What is the best way to get on their
> good sides so when the time comes they will pick me?
Basic stuff:
1. Express an interest in bartending to the managers. Spread it around to the
bartenders too. In most places the managers hire, but the bartenders have some
measure of veto power. In short, don't piss off the bar staff to the point
they say, "anyone but him!"
2. Express an interest in booze. Demonstrate how much you know about how to
sell alcohol. Upsell all your tables. Someone who only sells the bargain bin
liquor doesn't show much interest (or effort).
3. See if there is any form of waiting list to become a bartender. Some bar
staffs need a particular type of bartender (male, female, fast, wine expert,
someone to entertain, someone who can close, someone who can work weekends, or
whatever...) which will allow one who fills the requirements to "jump to the
head of the line." I once moved from "the floor" to the bar because they
needed someone who could push wine.
4. Take your time on the floor with good spirits. (no pun) One who walks
around with a poor attitude because they aren't doing the job they want to,
might be walking around a long time.
5. Offer to help in liquor related activities - sales contests, promotions,
training classes for servers, etc.
6. Lastly, just do a good job. There are some people who make better
bartenders than servers, but it never hurts to show you are a good employee.
Learn the "system" and work it well. It will almost always get you noticed.