Mixing drinks may sound easy, but we all know it isn't. Writing a professional bartender resume is the same way. At a glance, it might seem like just a document, but it takes effort to get it up to the standard.
You have a unique sense of style.
It would be counterproductive for a candidate like you to have a resume that does not reflect the same energy. With a solid resume, you will be able to land high-paying jobs which will in turn allow you to climb your career ladder.
It can be challenging to keep up with the industry standards. Let’s learn how to make your bartender resume stand out by following our tips.
Tips to Draft a Professional Bartender Resume
You should pay close attention while drafting your resume as every section needs careful drafting and editing. Noticing any errors after you send your resume would only lead to frustration!
Choose the Layout and Format of Your Resume
Bartending is a people-oriented and creative profession, and you want your resume to reflect such. Start with deciding which resume format would suit you best. The reverse-chronological format will allow you to list all of your work experience and education in reverse chronological order, making it easier for recruiters to spot your most relevant experiences.
The initial intention in drafting your resume is to make it as easy to read as possible, so avoid using unusual typefaces. Don't be too creative with your section titles as hiring managers want to be able to discover your data fast. Change the lengths of your lines to allow for plenty of white space.
What other Reads?
Personalize Summary of Your Resume
In bartending, personality matters a lot. Some customers like getting to know their bartenders. They want to be known by their first name! This area allows you to show off your personality and style behind the bar.
Your greatest achievements and skills should be described in three to five phrases. Perhaps you created a popular cocktail or raised the number of regulars that frequented the pub.
Make the most of the space at the top of your resume by including a summary. Bartenders must have strong interpersonal skills, so use your upbeat personality to attract recruiters. Emphasize the main characteristics that demonstrate your skills and successes as a bartender.
Highlight Bartender Skills
Hiring managers want to know that you can do the job, and a fast glance at your resume should show that you have mastered the hard and soft skills required of a bartender. In the skills section of your resume, include your relevant skills.
Here are a few bartending skills examples:
- Proficient in POS systems
- Mixology
- Knowledge of glassware
- Wine pairing
- Knowledge of state liquor laws
- Customer service
- Upselling
- Strong memory
- Multitasking skills
- Time-management skills
Mention Relevant Certifications
Depending on your state or company, you may require a license to work in a bar. It could just tip the scales in your favor if you can establish you're already licensed. These certificates will be sought by a busy recruiting manager, especially if they are mandated by the state.
Some certifications to include in your bartender resume:
- TIPS certification
- State bartending license
- Bartending certification
- Food handler permit
The bartender certification includes mixology instructions. Other foods and beverage sector credentials demonstrate your transferrable abilities and expertise, which is especially important if the place you're looking for a job offers food.
Key Points
Bartenders are always on the go, whether it's prepping the bar or serving many clients at once. Use descriptive action verbs throughout your experience section. It can help your resume indicate how dynamic your career is.
Choose the reverse-chronological resume format to highlight your most relevant work experiences
Make your bartender's resume stand out with the recommended length of one page. Keep it simple and simply include relevant experience.
Add certifications and licenses so that recruiters can give you the go-ahead without having to confirm your credentials or any other back and forth
