As far as applying to chains and franchises like TGIFriday's, Chili's,
Applebee's, etc, most of them will only "promote from within," meaning you
will have to start as a server, busser, cook, hostess, etc and work a very
long time before you are moved up to bartender, because nearly everyone you
see there when you get the job is already waiting to get to the bar...
Save yourself some frustration and find a small bar with a decent little
crowd of regulars; managers of these types of bars are more willing to train
someone new rather than take on a diva-like, money-hungry,
set-in-his-or-her-ways bartender, which I can tell you I have seen bar divas
in nearly every bar I have worked!
Pounding the pavement works well if you are not easily frustrated. Get used
to the word "NO" and don't take it to heart. Apply at as many establishments
as you can visit.
Try a different "type" of bartending and get away from that
tavern/nightclub cliche on bartending. Apply with a catering company or hotel
banquet staff. Weddings and other functions can mean big money for you, and
the drinks are often very limited. Often, bartenders here make anywhere from
$8-$15 per hour plus tips...you prob won't see many or any $500 nights, but
you will consistently make $100-$250 per event.
If you are set on working in a club, go in as a barback. It putsd you
beside the bartenders all night and you will pick up things along the way.
They may even have you make simple drinks, like pouring beer, wine, simple
shots, etc. But study the most popular drinks away from work, so if you do get
called on to fill a void, you already know the drinks and will also know the
flow of the bar from watching the other 'tenders!
Cheers,
Corey Keys
www.totallyfreebartending.com
"Where Bartender Training is On the House!"