There are plenty of ways to make yourself a sought-after server even before you've had years of experience in the industry. Many restaurants require or request that you take certain online classes or online tests to receive certification in different areas. Here are ways you can check them out on your own. Unfortunately none are free, but if you're looking to go from a regular restaurant to a place where you can make more money, these things may help!

** TIPS Training: http://www.gettips.com TIPS® (Training for Intervention ProcedureS) is the global leader in education and training for the responsible service, sale, and consumption of alcohol. Proven effective by third-party studies, TIPS is a skills-based training program that is designed to prevent intoxication, underage drinking, and drunk driving. These classes are about $40 online, but give you great knowledge if you're a server and hoping to make the jump to bartender.

** ServSafe: www.servsafe.com This company offers a wide range of certifications including Management, Alcohol, Allergens, and Food Handling. Depending on the restaurant you want to work in you may want to look into it further. Course guides and exams combined can cost from about $50 to about $200 depending on the certification you're looking for.

** Cicerone Beer Certification Course: http://cicerone.org Cicerone Certified Beer Server is the first level of certification.There are more than 3,000 breweries operating in the US and recently it's been estimated that 1.5 brand new breweries open EVERY DAY! This is a growing industry and there's a lot of knowledge you'll need to join it. This course + exam cost $69 but you'll learn a ton about the brewing process, different kinds of beers, how to make awesome pairings, and the proper way to serve and talk about beer. This is all the knowledge that would make you a great employee for a brewery.

** The Court of Master Sommeliers: http://www.mastersommeliers.org The Introductory Course & Exam includes a fast paced review for a day and a half with a theory exam at the end of the second day. Those who pass receive a certificate of completion and a pin designating success. The most expensive on this list, the Court of Master Sommeliers costs a whopping $525 for its introductory class and examination. If you have the means to do this, it's a great way to invest in your future and change your job into a career.

A great way to take initiative when applying/interviewing for restaurant work is to mention your interest in any of these certifications in your interview. Some companies, if they view you to be a great candidate, will help pay for classes and courses to help further you as an employee. It always helps to be willing to learn!