Life comes with its own set of challenges as we grow up, and making money is one of them. But without a certain set of criteria, such as a degree, many people take jobs that can hopefully fit around their schedule, especially in their upper teen years and college. And there are a few things we need to get straight, though this should just be common knowledge.
1. Tipping matters.
Prior to what some people may think: if you go out, think about tipping when you budget. A tip can make up over half of what someone gets paid, and many actually live off of what you tip them. Try and consider this when you go out. And, even if the service wasn't amazing, at least leave something.
2. They are human beings.
Sometimes people forget that, no matter what the job is, they are dealing with other humans. Yelling at or threatening an employee is not going to make your day better, or get anything done faster; neither is huffing when they are a minute slower than you want them to be. Demanding a product, like Ranch dressing, when they are refilling it right in front of you doesn't make the process any faster. In fact, it only makes them more annoyed. Try and put yourself in their shoes before you behave like a small child.
3. Most care about your experience.
There are always bad apples in a bunch, but most people actually care about your experience and safety. And while your opinion matters, you may want to consider theirs in certain cases because it is their job. Need new make-up? Ask someone there what would work well for your skin type if you aren't sure. Just know that many take their jobs seriously and they should get some respect for it.
4. Some things happen for a reason.
That time you thought it was okay to sit somewhere in the caf that was blocked off? It really was not. I understand the struggle of finding somewhere to sit on weekends, really. But this happens for a good reason: they are sometimes understaffed and it makes the area easier to clean. By sitting back there you are showing disrespect for wonderful people, who work hard to make sure there is food there in the first place. Try to not get upset when there's a hitch in your plans because some things must be done.
5. Understanding timing.
Do not, under any circumstances, show up somewhere five minutes before closing, even if you are hungry or desperate. Thirty minutes earlier may have been pushing it, but five minutes before is unacceptable. No one likes staying longer than necessary for many things in life, and this is one of them. If you really are that hungry, go somewhere else. I say this because the likely hood of you getting a great meal drops extensively the moment you ask, "Are you still open?" Have some respect for these people and find food, or whatever you are looking for, elsewhere. They may not say it, but there is some real negativity inside when someone comes in that close to closing.
6. Being ready
When I go out I typically like to know what I'm ordering before I have to actually order it. And while needing a minute is perfectly fine, spending the time on your phone and not looking at the menu is not. There will be time for you to contact people once the order is in. But, in that moment, try and be ready because your table is probably not the only one being served by this individual. Also, try and avoid cell phone use anyway.
7. Hands off!
I wish I didn't have to say this, honestly. But, as a human being, there is no reason to grope or harass an employee, verbally or physically or anyone in general. Harmless flirting from a child is cute, but a grown adult or teenager genuinely creeping someone out because their comments are of an inappropriate nature is disgusting. You can and most likely will be kicked out of wherever you are because of this, especially if you keep doing it. Like I wish I could have said so many times with my parents: keep your comments to yourself. But most importantly, no one is dressing like that to please you, so just don't assume anything and be respectable. You won't get anywhere good, trust me.
8. In general: don't be a jerk.
It takes a lot to work in the service industry, including patience. Understand the situation if things are hectic, or not, and have an open mind. Going somewhere does not mean all your expectations, especially if they are higher than normal, will be met. Yes, you have a right to expect good service and manners shown towards you. But if in return, you behave horribly yourself, there are consequences. Basic respect for those who deal with a mix of good and bad on a daily basis is a must.
You are not the Queen of England or the President of the United states, but even they show basic respect. Try to be realistic. It will save you some trouble.
