Let’s put those two things together and see what we get:

• Presented menus, offered recommendations, and took drink orders from over 200 guests per night
• Waited tables and provided friendly, prompt service to customers for a 120-seat establishment
• Bussed tables in a timely and efficient manner

Not only does that look far better, you just added 2 lines to your resume to help fill in the page. 

We’re not done yet, though.

Chances are, you have 2-4 more points you can get down per previous employer to help beef up your resume further. 

At the same time, that will allow you to display a wider diversity of skills and experience. 

Let’s see what that would look like in our example:

• Presented menus, offered recommendations, and took drink orders to over 200 guests per night
• Implemented new menu introductions and recommendations efficiently
• Trained 3 new servers on how to provide top-level service and balance a large table load while executing effective upsale strategies
• Took additional steps to ensure allergy and other special orders were handled with care

Now that’s extensive. 

It makes you look like senior waitress material just having fleshed out the experience you gained in your one previous role. 

Plus, you just added 4 new lines to your resume. 

Even if this is the only previous experience you mention on your entire resume, it looks so impressive it won’t matter as much. 

And keep in mind: you can do this whether you need to fill out your resume with more content or not.

Writing your experience section this way simply makes your resume look more impressive.

If you have 3 or more previous employers, you might want to cut down the number of less-compelling bullet points you mention so that you can get another section of experience in. 

However, make sure you always expand each point and add adjectives to make your bullet points as persuasive as possible. 

Other duties and responsibilities you can mention 

“That’s an awesome idea, but I have no idea what else to mention.”

It’s easy to forget about all the little things you handled while serving tables.

Chances are, though, you have a ton more you can mention under the bullet points in your experience section.

Alternatively, you can also spin some of these to mention in your skills section with the right wording:

• Managed customer discrepancies efficiently
• Watched tables to make sure all customers were satisfied or needed service
• Frequently assisted other waiters and waitresses when they needed help
• Processed orders through POS terminal
• Kept the condiments station refilled
• Restocked dining area supplies including utensils, napkins, and menus
• Regularly upsold desserts to customers
• Cleaned up the restaurant during closing
• Greeted customers and seated them at their tables
• Provided customers with menus
• Managed order slips
• Provided wine recommendations
• Offered wine and food pairings
• Regularly set up dining tables and chairs for opening
• Sanitized dining area before opening
• Offered new menu recommendations and specials

And these are only some of the things you can mention to fill in your experience section.

Still not sure what to put down to flesh out your previous experience?

Take a few of the points here down that are relevant to your past experience and add them to your resume in the relevant section to show you have a wider diversity of skills as a waiter. 

What if I have absolutely no experience to mention on my resume?

“Hah!” You say. 

“I have zero experience, how could you possibly have a solution for me ?” 

We’ve got you. 

Whether you’re in high school, college, or you’re picking up your first job for another reason, there’s likely experience you can mention that you don’t even realize.

Remember the example earlier where we talked about mentioning your experience giving out meals to the homeless during the holidays?

Charity work like that where you applied the same or similar skills to what you’d use as a waiter or waitress are perfect to mention if you have no previous experience to put down on your resume.

Let’s take that previous example and see what their experience section might have looked like:

Volunteer Server / Dec 2019

Dallas Food Bank – Denver, Colorado

• Served meals with prompt and efficient service 
• Took and managed orders from over 150 visitors
• Cleaned tables and reorganized facility equipment

That looks a lot better than a blank page. 

In fact, that’s probably more impressive than what some with experience submit with job applications. 

What if you haven’t donated your time in a similar capacity, though?

Likelihood is, you can come up with something you can mention in your experience section. 

In fact, it doesn’t even have to be food industry or serving-specific experience.

You could mention:

• Experience helping with a school event where you served families, managed orders, or took payments
• Time helping at the family business, especially anything involving customer service, clean up, or taking orders
• Or any basic non-food industry experience where you applied similar skills that you’d use as a waitress or waiter

Whatever you can get down on your resume relevant to the skills you’ll use in your role as a waiter or waitress will help convince recruiters you’re a good fit for the job.

And by formatting it in a way that looks organized and professional, your minor experience will turn into a positive, helping flesh out your resume. 

6. Which skills will impress recruiters?

A resume’s skills area is often treated as less-than important compared to virtually everything else.

And, in some ways, it is.

However, whether you don’t have much experience or you have a ton, you can use your skills section to really take your resume to another level.

If you do it right.

First, let’s talk about what skills to mention .

Remember earlier when we talked about targeting your resume to each individual application? 

Your skills section– in addition to your objective/summary and experience– is another place you can do that.

This is especially useful if you don’t have much experience, as fleshing out your skills section, like the bullet points under your previous experience, is a good way to fill up the page.

Plus, done right you can speak directly to what they’re looking for.  

Skills you can mention on your waiter or waitress resume

Let’s look at a few of the skills you can mention:

• Experience with POS systems
• Waiting tables
• Seating guests
• Offering recommendations
• Bussing/cleaning up
• Handling customer disputes
• Set up for opening / Clean up for closing

Let’s say a job post mentions wanting someone with experience opening and closing, as their person just left for college.

• Experience opening and setting up restaurant for service, including setting up tables, condiments, menus, sanitizing, and greeting first guests
• And have experience closing, including clean up, batch settling through POS system, cashier management, and equipment and electric check 

Something like that will speak directly to the recruiter and show them that you have exactly the experience that they’re looking for. 

You might have already mentioned this in your experience section under the relevant employer.

Mention it again.

If they’re specifically looking for something, you want to make sure they see that you have it and mentioning it again in your skills section will really hammer home the point.  

Also, notice how I didn’t just say:

• Experience opening and closing restaurants for service

You don’t want your skills section to be bland and basic like so many other resumes. 

Make sure to place each skill in context. 

You didn’t just open the restaurant for service. What did you actually do? 

You “set up tables, condiments, menus, sanitized, and greeted first guests”. 

That says a whole lot more than just “Experience opening and closing restaurants for service.” 

It proves you have a variety of the necessary skills to open and close properly.

Even if you have a ton of experience, writing your skills section in this bland and basic way will only ensure you’re underselling yourself. 

So, placing your skills in context is a useful technique for fleshing out your skills section whether you have a lot or a little experience.  

7. How to list any additional details such as certifications, hobbies, interests, and volunteer experience

Given the combination of:

• How many are out there looking for serving jobs, and
• The chance that you might not have any experience yet as a waiter

You may be wondering what additional things you can put down on your resume to help flesh it out. 

It all depends on what you’re looking to put down.

First, let’s start with some ideas:

• Cooking experience : Are you going to cooking school? Are you just an avid amateur cook? 
• Certifications : Food safety or food handling are big ones. However, even something first-aid related can be helpful to mention.
• Technical-esque skills : Such as other languages, drink and wine knowledge, marketing, and sales knowledge. 
• Fitness : Sounds odd, but if you’re starving for things to mention (no pun intended), it’s helpful to note that you’re a fitness junky who can easily handle a large number of tables and lots of running around on a busy night. 
• Courses : Similar to certifications, you may have taken a course on food preparation, food and wine pairing, or even upselling that would be worth mentioning. 

So, where do you put this stuff?

Even separating your skills section into something like “Serving Skills” and “Other Relevant Skills” is effective.

However, you can also list a “Certifications”, “Courses”, or “Technical Skills” section after your skills section if you have 2 or more points to put down. 

Keep things focused

Remember, the most important point to keep top-of-mind is to write to the job description .

What are they looking for?

If you put down an additional skill, certification, course, hobby, or technical-type skill like some of the ones mentioned above, have a reason for it.

In the case of a certification, it might help amp up your resume just because it sounds impressive. Perfect. 

If not but it’s relevant to something they specifically mention they’re looking for, that kind of targeting could mean the difference between getting the interview and not. Awesome.

And in case that sounds like a lot of work, don’t be intimidated.

Over time, you’ll likely notice a pattern of certain skills that are often mentioned under a recruiter’s “ideal candidate”.

Include these in your resume and you’ll always be covered when they’re mentioned.

Other times, you might notice a point which you have on your resume but isn’t highlighted to help stand out in any way.

A few minutes to customize your resume for that job opening will be well worth the time, as again, that too can mean the difference between getting the job– or not. 

Let Resumebuild help you make a better resume, faster

Ready to make your best resume yet?

Throughout this guide, you learned: 

• The best way to format your resume so that it draws attention to your best qualities
• How to know what recruiters are looking for and the art of targeting your resume to each job posting to increase your chance of getting the interview significantly
• How to write a resume objective and summary that captures recruiter’s attention immediately
• And how to write a waiter or waitress resume even if you have little to no experience
• Which skills you should mention on your resume and how to make them compelling
• Plus, how to list additional details such as certifications and hobbies to amp up your server resume

Whether you’re:

• Looking for your first paycheck, or
• You’re a longtime waiter or waitress that wants to move to the next level in your serving career

Now, you know everything you need to really stand out. 

Not only how to structure your resume so that the good stuff is impossible to miss, but what to put down so that you look like the perfect person for the position. 

Putting all this together while having to design your resume can be a lot to handle, though. 

Especially if most of your time is going toward looking for a new job in the first place. 

To save the time and hassle of putting together your next resume alone, let Resumebuild help. 

Check out our full template collection , pick an awesome template, then use our resume builder to easily drop your information where it needs to go. 

Bam– 5 minutes and you’ve got your best resume ever . 

Start putting together your resume by checking out our full template library here.

waiter Job Descriptions; Explained

If you're applying for an waiter position, it's important to tailor your resume to the specific job requirements in order to differentiate yourself from other candidates. Including accurate and relevant information that directly aligns with the job description can greatly increase your chances of securing an interview with potential employers. When crafting your resume, be sure to use action verbs and a clear, concise format to highlight your relevant skills and experience. Remember, the job description is your first opportunity to make an impression on recruiters, so pay close attention to the details and make sure you're presenting yourself in the best possible light.

waiter/bartender

•  Greet customers, record orders, and serve food and beverages with a consistently positive and helpful attitude, including answering questions about the menu. 
•  Arrives on time for work and stay until shift completion 
•  Performs order processing – takes accurate food orders from guests in a fast and timely manner 
• Ensured the area was clean and up to company standards
• Check with customers to ensure that they are enjoying their meals and take action to correct any problems.
• Collect payments from customers.
• Take orders from patrons for food or beverages.
• Prepare checks that itemize and total meal costs and sales taxes.

waiter/ bar person

• Serving Food and Beverages 
• Customer Service 
• Customer Orders 
• General Cleaning 
• Cash Handling 
• Phone orders 
• Assisted guests with making menu choices in an informative and helpful fashion
• Maintained knowledge of current menu items garnishes ingredients and preparation methods
• Appropriately suggested additional items to customers to increase restaurant sales
• Promptly served all food courses and alcoholic beverages to guests
• Answered questions about menu selections and made recommendations when requested
• Maintained complete knowledge of restaurant menu, including daily specials
• Listened to, understood and clarified guest concerns and issues
• Delivered quality service by providing a warm and welcoming environment
• Answered telephones and completed financial transactions for other team members
• Resolved guest complaints quickly and efficiently
• Completed finishing touches such as garnishes on dishes before final delivery
• Developed and maintained positive working relationships with others to reach business goals

waiter/bartender Job Skills

For an waiter/bartender position, your job skills are a key factor in demonstrating your value to the company and showing recruiters that you're the ight fit for the role. It's important to be specific when highlighting your skills and ensure that they are directly aligned with the job requirements, as this can greatly improve your chances of being hired. By showcasing your relevant skills and experience, you can make a compelling case for why you're the best candidate for the job.

How to include technical skills in your resume:

Technical skills are a set of specialized abilities and knowledge required to perform a particular job effectively. Some examples of technical skills are data analysis, project management, software proficiency, and programming languages, to name a few. Add the technical skills that will get hired in your career field with our simple-to-use resume builder. Select your desired resume template, once you reach the skills section of the builder, manually write in the skill or simply click on "Add more skills". This will automatically generate the best skills for your career field, choose your skill level, and hit "Save & Next."

• Food Preparation
• Food Safety
• Food Handling
• Menu Knowledge
• Customer Service
• Alcohol Service
• Point of Sale Systems
• Inventory Management
• Multi-tasking
• Food Presentation
• Table Setting
• Reservations
• Food Costing
• Menu Development
• Wine Knowledge.

How to include soft skills in your resume:

Soft skills are non-technical skills that relate to how you work and that can be used in any job. Including soft skills such as time management, creative thinking, teamwork, and conflict resolution demonstrate your problem-solving abilities and show that you navigate challenges and changes in the workplace efficiently. Add competitive soft skills to make your resume stand-out to recruiters! Simply select your preferred resume template in the skills section, enter the skills manually or use the "Add more skills" option. Our resume builder will generate the most relevant soft skills for your career path. Choose your proficiency level for each skill, and then click "Save & Next" to proceed to the next section.

• Communication
• Interpersonal
• Time Management
• Problem Solving
• Decision Making
• Critical Thinking
• Adaptability
• Organization
• Public Speaking
• Negotiation
• Conflict Resolution
• Attention to Detail
• Self-Motivation
• Stress Management
• Collaboration
• Strategic Thinking
• Emotional Intelligence
• Flexibility
• Reliability
• Professionalism
• Computer Literacy
• Data Analysis
• Project Management
• Presentation
• Written Communication
• Social Media
• Troubleshooting
• Quality Assurance
• Supervisory
• Risk Management
• Database Management
• Documentation
• Financial Management
• Visualization
• Business Acumen
• Process Improvement
• Relationship Management.

How to Improve Your waiter/bartender Resume

Navigating resume pitfalls can mean the difference between landing an interview or not. Missing job descriptions or unexplained work history gaps can cause recruiters to hesitate. Let's not even talk about the impact of bad grammar, and forgetting your contact info could leave your potential employer hanging. Aim to be comprehensive, concise, and accurate.

Include your Contact Information and Job Descriptions

Missing job descriptions lessens your chances of getting hired..

• Employers want to know what you've accomplished, so make sure to include descriptions for all of your previous jobs.
• Keep job descriptions short but don't just list your jobs.
• Never copy-paste a job description to post on your resume. Get inspired and use tools to help you write customized descriptions.

How to Optimize Your waiter/bartender Resume

Keep an eye out for these resume traps. Neglecting to detail your job roles or explain gaps in your career can lead to unnecessary doubts. Grammar blunders can reflect negatively on you, and without contact information, how can employers reach you? Be meticulous and complete.

• Chekc idetificatin for alcohl purchses
• Ensure that gests recieve prompt and courteous servce
• Follw all compay policys and procedurs
• Serve food and beverages in a timely maner
• Greet guest and takes food and beverage orders
• Assists in setting up and breaking down the dining area.
• Chek identification for alcohol purchses
• Respond to guest inquirys and compliants in a profesional maner
• Ensure that all orders are accurat and delived to the guests promtly

Correct Grammar and Address Gap Years in Your Resume

Don't leave unexplained gaps in your work history..

• When explaining gaps in your employment section, start by being honest.
• Elaborate on the gap and show that you never stopped learning.
• Explain and elaborate any gap in your work history by highlighting new skills.

waiter/bartender Cover Letter Example

A cover letter can be a valuable addition to your job application when applying for an waiter/bartender position. Cover letters provide a concise summary of your qualifications, skills, and experience, also it also gives you an opportunity to explain why you're the best fit for the job. Crafting a cover letter that showcases your relevant experience and enthusiasm for the Accounts Payable role can significantly improve your chances of securing an interview.

To Whom It May Concern

I am a results-driven Waiter with 4 years of experience in Hospitality. I am excited to submit my application for the Senior Waiter role at Marriott International, where I believe I can make a valuable contribution to your team.

Throughout my life, I have pursued my passion for Hospitality Law and have gained experience in this field as a result. This experience has given me valuable skills such as Adaptability and Adaptability, which I am excited to bring to this position. I am eager to work with a team that shares my enthusiasm as a Waiter and help your organization achieve its well determined goals.

I appreciate the time and consideration you have given my application. I am confident that if we work together we could achieve great things and so I look forward to the opportunity to join your team.

Showcase your most significant accomplishments and qualifications with this cover letter. Personalize this cover letter in just few minutes with our user-friendly tool!

Related Resumes & Cover Letters

Contemporary

Professional

Looking to explore other career options within the Hospitality field?

Check out our other resume of resume examples.

• Bar Back Resume
• Wait Staff Resume
• Waiter Resume
• Bartender Resume
• Busser Resume
• Front Desk Resume
• Event Staff Resume
• Chef Resume
• Baker Resume
• Hostess Resume
• Hotel Manager Resume

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