Providing top-quality services will help your bar stand out and gain traction. Discover the best tips on how to improve service in your bar.
Running a bar is about more than having the best drinks in town—guests come for the cocktails and the unique experiences. By taking a step back and evaluating your establishment, you can make the proper changes to keep your customers happy. Consider these essential tips on how to improve service in your bar.
Think Like a Customer
One way to improve service in your bar is to put yourself in your customers’ shoes by thinking about their experiences and what would enhance them. Start by having a welcoming environment where guests can let loose and unwind, and don’t leave them waiting too long for their drinks, as this can lead to frustration.
Additionally, ensure that customers have sufficient space to move around. Having more tables and chairs may sound like a good idea, but too many tables could make the space feel cramped. In turn, this would negatively impact the guest experience and lead to poor reviews or a lot of empty tables.
Invest in the Right Tools
Make sure you have adequate bar tools, such as glasses, shakers, and muddlers. Most successful bar owners also invest in quality alcohol, cocktail mixes, and garnishes to serve the most flavorful drinks to guests.
When it comes to key assets, such as frozen beverage machines vs. blenders for drinks, it’s important to carefully evaluate what would benefit your business best. For instance, a frozen beverage machine may be better because it can craft beverages with a slushy consistency, as opposed to a blender that makes drinks with chopped ice.
Have an Outstanding Menu
Your menu is another critical aspect of running a successful bar. Having a range of drinks that cater to different tastes and preferences will attract more customers. You could also offer non-alcoholic beverages to accommodate those who do not drink or for those who are the designated driver in their group.
Evaluate Customer Reviews
Another tip for improving service in your bar is to read through customer reviews. A positive online presence is crucial for any business and often makes a first impression on potential customers.
Once a week, read through your business’s online reviews and note any areas you might be able to improve. Remember to take the positive and negative ratings into account. Additionally, strive to respond to reviews, whether good or bad, to show your customers how much you care about providing quality service. Address negative feedback positively, listen to complaints, and offer solutions. This will show your customers that you value their experiences and are committed to making visible improvements.
Consistently Train Your Staff
All servers and bartenders should know what’s on the drink menu and understand the main flavors in order to offer guests recommendations. Your workers should also know how to interact with all the types of customers that enter the bar, as well as how to deal with difficult situations, to ensure everyone has a wonderful time. By thinking like a customer, investing in the right gear, having an outstanding menu, and responding to reviews, you’ll attract more customers and keep them returning. Building a reputation for excellent service may take time, but developing that trust is essential for a successful business.