Resume Skills

January 21, 2025

Top Resume Skills for Server: A Comprehensive Guide (45+ Skills)

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Having the right server skills can make all the difference in landing your dream job in hospitality. Whether you're just starting out or looking to advance your career, this comprehensive guide will help you identify, develop, and showcase the most crucial server skills on your resume. From essential hard skills to critical soft skills, we'll cover everything you need to know to stand out in the restaurant industry.

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Essential Hard Skills for Servers

Hard skills are specific, teachable abilities that are easy to quantify. For servers, these skills form the foundation of their professional toolkit. Here are some essential hard skills that every server should possess:

Menu Knowledge

Comprehensive understanding of menu items, ingredients, and preparation methods.

Server, Waiter/Waitress, Food Service Worker

Point of Sale (POS) System Proficiency

Ability to efficiently operate restaurant POS systems for order entry and payment processing.

Server, Cashier, Restaurant Staff

Food Safety and Sanitation

Knowledge of food handling regulations and proper sanitation practices.

Server, Food Handler, Kitchen Staff

Basic Math and Cash Handling

Proficiency in mental arithmetic for calculating bills and handling cash transactions.

Server, Cashier, Bartender

Wine and Beverage Knowledge

Understanding of various wines, cocktails, and beverage pairings.

Server, Sommelier, Bartender

Mastering these hard skills will provide a solid foundation for your server career. However, to truly excel in the hospitality industry, you'll need to complement these with a range of server soft skills.

Showcase Your Server Skills

Critical Soft Skills for Servers

Soft skills are personal attributes that enable someone to interact effectively with others. In the service industry, these skills are crucial for providing excellent customer experiences. Here are the most important soft skills for servers:

Customer Service Excellence

Ability to anticipate and meet customer needs while providing a positive dining experience.

Server, Customer Service Representative, Host/Hostess

Communication Skills

Clear and effective verbal communication with customers, colleagues, and kitchen staff.

Server, Team Lead, Floor Manager

Multitasking and Time Management

Capacity to handle multiple tasks simultaneously while maintaining efficiency and quality of service.

Server, Shift Supervisor, Restaurant Manager

Teamwork and Collaboration

Ability to work effectively with other staff members to ensure smooth restaurant operations.

Server, Team Player, Restaurant Staff

Stress Management and Resilience

Capability to remain calm and professional under pressure during busy periods or challenging situations.

Server, High-Volume Server, Fine Dining Staff

These server soft skills are essential for creating a positive dining atmosphere and building strong relationships with customers and colleagues alike. By honing these server skills, you'll be well-equipped to handle the diverse challenges that come with serving in various restaurant environments.

Technical Skills for Modern Servers

As the restaurant industry evolves, servers are increasingly required to be tech-savvy. Here are some technical server skills that can give you an edge in today's digital-first dining landscape:

Digital Menu Management

Proficiency in using digital menu systems and tablets for order taking and menu updates.

Server, Digital Menu Specialist, Technology-Focused Server

Online Ordering Systems

Familiarity with popular online ordering platforms and ability to manage digital orders efficiently.

Server, Online Order Coordinator, To-Go Specialist

Social Media Marketing for Restaurants

Basic understanding of social media platforms and their use in promoting restaurant offerings.

Server, Social Media Ambassador, Marketing Assistant

Basic Troubleshooting of Restaurant Technology

Ability to resolve common issues with POS systems, digital menus, and other restaurant technologies.

Server, Tech-Savvy Server, IT Support Assistant

By developing these technical server skills, you'll position yourself as a valuable asset in restaurants that are embracing digital transformation. This expertise can also open doors to new roles within the hospitality industry.

Upgrade Your Server Resume

Industry-Specific Skills for Servers

Different types of dining establishments may require specialized server skills. Here are some industry-specific server skills that can set you apart in various restaurant settings:

Fine Dining Etiquette

Knowledge of formal table settings, wine service, and upscale dining protocols.

Fine Dining Server, Maître d', Upscale Restaurant Staff

Tableside Service Techniques

Proficiency in tableside food preparation, carving, and presentation.

Tableside Server, Guéridon Service Specialist, Upscale Server

Upselling and Suggestive Selling

Ability to recommend and promote additional menu items to enhance the dining experience and increase sales.

Server, Sales-Focused Server, Revenue Enhancer

Dietary Restriction Knowledge

Understanding of common allergies, intolerances, and dietary preferences to accommodate diverse customer needs.

Allergy-Aware Server, Dietary Specialist, Health-Conscious Server

Foreign Language Proficiency

Ability to communicate in multiple languages to serve international clientele.

Multilingual Server, International Restaurant Staff, Tourism-Focused Server

These specialized server skills can make you an invaluable team member in specific restaurant environments and potentially lead to higher-paying positions or opportunities in exclusive establishments.

Specialized Skills for Different Server Roles

As you progress in your server career, you may want to specialize in certain areas of the hospitality industry. Here are some skills specific to different server roles:

Skills for Bartender-Servers

Bartender-servers need a unique blend of skills to excel in their dual role. Here are some essential server skills for this position:

MixologySpeed pouringGarnish preparationAlcohol law knowledgeBar inventory managementCraft beer expertiseWine pairingCocktail recipe memorizationCustomer engagementMultitasking in a bar setting

Skills for Banquet Servers

Banquet servers work in large-scale events and require specific server skills to manage high-volume service efficiently:

Large group service coordinationBuffet managementPlated meal serviceEvent timing awarenessTable setting for formal eventsChampagne serviceCoffee and tea serviceCrowd controlTeam coordinationFlexibility with event changes

Skills for Cruise Ship Servers

Serving on a cruise ship comes with its own set of challenges and requires additional server skills:

International cuisine knowledgeMaritime safety protocolsSeasickness managementCultural sensitivity24/7 service mentalityShipboard point of sale systemsOnboard entertainment knowledgeMultiple language proficiencyAdaptability to long work periodsEmergency procedure familiarity

Skills for Café and Bistro Servers

Café and bistro servers often work in more casual, fast-paced environments. Here are some server skills specific to this role:

Coffee preparation and knowledgeQuick service techniquesCasual dining etiquettePastry and bakery item familiarityTo-go order managementLatte artBreakfast and brunch serviceHealth-conscious menu knowledgeCommunity engagementSocial media savvy for local promotion

By developing skills specific to these specialized server roles, you can expand your career opportunities and potentially increase your earning potential in the hospitality industry.

Tailor Your Server Resume

Emerging Skills for Future-Ready Servers

The restaurant industry is constantly evolving, and servers need to stay ahead of the curve. Here are some emerging skills that will be valuable for servers in the near future:

Contactless Service Protocols

Understanding and implementation of touchless service methods and hygiene practices.

Contactless Service Specialist, Hygiene-Focused Server, Safety Protocol Expert

Virtual Restaurant Concepts

Familiarity with ghost kitchen operations and delivery-only restaurant models.

Virtual Restaurant Coordinator, Delivery Experience Manager, Digital Dining Specialist

Sustainable and Eco-friendly Practices

Knowledge of sustainable dining practices and ability to educate customers on eco-friendly initiatives.

Eco-Conscious Server, Sustainability Ambassador, Green Dining Specialist

Data Analysis for Customer Preferences

Basic understanding of customer data analysis to personalize service and make informed recommendations.

Data-Driven Server, Customer Insight Specialist, Personalization Expert

By developing these forward-looking server skills, you'll position yourself as an adaptable and valuable server in an industry that's rapidly embracing new technologies and practices.

How to Showcase Server Skills on Your Resume

Now that you've identified the key skills for servers, it's crucial to present them effectively on your resume. Here's how to make your server skills stand out:

Creating a Compelling Server Skills Section

A well-crafted server skills section can quickly catch a hiring manager's eye. Here's how to create one:

  1. Prioritize relevant skills: List the most important skills for the specific server position you're applying for.
  2. Use industry keywords: Incorporate terms from the job description to pass applicant tracking systems (ATS).
  3. Balance hard and soft skills: Include a mix of technical abilities and interpersonal traits.
  4. Keep it concise: Aim for 8-12 key skills to maintain readability.
  5. Use a clear format: Present skills in a bulleted list or columns for easy scanning.

Incorporating Server Skills into Your Work Experience

Don't just list your skills; demonstrate how you've used them in previous roles:

  1. Implemented new customer service training program: Implemented a new customer service training program that increased customer satisfaction ratings by 15% within the first 6 months.
  2. Coordinated cross-functional team to enhance product launch: Coordinated a cross-functional team to enhance the product launch process, reducing time-to-market by 20% and improving customer feedback.
  3. Enhanced data analysis capabilities: Enhanced the company's data analysis capabilities by developing custom reporting tools, leading to more informed business decisions.

Using Action Verbs to Highlight Server Skills

Action verbs can make your resume more dynamic and showcase your server skills effectively:

  1. Customer Service: "Resolved," "Assisted," "Accommodated"
  2. Teamwork: "Collaborated," "Supported," "Coordinated"
  3. Efficiency: "Streamlined," "Expedited," "Optimized"
  4. Sales: "Upsold," "Promoted," "Recommended"
  5. Leadership: "Trained," "Mentored," "Supervised"

Quantifying Your Server Skills with Achievements

Adding measurable achievements can significantly strengthen your server resume:

  1. Sales performance: Consistently exceeded upselling targets by 20%, contributing to a 10% increase in average check size.
  2. Customer satisfaction: Maintained a 98% customer satisfaction rating over 12 months, as measured by post-dining surveys.
  3. Efficiency: Reduced table turnover time by 15% through improved order management and coordination with kitchen staff.
  4. Training: Trained and mentored 5 new servers, all of whom were successfully integrated into the team within 2 weeks.
  5. Recognition: Received 'Server of the Month' award 3 times in the past year for outstanding performance and customer feedback.

By effectively showcasing your server skills on your resume, you'll greatly increase your chances of landing interviews and securing your desired position in the competitive restaurant industry.

Optimize Your Server Resume

Developing and Improving Server Skills

Continuous improvement is key to success in the server profession. Here are some strategies to develop and enhance your server skills:

On-the-Job Training Opportunities for Servers

Take advantage of learning opportunities in your current workplace as a server:

  1. Shadow experienced servers: Observe top-performing colleagues to learn their techniques.
  2. Cross-train in different roles: Gain experience in various positions to broaden your skill set.
  3. Participate in staff meetings: Engage in discussions about service improvements and best practices.
  4. Seek feedback: Regularly ask for constructive criticism from managers and peers.
  5. Practice new skills: Volunteer to handle challenging situations to build confidence and competence.

Industry Certifications for Servers

Enhance your credentials with recognized server certifications:

  1. ServSafe Alcohol Certification: Demonstrates knowledge of responsible alcohol service.
  2. Food Handler's Certification: Shows proficiency in food safety and sanitation.
  3. Wine and Spirit Education Trust (WSET) Certifications: Proves expertise in wine and spirits.
  4. National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF) Certifications: Offers various hospitality-focused certifications.
  5. American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute (AHLEI) Certifications: Provides credentials for hotel and restaurant professionals.

Online Courses and Resources for Servers

Leverage digital learning platforms to expand your server knowledge:

  1. Coursera: Offers hospitality management courses from top universities.
  2. edX: Provides free online courses in customer service and hospitality.
  3. LinkedIn Learning: Features video courses on various server and hospitality skills.
  4. YouTube tutorials: Access free videos on specific server techniques and industry trends.
  5. Industry blogs and podcasts: Stay updated on the latest server best practices and innovations.

Networking and Learning from Experienced Servers

Connect with server industry professionals to gain insights and opportunities:

  1. Join professional associations: Become a member of organizations like the National Restaurant Association.
  2. Attend industry events: Participate in food and beverage trade shows and conferences.
  3. Engage in online forums: Join server-focused groups on platforms like Reddit or Facebook.
  4. Seek mentorship: Connect with experienced servers or managers for guidance and advice.
  5. Participate in server competitions: Enter contests to showcase your skills and learn from peers.

By actively pursuing these development opportunities, you'll continuously improve your server skills and stay competitive in the ever-evolving hospitality industry.

Update Your Server Skills Section

Adapting Server Skills to Different Restaurant Types

Different restaurant environments require servers to adapt their skills accordingly. Here's how server skills can be tailored to various restaurant types:

Fast Food and Quick Service

In fast-paced environments, efficiency and speed are key. Essential skills for fast food servers include:

Speed and Efficiency

Ability to take and fulfill orders quickly while maintaining accuracy.

Fast Food Server, Quick Service Team Member, Counter Service Associate

Drive-Thru Operations

Proficiency in managing drive-thru orders and communication systems.

Drive-Thru Specialist, Fast Food Order Taker, Quick Service Attendant

High-Volume Order Management

Capability to handle multiple orders simultaneously during peak hours.

Rush Hour Specialist, High-Volume Server, Fast-Paced Food Service Worker

Casual Dining

Casual dining restaurants require a balance of efficiency and personalized service. Key server skills include:

Menu Knowledge and Recommendations

In-depth understanding of menu items to provide informed suggestions to customers.

Menu Specialist, Casual Dining Server, Food and Beverage Consultant

Friendly and Approachable Demeanor

Ability to create a welcoming atmosphere and build rapport with diverse clientele.

Customer-Focused Server, Hospitality Specialist, Guest Relations Expert

Efficient Table Management

Skill in managing multiple tables at various stages of their dining experience.

Section Manager, Table Service Coordinator, Dining Room Specialist

Fine Dining

Fine dining establishments demand a high level of sophistication and attention to detail. Essential server skills include:

Formal Service Etiquette

Knowledge of high-end service protocols and fine dining customs.

Fine Dining Server, Upscale Restaurant Attendant, Formal Service Specialist

Wine and Beverage Expertise

Comprehensive understanding of wine pairings, cocktails, and premium spirits.

Wine Steward, Beverage Connoisseur, Fine Dining Sommelier

Attention to Detail

Meticulous focus on every aspect of the dining experience, from table settings to guest preferences.

Precision Service Expert, Detail-Oriented Server, Quality Assurance Specialist

Specialty and Theme Restaurants

Theme restaurants require servers to adapt to unique concepts and atmospheres. Key server skills include:

Themed Character Performance

Ability to stay in character and enhance the themed dining experience.

Character Dining Specialist, Themed Restaurant Performer, Immersive Dining Expert

Specialty Cuisine Knowledge

In-depth understanding of specific cuisines or cooking styles featured in the restaurant.

Cuisine Specialist, Cultural Dining Expert, Authentic Food Ambassador

Interactive Dining Experience Facilitation

Skill in guiding customers through unique dining concepts or interactive meal experiences.

Dining Experience Coordinator, Interactive Server, Culinary Entertainment Specialist

By adapting your server skills to different restaurant types, you'll increase your versatility and marketability in the diverse hospitality industry.

Customize Your Server Resume

The Impact of Technology on Server Skills

As technology continues to reshape the restaurant industry, servers must adapt their skills to stay relevant. Here's how technology is influencing server skills:

Embracing Restaurant Management Software

Modern restaurant management systems require servers to develop new technical competencies:

Advanced POS System Navigation

Proficiency in using complex point-of-sale systems for order management and payment processing.

POS Expert, Digital Order Specialist, Restaurant Technology Coordinator

Inventory Management Software

Ability to use digital tools for real-time inventory tracking and management.

Inventory Control Specialist, Stock Management Expert, Digital Resource Coordinator

Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Systems

Skill in utilizing CRM software to track customer preferences and enhance personalized service.

Guest Relations Specialist, CRM Coordinator, Customer Experience Manager

Adapting to Self-Service Kiosks

With the introduction of self-service options, servers need to adapt their roles:

Kiosk Assistance and Troubleshooting

Ability to guide customers through self-service processes and resolve technical issues.

Kiosk Support Specialist, Self-Service Assistant, Digital Order Facilitator

Hybrid Service Models

Skill in balancing traditional table service with support for self-service options.

Hybrid Service Coordinator, Multi-Channel Server, Flexible Dining Specialist

Leveraging Customer Feedback Platforms

Digital feedback systems are changing how servers interact with and respond to customer experiences:

Real-Time Feedback Management

Ability to monitor and respond to digital customer feedback during service.

Guest Satisfaction Specialist, Digital Feedback Coordinator, Customer Experience Analyst

Online Reputation Management

Skill in addressing online reviews and maintaining a positive digital presence for the restaurant.

Online Reputation Manager, Digital Brand Ambassador, Social Media Response Specialist

Understanding AI and Robotics in Food Service

As AI and robotics enter the restaurant industry, servers need to adapt to new technologies:

Robot-Assisted Service Coordination

Ability to work alongside and manage robotic assistants in food delivery and table service.

Human-Robot Coordinator, AI Service Supervisor, Automated Dining Specialist

AI-Enhanced Customer Insights

Skill in interpreting AI-generated customer data to provide personalized recommendations and service.

AI-Assisted Server, Data-Driven Service Specialist, Predictive Service Expert

By embracing these technological advancements and developing the associated skills, servers can position themselves as valuable assets in the evolving restaurant landscape.

Update Your Server Skills Section

Conclusion

In this comprehensive guide, we've explored the essential skills that can make you a standout server in 2025 and beyond. From mastering the basics of menu knowledge and POS systems to adapting to emerging technologies like AI and robotics, the role of a server continues to evolve. By focusing on developing a well-rounded skill set that includes hard skills, soft skills, and technological proficiency, you'll be well-equipped to thrive in various restaurant environments. Remember, the key to success in the server profession is continuous learning and adaptability. As you progress in your career, keep refining your skills, stay updated with industry trends, and always strive to provide exceptional customer experiences.

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