Thoughts Of A Server

As a server, I have seen many things, heard many conversations, and observed many behaviors. I have been in this line of work for quite some time now, and I have come to realise that there are certain things that people do not think about when they are in a restaurant. They are so focused on their own needs and desires that they forget about the person who is serving them.

I would like to share my thoughts on what it is like to be a server, what I have learned about human nature, and how we can all be better patrons.

First and foremost, being a server is not an easy job. We are on our feet for hours at a time, running back and forth between tables, carrying heavy trays, and dealing with difficult customers. It can be physically and emotionally exhausting.

But what is even more exhausting is dealing with customers who do not treat us with the respect and kindness that we deserve. We are human beings, just like you, and we deserve to be treated with dignity and respect.

One of the things that I have learned about human nature is that people often project their own issues onto others. If they are having a bad day, they may take it out on their server. If they are feeling anxious or stressed, they may be more demanding or impatient. It is important to remember that we are not responsible for your mood or your emotional state.

Another thing that I have learned is that people often have unrealistic expectations when they come to a restaurant. They may expect their food to be cooked exactly how they like it, even if they have not communicated their preferences clearly. They may expect their server to anticipate their needs and wants, even if they have not expressed them.

Communication is key in any relationship, and this includes the relationship between a server and a customer. If you have a specific dietary restriction, let your server know. If you want your steak cooked medium-rare, say so. If you need more time to look at the menu, just ask.

One of the things that I appreciate most as a server is when a customer is polite and respectful. It makes my job so much easier and more enjoyable. When a customer says please and thank you, it shows that they appreciate the service that we are providing. When a customer takes the time to engage in a conversation with us, it shows that they see us as human beings and not just as a means to an end.

On the other hand, when a customer is rude or dismissive, it can be incredibly demoralizing. It makes us feel like we are not worthy of respect, and it makes us dread going to work the next day.

It is also important to remember that servers are not mind readers. We may not know that you want a refill on your drink unless you tell us. We may not know that you need a certain utensil unless you ask. We are there to serve you, but we can only do so if we know what you need.

Another thing to keep in mind is that servers are not the only ones working in a restaurant. There are cooks, dishwashers, busboys, and hostesses, all of whom are working hard to make your dining experience enjoyable. It is important to treat everyone with respect and gratitude, not just your server.

If you are unhappy with something about your meal or your service, it is okay to speak up. However, it is important to do so in a respectful and constructive manner. Yelling at your server or making a scene will not solve the problem, and it will only make everyone involved feel uncomfortable.

Finally, it is important to remember that servers are people too. We have families, hobbies, and dreams, just like you. We are not just a uniform and a name tag. We have feelings and emotions, and we deserve to

We are not just a uniform and a name tag. We have feelings and emotions, and we deserve to be treated with empathy and kindness.

One of the most rewarding aspects of being a server is being able to connect with our customers on a personal level. When a customer takes the time to ask us about our day or our interests, it shows that they see us as more than just a service provider. It makes us feel valued and appreciated, and it can turn a mundane workday into a memorable experience.

However, this level of connection can also be a double-edged sword. When a customer is dismissive or disrespectful, it can hurt us on a personal level.

We may begin to question our own worth or feel as though we are not doing a good job. This is why it is so important to treat servers with kindness and respect, even if they make a mistake or things do not go exactly as planned.

It is also important to remember that servers often have to deal with difficult situations that are beyond their control. For example, if a customer’s food is taking longer than usual, it may be because the kitchen is backed up or the restaurant is understaffed. It is not the server’s fault, and taking out frustration on them will not solve the problem.

Similarly, if a customer is unhappy with the food or the service, it may be due to factors outside of the server’s control. For example, if a customer orders a rare steak and it comes out medium, it may be because the kitchen is using a new cook or the grill is not working properly. Blaming the server for this mistake will not fix the problem, and it will only make everyone involved feel worse.

In some cases, customers may even take their frustrations out on servers through verbal or even physical abuse. This is never acceptable, and it is important for both customers and restaurant management to take steps to prevent and address such behavior.

As a server, I have seen many instances of this kind of mistreatment. I have been yelled at, belittled, and even physically threatened. It is a sad reality of the job, but it is not something that should be accepted or tolerated.

Restaurants can take steps to protect their servers by providing training on how to de-escalate difficult situations, establishing clear policies on acceptable customer behavior, and taking swift action when incidents occur. Customers can also play a role by treating servers with kindness and respect and speaking up if they witness any mistreatment.

Ultimately, being a server is a challenging and often thankless job. We work long hours for low pay, and we deal with all kinds of people, some of whom are not always pleasant. But despite these challenges, many of us take pride in our work and in providing excellent service to our customers.

If we could all take a moment to remember that servers are human beings with feelings and emotions, and treat them with the same kindness and respect that we would want for ourselves, the world would be a better place.  So the next time you go out to eat, remember to say please and thank you, engage in conversation, and show your server the appreciation and gratitude that they deserve.