I’ve always been interested with servers, even though I’ve never been one. It sounds like one of those occupations that really throws you into the deep end of human interactions. Many of these individuals are starting their first job, which must be really challenging. You’re constantly conversing with folks of all kinds, from the extremely sweet to others who consider a glare to be sufficient tip.
Servers are on the front lines, dealing with it all. The adage “customer is always right” is often true. I’ve never had to wear the apron, but I’ve seen it from the other side of the table. And honestly? I have great admiration for those that do that work.
Working as a server allows you to discover more about people than most people do. It’s like a crash school in patience, reading the room, and adapting to the unexpected—sometimes all at once.
1. Campers.
Have you ever pondered why some people act as if a restaurant table is a camping, without the tents and campfire? After the meal, they continue to converse as if they are waiting for the stars to appear. Servers often find table campers to be a nuisance, especially at peak times when every seat is valuable. Believe me, servers enjoy good talk just as much as the next man, but when the room is full, pack up your tent and give someone else a chance.
2. Indecisive Orderers
“I’ll have the … oh, actually, maybe … well, what’s good here?” Sounds familiar? Ignoring menu items can be frustrating for servers. It’s more worse when an order is confirmed but then changed at the last minute. My friend had a table that returned food five times. Five! Could you imagine? At the end, he was unsure if he was serving supper or playing culinary musical chairs.
3. The Phantom Tippers.
This one is a classic. Imagine providing excellent service and meticulous attention to detail, only to have the hash pipe vanish in a puff of smoke. Not cool, people. Servers rely heavily on tips for income. Leaving a poor tip after a well-deserved service is like saying, “You did a good job, but I don’t appreciate it.” Please remember to express gratitude in meaningful ways.
4. Split the Bill After Ordering Squad
It’s the old “Can you split the bill seven ways, and oh, Dave just had a salad, but he also drank three beers, and I think Sarah snuck a couple of my fries” scenario. It’s fine to divide the bill, as long as you plan ahead. Do you casually request more napkins from your server after an extravagant order? That is a headache for you. Everyone just split it afterwards.
5. The Modifier Mayhem.
Gluten-free bun, no tomatoes, additional cheese, vegan – on the side, lightly toasted, with a pinch of ‘I’m sorry, what’. Please feel free to change your order within restrictions. Is it possible to customize your dish using alternatives that even the chef is unaware of? Servers often consider if they are waiting tables or playing a gourmet version of Tetris.
6. Mobile Phone Zombies
Imagine this: When a waiter approaches a table to take an order, it’s usual for everyone to be distracted by their screens, causing them to miss out on the world around them. It’s as if they’ve transformed into spirits, and you’re attempting to communicate with the living from another dimension. While cellphones can be addicting, it’s important to remember that people want to help us in the real world. That’s just extremely disrespectful.
7. The Last Minute Crowd
And then there’s the one who walks in five minutes before closing time and demands a three-course meal. Servers must balance their personal lives, families, and Netflix viewing. Arriving at the last minute not only prolongs an already lengthy day, but also slows down the entire closure procedure. Courtesy goes a long way.
