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Serving alcohol comes with a lot of responsibility. As servers, we have to follow the law and keep everyone safe. But, even with good intentions, mistakes can happen. Knowing servers’ common mistakes can help us avoid them and do our job better.
This article will explore these common mistakes and how to avoid them. We will look at practical tips for checking IDs, preventing over-serving, recognizing signs of intoxication, and improving customer communication. Let’s dive in and learn how to provide responsible and safe alcohol service.
Failing to Check IDs Properly
One major mistake that servers make is failing to check IDs properly. This can lead to serving alcohol to minors, which is against the law and can result in severe consequences for both the server and the establishment.
1. Look Closely at the ID: When checking IDs, take a moment to examine them. First, look at the birthdate to see if the person is of legal drinking age. Check for signs of tampering or alterations. Make sure the ID has the proper holograms and security features.
2. Compare the Photo: Look at the photo on the ID and compare it to the person presenting it. Pay attention to facial features, not just hair color or style. If something doesn’t match up, politely ask for another form of identification.
3. Ask Questions: If unsure about an ID, ask the person some questions. You can ask them for their birthdate, address, or other information that appears on the ID. If they hesitate or give incorrect answers, that’s a sign that the ID might be fake.
4. Use Technology: Some establishments use ID scanners or apps to verify IDs. If you have access to this technology, use it. It can quickly check for authenticity and help avoid mistakes.
Over-serving Alcohol to Patrons
Another common mistake is over-serving alcohol to patrons. While keeping the drinks flowing might seem like good service, it can endanger the patron and others.
1. Know the Limits: Familiarize yourself with the signs of intoxication and understand your state’s guidelines for responsible serving. This knowledge will help you recognize when someone has had enough.
2. Pace the Service: Serve drinks at a reasonable pace. Give patrons time to enjoy their drink before offering another. Encourage them to drink water or have some food if they’ve had multiple beverages.
3. Monitor Consumption: Monitor a patron’s consumption. If they order drinks quickly or seem to get drunk, slow down or stop serving them alcohol.
4. Intervene When Necessary: If a patron shows clear signs of intoxication, you must stop serving them alcohol. Politely explain that you cannot serve them any more drinks and offer alternatives, like water or non-alcoholic beverages.
5. Communicate with Colleagues: Talk to your coworkers about patrons who may need to be over-drinking. Team communication ensures everyone is aware of the situation and that no one unintentionally serves more alcohol to the same person.
Following these steps can help prevent over-serving and create a safer environment for all patrons.
Ignoring Signs of Intoxication
Ignoring signs of intoxication is a grave mistake that can have dangerous consequences. Recognizing when a patron has had too much to drink is crucial for their safety and the safety of others.
1. Know the Signs: Learn the common signs of intoxication. These include slurred speech, stumbling, difficulty standing, aggressive behavior, or overly loud talking. Recognizing these signs early can help you take appropriate action.
2. Monitor Behavior: Pay attention to your patrons, especially those drinking for a while. Changes in behavior or physical coordination are clear indicators that someone may be intoxicated.
3. Engage with the Patron: Don’t be afraid to talk to the patron if you suspect they are getting drunk. Ask them how they are doing and listen to their responses. Often, a quick chat can give you more insight into their state.
4. Refuse Service When Necessary: If someone shows clear signs of intoxication, you must stop serving them alcohol. Politely explain why you are doing so and offer alternatives such as water or food to help sober them up.
5. Get Help if Needed: If a patron refuses to stop drinking or becomes aggressive, involve a manager or security personnel. It’s essential to keep the environment safe for all patrons and staff.
Poor Communication with Customers
Poor customer communication can lead to misunderstandings, frustration, and unsafe situations. Good communication helps you manage patrons effectively and keep everyone happy.
1. Be Clear and Polite: Always communicate clearly and politely with your patrons. Ensure they understand your requests, such as showing ID or slowing their drinking. Use simple language to avoid confusion.
2. Listen Actively: Listen to what patrons say and respond appropriately. Active listening shows you care about their experience and can help you catch any issues early.
3. Set Expectations: Inform patrons of what to expect while they are at your establishment. For example, inform them of any rules about drinking limits or behavior. Setting clear expectations helps avoid misunderstandings.
4. Stay Calm Under Pressure: Bars and restaurants can be hectic, but staying calm and composed is essential. If a patron gets upset or has a busy period, take a deep breath and handle the situation calmly. Your demeanor can influence how patrons react.
5. Use Non-Verbal Cues: Body language is essential in communication. Make eye contact, smile, and use gestures to reinforce your words. Non-verbal communication can convey your message more effectively than words alone.
Conclusion
In the world of alcohol service, avoiding common mistakes is critical to providing everyone with a safe and enjoyable experience. By checking IDs properly, preventing over-serving, recognizing signs of intoxication, and communicating effectively with customers, we can uphold high standards in responsible beverage service.
If you want to improve your skills and ensure you’re up to date with the latest best practices, consider enrolling in beverage certification at ABC Server Training. Our programs are designed to help you excel in responsible beverage service and certification. Visit ABC Server Training today to become a more knowledgeable and practical server.
