My Train Of Thought Before I Start A Shift

Here is what I have been doing for a long time before I start a shift in order that I get an edge in my mind and psyched up.

I think everyday I show up at my job my performance this evening is going to be my last. I know it is crazy but last night is history. It is what I do tonight that counts. No one I am serving tonight was here last night so whom I serve tonight and how well I do it will determine what money I make and my future employment.

I think as well that it might be that guest's first time in our restaurant. Maybe they had some bad news today and need to take their minds off things and enjoy a meal. Honestly , I have no idea. Maybe that guest was abused , a recovering alcoholic , was robbed , bankrupt , on drug rehab , or anything else like that. It is amazing when you talk to anyone , they know someone who is , or knows someone who knows someone else who is having some difficulties.

Another thing I think about doing when serving others is no matter what they ask me to get them I get it as quick as I can. It is all about the service. I am a freakin' robot. I just get it. On the ship I got a lot of practice waiting on tables for 6 plus months in a row everyday. One hundred per cent of the guests filled out comment cards. No room for error. If someone wanted something I got it. That was the golden rule of service.

I worked for a guy one time who asked everyone how they defined luxury. His correct answer was "service."That is what we do as servers and bartenders , supervisors and managers , we give as good service as possible.

Not every night will be perfect but leave your thoughts at the door and when you start your shift just think this is your chance to make someone's night and work like you need the job. Our job is only as secure as the night we have this evening. If it is not our best then there is tomorrow. A new beginning to improve on the previous night.

We owe it to ourselves and our guests to try to work and serve even better than the night before. Just work with that thought in mind before your shift and you will have focus and that edge you need to have a great night.