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 Message 17770 of 22774 in Behind the Bar
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Subject: Getting a barback job
From: LeeKnaz
Posted: Sun Jan 7. 2007, 23:57 UTC
Hey,

Being new to this forum, and pretty new to the f&b world, I must say this is a 
great place for information, advice, and just feeling the vibe of the (behind 
the) bar world. So thanks.

After reading dozens of postings about "how to get a job" and all that, and 
after not succeeding in getting a bartender job here (Los Angeles), I'm now 
changing my strategy. As many of you suggested, I decided barback is the way 
to go. 
I'm a very hard worker, extremely good work ethic and pick up and learn things 
really quick. I have about 6 months of bartending experience from abroad, 
worked my way into one of the best bars in my home country from no experience 
at all. The manager gave me a chance and I just used some logical thinking, 
determination and hard hard work. Moved to L.A. 4 months ago, and tried to 
nail a bartender job since, but with no luck. I guess it is all about luck - 
being at the right place at the right time and meeting the right person that 
will give you the chance to prove yourself.
So, now, I'm going to shop for a barback job, knowing that it will be easier 
to get a job, learning and polishing my skills behind the bar, and proving 
myself to the manager and other bartenders, through hard work and 
determination, the same things that worked for me back in my hometown.

So - a few questions:

1) How should I approach the bar manager? Is it any different from applying 
for a bartender position? Will he look at it in a bad way, that I'm looking 
for a barback job and not a bartender job? "underachiever", maybe?

2) Anyone with L.A. bartending experience, is there a special way to approach 
bar managers around here, as upposed to other places?

3) Any L.A. bar managers/bartenders here looking for a great addition for your 
bar staff, barback or bartender? 

Thanks!!


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