"A bartender is just a pharmacist with a limited inventory."
In the ever-evolving world of hospitality, a well-crafted bartender resume is your passport to exciting opportunities. More than just a list of past roles, it's a snapshot of your skills, personality, and passion for mixology.
This guide will walk you through the essentials, offering practical tips and good sample resumes for bartenders to help create a standout document. Whether you're entering the industry or aiming to climb the ranks, mastering the art of resume writing is key to landing your dream job.
So, grab your shaker, polish your glassware, and let's dive into the world of crafting an irresistible bartender resume!
Bartender Resume Examples
Bartender Resume Template
Mixology Bartender Resume Example
Objective:
Energetic and skilled bartender with a flair for mixology and a proven track record of delivering outstanding customer service. Seeking a dynamic role at a reputable establishment to contribute my expertise in crafting innovative cocktails and fostering a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere.
Experience:
Bay Bistro & Lounge | San Francisco, CA
Craft Bartender | June 2018 - Present
- Pioneer mixology efforts, introducing a range of signature cocktails that have become customer favorites.
- Implement cost-effective inventory management strategies, resulting in a 10% reduction in overall beverage costs.
- Cultivate strong relationships with regular patrons, contributing to a 15% increase in repeat business.
Urban Spirits Collective | San Francisco, CA
Senior Mixologist | January 2015 - May 2018
- Supervised a team of mixologists, providing training in advanced mixology techniques and customer service.
- Orchestrated successful promotional events, boosting foot traffic by 20% and increasing sales during special promotions.
- Maintained a clean and organized bar, ensuring compliance with health and safety standards.
Education:
Bachelor of Arts in Hospitality Management
University of California, Berkeley | Berkeley, CA | May 2014
Skills:
- Highly organized and detail-oriented.
- Knowledgeable in cocktails, spirits, beers, and wines.
- Demonstrated proficiency in managing hectic conditions.
- Familiarity with cash handling procedures and POS systems.
- Great customer service attitude.
- Flexible schedule with the possibility to operate nights and weekends.
Certifications:
- Food Handler's Certificate (2020)
- Certificate of Responsible Alcohol Dispensation (2020)
Nightclub Bartender Resume Example
Banquet Bartender Resume Example
Objective:
Dedicated and experienced Banquet Bartender with a passion for providing outstanding service in catering and event settings. Seeking to utilize my mixology skills and attention to detail to contribute to the success of banquets and special events.
Professional Experience:
Banquet Bartender
Elegant Events Catering, El Paso, TX, March 2020 - Present
- Prepare and serve a variety of beverages, including cocktails, wines, and non-alcoholic drinks, at banquets, weddings, and corporate events.
- Work closely with event planners and catering staff to ensure seamless service and exceed client expectations.
- Maintain a clean and organized bar area, adhering to sanitation and safety standards at all times.
- Provide attentive and friendly customer service, engaging with guests to enhance their overall experience.
Bartender
The Riverside Restaurant & Lounge, El Paso, TX, July 2018 - February 2020
- Mixed and served drinks in a busy restaurant environment, handling high volume and maintaining quality standards.
- Interacted with customers to take orders, make recommendations, and ensure satisfaction with their dining experience.
- Operated POS system to process orders and payments accurately, including cash handling and credit card transactions.
- Collaborated with kitchen staff to coordinate food and beverage service and ensure timely delivery to guests.
- Participated in staff training sessions and contributed to menu development and promotional events.
Education:
Associate Degree in Hospitality Management
El Paso Community College, El Paso, TX
- Graduated: May 2018
Certifications:
TABC Certification
Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission, 2020
Skills:
- Proficient in mixology techniques and cocktail preparation.
- Strong customer service and communication skills.
- Ability to work efficiently in fast-paced environments.
- Knowledge of beverage trends and industry standards.
- Attention to detail and commitment to quality.
Flair Bartender Resume Sample
Specialty Bartender Resume Example
Summary
Experienced Specialty Bartender with over 15 years of expertise in crafting innovative cocktails, providing exceptional customer service, and managing bar operations. Adept at creating a vibrant atmosphere, training staff, and ensuring high levels of guest satisfaction.
Professional Experience
Lead Specialty Bartender
The Copper Lounge, Omaha, NE, January 2018 – Present
- Create and curate a rotating menu of craft cocktails and seasonal drinks.
- Train and supervise a team of 8 bartenders and barbacks.
- Implement inventory control measures, reducing waste by 15%.
- Organize and execute monthly themed events, increasing customer footfall by 20%.
- Received the "Bartender of the Year" award in 2020 for exceptional performance and customer service.
Specialty Bartender
Vintage Spirits, Omaha, NE, March 2012 – December 2017
- Developed a reputation for innovative and expertly crafted cocktails.
- Provided high-quality service in a fast-paced environment, maintaining customer satisfaction ratings above 90%.
- Assisted in the development of a comprehensive training program for new bartenders.
- Collaborated with management to design promotional events and happy hour specials.
- Managed bar operations during peak hours, ensuring smooth service and efficient workflow.
Bartender
The Classic Bar, Omaha, NE, June 2009 – February 2012
- Served a wide range of beverages, including specialty cocktails, wines, and beers.
- Engaged with patrons to create a welcoming atmosphere, fostering repeat business.
- Monitored inventory levels and assisted with weekly ordering of supplies.
- Supported senior bartenders in the preparation of complex drink orders.
Education
Mixology Certification
American Bartending School, Chicago, IL
- Graduated: May 2009
Skills
- Flavor Profiling
- Molecular Mixology
- Seasonal & Local Ingredients
- Presentation & Garnishing
- Flair Bartending
- Pairing Expertise
- Sensory Evaluation
- Cocktail History & Culture
Professional Development
- Advanced Mixology Workshop, New York City, NY - 2021
- Bar Management Course, Coursera - 2019
- Customer Service Excellence Training, Omaha, NE - 2017
Bartending Resume Style Guide
It is a must to use language that best showcases their skills as a professional in the bar/restaurant service. The overall style should be polished and professional, yet succinct and attention-grabbing.
Use keywords, action words, and job-related words to demonstrate your knowledge of the field and how you can use it to benefit employers.
Use bold, italics, and underlines to highlight important information such as job titles, dates of employment, and qualifications.
Avoid repetition of words by applying varied terminology such as "serve" instead of "provide" or "assist" instead of "help".
Powerful Words & Phrases to Use in a Bartender Resume: Examples
- Friendly and personable;
- Superior capacity for providing excellent customer care;
- Highly organized;
- Ability to multitask;
- Strong team player;
- Knowledgeable of mixology techniques;
- Efficient in time management;
- Maintaining a safe and clean environment;
- Ability to handle complex orders;
- Efficient problem-solving skills;
- Solid knowledge of liquor, wine, and beer brands;
- Proficient in cash handling and responsible alcohol service;
- Demonstrated capacity to cope with stress;
- Meticulousness in order accuracy and garnishes;
- Consistently exceeding customer expectations;
- Ability to manage difficult customers.
Contact Information
You will need to make sure that all the necessary data is included in your bartender resume. You will be dealing with clients in this position, so you have to prove your trustworthiness and professionalism.
You should put the following personal info:
Your full name: Indicate your legal name, including any titles (i.e. Jr).
Your address: Point out your current location, and if you prefer, your permanent address as well.
Your contact number: Add your phone number so that potential employers can call you. An alternate number, such as a cell phone or business line, may also be entered.
Your email: Make sure to use a professional-sounding email (i.e. firstname_lastname@domainname). This will help employers reach out to you quickly and easily.
Your website or portfolio (if applicable): If you have a site with your bartending proficiency, attach the link. This will give possible employers a clearer picture of who you are as a worker and what kind of experience you have.
By including all of these private details in your bartender resume, you’ll show your sincerity about finding work in this field. With the right resume structure, you can be sure that employers will take notice and consider hiring you!
Experience Organization
When writing a bartending resume, it is necessary to state and arrange work experience lucidly and succinctly. It is best to record your experience in chronological order, beginning with the most recent job you have held.
This allows employers to easily identify your most up-to-date skills, which may be beneficial for them when hiring a bartender.
If you are applying for a bar job in a restaurant, employers like to know that you are an experienced bartender. You may present your job history as follows:
Bartender at Coastal Cove Dining (Miramar, FL)
April 2019 - Present
- Prepare cocktails according to the restaurant's standards;
- Uphold high-quality customer service;
- Maintain cleanliness and organization of the bar area.
Below is another example of a bartender resume experience section. The person has been working as a freelance bartender for various events. You can list it as follows:
Freelance Bartender (Philadelphia, PA)
June 2018 - Present
- Serve drinks at weddings, corporate events, and other private functions;
- Maintain professional appearance and attitude while interacting with guests;
- Adapt quickly to changing situations while on the job.
Be sure to cover work experience in an organized manner, and employ bullet points or lists, as shown above. This will make it easier to quickly read your bartender resume.
It is important that each job listed has detailed information about the type of duties performed. This will enable employers to assess whether you would be a good fit for their organization.
Bartenders need to be familiar with local and state regulations regarding alcohol service and responsible drinking.
List Education
It is imperative to demonstrate and organize your educational info in a clear and succinct way. An effective way to do this is to sort data in chronological order, starting with the most current.
For example, you could start with a degree you have recently achieved, followed by any undergraduate degrees, and then any vocational or professional qualifications. You can also add details of any courses or conferences attended to our bartender resume.
Yes:
- Master's Degree in Food Science from the University of California – 2017;
- Bachelor's Degree from the University of California - 2015;
- Diploma from Professional Bartender School - 2012.
By writing your education history in this way, you are sending the message to employers that you are highly qualified. Your academic and professional qualifications demonstrate that you have the necessary capabilities needed to become a successful bartender.
No:
- 2017 – Postgraduate Certificate in Food Science, University of California;
- 2009–2012 – Diploma in Bartending and Cocktail Making, Professional Bartender Academy.
- 2012–2015 – Bachelor's Degree in Culinary Arts, University of California;
In this bartender resume experience example, education is not listed chronologically. That makes it difficult for employers to quickly or easily evaluate your qualifications.
Additionally, there is no mention of which program was obtained, and when making it is unclear what kind of qualifications you have.
Generally, it is crucial to present and organize everything on a bartender's resume in an easy-to-understand and concise way. This will give you an advantage when applying for bartender jobs!
Bartender Skills for Resume
If you’re striving to be a bartender, you need to list the right skills on your resume. That’s what will raise you above other candidates and give potential employers confidence in hiring you. So, what should you include?
Soft Skills for Bartender Resume:
- Amazing customer service skills;
- Professionalism and integrity;
- Great communication and interpersonal skills;
- Attention to detail;
- Ability to multi-task;
- Problem-solving abilities;
- Calm and collected under pressure;
- Capability to work in a fast-paced environment.
Some bartenders are skilled in flair bartending, an entertaining style that involves performing tricks, flips, and juggling with bottles and bar tools.
Hard Skills for Bartender Resume:
- Knowledge of standard bar drinks;
- Experience using POS systems;
- Mixology skills;
- Knowledge of beer, wine, and spirits;
- Understanding of food safety and sanitation practices;
- Ability to operate a variety of equipment (blenders, ice machines, etc.);
- Math skills for calculating bills quickly and accurately.
Being a successful bartender requires more than just knowledge of beverages - it needs a combination of both hard and soft skills.
The ability to find work balance, problem-solving on the fly, and preparing drinks like a pro are essential characteristics of a prosperous bartender.
If you have the proper set of skills as a bartender - as listed above - you’ll be well on your way to landing the job.
Write Bartender ResumeSocial Media Links
Overall, including social media links on resumes for bartending can be beneficial. Customers may look at the bartender's profile to find out more.
Many modern bartenders consider themselves culinary alchemists, experimenting with diverse flavors, infusions, and unique ingredients to create innovative cocktails. This blending of culinary and mixology skills has elevated the profession to new heights.
This can also provide a platform to perform their bartending skills. For example, they can contain photos of appetizers or videos of mixing refreshments.
Pros:
- Showcase skills and personality to potential employers.
- Give customers an opportunity to discover more info about the bartender.
- Demonstrate bartending skills by providing visuals of cocktails.
- Can help build a larger following in the occupation.
Cons:
- Customers may have access to personal details viewed as objectionable.
- Employers may not be comfortable with social media profiles being added to resumes.
- Too many links can take away from the focus of the resume.
If a bartender has a large following on Instagram, they can link to their profile to indicate their mixology skills.
However, they should avoid any content related to alcohol or parties that might be considered unprofessional by employers.
Similarly, Facebook links should also be avoided if there is any content that could be seen as offensive or unprofessional on a bartender's resume.
Bartending Resume Summary
This is a great way to spread the word about the important skills you have. It should provide employers with an advertisement of your qualifications and make the bosses want to learn more about you.
You should emphasize relevant professional experience, certifications, and any other qualifications that are applicable.
Bartender Resume Summary Example:
Experienced and reliable bartender with 8+ years in hospitality. Skilled in crafting unique blendings, engaging guests, and providing outstanding service. Certified in responsible alcohol service and knowledgeable about food safety regulations. Achieved the highest customer satisfaction scores for two consecutive years at Harborview Bar & Grill.
5 Tips on Writing an Admirable Summary:
- Emphasize your most appropriate bartender resume skills and qualifications to draw attention to your strongest assets.
- Keep it brief but informative – no more than three sentences typically works best.
- Quantify your achievements where possible – specify details like guest satisfaction scores or years of experience to support your claims.
- Do not use overly technical language – make it simple so that anyone can understand it without needing prior knowledge of the industry.
- Focus on the positive – use this part to feature your successes rather than your failures or shortcomings.
Additional Information
Hobbies: Do not forget to add this issue to a bartender's resume, as it demonstrates a well-rounded nature. On top of that, hobbies involving creative pursuits can indicate an eye for detail and artistic flair which are useful skills in this sphere.
Courses: Adding them can be valuable as it shows that the seeker has taken the initiative to research the subject. For instance, taking a course on mixology or service can make evident your dedication.
Many aspiring bartenders attend specialized bartending schools or take courses to learn the skills and techniques required for the job.
Languages: If a bartender is fluent in multiple languages, then it would be important to specify. Being able to communicate with customers from different backgrounds creates a more diverse atmosphere.
Moreover, language skills could make it easier for bartenders to interact with foreign suppliers.
Awards: Grants are another great way to display exceptional talent and hard work within the bar sphere. Being named “Best Bartender” shows possible employers that they have been recognized for their skills by their peers and superiors.
Internships: They are also valuable additions to bartending resumes. Internships offer opportunities to learn through hands-on experience; it is especially advantageous in this line where customer interaction and problem-solving come into play regularly.
References: Including contacts on one’s resume is important because it gives potential employers an independent opinion of the interviewee’s performance in past jobs.
Recommendations should be chosen wisely. These are the people who have seen how well the claimant works in a professional setting.
Search for former supervisors or co-workers who can testify to the competitor's ability to work behind the bar.
Certificates: Demonstrate further credentials that may not be included anywhere else on the resume.
These could be diplomas from alcohol safety courses, proper handling of food & beverage procedures, or even certifications from precise brands of liquor (i.e., tequila sommelier).
Having these shows knowledge of industry standards and regulations which makes a competitor more attractive in comparison with other entrants without such credentials.
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Resume writing is a daunting task, and it can be easy to get bogged down in the details of formatting and phrasing.
Using a bartender resume template is a great way to quickly create an eye-catching resume. Here are some benefits:
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- Tool offers pre-formatted text and layout that make your content stand out. Plus, you don't need to worry about formatting in Word as most bartender resume templates already have it sorted out.
- With a template, you can select the appropriate design and style for your job application. Not only does this save time, but also makes the resume appear more orderly. You can use different fonts, colors, and graphics to enhance the resume.
- If you want to get noticed by employers, choosing the right keywords is essential. Utilizing a resume creator you can incorporate industry-specific keywords and make them more pertinent to the job at hand.
Our bartender resume examples not only helps with understanding what to write but also provides tips on how to highlight your skills and accomplishments. This increases your chances of getting selected for an interview.
Creating a remarkable resume doesn’t have to be a struggle. With the help of our online service, you can draft your bartender resume in a few minutes. Check Resume Trick out today and apply for your dream job with confidence!
Cover Letter for a Bartender Resume
Preparing a cover letter for the bar resume, remember that you are not just selling your competence and experience, but also yourself. To make sure your cover letter would bring benefit, here are some points:
- Do your research: Find out as much as you can about the establishment, and its specific needs. In this way, you can tailor the written cover letter accordingly.
- Be definitive: Represent needed background that illustrates why you’re the best fit for the bar.
- Show your passion: Bring out your love for mixology, service, and the restaurant field in general.
- Let it be concise: Use clear, laconic language to get your point across without taking up too much space or time.
With these hints, your bartending cover letter will definitely stick out from other competitors and help you land the job!
Good example of bartender cover letter:
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am writing to apply for the Bartender position at Bluebird Bistro & Lounge. With over 5 years of experience in hospitality and customer service, I am confident in my ability to contribute positively to your team.
Throughout my career, I have honed my communication skills and developed a deep understanding of customer needs and preferences. My previous roles have equipped me with the expertise to deliver exceptional service and create memorable experiences for patrons.
I am passionate about mixology and take pride in crafting delicious and visually appealing beverages. From classic cocktails to innovative creations, I strive to exceed expectations with every drink I prepare. Moreover, my commitment to efficiency ensures that I can deliver high-quality drinks promptly, even during busy shifts.
I am drawn to Bluebird Bistro & Lounge for its reputation for excellence and commitment to providing guests with outstanding dining experiences. I am eager to bring my skills and enthusiasm to your team and contribute to the continued success of the establishment.
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of joining your team and contributing to the vibrant atmosphere at Bluebird Bistro & Lounge.
Warm regards,
John Smith
Bad bartender cover letter example:
Hey there! This is Peter! I heard there was a job opening up at your restaurant, so just wanted to apply here real quick! I'm super good at making refreshments and people like me because I'm nice so just thought this job would fit me right? Looking forward to hearing back from ya real soon then we can talk more about it? Thanks have a great day!
This is considered a poor example because it is not tailored to the position. It does not reveal any relevant experience or qualifications that would set the applicant apart from other candidates.
It also lacks professionalism and sounds too informal. This can be a turnoff to potential employers when applying for positions such as bartending, where strong communication skills are essential.
Cover Letter for an Entry-Level Bartender:
Dear Hiring Manager,
I'm writing to express my interest in the bartender position at Cocktail Cove Lounge. I understand this is an entry-level position and I have no prior experience as a bartender. However, I'm confident, that my strong customer service background and excellent communication skills make me an ideal candidate for the role.
In my current customer service role, I am responsible for providing exceptional service. I resolve inquiries quickly and efficiently and create a positive customer experience. My interpersonal and problem-solving skills are well-developed, which renders me a suitable candidate for your position.
I am also a highly organized individual with a desire for learning. I am eager to gain experience in the bartending field. I am sure that my drive and enthusiasm will be an asset to your team.
As I am just starting out, I am open to learning new practices and techniques in order to become the best bartender possible.
My resume is attached for your review. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions or would like to know how I can help. I am grateful for your attention and thoughtfulness.
Sincerely,
Tyler Pleas
Tips on writing a great bartender cover letter without experience:
- Highlight transferable skills from your previous roles that can be applied to bartending, for example, issue resolution.
- Demonstrate passion, enthusiasm, and drive in wanting to master the bartending industry.
- Showcase your organizational skills, as this is important when it comes to working behind a bar.
- Ensure your cover letter for bartender is succinct but also provides enough detail about yourself and why you are suitable for the role.
- Offer up references or contacts who may be able to provide further insight into your character or skillset if needed.
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Proofread Everything
Spellchecking ready resume and cover letter is a must when applying for any job, and is especially important for a bar staff position.
Bartending requires scrupulousness, and all you are writing should prove this quality. Content should be free of errors, giving your potential employer a better first impression.
Use proper grammar and words. Poor or incorrect spelling can make it appear that you have not taken the time to put together a solid application.
Such a situation can cause your paper to be overlooked. Additionally, using clear language allows the reader to understand exactly what you are trying to communicate.
Bartending can be physically demanding, as it requires long hours on their feet, lifting heavy bottles, and repeatedly performing tasks such as shaking cocktails or tapping kegs.
Conclusion
This article provides a detailed guide on how to put bartending on a professional resume. It covers the most important aspects of a bartender's resume, such as:
- Listing professional experience and key accomplishments;
- Detailing relevant qualifications and skills;
- Highlighting any licenses;
- Showcasing your capacity to provide excellent customer service;
- Providing testimonials.
Writing a resume for a job as a bartender is an important task that requires attention to detail. To simplify the process, it is recommended to use an online resume builder with bartender resume samples.
Don't wait any longer - start writing your bartender resume today with a resume creator!