Working as a bartender can be an engaging endeavor and a source of good income, although not everyone can handle this role. Future bartenders should prepare for a flexible schedule, dealing with difficult and intoxicated customers, and juggling multiple tasks at once. Read on to learn how to pave your way in this career.

Part One: The Path to Becoming a Bartender

Step 1. Ensure You Meet the Requirements.

Step 1

Make sure you meet the requirements. To work as a bartender, you need to be at least 21 years old. In some cases, you may be required to complete specialized courses on alcoholic beverages. Familiarize yourself with the hiring conditions for bartenders.

  • Courses may cover topics such as driving under the influence, blood alcohol levels, selling alcohol to minors, preventing intoxication, and other aspects related to the job.[2] X Source

Step 2. Choose One of Two Paths or Both.

Step 2

Choose one of two paths or combine them. Some establishments hire bartenders who have completed specific courses, while others prefer to train bartenders from their own staff, such as waiters.

  • Take bartender courses. Each program is different, but they usually teach you how to prepare a variety of cocktails, interact with intoxicated customers, serve and present drinks, and distinguish between types of beer and wine.[3] X Source
  • Find a job as a waiter or barback. A barback is responsible for cleaning empty glasses, preparing trays, ice, wiping down the bar, and restocking supplies.[4] X Source Waiters deliver cocktails to customers in bars, concert halls, and other venues.[5] X Source These positions will help you gain bar experience and prepare for your future role as a bartender. Make sure your supervisor knows about your desire to become a bartender.

Step 3. Practice.

Step 3

Practice. Regardless of your chosen path, you will need significant time to practice before you can confidently manage a bar. Most establishments offer new employees the opportunity to learn on the job by working alongside experienced bartenders.

Step 4. Start Looking for Bartending Jobs.

Step 4

Begin your job search as a bartender. Bartenders can work in a variety of settings: restaurants, bars, clubs, hotels, and concert venues. Send your resume to various establishments in your area and regularly check job postings.

  • If you are already working as a waiter or barback, discuss the possibility of a promotion to bartender with your supervisor.

Part Two: How to Be a Great Bartender

Step 1. Develop the Necessary Qualities.

Step 1

Develop the necessary qualities. Working as a bartender may seem fun and easy, but in practice, it can sometimes be challenging and stressful. Determine if you possess the qualities of a good bartender:

Step 2. Interact with Intoxicated Customers Properly.

Step 2

Interact with intoxicated customers properly. Bartenders have the right to refuse service to a customer who is heavily intoxicated. It’s important to know when to stop serving a customer and, in some cases, to ask them to leave the establishment.

  • Intoxicated customers can behave rudely and aggressively, so you need to have the courage and confidence to handle such situations.

Step 3. Continuously Improve Your Skills.

Step 3

Continuously improve your skills. In addition to learning classic techniques, don’t forget to update your knowledge of new cocktails and keep an eye on current trends in the world of beverages.