How do you put bartending on a professional resume?

How to Put Bartending on a Professional Resume

Bartending is a profession that requires a unique set of skills and offers diverse experiences. Whether you are an aspiring bartender looking to kickstart your career or an experienced mixologist seeking a new opportunity, having bartending experience on your resume can be an excellent asset. However, knowing how to effectively present your bartending skills and experiences on a professional resume can be a challenge. In this article, we will explore how you can effectively put bartending on your resume and increase your chances of landing the job you desire.

1. Is bartending considered a professional skill?

Yes, bartending is considered as a professional skill. It involves various aspects such as mixology, customer service, inventory management, and the ability to handle high-pressure situations. The skills acquired through bartending can be transferable to various other industries, making it an asset that employers value.

2. Should I include my bartending experience on my resume?

If you have bartending experience, it is definitely worth including on your resume. It showcases your abilities to multitask, work in a fast-paced environment, and provide excellent customer service. Bartending experience demonstrates your ability to handle responsibility, work well in a team, and think on your feet—all highly desirable skills for many employers.

3. Where should I list my bartending experience on my resume?

List your bartending experience under the “Work Experience” or “Professional Experience” section of your resume. Include the job title, name of the establishment, dates of employment, and a brief description of your responsibilities and achievements. Be sure to highlight any awards, commendations, or special recognition you received during your bartending career.

4. What skills should I highlight from my bartending experience?

When listing your bartending experience, highlight skills such as mixology, customer service, teamwork, problem-solving, time management, and communication. These skills are highly transferable and sought after by employers in various industries. Back up your claims by providing specific examples of how you have utilized these skills effectively in your previous bartending roles.

5. Can I include any industry-specific certifications or training?

Absolutely! Including any industry-specific certifications or training you have obtained is highly beneficial. Certifications such as TIPS (Training for Intervention Procedures) or ServSafe can demonstrate your commitment to safe alcohol service. List these certifications under a separate section on your resume to draw attention to your expertise and dedication.

6. Should I include bartending-related achievements on my resume?

Yes, including bartending-related achievements can help you stand out from other applicants. Mention any awards, competitions won, or promotions you received during your bartending career. These achievements showcase your passion, skill level, and commitment to excellence, leaving a lasting impression on potential employers.

7. How can I highlight customer service skills specifically?

Customer service is a crucial aspect of bartending. To highlight your customer service skills, mention instances where you went above and beyond to ensure customer satisfaction. Discuss how you managed difficult or dissatisfied customers with tact and empathy. Include any positive feedback or testimonials you received from customers or employers to reinforce your exceptional customer service abilities.

8. Can I mention my bartending experience even if it’s not related to the job I’m applying for?

Yes, you can still mention your bartending experience, even if it’s not directly related to the job you are applying for. Transferable skills such as multitasking, communication, and problem-solving are highly valued in many industries. Tailor your resume to highlight these transferable skills and explain how your bartending experience has equipped you with the qualities needed for the job.

9. What if I don’t have a lot of bartending experience?

If you have limited bartending experience, focus on emphasizing the skills you have gained from your past employment or education that are relevant to the job you are applying for. Highlight any customer-facing roles, teamwork experiences, or instances where you demonstrated multitasking and adaptability. Be sure to mention any bartending-related training or certifications you have completed to show your commitment to learning and developing your skills.

10. Should I include bartending experience on a CV for a managerial position?

While bartending experience may not directly relate to a managerial position, it can still be valuable. The skills acquired through bartending, such as leadership, team management, and problem-solving, can be transferable to a managerial role. Emphasize these skills and highlight instances where you took on additional responsibilities or acted in a leadership capacity. Including bartending experience demonstrates your versatility and ability to handle diverse roles.

11. How can I make my bartending experience stand out on my resume?

To make your bartending experience stand out, quantify your achievements and provide measurable metrics whenever possible. For example, mention the number of customers served per shift, revenue generated from special promotions or events, or increases in customer satisfaction ratings. Quantifiable achievements provide concrete evidence of your contributions and demonstrate your impact as a bartender.

12. What other sections can I include on my bartending resume?

In addition to “Work Experience” and “Certifications,” consider adding sections such as “Education,” “Skills,” and “Additional Training.” Include relevant educational qualifications, any additional skills or languages you possess, and any specialized training you have completed. These sections provide a comprehensive overview of your qualifications and make your resume more well-rounded.

13. Should I create a separate bartending resume?

Creating a separate bartending resume can be beneficial if you are specifically targeting bartending positions. A separate resume allows you to highlight your mixology skills, beverage knowledge, and experience in the industry more prominently. However, if you are pursuing opportunities in other industries where your bartending experience may not be as relevant, sticking to a traditional resume format that includes bartending experience is sufficient.

14. Can I include bartending experience gained through volunteer work or internships?

Absolutely! Bartending experience gained through volunteer work or internships is just as valuable as paid experience. Treat these experiences as you would any other job and include them on your resume. Highlight the skills you acquired, the tasks you performed, and any achievements or feedback you received. Volunteering or interning shows your commitment to the craft and your willingness to gain hands-on experience.

15. Should I tailor my bartending resume for each job application?

Yes, it is beneficial to tailor your bartending resume for each job application. Review the job description and identify the key skills and qualifications the employer is seeking. Adjust your resume to align with these requirements, emphasizing the relevant experiences, skills, and achievements that make you a strong candidate for the position. Tailoring your resume shows that you have taken the time to understand the job requirements and increases your chances of securing an interview.

In conclusion, bartending experience can greatly enhance your professional resume. Highlight your skills, achievements, and transferable qualities gained from bartending to increase your chances of landing your dream job. Tailor your resume for each application, showcasing how your bartending experience aligns with the job requirements. Remember to quantify your achievements and provide concrete examples whenever possible to make your bartending experience stand out. With a well-crafted resume, you can open doors to exciting opportunities within the bartending industry and beyond.