If you aspire to be a bartender one day, you should first succeed as a barback.
Yes, that means being the tireless worker constantly restocking limes and hauling kegs, on your feet for hours on end.
If you’re thinking, “Well, you certainly didn’t make that barback job description sound enticing. Why should I give it a go?”
Because barbacking is the bootcamp that turns clumsy lime jugglers into smooth cocktail slingers.
While others are memorizing drink recipes from a book, you’ll be getting real-world experience, learning the ropes from experienced bartenders.
Think of it as on-the-job training that no course can replicate. And that initial lower pay? It’s an investment in your future.
Because guess who bars and restaurants love to hire? That’s right – the reliable, skilled barbacks who’ve proven their worth behind the scenes.
So, are you ready to learn which skills and qualities you need to hone to be a successful barback and rise higher up in the ranks? Let’s get into it!
1. Strong Work Ethic
Barbacking isn’t for slackers.
You have to show up on time, hustle hard, and consistently deliver – day in and day out.
It is like this that you become a valuable asset to the team and earn the respect of the bartenders you hope to work alongside someday.
2. Excellent Communication Skills
Talking the talk, behind the scenes, is yet another important skill to have as a barback.
In a busy bar, things get loud and chaotic, and a good barback can clearly tell the bartender they’re running low on something (or let the kitchen know they need more lemons, without causing a scene).
You gotta keep things safe and efficient, even when the bar is packed!
3. Physical Stamina
Being a barback is a physically demanding job.
You’ll constantly be restocking supplies, hauling kegs, carrying ice, and being on your feet for long hours.
It’s the kind of physical labor that requires a high level of stamina and endurance, so you might want to hit the gym prior to landing your dream bar gig.
4. Attention to Detail
Being a barback isn’t just about muscles and hustle (although those definitely come in handy!).
It’s also about having an eagle eye for detail.
See, a seasoned barback can practically predict the bartender’s next move, restocking supplies before they even run low.
It’s all about keeping things smooth and efficient and anticipating needs before they become problems.
5. Team Player Attitude
Barbacks aren’t lone wolves; they’re part of a pack!
The goal is to keep the bartender, the star of the show, focused on slinging drinks and chatting with customers. This means you gotta be their right-hand man (or woman).
Think of it like this: you handle everything behind the scenes, from keeping the shelves stocked with booze to having a fresh stack of clean glasses ready to go.
Because a smooth-running bar is a happy bar!
6. Basic Knowledge of Bar Operations
The more you learn about how the bar runs, from keeping track of stock to following safety rules and even whipping up basic drinks, the better for the future of your career.
Plus, a knowledgeable barback keeps the health inspectors happy (by keeping things clean and organized) and keeps the drinks flowing smoothly (by managing inventory).
It’s a win-win for everyone involved – you, the bartender, the patrons, and your superior!
7. Customer Service Skills
Yes, your primary role is to keep the bartender happy.
However, you’ll also get to interact with customers while cleaning up spills, answering quick questions, or maybe even helping seat people during a rush.
That’ll be your chance to provide good customer service and keep the good vibes flowing throughout the bar.
After all, happy patrons mean happy bosses, and that makes your job even smoother!
8. Adaptability and Quick Learning
Being a barback is all about being on your toes.
The bar can be a wild place, so you gotta be ready to adapt to anything.
For instance, you might start by just keeping things stocked, but soon you’ll be picking up new skills like mixing basic drinks and helping out with customers. The more you learn, the smoother things run.
Extra tip: Ask bartenders to teach you some tricks during slower times. It’ll help plenty with your career progression.
Conclusion
So, what do you say? Does barbacking look like the right job fit for you?
If you’re not afraid of a physically demanding job that requires hustle, teamwork, and a willingness to learn, then absolutely!
It may not be all sunshine and spilled margaritas, but the experience you gain as a barback is invaluable. And remember: Most bartenders started exactly where you are – mastering the art of the barback. So, grab your sneakers, put on your best smile, and get ready to learn and grow!
