Secrets of Servers: What Diners Really Need to Know
A server’s role extends far beyond delivering food; it involves skillfully managing a wide range of human emotions and interactions with diners.
Servers encounter every type of person, from the appreciative and kind to the demanding and inconsiderate. This constant emotional labor is a central, yet often unseen, part of their job.
One significant challenge is “table camping,” where guests stay long after their meal is finished. While pleasant for the diners, this can severely reduce a server’s income by limiting the number of tables they can serve.
Other common difficulties include last-minute bill splitting and guests who repeatedly change their orders. These actions can disrupt the flow of service and add stress to the server’s shift.
Therefore, clear communication and decisive ordering are simple ways diners can help create a smoother experience for everyone involved.
Small gestures of respect also make a substantial difference. A sincere greeting, eye contact, and a genuine thank you acknowledge the server’s humanity and hard work.
Ultimately, a fair tip is crucial, as many servers rely on them for their livelihood. Tipping around 20% is standard, and leaving a little extra for a job well done can profoundly impact a server’s day.
