This past February, I got my first real job at Ruby’s Diner. Both of my parents worked in restaurants in high school and college. They have always told me that everyone should work in a restaurant because it teaches you how to work with people, even when they are not the friendliest. So, I got a job at a restaurant because I wanted to gain some work experience and of course, I wanted to make some cash money. What I didn’t realize going into it is how much of a learning experience it really is. I decided to share some of my experiences, as well as those of my fellow Diner Girls, and some tips and things to consider when trying to get a job at a restaurant.
Things To Consider
Before jumping straight into the application process, take time to consider that a job can be tiring and time consuming. Also, you might not be able to get the exact schedule that you want, so you need make sure that you have the ability to be flexible. “I would advise students to really think about whether or not they can take on the responsibility of a job when combining school, sports, and other activities” said junior Ellie Maietta. Also, consider that working in a restaurant can have an emotional toll. Even though I wish it were the case, not everyone is happy or reasonable all of the time. You are almost guaranteed to have customers that will frustrate you or even make you cry because they are so inconsiderate. Maietta said, “I’ve learned that some customers can make my day, and some can ruin my week.”
What I Love
However, there are still some great things about working in a restaurant. You do get to talk to people, and a lot of them can be really nice. Also, you have the ability to make tips, which let me tell ya, it’s really awesome when you can walk out with $20 in your pocket after a six hour shift. Another thing with this is that restaurants provide the ability to move up, I am hostess right now, then I will be an expo (the person who runs all the food to the tables), then finally a server. Another thing I love is that the people I get to work with are all really chill and very down to earth, they understand the grind and are usually willing to help you out.
Getting the Job
Something that managers look for are people with an upbeat and friendly attitude and willingness to work. Maietta, said, “Don’t stress about your lack of experience when filling out the application, just explain that this would be your first job.” I got the job at Ruby’s because I filled out the application, put on a nice dress, and walked up to the front and said “I really want to work here.” A lot of places will still hire you even if your only experiences is babysitting or volunteering at a Vacation Bible School. One tip is to “Act like you know what you’re doing. Ask to speak to a manager right away, and be upfront that you want a job” said senior Isabella Deguzman. And Deguzman emphasizes, “DO NOT GO IN AT RUSH TIMES” (aka breakfast, lunch, and dinner), “Once a girl came in during the dinner rush and my manager didn’t speak to her because she couldn’t believe how stupid she was.” Don’t let that be you.
The Interview
An indicator that they like you is if they ask you to schedule an interview. One of the most important parts about an interview is the introduction, “a good handshake and eye contact are more important than you think” said Deguzman. “Be respectful and well prepared in your interview, but really don’t stress” said Maietta. The interview for me really wasn’t filled with a ton of hard questions, they usually just want to get to know you, see what your work ethic is like, and see if you character and personality fit the vibe of the restaurant.
When You Get the Job
Once you land the gig, they are going to ask you to fill out a ton of forms. You will need your social security card, driver’s license or i.d., and if you are under 18, you’ll need a work permit (you can pick one up in the counseling office). You also need to consider that you might have to buy parts of your uniform and especially non-slip shoes.
The First Day
You will be given a training day, sometimes even two or three. They will teach you everything you need to know, table numbers, how to put together to-go orders, how to roll silverware and all that jazz. But, to be honest, I learned the most from being thrown in and trial and error. The routine is something that you will memorize and get more familiar with. You will learn how you like to do things. The most important advice I can give is, always ask your managers. If you don’t know how do something, ask. It is always better to take your time and make sure that the task is done right.
All in All
After working at Ruby’s for three months, I can honestly say I love my job. I love being surrounded by people, even though sometimes they are not always the nicest. But, sometimes, they are really sweet. Sometimes, they leave you a generous tip. Sometimes, you get to make a little girl’s day by giving her a pink car to put together. It is the little things, like the cooks making you some french fries and getting to chat with customers about their day, that make it a pleasant time. All in all, I love people, completing tasks and being a part of a team, and that is why I chose to work at a restaurant.
