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In almost every movie that has a party scene there’s typically a cheerful and hot bartender slinging drinks and looking like they are well rested and ready to take on the world. As a person who has worked long shifts working at a coffee shop, I would find myself thinking that those scenes weren’t showing the entire truth of what it’s like to work a long shift dealing with people while standing on your feet. Fortunately, there are several actions that bartenders can take to prepare themselves before working their next long shift. Check out our list of best ways to prepare for a long bartending shift below.
Select the Right Shoes
There is nothing worse than wearing a pair of crappy shoes working a ten hour shift in a loud space and having to interact with people for 8 or more hours. Having the right pair of shoes can make or break your shift.
Some things to consider when picking out your next pair of work shoes. What are the conditions that you’ll be working in? Is the back of bar are pretty slick with spilled drinks? Will you be standing on a mat for most of the evening?
Do you have flat feet? Then, you may also need to consider arch support too. Here are three brands that you might want to consider when deciding on your next pair of work shoes.
- Dansko Clogs-These shoes are worn across industries. They are well constructed, sturdy, and built to last. One slight con is that they aren’t cheap, but you won’t need to replace them as frequently as other brands of shoes.
- Crocs-They are almost a cult favorite because you either love or hate them. But, the price is definitely something to love when you are looking for a pair of work shoes for your next shift. And, for the price of one pair of Danskos, you could actual snag three pairs of Crocs. Two cons-they aren’t known for being the cutest pair of shoes on the market and the ankle support could be better.
- Birkenstocks-Birks absolutely qualify as a cult favorite. Recently, the company has begun making styles that even the most Birk adverse person would enjoy wearing. The Unisex Slip Resistant Birkenstock is a solid shoe that is mid-range in price.
Investing in the right shoes will hopefully keep your feet and back healthy. I’ve worked long shifts wearing the wrong shoes and I will never make that mistake again.
Take Care of Yourself
It seems so obvious but many people forget to focus on self-care before they go to work. Life is busy and oftentimes we put ourselves at the end of our “to do” list. Here are a few actions that you can take before working your next double-shift.
- Get plenty of rest-We often hear that adults aren’t getting enough sleep. Make it a priority to get in 7 or 8 hours of rest before going in to work.
- Spend some time outdoors to balance out all of the time you’ll spend working inside. Go for a quick walk or sit on your favorite coffee shop’s patio and read a book.
- Meet with a couple of friends and hang out for awhile.
- Eat a delicious meal before work. There’s nothing worse than working while hungry. Eat a delicious meal that will give you energy for your upcoming shift.
- Pack some snacks-Depending on how long your shift is you may want to pack some snacks or food to nibble during your breaks. This is especially important if you have food allergies or are following a specific food regime. Bar food is often yummy, but not necessarily created with diet restrictions in mind. Some snacks to consider are: gorp, Lara Bars, Wilde Chicken Chips (they are literally like potato chips, but made with chicken). Easy meals to consider bringing-chickpea salad, sandwiches, or those adult cheese and meat snacks that look like adult Lunchables.
Focusing on self-care before your next shift is key to maintaining your sanity, especially if it’s a busy night. There’s nothing worse than being tired, hungry, and frustrated at work. Look at your schedule and schedule in some “me” time before your work your next shift.
Stay Hydrated
You’re working at a bar and it’s so easy to drink with the bar goers. Try do this in moderation and do the following. Create a signature mocktail for the evening. The guests don’t need to know that it’s a mocktail.
Bring a water bottle and create flavored sparkling water with Soda Stream Soda Syrup or flavors from other companies. This is a refreshing and low-sugar drink. Just use the soda water at work.
Stay Fresh
There is nothing worse than wanting to freshen up during a hard shift and you can’t. Bring a personal toiletry kit so that you can brush your teeth, brush your hair, and slap on some deodorant as needed.
Your colleagues will thank you!
Have Fun
If the bartenders are having fun, it’s easier for them to help their clients. Instead of dreading your next long shift, focus on the fact that you’re going to make a nice amount of money during that shift.
Focus on how you can do your job well and create a strategy before you arrive for you next shift. Get to know the regulars who visit the bar and greet them by name. Are you terrible at remembering names? Figure out some other way to acknowledge the regular guests at your bar. Always be genuine in your interactions with your customers.
Be serious about your job, but not so serious that no one enjoys your company. You’ll probably notice a difference in your tips too!
Stay Safe
Working at night means that it’s important to stay focused on safety. Make sure to communicate your shift hours with people around you so that they know where you are.
If you finish your shift when the bar closes, have a set safety protocol such as walking your walking your coworkers to their car and sent safely on their way. Once they get home, everyone texts to confirm that they are home safe and sound.
