Remember Names
A good server should always remember customer names as well as likes and dislikes.
A customer that frequents your venue should be greeted by their name and with respect. It depends on the type of restaurant that you work in whether you call your guest Peter or Mr Jones. The customer feels important when you remember their name and if you can remember where they like to sit or what wine they drink you are in good shape for a healthy dose of that instant gratification thing or even a nice fat tip!
Remember that remembering names is a discipline not a gift. It comes easier to some people but it is difficult all the same. Try associating a funny picture with their name or focus on a feature of theirs like bald or tall. For example, ‘Balding Jim’ or ‘Tall Tom.’
Another good way is to repeat the name immediately while shaking their hand.
I also have a little thing where I always introduce myself to all of my tables when I first approach. Most people reply with their names and at very least they can now talk to me or call me without clicking their fingers or waving their hand around. It is also very handy when they specifically state your name to management or the owner when heaping praise on your fantastic waiting skills!!
