how to write a resume for waiter

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Waiter Resume Examples

Writing a resume as a waiter can be intimidating. After all, you may have minimal experience in the hospitality industry. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t create a great resume. With the right knowledge, you can craft a resume that can help you stand out from the competition. This guide will provide you with tips on how to effectively write and format a resume for a waiter position. It will also provide you with examples of resumes that have been successful in the job market. By the end of this guide, you’ll be well on your way to creating an impressive resume that employers will be sure to notice.

If you didn’t find what you were looking for, be sure to check out our complete library of resume examples .

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123 Main Street | Anytown, USA 99999 | Phone: (123) 456-7890 | Email: [email protected]

I am a highly experienced waiter with over 8 years in the restaurant industry. I am well- versed in customer service, hospitality, and food and beverage knowledge. I have a passion for creating a memorable dining experience for guests and I take pride in my ability to increase customer satisfaction.

Core Skills :

• Strong customer service and hospitality skills
• Excellent communication and listening abilities
• Knowledgeable in food and beverage service
• Able to multi- task and work in a fast- paced environment
• Highly organized and detail oriented
• Proficient in point of sale systems

Professional Experience :

• Server, ABC Restaurant, 2008- Present
• Greet guests, take orders and serve dishes according to restaurant standards
• Communicate with kitchen staff regarding orders and special requests
• Inform guests of specials, seasonal menu items and promotions
• Accurately process cash, credit, and gift card transactions
• Resolve customer complaints quickly and efficiently
• Fulfill alcoholic beverage orders and adhere to responsible alcohol service regulations

Education :

• High School Diploma, XYZ High School, 2008

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Waiter Resume with No Experience

• Enthusiastic and hardworking individual looking to gain experience as a Waiter.
• Possess great interpersonal skills, eager to learn more in the hospitality industry, and excited to contribute to an amazing team.
• Strong customer service and communication skills
• Ability to take orders correctly and accurately
• Experienced in handling cash and credit card payments
• Knowledge in food safety, sanitation, and hygiene
• Strong time management and multitasking skills

Responsibilities

• Greet customers and present menus
• Take orders and serve food and beverages in a timely manner
• Prepare bill and process payments
• Answer questions or make recommendations for other products
• Ensure the highest quality of customer service is maintained
• Maintain a clean and tidy work area at all times
• Adhere to safety and sanitation regulations
• Keep up with menu changes and specials

Experience 0 Years

Level Junior

Education Bachelor’s

Waiter Resume with 2 Years of Experience

Experienced Waiter with 2 years of experience in the hospitality industry. Proven ability to provide exceptional customer service and to create a positive dining experience. Self- motivated and able to work independently as well as part of a team.

• Food Preparation
• Inventory Management
• Customer Service
• Order Taking
• Cash Handling
• Problem Solving

Responsibilities :

• Greeted customers and take orders accurately
• Upsold menu items and successfully promoted daily specials
• Responded to guest inquiries and resolved customer complaints
• Prepared tables for meals, including setting up items like linens and silverware
• Maintained cleanliness of the restaurant and adhered to all safety and sanitation regulations
• Ensured proper food presentation and serving portions
• Managed inventory and restocked as needed
• Provided excellent customer service to guests at all times

Experience 2+ Years

Waiter Resume with 5 Years of Experience

I am a customer- oriented waiter with 5 years of experience in the hospitality industry, providing excellent customer service in fast- paced, high- volume environments. I have an excellent knowledge of menu items, including how to prepare and serve them, and I am skilled in upselling techniques. I have experience operating cash registers, preparing and organizing the dining area, and have a strong customer service ethic. I am able to work independently and as part of a team, and I am able to learn and adapt quickly to new procedures and techniques.

• Exceptional customer service
• Knowledge of food items and preparation
• Upselling techniques
• Cash register operations
• Excellent communication
• Greet customers and take orders
• Suggest menu items, upsell specials
• Ensure accuracy of orders
• Prepare and serve food in a timely manner
• Ensure dining area is clean and well organized
• Maintain accurate record of customer orders
• Ensure customer satisfaction by responding to concerns and queries
• Handle customer payments for transactions
• Replenish beverage and food supplies in the dining area

Experience 5+ Years

Level Senior

Waiter Resume with 7 Years of Experience

I am an experienced and motivated waiter with 7 years of experience in the food service industry. I possess excellent customer service skills and am able to work in any situation. I have considerable knowledge of menu items, preparation techniques, and food presentation. I am also an excellent multitasker as I am able to take orders, deliver food to tables, help prepare food, and take payment. I am reliable and always willing to go above and beyond to ensure customers are satisfied with their experience.

• Excellent customer service skills
• Knowledge of food preparation techniques
• Ability to multitask
• Ability to take orders and payment
• Reliable and motivated
• Greet customers, take orders and serve food
• Provide accurate information about menu items
• Prepare food items with accuracy and speed
• Maintain cleanliness of the restaurant
• Ensure timely delivery of food to tables
• Provide customers with prompt and courteous service
• Follow food safety and sanitation guidelines

Experience 7+ Years

Waiter Resume with 10 Years of Experience

• Experienced Waiter with 10 years of service in the food and beverage industry.
• Customer- oriented with a commitment to delivering outstanding hospitality experiences for guests.
• Proficient in responding to customer needs and requests in a timely manner.
• Ability to take orders with accuracy and ensure that all orders are timely and efficiently served.
• Excellent multitasking skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Menu Knowledge
• Time Management
• Multitasking
• Food Safety
• Alcohol Service
• Greet guests and take orders in a polite, professional and helpful manner.
• Provide accurate information to guests regarding the menu and ingredients.
• Ensure that all orders are timely and efficiently prepared and served.
• Maintain knowledge of the menu, ingredients, and specials in order to answer guest inquiries.
• Provide excellent customer service by anticipating customer needs and responding promptly and courteously to customer requests.
• Collaborate with kitchen staff in order to ensure that orders are prepared in a timely manner and to the customer’s satisfaction.
• Supply guests with accurate information regarding alcoholic beverages and ensure that alcohol is served responsibly.
• Maintain a clean and organized workspace, adhering to food safety standards.
• Check customer’s identification to ensure that they meet the minimum age requirements for the purchase of alcoholic beverages.
• Manage cash registers and handle transactions accurately and efficiently.
• Demonstrate teamwork and contribute to a positive working environment.

Experience 10+ Years

Level Senior Manager

Education Master’s

Waiter Resume with 15 Years of Experience

A highly experienced waiter with 15 years in the hospitality industry and an outgoing, customer- oriented attitude. A reliable team player who is knowledgeable in food and beverage service, able to provide excellent customer service and ensure the highest standards of satisfaction. Possesses an excellent memory and the ability to multi- task in a fast- paced environment.

• Food and beverage service
• Customer service
• Memory and recalling
• Time management
• Problem- solving
• Interpersonal communication
• Understand and anticipate the needs of guests
• Take and deliver orders accurately
• Ensure guests are satisfied with the food and beverage service
• Ensure all health and safety regulations are followed
• Assist in setting up and clearing tables
• Assist in stocking and organizing food, beverages and supplies
• Assist in making menus and other promotional materials
• Provide guests with menus and take orders
• Calculate bills and collect payments
• Assist in resolving customer complaints and disputes
• Assist in training new staff members
• Help with inventories and stock control

Experience 15+ Years

Level Director

In addition to this, be sure to check out our resume templates , resume formats ,  cover letter examples ,  job description , and  career advice  pages for more helpful tips and advice.

What should be included in a Waiter resume?

Writing a waiter resume can be a challenge, but with a few key components, you can craft a resume that will help you land your next job. Here are some of the key elements that should be included in a waiter resume:

• Contact Information: Make sure to include your name, address, phone number, and email address so that potential employers can contact you.
• Work Experience: Include any prior waiter jobs that you’ve held and provide a brief description of your responsibilities. Be sure to include information such as how long you worked in each position and any awards or recognition you received for outstanding work.
• Education: If you have any relevant educational background, such as a hospitality or restaurant management degree, make sure to include this in your resume as well.
• Skills: List any relevant skills that you possess, including customer service, communication, problem-solving, and multitasking.
• Certifications: If you have any certifications related to food safety, customer service, or wine service, be sure to include these in your resume.
• References: List any references you may have, such as previous employers or mentors.

By including these key elements in your waiter resume, you can increase your chances of getting the job you want. Good luck!

What is a good summary for a Waiter resume?

A good summary for a Waiter resume should highlight the skills and experience that make you an ideal candidate for the position. It should provide a brief overview of your relevant education, qualifications, and previous employment experience. Additionally, a waiter resume should emphasize any unique customer service or hospitality skills you have as well as any special training or certifications you possess. Finally, a good summary for a waiter resume should mention any awards or recognition you have received in the hospitality industry. Ultimately, a strong summary can help set you apart from other applicants and show potential employers why you are the best candidate for the job.

What is a good objective for a Waiter resume?

A waiter’s resume should contain an objective that clearly outlines their goals and professional aspirations in the restaurant industry. A good waiter resume objective should express the individual’s dedication to providing excellent customer service and a great dining experience. Here are some objectives that are good for a waiter resume:

• To obtain a waiter position at a high-end restaurant, utilizing my excellent customer service and communication skills to create a memorable dining experience for all customers.
• Seeking to apply my prior experience in the hospitality industry and strong interpersonal skills to serve as a waiter at a high-end restaurant.
• Eager to work as a waiter at a renowned restaurant in order to enhance my knowledge and skills in the hospitality industry.
• To apply my customer service skills and knowledge of food and beverage services to provide an outstanding experience to every guest as a waiter.
• To secure a waiter position at a high-profile restaurant, utilizing my expertise in customer service and passion for food and hospitality.

A good waiter resume should have an objective that expresses the individual’s commitment to providing excellent service and creating a great dining experience. It should also express the individual’s enthusiasm for the restaurant industry and desire to gain more experience.

How do you list Waiter skills on a resume?

When writing your resume, it’s important to highlight the skills you have developed as a waiter. Not only can these skills be beneficial in the food service industry, but they can also be beneficial in many other areas, such as customer service and retail. Here are some tips for highlighting your waiter skills on your resume:

• Include a “Skills” section: In your resume, be sure to include a separate section detailing your specific waiter skills. Examples of such skills include effective communication, multitasking, time management, problem solving, customer service, and menu knowledge.
• Detail your experience: When describing your experience as a waiter, make sure to include details such as the length of time you worked in the role, the size of the establishment, and any awards or accolades you received.
• Use strong action verbs: When writing about your experience and skills, make sure to use strong action verbs, such as served, planned, communicated, organized, and managed. This will help to emphasize your experience and make your resume stand out from the competition.
• Highlight special skills: If you have any special skills, such as the ability to speak multiple languages or a certification in food safety, be sure to include this information on your resume. This will help to demonstrate the breadth of your experience and make you even more attractive to potential employers.

What skills should I put on my resume for Waiter?

When writing the skills section of your resume for a waiter position, it is important to include all of the key skills employers are looking for. This will help to make sure your resume stands out to hiring managers and recruiters. Here are some of the skills you should consider including:

• Customer Service: As a waiter, you will be responsible for providing exceptional customer service. Make sure to highlight your experience dealing with customers and any customer service training you’ve received.
• Food Preparation: You will be responsible for preparing and serving food to customers. Make sure to list any relevant experience you have in food preparation or any culinary training you’ve received.
• Knowledge of Menu: You should have a knowledge of the menu offerings at the restaurant you are applying for. List any experience you have with similar menus or any menu-related certifications you’ve obtained.
• Attention to Detail: As a waiter, you need to be highly detail-oriented, from taking orders correctly to delivering food promptly. Be sure to include any experience that demonstrates your attention to detail.
• Time Management: As a waiter, you will need to manage your time efficiently in order to serve all customers in a timely manner. Mention any experience you have with managing your time in a busy environment.
• Knowledge of Food Safety Practices: List any certifications or training you’ve received in food safety, such as food handler certifications.
• Multitasking: You need to be able to multitask while working as a waiter. List any experience you have with multitasking in a fast-paced environment.
• Teamwork: Working as a waiter, you will need to be able to work well with others. Make sure to include any experience you have working as part of a team.

Key takeaways for an Waiter resume

If you want to make your waiter resume stand out, here are some key takeaways to help you:

• Highlight Your Experience: Make sure to showcase any relevant experience you have in the restaurant industry, such as hosting, taking orders, refilling drinks, and any other skills you may have acquired.
• Showcase Your Skills: Include any soft skills that you possess, such as customer service, problem-solving, communication, and organizational skills.
• Demonstrate Reliability: Employers want to hire someone who is reliable and can be counted on to show up for their shifts. Include any examples of reliability, such as perfect attendance or being able to work late with little notice.
• List Your Education: Include any relevant education, such as a degree in hospitality or a certificate in food safety.
• Include Your Certifications: If you have any certifications related to the restaurant industry, be sure to include them on your resume.

These are some key takeaways to include on your waiter resume to help you stand out and show employers you are the right candidate for the job.

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9 Waitress Resume Examples [& Templates]

Best for careers that encourage creativity

Browsing for creative resume templates? In graphic design, photography, or event planning? Make a statement with this modern resume.

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Like this template? Customize this resume and make it your own with the help of our Al-powered suggestions, accent colors, and modern fonts.

• Waitstaff Resumes
• Waitress Resumes by Experience
• Waitress Resumes by Role

It takes a village to raise a child and run a restaurant. Diners, cocktail lounges, and five-star restaurants—none could function without a strong service staff.

Waitresses and hostesses are the first contact points for incoming customers, so naturally, waitresses must be punctual, informative, and detail-oriented to excel in their roles. If you feel you have all those characteristics, you may have what it takes to be a fantastic waitress!

You just need to translate those skills and personality traits onto your waitress cover letter and resume. Believe us. We get it— making a resume  from scratch can be daunting, but  the following nine waitress resume samples and  resume writing tips  can help you get moving down the path toward your dream waitress position in 2024 .

Waitress Resume

or download as PDF

Why this resume works

• If you mention being “customer-oriented,” that skill should be displayed in some of your bullet points.
• For example, saying that you “maintained a courteous attitude, ensuring shoppers enjoyed a positive experience” breathes life into what you already listed as a strength.
• Hiring managers love seeing your impact in previous roles, especially when you use metrics to quantify it in both your resume and when creating a cover letter .

Waiter Resume

• From there, you can showcase your ability to work with others to improve customer satisfaction and overall performance.

Waitress Resume No Experience

• For example, cashier, sales associate, and waitress positions are customer-facing and require you to be approachable and empathetic—two valuable soft skills you can apply to any job, not to mention—life!
• Your objective should describe your professional background in a nutshell, giving employers an idea of your skillset.
• Like the resume summary, the objective’s value comes from customization, so mention the name of the restaurant you’re applying to and why you’d like to join their team. 

Head Waitress Resume

• What is ATS? It’s the software employers use to sort candidates based on the number of keywords (skills) they have in common with the desired skills in the  job description . By including a relevant skills section, the ATS won’t spit out your resume. 
• What if you’re newer to your field and lack extensive work history? Weave in highly-relevant projects which can stand in as experience.
• The key to telling your work story via projects is to treat them like real work experience. List your projects in a bullet point format, laden with metrics to showcase your impact.

Waitress Server Resume

• The most important thing is setting yourself apart from the rest by providing realistic achievements accompanied by their measurable impact.

Bartender Waitress Resume

• Have the title on your resume match the role to which you’re applying. This helps the reader associate you with the job.
• Consider including a two-to-three-sentence  resume summary  if you boast at least 10+ years of industry expertise.
• Tailor your resume by mentioning the target employer by name and giving a concise but vivid snapshot of your years in the field and any specializations you’ve honed.

Cocktail Waitress Resume

• Unfortunately, it’s too easy to forget to list essential and basic information on your resume, but don’t fret! You can quickly  check if your resume has everything it needs .
• Even seemingly disconnected jobs you’ve had can be linked to waitress roles.
• For example, from a glance, a receptionist position at a law firm and a cocktail waitress role might seem like very distant cousins at best. Still, upon closer inspection, you’ll discover that both require excellent customer service and organizational skills.

Hostess Waitress Resume

• Stick with a professional template, but don’t be afraid to add a hint of color for style and interest. A dash of color lets the employer know you’re a professional with personality. 
• This structure lists your most recent work history at the top, followed by older experience, and gives the employer an easy-to-read synopsis of your best first. 

Bottle Service Waitress Resume

• Instead, determine whether a hobby or interest might be relevant enough to include.
• Imagine that a hiring manager brings up your hobby during an interview; whoa! Game changer? If you listed ice hockey on your resume, be prepared to demonstrate how that interest relates to your career aspirations as a bottle service waitress! Relevance is the key to successfully using  hobbies and interests on your resume . 
• We recommend sprinkling in numbers and stats to prompt employers to read your resume more thoroughly and provide hard evidence highlighting your successes. 

Related resume guides

• Restaurant Manager

Waiter Resume Examples & Guide for 2024

You’re a waitress or waiter.

You serve unbeatable service to your hungry customers.

But now it’s time to serve an unbeatable resume to your future employer.

This involves presenting your skills and experiences on a silver platter.

Not sure how to do this?

Well, just follow the simple steps in this guide.

• An example of a finished waiter or waitress resume that works
• How to write a waiter or waitress resume that’ll fill up your interview diary
• How to make your waiter or waitress resume stand out [with top tips & tricks]

Before we get into the details, here’s a waiter and waitress resume example, created with our very own resume builder:

Looks great, right?! Follow the steps below to create a resume that’ll have the restaurants in a frenzy to invite you for a trial shift.

Hunting for a different job in the customer service industry? Check out more resume examples that might interest you:

• Server Resume
• Barista Resume
• Bartender Resume
• Cashier Resume
• Customer Service Resume
• Bar and Restaurant Manager Resume
• Receptionist Resume
• Event Planner Resume
• Flight Attendant Resume

How to Format a Waitress or Waiter Resume

Before you can serve the hiring manager, you need to set the table!

But what does this mean?

Well, the resume needs to follow a format that is easy to digest.

This will please the hiring manager, which is always a good thing!

The most common resume format is “ reverse-chronological ”, and it is one that we always recommend to waiters and waitresses.

Essentially, this format allows the hiring manager to immediately see the benefits in hiring you, rather than having to dig down to the bottom of the page. We recommend all waiters and waitresses start with this format.

The following two resume formats also get our approval:

• Functional Resume – If you’re confident in your ability, but lack the restaurant experience, this resume format is recommended. A functional resume focuses on skills, which makes it ideal for those who lack experience or who have gaps in their employment history.
• Combination Resume – Got both skills AND work experience? Then you’ll want to use this format. Specifically, the format combines both “Functional” and “Reverse-Chronological”.

Once you’ve chosen the correct format for your personal situation, you need to organize set a few resume layout rules.

For a professional look, we recommend…   

• Margins - Border with a one-inch margins on all sides
• Font - Pick a professional font that stands out, but not too much
• Font Size - Use 11-12pt for general text and 14-16pt for headings
• Line Spacing - Use 1.0 or 1.15 line spacing
• Resume Length - Try and stick to a 1-page limit. For guidance, view these one-page resume templates .

Use a Waitress or Waiter Resume Template

There’s no argument that Word is a great program for creating simple files.

But when it comes to presenting a well-formatted resume, you should look elsewhere.

You see, Word isn’t the best for holding structure.

Want to avoid an afternoon of headache? Use a waiter or waitressing resume template .

What to Include in a Waiter or Waitress Resume

The main sections in a waiter or waitress resume are:

• Work Experience
• Contact Information

To really make an impression, you can also add these optional sections:

• Awards & Certification

Interests & Hobbies

So those are the resume sections , but what do you write for each of them? 

Let’s find out!

Want to know more about the different sections? View our guide on What to Put on a Resume .

How to Correctly Display your Contact Information

Now, there’s no need for creative content here, but it must be factually correct. 

Get this section wrong, and you can forget about receiving any interview invitations!

The contact information section must include:

• Title - Align this to the role you’re applying for, so “Waitress” or “Waiter”
• Phone Number – Check each number carefully 
• Email Address - Keep your email professional ([email protected]), unlike that one from your childhood ([email protected]).
• Location - Applying for a job abroad? Mention your location.
• Hanna Fakester - Waitress. 101-358-6095. [email protected]
• Hanna Fakester - Superwoman Waitress. 101-358-6095. [email protected]

How to Write a Waitress/Waiter Resume Summary or Objective

Restaurants are always on the lookout for staff.

But this is a fact that only increases competition among your peer group.

With so much competition in the job market, it is no surprise that recruiters spend less than 6 seconds on each resume.

Yep, you heard that correctly!

Although scary, this fact highlights the importance of a powerful resume.

Specifically, you need an opener that hooks the reader in a matter of seconds.

To do this, use a resume summary or objective .

As a waitress or waiter, you know that a friendly introduction is important. Similarly, both resume summaries and objectives are short introductions that go on top of your resume, just under your contact information.

But what is the difference between a summary and an objective?

A resume summary is a 2-4 sentence summary of your most notable restaurant experiences and achievements.

• Experienced waitress with more than five years of restaurant experience providing personable table service at prestigious establishments in London. Awarded “Employee of the Month” for 36 months out of 48 months. Seeking a waitressing role at Restaurant X, where my service skills can be leveraged to achieve the highest quality of service at Restaurant XYZ.

A resume objective is a 2-4 sentence snapshot of your goals and aspirations.

• Enthusiastic and friendly waitress looking for a waitressing role at Restaurant Z. Passionate about keeping customers happy and satisfied. Relevant experience includes serving groups of customers at a local cafe. Skilled in POS and table setting, with a vast knowledge of Italian cuisine. 

So, should restaurant staff use a summary or an objective?

Generally, applicants with relevant work experience should choose a resume summary. An objective is suited to people with the basic skills, but lack relevant experience, like those who are transferring to the restaurant industry for the first time.

How to Make Your Waiter or Waitress Work Experience Stand Out

Recruiters love nothing more than an employee with work experience.

As such, this section is your best chance to impress.

Here’s the best way for waitresses and waiters to structure the work experience section:

• Position name
• Company Name
• Responsibilities & Achievements

The Rising Sun

07/2017 – 03/2020

• Served food to 80+ people a night and multiple tables at a time
• Educated customers on menu items and daily specials, while offering my personal recommendations based on their feedback
• Welcomed and seated customers in a 96-guest restaurant , while taking their preferences into account to keep everyone happy
• Always engaged customers with a personal, yet professional manner, which helped me to win “Employee of the Month” four months in a row

Focus on how you were a valuable asset at your previous place of work. Doing so will allow the recruiter to see the obvious benefits to making you a member of the team.

Instead of saying:

“Member of bar staff”

“Served food to 80+ people a night and multiple tables at a time”

Simply put, the first statement says nothing. It shows you were a member of staff, but doesn’t go into any other details about your position.

The second statement shows that you had to serve tables under stressful conditions to a large amount of customers. 

Hard numbers that prove your skills – can’t argue with that!

What if You Don’t Have Any Restaurant Work Experience?

Maybe you’re studying and looking for your first waitress or waiter job?

Or maybe, you have experience in hospitality, but never in a restaurant setting?

Don’t worry, there are other options.

You just need to show that you have the basic skills and that you’re willing to learn.

For example, if you’ve worked as a hotel receptionist, you can talk about any crossover skills and experiences. Just like a waitress, you would have to be friendly, deal with groups of people, and operate a cash register. 

Use Action Words to Make Your Waiter or Waitress Resume POP!

Spare a thought for the hiring manager for a minute…

You see, they are faced with the same words in every single resume they read. 

But it doesn’t have to be like that. 

In fact, you can use some action words to make your achievements stand out:

• Conceptualized
• Spearheaded

How to Correctly List your Education

Next, it’s time to talk about your education.

There’s nothing too complicated with this section, just simply enter your education history in the following format:

• Degree Type & Major
• University Name
• Years Studied
• GPA, Honours, Courses, and anything else you might want to add

Majoring in Culinary Arts

Boston State University

2018 - Present

• Relevant Courses: Food and Beverage Operations, Food Microbiology and Hygiene, Kitchen Techniques, and Pastry Techniques

Now, you don’t need a degree or higher education to be a waitress, so you may have a few questions in regards to this section. Here are the answers to some of the most frequent questions that we get:

What if I haven’t completed education yet?

• Simply mention every year or the modules that you have studied to date.

Should I include my high school education?

• Generally, you should only include your highest form of education.

What do I put first, my education or experience?

• For a waiter or waitress role, your experiences always come first.

Need more advice? Check out our guide on how to list education on a resume .

Top 10 Skills for a Waiter or Waitress Resume

Whether you’re skilled enough to juggle three plates with one hand or have the ability to remember five orders from the top of your head, the hiring manager will want to know.

However… you can’t list every skill in your arsenal.

So, what do hiring managers want to see?

Essentially, you need to look at the job ad to identify which skills the restaurant is looking for.

Here are some of the most common skills...

Hard Skills for Waiter/Waitress Resume:

• Math (basic calculations)
• POS & cash register 
• Table setting
• Italian cuisine 
• Cognac, whisky, vodka, rum, gin

Soft Skills for Waiter/Waitress Resume:

• Personable and friendly 
• Endurance (long hours)
• Conflict resolution 
• Time management 
• Team player
• The hiring manager will typically ask interviewees for examples of when they have shown the skill listed. As such, only include skills that you actually posses.

Here’s a more comprehensive list of 150+ must-have skills this year.

What Else Can You Include?

Hurrah! We’ve now covered all of the essential sections.

But don’t call final-orders just yet. 

Your resume needs to stand out !

Adding the following sections could be the deciding factor in whether you’re hired for the waitress or waiter role.

Awards & Certifications

Have you ever been employee of the month?

Have you completed any relevant courses on coursera?

If you’ve got something to be proud of, put it in your resume!

• “Employee of the Month” - The Rising Sun
• “Learning How to Learn” - Coursera Certificate

Applying to an Italian restaurant?

Then being fluent in Italian is a good way to shortcut your resume to the top of the pile.

Whether the job description requires it or not, being able to speak multiple languages is impressive – and no one can argue with that!

Rank the languages by proficiency:

• Intermediate

Now, you may be wondering, “ how is my soccer hobby related to my work as a waiter?”

Well, your hobbies allow the hiring manager to learn more about you as a person. 

Interests show that you’ll be a good addition to the team, especially if your hobbies involve social interaction.

Here’s which hobbies & interests you may want to mention.

Include a Cover Letter with Your Resume

Want to really make an impression?

Then you should write a convincing cover letter .

You see, a resume is great at giving the essential facts, but nothing speaks to a hiring manager like a well-written cover letter .

The hiring manager has to read through generic resume after generic resume. 

In fact, it’s not uncommon for the hiring manager to get confused between multiple applications!

A cover letter instantly allows you to make a personal connection .

Oh, and cover letters shows the hiring manager that you care about working for their company.

Here’s how to create a structure that works:

You should complete the following sections:

Personal Contact Information

Include your full name, profession, phone number, email, and address 

Hiring Manager’s Contact Information

Include their full name, position, location, email

Opening Paragraph

To hook the hiring manager, the start of your resume needs to pack a punch. Use concise language to mention:

• The position you’re applying for
• Your experience summary and best achievement to date

Once you’ve sparked the hiring manager’s interest, you can delve further into the following specifics...

• Why you chose this specific restaurant
• What you know about the restaurant culture
• How your skills will be beneficial to the restaurant
• If there are any similar industries or positions you have worked in before

Closing Paragraph

Avoid ending the conversation abruptly, you should:

• Conclude the main points of your letter
• Thank the hiring manager for their time and the opportunity
• End with a call to action. This is a good way to continue the conversation further. A simple “At your earliest opportunity, I’d love to discuss more how I can Restaurant X” will work.

Formal Salutations

Although you should remain personal, the letter should end in a professional manner. Use something like, “Kind regards” or “Sincerely.”

For extra advice and inspiration, read our step-by-step guide on how to write a cover letter .

Key Takeaways

Because if you follow the above advice, you’re about to get that waitress or waiter job!

Let’s total up everything we’ve consumed:

• Choose the correct format for your specific situation. Prioritize the reverse-chronological format, and then follow the best practices on content layout
• Draw the recruiter in with a short, snappy resume summary or objective
• In your work experience section, highlight your most relevant and best achievements rather than your restaurant duties
• Make your application personal and specific with a convincing cover letter

Suggested reading:

• 10+ Best Answers for Why Do You Want to Work Here?
• Why Should We Hire You - 10+ Best Answers
• 22+ Strengths and Weaknesses for Job Interviews [2024 Best Answers]

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