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Articles and tips about the bartending and the hospitality industry.

server at table with guests

Bartender Tips: Five types of Problem Guests

“The first step in knowing you have a problem is to admit you have a problem.” Or so the saying goes. Pretty accurate quote to use, given it typically applies to substance abuse. At this juncture, you either work in or are attempting to work in an industry where you will regularly deal with intoxicated…
bartender at bar talking to customer

The Importance of Managing Bar Etiquette as Good Business

Probably one of the most historically popular pastimes in human history is the gathering together at the old watering hole to socialize and mingle with one’s fellow compadres. It’s the one time when you can enjoy the taste of a more potent beverage and blend into a kind of atmosphere that can put everyone at…
bartender talking with two women

Bartending School Won’t Guarantee a Job, But it Can Help

An increasing amount of bartending schools have appeared in Canada and the U.S. in recent years, all promising to provide wannabe barkeeps with the knowledge and skills required to get them impressing at family get-togethers or raking in the cash while serving thirsty customers.

women at cash register

So You’ve Decided You’d Like to Try out the Hospitality Industry

Good for you. You’ve selected an industry that tends to thrive in a recession and can be an absolute gold mine in boom times. You’ve looked around at the servers and bartenders who have served you in various establishments and said to yourself, “I could do this job.” well, brace yourself, and it can be…
women pouring cocktail drink

So You Want To Be a Bartender

Let’s paint a picture. You work in a local sports pub. It’s 3:30 in the morning. Finally, the bar is empty. Things are a disaster. There is still a good chunk of cleaning ahead. Throughout the evening, you tried to keep up, but you probably won’t go home for another hour. The tip jar is overflowing,…
Person taking test

12 Questions About the Smart Serve Certification Test

What is Smart Serve? Smart Serve (or SmartServe Ontario) was created with the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) in 1995 to provide responsible alcohol beverage service training for the Ontario hospitality industry. Who Needs Smart Serve Certification? Smart Serve is now required for anyone working where alcohol is sold, served, delivered or handled….