My family and I had much to do this evening so we decided to eat dinner at a local restaurant. We were greeted at the door by a young waiter who was dressed nice and looked professional. He asked how many would be dining tonight and pointed us to our table. It wasn't too long before another young waiter came to get our drink order and set out the chips and salsa for us to nibble on. This was a Mexican Restaurant so the chips and salsa are almost a given. He wasted no time seeing to it that we had some. I did appreciate that. So far so good but in comparison to other restaurants he did not introduce himself personally or introduce himself as our waiter he just asked what we would like to drink. I suppose one could say preference comes into play here but I kind of like it when the waiters or waitresses introduce themselves. It makes me feel like they really are there to take care of my needs.
It wasn't a very long wait for our food but we didn't all get served at the same time. He brought out two orders, and half of mine but not the other two guests in our party. I had ordered a dish that required tortilla shells and he brought all of my order except the shells so I had to wait for them to arrive. My food did begin to get cold during that wait. He then brought the other two orders and then my shells. So I would say that falls short of the best professional service. I would have felt better if he had told me they were coming as I was sitting there wondering if they actually were. My family will tell you that I asked them this question several times....(lol)...as if they knew the answer.
Throughout the meal he did keep the drinks refilled and check in to see how we were doing with things. It was a good meal and the service was pretty good other than what I mentioned. It is certainly not the best service I've ever received but certainly not the worst either. It is obvious though that folks like to be told if there is going to be a delay and they could improve in that area.
Pam's Point: It IS important to be professional no matter what job you are performing.
Very good evaluation of your restaurant visit, Pam. I think, however, you were too kind. With all the things you mentioned, it was clear he had a way to go in learning how to be professional. I liked that you picked up on the fact that he did not introduce himself or tell you he was your waiter. People need to know who we are when we are working. Great job! Hope the food was good...
ReplyDeleteThanks Carol. I believe you are right as I do tend to always be too kind. One of the things I need to work on with my staff (small as it may be)...otherwise it serves me well. I've already tried delegating more last week. I will see if it worked when I get back to work on Tuesday.
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