I found in service you have to have a great personality and attitude even when things aren't great.three steps 1.smile, while presenting great smile present a attitude that says your guest are most important. 2. Let customer know you are ready to listen and anything they need you are trying to make it happen quick and to their request if not possible then have suggestions that are close and doable. 3.be prompt and ready to assist them Co ntinually checking on them the guest.

TARA Keep doing the good work you are doing and always check back often to see if your customers need anything else they will be kind enough to let you know.

Pay attention to the little things all ways give extra napkins come back and check and see if that drinks are for make sure you give them enough time to eat their appetizers before you bring their entrees be pleasant and keep a smile on your face no one wants to eat and see your frustration with the kitchen always keep a smile

Hi Tara! 40 years in high end dining here and love hearing you want to improve. Jeff Levinson's reply couldn't have been more spot-on. I would just add four suggestions:

1. Be yourself. Sometimes just staying warm, real, and making a personal observation (pretty blouse ma'am, your chicken looks great, so rainy...thanks for coming in tonight, etc) makes it just special enough. If you sense they're open to having fun, go for it. Just remember the next table is watching you. If nothing else, go over to that neighbor with your biggest smile to show you enjoy them too.
2. Always check back to each table within 5 minutes or so of serving the entre'. See if they're enjoying the meal and don't need something you didn't anticipate. Try to phrase it a bit differently each table (remember...neighbors listening). Always nice to bring something with you they didn't request (soda/water refill, more bread, steak sauce, etc). That's usually remembered at tip time.
3. Pay attention to what the other servers are doing to make those bigger tips. Most waiters love to talk so don't be shy either. Ask them for both feedback on your service and their little secrets.
4. Treat kids like gold (families love when grandma and grandpa feel special too, not to mention they're usually the first to complain). Ask if toddlers need high chairs/boosters. Bring extra napkins. Make food suggestions. Put a cherry or two in whatever they order to drink. Let the parents know you'll try to get kid's food out ASAP but don't promise...we all know what kitchens are like! Good luck!

Mrs. Cooper: I am smiling, because after giving away the biggest tip in my life as I drove home, I past by an street called "tip ton" that I never realized of its existence before. I felt someone was very appreciative that day, and with an excellent reason. I had the best waitress anybody could dream of having. An studied waitress, he must of owned a PHD in Hostess business. Distinguished, elegant, polite, a complete gentleman with a waitress outfit. I think all depends the kind of restaurant you work for, but as I posted early, learning and studying your business may help you to develop some very good ideas of your own. I personally preferred not be treated to closely, using expressions like "honey" "darling" "Sweaty. I like people enjoy deference and respect, makes them feel special, calling people by Mr., Mrs. or Ms.is a distinctive and respectful way of addressing people. As well will protect you and the integrity and quality of your service " . Just a personal suggestion. There are great books in the art of being a hostess and serving people not only in your life but also with public. Hostess business is a beautiful job.

It would be helpful to know what type of restaurant it is

make sure they get there food quickly. which means tiping your cook or chef.

Establish a rapport with your customer. do this quickly. Find out what they like best then sell it to them....I was bartender....One thing I realized very early is the amount of the tab is not most important aspect. It is how you interact with your customers. One, stay away from silly restaurant cliches. two) know your menu but don't just recite what's on it. Your customers can read. Three, in sales, you let the customer do all the talking. when they want to know something they will ask. Four) be nice...But don't go overboard. Customers are often turned off by 'overly drippy forced Nice"....I once ate at an upscale restaurant where our waitress used the term "pleasure" after my every sentence. Obviously she was just regurgitating what someone else had told her to say. Always think for yourself. And think outside the box.....

Hey Tara, I feel your pain. I have been a waiter and I know how hard it is. My daughter works as a hostess and isn't old enough yet to wait yet. One of my tips I tell her is, I like un-sweet tea with lemon. If the waiter is sharp enough to bring another (slice of) lemon when they re-fill my glass, automatic 20%. (I already give 15% because I figure if you can afford to go out and eat, you can afford to tip. Otherwise, go thru the drive thru! Can I get an Amen? Again, I waited tables. ) Maybe you do already but don't be afraid to show your personality. Depending on the restaurant, most people are out to relax and enjoy themselves and if you do too, it doesn't seem out of place to me as a customer.

Tara, All the replies are top spot on. I would only add to make sure you are quaffed from head to toe. Uniform pressed, hair done nicely and professionally, shoes , pants and espicially apron spotless. When you look top notch and professional guests will take you more seriously and tip better. You will also represent yourself even more proffessional when you feel more put together. Knowing the menu inside and out a must.

Enthusiasm always important.. Guest will recognize proffesional service. Serve on the left, take plates away on the right. Serve women first oldest to youngest. Don't clear plates till all are finished.These service points can only help you. Be sincere. God luck!