As a job applicant looking for a server position in a restaurant, you need to find a way to stand out among other applicants to secure the job. Therefore, when looking for this job, you need to write a cover letter highlighting your knowledge, skills, and experience.
This cover letter is written by a job applicant looking to work as a server in a restaurant or banquet hall. A server is responsible for greeting customers, taking orders, setting tables, and serving food and drinks. Restaurant managers are the ones who can communicate with customers and survive in the restaurant’s ever-changing environment.
You will need to include your strengths in the cover letter to entice the hiring manager to hire you. The cover letter should also include your achievements along with your passion and interest in the position.
Samples and Templates
What are Server Skills?
These skills are a set of abilities a server, a waiter or a waitress needs to have to complete their duties effectively and efficiently. Therefore, as you write the cover letter, always ensure that you mention these skills and provide examples to make your letter more believable.
Even though being a server is an entry-level job, restaurant managers prefer hiring those with the aforementioned skills. This means that such a person will interact well with customers, work appropriately with colleagues, and increase the profits made by the restaurant. Also, with these skills, restaurant owners are confident that they will know how to behave in the workplace.
Top-Needed Skills
To diligently accomplish the duties mentioned above, you must have specific skills. These skills will help shape you into a better server. Here are some of the skills that you should have:
Good communicator
You need to be a good communicator, which means you need to know when to speak and listen. This will be essential when it comes to taking orders from customers and appropriately informing the proper party, which is either the kitchen or bar.
Attention to detail
You will need to learn how to pay attention to every little detail in the restaurant. It can either be the menu or a customer’s order. For instance, a customer may have a particular dietary need, and being attentive to details means getting their order(s) right.
Time management skills
You must learn how to manage your time effectively to handle all your responsibilities efficiently. For example, you will need to know how long it takes to prepare orders in the kitchen or bar when serving customers.
Multi-tasker
A server usually has to handle several tasks at once. That is why it is essential to know how to multi-task. For example, you need to be able to juggle between welcoming customers, setting tables, delivering the bill, or even getting drinks for one customer and food for another customer. Being an efficient multi-tasker may also result in great tips from customers.
Have lots of energy
The duties of a server can be strenuous and tiring. However, it would be best if you had lots of energy. From staying on your feet all day, moving from the kitchen or bar to the tables, and carrying heavy trays of food and drinks, you need to have a lot of energy to keep going throughout the day.
Even as you juggle with the multiple tasks you have for the day, you will still need to be socially aware. You need to be aware of what is happening around the restaurant. If you spot a customer looking around, they might be looking for you or seeking help. Being socially aware will help you identify such a situation and attend to the customer accordingly.
Good memory
Since you might find yourself dealing with several customers at a time at one table, you need to have an excellent memory to remember all their different orders. From what they might want to be added or removed from their meal to what they are allergic to or do not eat, you need to remember all this to ensure you get the orders right. Ensure you have a notepad to write down the orders, as it will help to jog your memory.
Writing a Cover Letter
As a job applicant looking for this position, you need to know how to write a cover letter for your job application process. The step-by-step guide provided below will help you craft a proper cover letter to secure a job in a restaurant.
Here is how to write a cover letter:
Your contact information
The first part of the cover letter is the header. The header should contain your contact information, date, and the recipient’s contact details. The header should be the same as the one you have written in your résumé. Also, ensure that it directly addresses the hiring manager.
Start with a strong introduction
After the header, you will need to start your letter with a strong introduction. Your introduction should be compelling enough to grab the hiring manager’s attention. Ensure that you include the following information to make the letter effective:
- Tell them why you’re applying for the position: Keep in mind that there are other job candidates, which means you have to give unique reasons for applying that make you stand out. Some of the reasons for applying can be to expand your knowledge, get some exposure or even achieve your personal dreams by working at a particular restaurant.
- Show your passion for serving: Through examples, focus on explaining to the hiring manager your passion and interest in serving and working with people. The best way is to use personal stories and anecdotes to explain how much you love serving people. This will also help to highlight the experience you have.
- Discuss your strengths briefly and emphasize your personality: The introduction part should also include the strengths you possess pertaining to being a server. Focus on personality or people skills that make you a great job candidate.
- Show them that you want to work here: Whether it is because the restaurant will propel your career ambitions or treat its employees properly, you need to include reasons and explanations for why you want to work there. This information will set you apart from other job candidates.
- Transferable skills: You should finish your introduction part of the cover letter with a list and examples of your transferable skills. Focus on skills like good customer relations, proper food-serving skills, and flexibility. These are skills you can use to execute your duties successfully and benefit the restaurant.
Highlight your skills
The first part of the body paragraph of the cover letter should be all about highlighting your server skills. These skills entail being a good communicator, having a good memory, being great at paying attention to detail, and being socially aware. Other skills include time management skills, being a multi-tasker, being clean, always staying calm, and having the skill of resolving conflict.
You should relate any skill you mention in your cover letter to how it will help you perform your duties effectively. For example, you can mention that you have excellent time management skills that will be beneficial when dealing with several customers at once. You can explain how you will be able to split the available time to serve all your customers and execute other required duties.
Emphasize your people skills
As you highlight your skills in the body paragraphs, ensure you focus more on your people skills. Since you will be dealing primarily with people, your colleagues, and customers, you need to show your prospective employer that you have excellent people skills.
For example, you can mention how efficient you are when dealing with a stressful colleague or customer at work. Focus on how your personality will help create a suitable environment for your customers. Also, highlight how you will deal with challenges related to the people you work with or serve.
Briefly discuss workplace skills
The next and final part of the body paragraphs should focus on your workplace skills. These skills are bound to make it easier for you as you work and even increase the tips you will receive. Some of the skills you can include in your cover letter are knowing the FDA food code, being patient with your customers and colleagues, and knowing how to bar tend.
Call to action
This is the last part of your cover letter. Your conclusion should be just as powerful as your introduction. Most hiring managers will focus on your introduction and conclusion when reading your cover letter. Ensure you are confident in highlighting your best skills, mentioning your strengths, focusing on your skills, and even suggesting an interview. Also, avoid being egotistical as you write your call to action.
Cover Letter Template
[Your name]
[Your full address]
[Your phone number]
[Your email address]
(Date)
[Recipient’s name]
[Recipient’s title]
[Company’s name]
[Company’s address]Dear Mr. / Mrs. / Ms. (Hiring Manager’s Name),
My name is (state your name) and I am applying for the server position here at SRQ Restaurant. I believe that (tell them why you are applying for the position). The hospitality industry has always been (show them your passion and interest in securing the position). I am (discuss your strengths and highlight how your personality makes you a suitable candidate). Also, I would like to work at SRQ Restaurant based on your (show them that you want to work there).
With my (mention your transferrable skills), I believe that I will be a great addition to the current team at SRQ. I pride myself for being (highlight all your skills). I am also a (emphasize on the people skills you possess). (Mention how these skills are beneficial to the company.)
Based on your job description, I believe that my (discuss workplace skills) would help me fit in well and also benefit the company in many ways. I also believe that this restaurant (mention how they are fit for you too). Thank you so much for your time. I am looking forward to (include a call to action which can be to request an interview). I hope to hear from you soon.
Sincerely,
(Your signature)
(Your name)
Cover Letter Samples
Below are samples that you can use as a guide when writing your cover letter:
Sample Cover Letter 1
Dear Ms. Smith,
I am writing to express my interest in the waiter position advertised on your website. With a passion for hospitality and a commitment to providing exceptional customer service, I am excited about the opportunity to join the team at Blue Ocean Restaurant.
In my previous role at Sunset Café, I honed my skills in customer service, handling diverse customer needs with poise and professionalism. My ability to remember detailed orders and make personalized recommendations was appreciated by both customers and management, contributing to a significant increase in repeat patronage.
I am particularly drawn to Blue Ocean Restaurant because of its reputation for delivering a unique dining experience and its commitment to sustainability. I am eager to contribute to such an innovative and forward-thinking team, and I am confident that my proactive approach and positive attitude would make me a valuable addition to your restaurant.
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how I can contribute to the continued success of Blue Ocean Restaurant.
Sincerely,
John Doe
Sample Cover Letter 2
Dear Mr. Green,
I am excited to apply for the server position at The Italian Bistro, as advertised in the Lakeside Times. With over three years of experience in the hospitality industry, I have developed a strong foundation in customer service and a deep appreciation for Italian cuisine, which I believe aligns well with the ethos of your restaurant.
During my tenure at The Friendly Spoon, I consistently received positive feedback for my attentive service and ability to create a welcoming atmosphere for guests. My fluency in both English and Spanish enabled me to effectively communicate with a diverse clientele, enhancing their dining experience and fostering a sense of inclusivity.
What attracts me most to The Italian Bistro is its commitment to authentic Italian dining and its vibrant community presence. I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to bring my passion for food and service to your esteemed establishment, and I am confident that my skills and experiences would be a great match for your team.
Thank you for considering my application. I am looking forward to discussing how I can contribute to the wonderful dining experience at The Italian Bistro.
Best regards,
Emily Clark
Sample Cover Letter 3
Dear Mrs. Brown,
I am writing to apply for the server position at The Seafood Shack, as I am enthusiastic about joining a team known for its excellent seafood and commitment to customer satisfaction. With two years of experience in fast-paced dining environments, I am well-prepared to meet the challenges and demands of this role.
My previous position at The Burger Joint allowed me to develop key skills, such as efficient order handling, rapid problem-solving, and effective team collaboration. I pride myself on being able to create a memorable and enjoyable dining experience for every guest, which has led to a record of increased customer retention and positive reviews.
The Seafood Shack’s focus on fresh, locally sourced seafood and its casual, friendly atmosphere is particularly appealing to me. I am eager to contribute to such a dynamic and community-oriented establishment. I am confident that my proactive approach and dedication to service excellence will make me a strong addition to your team.
Thank you for considering my application. I am looking forward to the opportunity to further discuss how I can contribute to the success of The Seafood Shack.
Warm regards,
Michael Johnson
Analysis
In this section, we’ll break down why the sample cover letters for server or waiter positions are effective. Let us see below why these are useful examples for candidates looking to write one themselves:
- Relevant Experience Highlighted: Each letter emphasizes the applicant’s experience in the hospitality industry. Highlighting relevant experience is crucial, as it demonstrates the applicant’s familiarity with the demands of a waiter or server role.
- Specific Skills and Qualities: The sample letters detail specific skills essential for a server, like remembering detailed orders, providing attentive service, and handling diverse customer needs. These are key competencies for a server and showcasing them aligns the applicant’s abilities with job requirements.
- Professional Tone: The language used by the candidates in the letters is professional yet accessible, striking a balance between formality and approachability. This tone is suitable for the hospitality industry, where professionalism and friendliness are key.
- Enthusiasm and Positive Attitude: The applicants express enthusiasm about the potential of joining the respective teams in their letters. This positive attitude is important in hospitality roles, where a pleasant demeanor can significantly enhance the customer experience.
In summary, these cover letters are well-structured, highlight relevant experiences and skills, are personalized to each specific restaurant, maintain a professional tone, and convey enthusiasm and a positive attitude. These qualities make them good examples for someone applying for a server or waiter position.
7 Expert Tips for Writing a Cover Letter
To ensure you have a compelling letter for a server position, you should observe the following. With these tips, you will be able to craft an effective cover letter.
Highlight strong points
As you write the letter, ensure that you focus on your strengths. Employers are more interested in the things that you excel in, since that will act as a guide when deciding if they should hire you. That is why you should highlight your strong points so that you can attain the attention of the employer. Ensure your cover letter highlights all your abilities to convince the employer that you are the one they should employ.
Research about your employer
You should research your employer and include any relevant information in your cover letter. This will set you apart from other job candidates who might have copied and pasted the details of their cover letter from the internet. Also, this is a way of showing your prospective employer that you are interested in the job.
Organize your facts
It would help research more about what the restaurant or hiring manager is looking for in job candidates. This will give you an advantage as you write your letter by putting the correct facts in a proper order. Also, organizing your facts will ensure that you have a successful interview.
Be goal-oriented
Ensure that your cover letter highlights your goals that you have in mind for once you get the server position. This may include your plans to further polish your career ambitions and any other goals that will benefit the restaurant. However, avoid sounding too selfish or egoistic when listing your goals and objectives for the future.
Be creative and persistent
Always write your cover letter to sound like you are telling a story. Be more creative to grasp the hiring manager’s attention and remain persistent so that you can convince them to hire you. Creatively emphasize your skills and use real-life examples to showcase these skills.
Don’t leave anything to chance
After writing the cover letter, avoid leaving things at an open end. Instead, be confident enough and ask for an interview or follow-up at the end of your letter.
Proofread your work
Ensure that you always go through your cover letter and edit any grammar or spelling mistakes to remain professional. In addition, your contact details and any other information included in the letter should be correct and accurate.
Bottom Line
As a job applicant looking for the job, the best way to increase your chances of getting hired is by writing a cover letter. Therefore, a cover letter is an integral part of your application documents, especially when trying to get an entry-level job. You need to write a compelling letter to convince the restaurant owner to hire you as a waiter or waitress. Proofread your letter once prepared that way, you are more likely to get the position in the restaurant you are applying to.
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