> Hey-- I just finished a course at a bartending school. I'll admit it
> was helpful, but still the experience at a real bar, handling real
> liquor scares me. I have plans to go invest in a bar book this
> weekend. However, I have a few questions. I'm not much of a drinker,
> so when a customer offers to buy me a drink, is there any way around
> it so I can make the money off of the drink? Also, I know bartenders
> get paid very low hourly wages, but on average, what would a
> bartender make at a decent bar? I live in NYC. I'm applying for my
> first job at a slow lounge. I hope things go well, but I'm verrrrrry
> nervous. Anything from tips to tricks or just basic overall advice
> would help so much! Thanks guys! =]
First off, welcome to Webtender!
Second, check out the search feature - many questions you may have are quite
possibly already answered for you.
Third, when a customer offers to buy you a drink, there's no real way of
putting the money in the tip jar instead of the till that I know of that
doesn't look bad. I personally tell people that while I appreciate it, I
don't drink when I work, and that usually ends the conversation.
As far as what you'll make, in NYC, it can vary so much it's not even funny.
I'll defer to one of our NY bartenders on this one - I know income levels in
my town, but not NY.
Last but not least - there is NO reason to be nervous. There is a learning
curve here just like anything else. Good luck!