It sounds like a revolutionary concept. When most teens or young adults are pondering their first job, the last thing they want is to work in fast food, restaurants, or most retail jobs. Even kids entering the work force for the first time tend to feel they are "above" these kinds of jobs and they are worth more money and respect than these jobs tend to earn. However, I feel there is a very compelling argument as to why every person should experience food service or at least customer service jobs before they find the career of their adult dreams: Humanity. Perhaps if everyone served a stint waiting tables or cashiering long hours, they would be more understanding of what goes on behind the scenes. I've compiled a list of customer do's and don'ts, to help those who have missed out on the experience.
1. Do return the greeting you receive from your server or cashier. These people are tired, sore, frazzled and stressed, but still say "welcome", "how are you?", "what can I help you find?". If they simply say, "Hi, Welcome to This Restaurant", please don't respond with "table for 2". It doesn't take you that long to say "Hi, how are you?" in return.
2. Don't go out to eat if you are unwilling/unable to tip properly. High school and college students: This means you, too. I know that funds can be tight, and that 2 for $20 special at your neighborhood chain restaurant sounds like a cheap deal if you drink water and split the special with a friend. But it's not funny and it's not cool when you pay your bill to the penny--sometimes with pennies--and some cute comment on the tip line for your server. Don't do it. Not only did you cost someone money and time, but your server is taxed on the amount that the government feels is standard, and if you tip under that amount, they are being taxed on money they did not earn. Not cool.
3. Do be aware of what else is going on around you if you feel your server is less than attentive. Is the restaurant busy? Are there other servers around, or does your server seem to be waiting on many tables at once? Did you request a table other than the one your host or hostess offered? Are there large parties? Are those parties demanding? Instead of deciding that you waited too long for a drink refill and you're going to stiff the tip, try being understanding. "Excuse me, can we get a couple of refills? I know I'm being a bit needy, but I've been thirsty all day, and I'll probably drink the next one awfully fast. If you're allowed to bring a pitcher over, that would be great." Chances are that even if management does not allow the pitcher, your server is going to keep his or her eye on your drink level, regardless of how busy they are. And believe it or not, they do want you to be happy, since that affects their income.
4. Do find a way to discreetly and patiently express any problems with your meal. Instead of eating everything and then stating it was not to your liking OR attacking your server in an angry manner about how it's wrong, cold, too spicy, too dry or not cooked to your satisfaction, try this: "I'm sorry. This seems really dry. It's not what I was expecting, and I don't think I want to finish it. Is there a way you can mention this to a manager?" Ding, ding, ding. That's a winner. The server (who did not cook or prepare your meal) does not want you to equate meal quality with service. They are going to plead your case to a manager so that you can have your meal replaced or removed from the check. No one needs to get snippy or ugly. Stuff happens and most restaurants want you to be a satisfied, returning guest.
5. Don't complain to your server or cashier about the prices. Seriously. Please don't. It puts them in an awkward position, and there is absolutely nothing they can do. Agree with you? Argue why it's worth it? If you think something seems overpriced, you have the amazing freedom to not purchase the item. If you feel that prices have recently skyrocketed at your favorite local establishment, maybe write an email or place a phone call to discuss your concerns. Tell the proprietor that a certain price point is what made their business a favorite. Perhaps there is an availability issue. Or maybe other customers had requested higher end choices. But your server or cashier is not the one to fix the prices.
6. Do use the manners your mama and your kindergarten teacher taught you. You might be a paying customer, but you are also expecting someone who you don't know to anticipate your needs and wait on you. Say please when you want something and thank you when you get it. It takes absolutely no effort, and it goes a long way. Especially if you're being difficult and demanding.
7. Do try to remember that many workers in restaurants and retail may be students or people working multiple jobs. They probably have other responsibilities, their minds on other things, maybe even a sick child at home. If they forget the extra sour cream you ordered, it wasn't intentional. Try this, "I know you're so busy, but when you get a chance, can I get an extra side of sour cream?" Yeah, I know you ordered it to begin with. Maybe they even wrote it down but forgot to plate it. It's not the end of the world and waiting a few minutes didn't really ruin your dinner.
8. Don't be a slob. Please don't leave gross things on your plate, play in your water glass, draw designs in salt or sugar, or any other wasteful, disgusting, messy thing. These people may be your server, but they are not your servant. Getting the table cleaned and cleared quickly also allows them the opportunity to earn additional money. Clearing dishes and glassware is tiring enough. Making multiple trips with towels to clean your dumb ketchup design is just not necessary.
9. Don't say "oh, the price isn't marked. It must be free." That's ridiculous. You know it's not free. Please don't start things off on the wrong foot with that annoying comment.
10. Do try to be a good person. If you feel like you are not getting the timely, attentive service you expect, take a deep breath. Try to give the benefit of the doubt. Is this the cashier's first night on her own? Is the kitchen running behind? Did someone call off and they're short-handed? Did someone just get bad news? Try to imagine that the person you are about to blister with your impressive string of profanity is your daughter, sister, best friend. Would you want them to be insulted or verbally assaulted by an unhappy customer, or would you hope for a little bit of kindness and understanding?
