While it's true that it's a social job with a lot of fun aspects, it's also hard work, both mentally and physically. Seriously. You'll be on your feet all day, you'll be dealing with a lot of people who all want your attention, and you'll constantly be on the go. When bars get busy, bartending becomes stressful.

What are the disadvantages of being a bartender?

The Disadvantages of Being a Bartender

• Low Pay. Although bartending is somewhat flexible and may lead to tips in some work settings, the pay is typically not high enough to provide a high quality of life. ...
• Pressure. Bartending is high pressure work in many cases. ...
• Tedious Work. ...
• Obnoxious Customers.

Is a bartender a good career?

Bartending done right can be a lucrative career, one where you can save money quickly and have opportunities to move into other facets of the industry. If you want to own your own bar or restaurant one day, the time to start saving is now.

What makes a bad bartender?

A bad bartender is easily overwhelmed and often messes up orders. A bad bartender does not know how to mix drinks and often has to step away to look up drink recipes. A bad bartender plays favorites and often neglects guests. A bad bartender takes their time to refill drinks.

Is bartending unhealthy?

Working unsociable hours can be bad for bartenders' relationships and their health. A "British Medical Journal" study published in July 2012 found shift workers were 23 percent more likely to have a heart attack than people who worked 9-to-5 jobs.

Top 10 Reasons it SUCKS to be a Bartender

29 related questions found

Are bartenders happy?

Bartenders are below average when it comes to happiness. At CareerExplorer, we conduct an ongoing survey with millions of people and ask them how satisfied they are with their careers. As it turns out, bartenders rate their career happiness 3.0 out of 5 stars which puts them in the bottom 35% of careers.

Do bartenders get laid a lot?

The simple answer to this question is no. The more complicated answer is it depends. There is a popular myth within the drinking community which states that bartenders are well-known to sleep around, especially with complete strangers they've met at the bar.

Why do bartenders ignore me?

1. They're busy. Nine times out of 10, if a bartender is ignoring you, it's because they're doing something else. Even if the bar doesn't seem that busy, bartenders are responsible for a long list of prep work and side work.

What bartenders should not do?

You do not want your job to be a monotonous chore. Forget to Clean Up: Customers notice the environment of your establishment. Simple actions like wiping down the bar, clearing unused glasses and using tongs to pick up any fruit that may be utilized in drinks will go a long way. A clean bar is a must.

Why are bartenders so cool?

Flexible Schedule – Most bartenders have a flexible schedule where their days are free and they work nights. Many bartenders start bartending as a part time job before going full time. It's Fun – People who pursue bartending jobs are looking for a fun job. ... It's Not A Desk Job – Bartenders work on their feet.

How stressful is bartending?

Bartending is a job replete with stress. Bartenders work in a highly visible, pressure-packed environment. They must simultaneously meet management's expectations and satisfy customers' demands. When the operation gets busy, your bartenders are routinely hard pressed, given far more work than time to complete it.

Should I be a bartender at 18?

In the United States, different states have their own age requirement how old do you have to be to be a bartender, but the age range is from 18-21 years old. Some states also require alcohol awareness training (this is different from getting a bartending license) that you can take when you start working.

Is dating a bartender a bad idea?

3. You may lose your favorite bar. Another potential consequence of dating a bartender is that when you break up, you may feel uncomfortable going back to the bar where they work. ... But it will always be a little awkward, especially if you're with a date.

What is the advantage of being a bartender?

Find out why bartending is an interesting career option, combining everything you're looking for in a job: A flexible schedule, the opportunity to put everything you learned into practice immediately, getting to meet the most interesting people, and good money combining fix-salary and - of course - tips!

What are the common bartending mistakes?

Common Bartending Mistakes Everyone Should Avoid

• Measuring Poorly. Like baking, cocktailing requires precise measurements. ...
• Not Shaking Enough. Take your time with each drink, and give it the 30-second shake it requires for proper aeration and dilution. ...
• Using Spoiled Vermouth. ...
• Forgetting to Chill the Glass.

What are the do's and don'ts of bartenders?

Bartending 101: Conversation Do's and Don'ts for Bartenders

• Do master the art of small talk – with icebreakers.
• Don't engage in discussions about politics or religion.
• Do Develop a relationship with regulars.
• Do keep up with current events.
• Don't be aggressive in your attempts to converse.
• Do know the lingo.

Is drinking behind the bar illegal?

Drinking Behind the Bar

In some states, it is illegal for a bartender to drink any alcohol while working. This includes any drinks bought for them by bar patrons. However, other states, such as California, leave the decision up to the bar management whether or not to permit bartenders to drink on the job.

How do bartenders get attention?

If you want to grab the bartender's attention, Will said “a simple wave or eye contact will suffice.” Gita also suggested eye contact, but she added that staying off your phone and having your cash or card ready to go can help. “If you're ordering drinks for more than just yourself, have them all prepared.

Do bartenders cheat?

Some bartenders have tricks they use to cheat customers, Taffer said, from pouring less than the full amount of liquor you were charged for to watering down drinks and even secretly giving you a cheaper brand than you ordered.

Are bartenders good in bed?

They're awesome in bed

For one, they're confident. Bartenders are used to getting hit on — a lot, in fact — and the best ones easily take control of situations. And when the "situation" is sex... well, it's pretty hot.

Do bartenders need to be attractive?

Although bartenders certainly come in all physical shapes and sizes, and personality and work ethic certainly figure into tipping, most in the industry will admit that physically attractive bartenders tend to get more tips.

Why do I love being a bartender?

Bartending has given me the opportunity to connect with people on a more human level and appreciate how unique each individual is. Whether meeting other bartenders or teaching someone how to make a drink, bartending has enabled me to build so many strong friendships and have a fun time.

What is the highest paid bartender?

1. Bannie Kang. Bannie is a South Korean bartender. She has experience of 11 years and is one of the most popular/highest paid bartenders in the world.