How to make lots of money as a server

Being a server is becoming one of the most popular jobs in the US. Here are some ways to increase your tips while waiting tables.

Being a restaurant server has its cons for sure, long hours, difficult customers and dirty dishes. As a server, you pace back and forth and become a part of people’s first dates, engagements, anniversaries and graduations. This is definitely one of those jobs where the pros outweigh the cons. Also if you know the tricks of the trade, being a server can be rather lucrative. So if you are thinking about becoming a server to make some extra cash, here are some tips to increase your income.

Write “thank you” on guest checks: Making the restaurant experience more delightful works wonders for increasing your tips. One study even showed that by writing “thank you” on a guest’s check can increase your tip by almost 15 percent.

Upsell an experience, not an item: Part of any job is working smarter not harder. Instead of selling an item such as a glass of wine or a dessert sell an experience. For example, instead of saying, “Would you like some wine with your meal?” say, “The Moscato would be an amazing pairing with your salad. Should I bring out a glass for you?”

Sell a bigger total bill: One of the biggest factors that affect your tip amount is the size of your bill. The bigger the bill is, the more your tip will be. This is the reason why you will make more working at a restaurant that is expensive rather than working at one where the prices are lower. So when you are serving a large group of people, encourage guests to order appetizers, dessert and lots of drinks in between.

Personalize your appearance: I know that many restaurants require workers to wear a uniform but if you are allowed to accessorize then do so. It’s always great to stand out. So make sure your makeup is on point, wear a flower in your hair, get a nice manicure, the objective is to be unique.

Make a weather forecast: I know this may sound a little unusual, but trust me it works. You can say something along the lines of, “I heard tomorrow’s weather is going to be splendid, I hope you enjoy the day.”  Servers that do this are tipped four percent more than servers that did not.

Repeat the order exactly: Doing this makes guests feel like they are being paid attention to. This also helps make a connection between the guest and the server. This also helps the server make fewer errors.

Never let their drinks run out: This is really basic but when it is executed properly, it can really boost your tip. If you see your guest guzzling down that water, you can bring them two at once. Don’t even ask for refills, just give them more water.

Introduce yourself: I know this one sounds obvious but a lot of servers forget to do it, which is why I’m mentioning it. Servers that introduce themselves by name can earn $2 more than servers that don’t. When you arrive at the table, wave, say hello and let them know what your name is before the guest starts ordering. This helps build a connection as well.

Keep the table tidy as guests dine: When the napkins get soggy, replace them. When they are finished with the dishes take them away. Guests feel better in a clean and tidy environment. You want to do this quietly and efficiently, don’t be distracting.

Know the menu: One thing you always want to do as a server is know the menu like the back of your hand. When a guest asks you, “What is in this salad?” you want to know every ingredient in that salad. By getting to know what kind of meals guests enjoy it will become easy to serve them thus they will feel comfortable and you to get a lovely tip.