You know, for not having any idea of how to get into the biz...you are on the
right track. I know that there are a few different ways to get behind the
stick. The easiest/hardest way is to find someone that doesn't mind taking a
chance on you. It's the hardest way because people don't tend to do it and
it's the easiest way to get back there...if you can find someone.
As far as bartending school goes, I live in CA and most of the bars around me
actually frown upon school with no experience. Most of the guys that I know
started as bussers/servers and worked their way into the bar over time. Most
of the ladies that I know got back there because they are beautiful and most
guys will buy bad drinks from pretty ladies.
When it all comes down to it, every person that I know that works in the
industry has a story. And everyone's story is cluttered with bad jobs, bad
tipping clientele, bounced paychecks, late night physical threats, broken
bones, 14 hour shifts, and horrible managers. It looks like a sexy job but if
you want to be good, you'll have to have a good attitude and a great work
ethic especially when the job sucks. And, in my opinion, that's the fastest
way to get where you want to be.
Keep your mouth shut and do your job....someone will notice....eventually.