Restaurant Server Resume Guide + Tips + Example

Restaurant server resume FAQ

1. 1. What does a restaurant server resume look like?

   There is no standard resume template for a server resume; you can use any of our templates and customize them for your desired job. A good resume for a restaurant server will look like the restaurant server resume example on this page. It must display the job seeker’s contact information, various hard and soft skills, job history, education and certifications, if applicable. A restaurant server resume might also contain sections for awards and honors if the job candidate has them to display.

2. 2. What are some tips for creating an excellent resume for a restaurant server job?

   A server resume will vary from person to person, but you should pay attention to these resume writing basics: 

   • Keep your resume short and to the point. If you have less than 10 years of experience, then it should be one page long; if you have more than a decadeyears of experience, then it’s acceptable to have no more than two pages. 
   • Ensure your resume is formatted correctly, meaning margins should be one inch on all sides and line space should be single or 1.5 inches. 
   • Only use appropriate fonts, like Times New Roman, Arial, or Helvetica, in 11-12 points on the body and 14-16 points on headers.
   • Proofread your resume more than once before sending it to potential employers.

3. 3. What is the best resume format for a restaurant server?

   The format you choose will depend on your experience and career goals. If you have some experience, try a chronological resume, focusing on your work history and accomplishments. If you have a few years of experience and want to stress your full array of skills, a combination resume format could work well, and if you’re new to the field, then a functional resume is your best bet.

4. 4. What if I have no previous professional experience?

   On your server resume, highlight any past academic or extracurricular activities, skills and experience that show that you can be a good fit for the job, such as volunteering to help an organization serve food to the less fortunate in a community. These activities should depict your ability to produce work professionally and efficiently. In your summary, emphasize important intangible skills that also apply to the job, such as the ability to strategically plan and execute a project or a strong work ethic.

5. 5. How can I make my server resume stand out?

   There are several things you can do to make your server resume stand out, such as: 

   • Showcase your customer service skills: Highlight instances where you went above and beyond to provide exceptional service or resolve customer issues.
   • Include relevant certifications: If you have certifications in food safety, responsible alcohol service, or any other relevant areas, be sure to mention them.
   • Demonstrate your adaptability: Highlight your ability to work effectively in different settings, such as fine dining, casual restaurants, or high-volume establishments.
   • Show your willingness to learn: Mention any additional training or courses you have completed to enhance your skills as a server.
   • Provide references: Consider including references from previous employers or supervisors who can vouch for your work ethic, reliability, and customer service skills.

6. 6. What are some important keywords to include in a server resume?

   This is our list of some of the top server resume keywords and how to use them in your resume. Review server resume examples for more ideas.

   • Customer service: Highlight your ability to provide exceptional customer service, handle customer inquiries, and ensure customer satisfaction.
   • Food and beverage knowledge: Emphasize your knowledge of different types of cuisine, menu items, and beverage offerings.
   • Order taking and accuracy: Showcase your skills in accurately taking and delivering customer orders, paying attention to special requests and dietary restrictions.
   • POS systems: Mention your proficiency in using point-of-sale systems to process orders, handle payments, and generate receipts.
   • Upselling: Highlight your ability to suggest additional menu items, promote specials, and increase sales through upselling techniques.
   • Teamwork and collaboration: Demonstrate your experience working effectively as part of a team, coordinating with kitchen staff, and maintaining a smooth flow of service.
   • Time management: Emphasize your ability to multitask, prioritize tasks, and work efficiently in a fast-paced environment.
   • Cleanliness and hygiene: Mention your commitment to maintaining a clean and sanitary work area, following food safety regulations, and practicing proper hygiene.

7. 7. How can I tailor my server resume for specific job postings?

   It’s easy to tailor your server resume for your target job if you follow these tips: 

   •  Review the job description: Carefully read the job posting to identify specific skills, qualifications, and keywords mentioned by the employer.
   • Highlight relevant experience: Customize your resume to emphasize experiences that align with the requirements of the job, such as previous experience in a similar establishment or with specific types of cuisine.
   • Use keywords: Incorporate relevant keywords from the job description throughout your resume to demonstrate that you possess the desired skills and qualifications.
   • Quantify achievements: Whenever possible, include specific examples of accomplishments, such as increasing sales, receiving positive customer feedback, or handling a high volume of orders.

    

8. 8. What is the difference between a server resume objective and a server resume summary?

   A server resume objective and a server resume summary serve different purposes in a resume. The choice between the two depends on the job candidate’s level of experience and their specific career objectives

   A server resume objective is a brief statement at the beginning of a resume that highlights the candidate’s skills and experience in terms of their career goals and aspirations. A server resume objective is ideal for entry-level candidates or those who are changing careers and want to emphasize their enthusiasm and potential.

   On the other hand, a server resume summary is a concise paragraph that provides an overview of the candidate’s job-relevant skills, experiences, and accomplishments. A server resume summary is more suitable for candidates with significant experience in the field who want to showcase their track record and stand out as a strong candidate.