Hi Elizabeth,
I own a bar, and can say two of my best bartenders didn't go to bartending
classes, and in fact one wasn't even interested in bartending. I solicited
them after seeing them around because they stood out. They both have that
special something-awesome personalities, fun, responsible. We trained them,
and they do outstanding work for us. But, on the other hand, I've had people
come in and hand me resumes, or just ask me for a job. I didn't know them, and
they did nothing in their approach that made them stand out. Bar
owners/managers are looking for something special in people that will be an
asset to their establishment. An application that comes with a
face/personality/interest in my place goes a hell of alot further than an inch
thick resume. Lack of experience working behind a bar to me is not a downfall,
because I can train you to what I want and need. Your first post on here is a
good start, you're expressing your ambition in doing a good job and learning.
So, unless the establishment knows you, you really need to sell yourself, put
a personality into your approach and make yourself stand out, make them want
you behind their bar. Good luck!