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9 Waitress Resume Examples Proven to Work in 2024

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• Waitstaff Resumes
• Waitress Resumes by Experience
• Waitress Resumes by Role

It takes a village to raise a child and run a restaurant. Diners, cocktail lounges, and five-star restaurants—none could function without a strong service staff.

Waitresses and hostesses are the first contact points for incoming customers, so naturally, waitresses must be punctual, informative, and detail-oriented to excel in their roles. If you feel you have all those characteristics, you may have what it takes to be a fantastic waitress!

You just need to translate those skills and personality traits onto your waitress cover letter and resume. Believe us. We get it— making a resume  from scratch can be daunting, but  the following nine waitress resume samples and  resume writing tips  can help you get moving down the path toward your dream waitress position in 2024 .

Waitress Resume

Microsoft Word

Google Docs

Why this resume works

• If you mention being “customer-oriented,” that skill should be displayed in some of your bullet points.
• For example, saying that you “maintained a courteous attitude, ensuring shoppers enjoyed a positive experience” breathes life into what you already listed as a strength.
• Hiring managers love seeing your impact in previous roles, especially when you use metrics to quantify it in both your resume and when creating a cover letter .

Waiter Resume

• From there, you can showcase your ability to work with others to improve customer satisfaction and overall performance.

Waitress Resume No Experience

• For example, cashier, sales associate, and waitress positions are customer-facing and require you to be approachable and empathetic—two valuable soft skills you can apply to any job, not to mention—life!
• Your objective should describe your professional background in a nutshell, giving employers an idea of your skillset.
• Like the resume summary, the objective’s value comes from customization, so mention the name of the restaurant you’re applying to and why you’d like to join their team. 

Head Waitress Resume

• What is ATS? It’s the software employers use to sort candidates based on the number of keywords (skills) they have in common with the desired skills in the  job description . By including a relevant skills section, the ATS won’t spit out your resume. 
• What if you’re newer to your field and lack extensive work history? Weave in highly-relevant projects which can stand in as experience.
• The key to telling your work story via projects is to treat them like real work experience. List your projects in a bullet point format, laden with metrics to showcase your impact.

Waitress Server Resume

• The most important thing is setting yourself apart from the rest by providing realistic achievements accompanied by their measurable impact.

Bartender Waitress Resume

• Have the title on your resume match the role to which you’re applying. This helps the reader associate you with the job.
• Consider including a two-to-three-sentence  resume summary  if you boast at least 10+ years of industry expertise.
• Tailor your resume by mentioning the target employer by name and giving a concise but vivid snapshot of your years in the field and any specializations you’ve honed.

Cocktail Waitress Resume

• Unfortunately, it’s too easy to forget to list essential and basic information on your resume, but don’t fret! You can quickly  check if your resume has everything it needs .
• Even seemingly disconnected jobs you’ve had can be linked to waitress roles.
• For example, from a glance, a receptionist position at a law firm and a cocktail waitress role might seem like very distant cousins at best. Still, upon closer inspection, you’ll discover that both require excellent customer service and organizational skills.

Hostess Waitress Resume

• Stick with a professional template, but don’t be afraid to add a hint of color for style and interest. A dash of color lets the employer know you’re a professional with personality. 
• This structure lists your most recent work history at the top, followed by older experience, and gives the employer an easy-to-read synopsis of your best first. 

Bottle Service Waitress Resume

• Instead, determine whether a hobby or interest might be relevant enough to include.
• Imagine that a hiring manager brings up your hobby during an interview; whoa! Game changer? If you listed ice hockey on your resume, be prepared to demonstrate how that interest relates to your career aspirations as a bottle service waitress! Relevance is the key to successfully using  hobbies and interests on your resume . 
• We recommend sprinkling in numbers and stats to prompt employers to read your resume more thoroughly and provide hard evidence highlighting your successes. 

Related resume guides

• Restaurant Manager

• • Managed a team of 10 wait staff in a fast-paced environment, improving team efficiency by 30% through targeted training.
• • Led the redesign of the menu in collaboration with the head chef, resulting in a 25% increase in customer orders for featured dishes.
• • Implemented a new table management system that decreased customer wait times by 15%.
• • Negotiated with suppliers to reduce costs by 10%, positively impacting the restaurant's profitability.
• • Organized and executed multiple large-scale events, accommodating up to 200 guests, which boosted the restaurant's reputation in the local community.
• • Introduced a customer feedback system, leading to a 20% improvement in customer satisfaction scores.
• • Increased wine sales by 40% through effective upselling techniques and in-depth knowledge of the wine list.
• • Trained 5 new staff members, ensuring high service standards and consistency.
• • Collaborated with the kitchen team to streamline order processes, reducing order errors by 25%.
• • Developed a regular customer base, contributing to a 20% increase in repeat business.
• • Managed inventory and order supplies, reducing waste by 15%.
• • Provided excellent table service to guests, enhancing dining experience and satisfaction.
• • Assisted in hosting wine tasting events, leading to a 30% increase in wine club memberships.
• • Helped implement a new POS system, improving transaction efficiency by 20%.
• • Contributed ideas for menu updates based on customer feedback and seasonal availability.

10 Waitress Resume Examples & Guide for 2024

Your waitress resume must highlight excellent customer service skills. Show how you've consistently provided a welcoming and satisfying dining experience. Demonstrate your ability to multitask efficiently in a fast-paced environment. Detail your expertise in order management and payment processing to underscore your proficiency.

All resume examples in this guide

Waitress No Experience

Waitress Cashier

Bartender Waitress

Cocktail Waitress

Hostess Waitress

Bottle Service Waitress

Head Waitress

Resume guide.

Formatting Tips

Experience Section

Hard & Soft Skills

Education & Certifications

Summary & Objective

Additional Sections

Key Takeaways

By Experience

Starting a job as a waitress is an exciting opportunity, full of different challenges and rewards. It's a role that demands not just balancing a tray, but also patience, careful attention to small details, and great organization. This job is all about interacting with people, maintaining  a smile, and staying friendly, even when customers are unhappy.

To do well, you need to be good at multitasking and know the menu like the back of your hand , including any food allergies. You also need to know a lot about drinks, like different kinds of wines, and cocktails, as well as what food they go best with. Nevertheless, this is a job where you’ll never find yourself bored to death, as it always keeps you on your toes meeting new people and navigating dynamic situations.

If you're ready to tackle these challenges, let's dive into how to craft a memorable waitress resume that can land you a new job.

Find many more resume templates , each with easy-to-follow  tips and good ideas. So, in  this guide, you'll learn:

• Effective strategies for customizing a waitress resume that captures attention.
• Key resume sections for waitresses and tips on how to compose them.
• The importance of aligning your resume with the job description for greater impact.
• Methods to highlight your work experience that will engage recruiters.
• The most valued hard and soft skills to feature in your resume.

Interested in other food service jobs? Check out these resume examples for various positions.

• Waiter Resume
• Bartender Resume
• Busser Resume
• Hostess Resume
• Barista Resume
• Dishwasher Resume

How to format a waitress  resume

If you're an experienced waitress, using the reverse-chronological resume  format can greatly benefit you. This layout showcases your career growth and notable achievements in various restaurants or serving positions.

For those new to waitressing, a functional resume format  or a hybrid version  might be more advantageous. These formats emphasize your skills and strengths, focusing less on your job history.

Besides that, choosing an attractive resume design is crucial for standing out from other candidates. Our professionally designed resume templates  provide a modern and elegant appearance that captures attention immediately.

When preparing your waitress resume, consider these guidelines:

• Convert your resume to a PDF  to ensure the layout remains consistent across different devices.
• Clearly list your contact details , including your email, phone number, and current location.
• Maintain 1-inch margins  for a clean and easy-to-read  look.
• Select resume fonts  like Rubik, Volkhov, or Montserrat that keep the size between 10 and 12 points for readability and concise presentation.
• When choosing colors for your resume , select ones that are both professional and pleasant to look at. Blue is often recommended for its association with calmness.
• Making your resume compatible with Applicant Tracking Systems   (ATS) by including relevant keywords related to skills, education, and work experience is essential.

Sometimes you’ll want to go after a job that  requires more experience than you have. Instead of using a typical resume format, you can use a creative layout. Getting noticed is the most important challenge and a creative resume layout  might help you get invited for an interview as most other waitresses have boring resume designs.

If you're uncertain whether your resume shows your good memory, patience, and abilities in multitasking, use our free AI resume checker to help. It offers 16 evaluations and gives personalized tips to refine your resume.

Is your resume good enough?

Drop your resume here or choose a file . PDF & DOCX only. Max 2MB file size.

Formatting is crucial , but now let's turn our attention to the essential sections that must be included in a waitress's  resume.

The top sections on a waitress resume

• Summary or objective statement: This gives a quick overview of your career goals and why you're applying for a waitress job, showing your eagerness for the role.
• Relevant experience: Highlight your past jobs related specifically to waitressing, displaying your competency and expertise in the industry.
• Skills:  Listing down specific skills such as customer service, multitasking, and food safety knowledge proves your suitability and capacity for the role.
• Certifications: Including any food handling or alcohol service certifications shows that you meet fundamental industry requirements.
• References: References from previous employers can give recruiters an insight into your work ethic and performance, reinforcing your credibility.

Ensure your waitress resume is structured in a way that immediately shows recruiters you're the best choice for the role.

What recruiters want to see on your resume

• Customer service skills: Waitresses interact directly with customers. Excellent customer service skills are vital to ensure a positive experience for guests.
• Multi-tasking abilities: Waitresses often juggle multiple tasks at once. This skill shows that a candidate can handle the fast-paced nature of the job.
• Knowledge about food and beverages: Comprehensive knowledge about various food and beverages indicates the waitress's ability to explain the menu to customers and make recommendations.
• Experience in the food industry:  Past experience in similar roles suggests that the candidate has a clear understanding of industry standards and procedures.
• Physical stamina and speed: Waitressing can be physically demanding. Candidates with high physical stamina and speed can efficiently meet the demands of the role.

Attract recruiters with your waitress resume by presenting a clear work experience section  that demonstrates your value to their team.

How to write your waitress resume experience

A waitress aims to improve customer service, focusing on comfort, safety, and satisfaction. This enhances the dining experience for all guests. Highlight your own successes from past jobs, with examples of service improvements and the positive results they brought.

• • Promptly served food and beverages to guests, ensuring a satisfying dining experience.
• • Collaborated effectively with the restaurant team to maintain seamless service.
• • Addressed and fulfilled guests' requests to enhance their meal enjoyment.
• • Managed transactions for meal payments accurately and efficiently.

The example isn't good because:

• It's too broad and could fit many jobs, not just waitressing.
• It doesn't share any special achievements or results.
• It misses responsibilities unique to waitressing.

Now let's improve it a bit.

• • Served about 100 guests each shift, keeping everyone happy with fast and friendly service.
• • Assisted with training 5 new staff members, helping them to quickly meet the restaurant's service standards.
• • 95% of customers said they were happy with the service on feedback cards.
• • Took care of around 100 payments a day without any mistakes.
• • Learned the entire menu and specials, helping sell 10% more by giving good suggestions.

The second example is better because it:

• Demonstrates direct impact by efficiently serving a large number of guests, making achievements clear.
• Quantifies the positive effects on customer satisfaction through feedback scores.
• Shows leadership by training new staff well.
• Points out careful work with many daily payments without mistakes.
• Illustrates ease in mastering new menu offerings and enhancing sales.

Action verbs  (also known as power verbs) are great for describing your achievements and responsibilities. They highlight your skills and show you’re able to take responsibility. Use these gems to make your experience section shine!

Customizing your waitress resume also includes determining its length. A one-page resume  can be straightforward, while a two-page layout  allows a more comprehensive description of your customer service skills. Concentrate on what showcases your abilities most effectively.

In the following section, we'll discuss how to include numbers in your resume  to highlight your work as a waitress.

How to quantify impact on your resume

Based on our expert assessment, here's our advice:

• Include the number of tables served per shift.
• Record the number of shifts worked per week.
• Highlight if you have trained any new staff and the number of them.
• Indicate the number of menu items you were familiar with.
• Document any reductions you've contributed to in terms of service complaints or errors.

For every task you list, aim to add specific numbers and measurable outcomes to back up your work. This method effectively boosts your professional image and underlines your skills as a waitress.

How do I write a waitress resume with no work experience

If you're new to waitressing and don't have much work experience , show off your people skills and ability to handle busy situations.

For instance, look for jobs at local restaurants while studying. Working in a dining hall, a nearby café, or at catering events can teach you about serving customers, working with a team, and keeping up in a fast-paced  environment.

Now let's check some practical tips on how to boost your waitress resume.

• Objective statement : Write a few sentences about why you love working with people, any experience you have talking or working with others, and what you want to accomplish in this job. Make sure it shows you fit well with what the restaurant wants in its team.
• Skills: List the main skills you need for waitressing, like talking clearly, managing your time, and being friendly. Include skills from volunteering, classes, or other jobs that relate to helping customers.
• Education and certifications:  Share details about your high school and any college education, including your major or areas of interest, plus if you have any extra certifications like food safety that are useful for waitressing.
• Work experience: Mention jobs you've had where you used skills that would also help in waitressing, like being part of a team, fixing problems, and dealing with customers.

How to list your hard and soft skills on your resume

When putting together your resume for a waitress position, it's crucial to highlight both your soft and practical skills . Consider your strengths and compile a list of skills that will catch the eye of hiring managers.

Make sure your resume gets through Applicant Tracking Software by adding a section on hard  skills  that fits the job description  and your abilities.

Best hard skills for your waitress resume

• Point of Sale (POS) systems
• Cash register operation
• Food safety regulations
• Wine pairing
• Cocktail mixing techniques
• Table setting
• Order management systems
• Dietary restrictions awareness
• Event coordination
• Beverage preparation
• Reservation systems
• High volume dining
• Food running
• Coffee brewing machinery
• Payment processing
• Beer and wine knowledge

When tailoring your skills section  for a waitress position, carefully review the job listing and ensure your abilities match the requirements mentioned. If your memory is your strong side, put the focus on it. Showcase your ability to remember all ingredients and allergens in each dish. This skill is becoming more and more appreciated as special food diets become more commonplace.

Best soft skills for your waitress resume

• Excellent communication
• Multitasking
• Excellent customer service
• Time management
• Ability to work under pressure
• Positive attitude
• Problem-solving
• Active listening
• Ability to handle criticism
• Attention to detail
• Emotional intelligence
• Adaptability
• Strong people skills

After discussing the skills needed for excellent service as a waitress, let's dive into the education that supports these skills. This section will cover relevant degrees and certifications.

How to list your education and certifications on your resume

A high school diploma is sufficient for a waitress position. The key is to position it correctly on your resume.  Here's an example:

If you're an active university student, you might want to broaden the education section of your resume  in the following way:

On your waitress resume, mention when you expect to graduate  and your GPA  if it's over 3.5 .  This shows off your academic achievements.

If you hold a certain major and a minor , your majors should be mentioned first.

Adding extra certifications to your resume, like those in food safety or customer service, shows you're keen on learning more and getting better at your job as a waitress. Here are five good certifications for waitressing.

Best certifications for your waitress resume

• The Certified Professional - Food Safety by NEHA
• Food Allergy Awareness Certification
• Certified Restaurant Server
• Certified Food and Beverage Executive (CFBE)

Making every section of your resume clear is important, especially for waitresses, where a strong summary can grab the attention of hiring managers.

How to write your waitress resume summary or objective

Writing a good resume summary or objective for a waitress job means briefly showing your skills, experience, and what you bring to the job. Whether you use a summary or objective depends on your work history and goals. Here's how to approach each choice.

Resume summary

A resume summary  works best for waitresses with plenty of experience. It should highlight your key achievements, crucial skills, and how you can meet the restaurant's needs.

Resume objective

A resume objective  is a good fit for those new to waitressing. It focuses on your ambitions, key skills, and how you aim to grow and help the restaurant succeed.

Tips for writing your summary or objective:

• Be Concise: Keep it to a short 3-4 sentences that clearly outline your work history or career objectives.
• Customize: Tailor your summary or objective to the waitress position and restaurant you're applying to, showing how your skills and experience are a perfect match for their needs.
• Highlight achievements: Use specific examples and numbers to show your success in previous roles (e.g., "served up to 100 guests per shift with high customer satisfaction").
• Focus on relevant skills:  Emphasize skills that are key to waitressing, such as customer service, multitasking, and knowledge of food safety, especially if they're listed in the job description.

Taking the time to create a tailored and precise summary or objective can significantly boost your resume's impact, making a great first impression.

Additional sections for a waitress resume

To make your waitress resume stand out, choose one or two additional sections to help recruiters get a fuller picture of who you are, both as a person and as a professional:

• Passions: Share your hobbies and interests , like participating in culinary workshops or community service, to show a well-rounded personality.
• Language Skills : Mention any additional languages you speak and demonstrate your ability to communicate with a diverse clientele.
• R eferences : Add people from previous jobs, teachers, or community figures who can speak to your skill set, diligence, and character.
• Vol unteer  work : If applicable, talk about your volunteer work, especially if it involves serving food or working with people.

Key takeaways

• Choose a resume layout that sends the right message across and fits your current career situation.
• Be specific about your experience, accomplishments, and future goals in your summary or objective.
• Feature detailed metrics and specific examples that show the impact you made in your previous roles when describing your experience.
• Add all of the certifications that you have and match the job description.
• Show off a dash of personality in your resume that will demonstrate your culture fit and the right mix of hard and soft skills .

Waitress resume examples

Explore additional waitress resume samples and guides and see what works for your level of experience or role.

The Busser role has evolved significantly within the hospitality industry. Here are some tips to enhance your resume for this job:

• Highlight your knowledge of cleanliness standards and practices. These standards govern the entire restaurant, and showcasing your familiarity with them is crucial.
• Emphasize your physical capabilities, such as strength and endurance. In this position, the ability to move quickly and lift heavy items is essential.
• Indicate your customer service skills. Do not just list them. Implement the “skill-action-results” pattern to illustrate how your skills enhanced the dining experience for patrons.

The Waitress Cashier role melds serving with cashiering tasks. To apply for this role:

• Highlight your hands-on experience with POS systems and cash handling. Demonstrate how your efficiency contributed to smoother operations.
• Show your ability to multitask and provide excellent customer service under pressure.
• Remember to convey your mathematical skills and attention to precision. These are vital for accurate transactions and balancing cash drawers.

As a Waiter, being a critical touchpoint for the customers is essential. When crafting your resume:

• Showcase your extensive menu knowledge. Discuss how you used this knowledge to upsell menu items and enhance the overall dining experience.
• Talk about your interpersonal skills. Detail how your skills have led to exceptional customer service experiences.
• Place an emphasis on your ability to handle high-pressure environments and constant customer interaction. Show how your patience and professionalism in dealing with difficult situations boosted the restaurant's reputation.

The Hostess Waitress role combines greater responsibilities. For a successful application:

• Show your experience and excellence in customer service, especially in greeting and seating guests.
• Highlight your organizational skills. Detail how these skills contributed to managing the waiting list and seating arrangement.
• Discuss your cleanliness and sanitation practices that you've executed for the waiting area and tables.

Just as the product manager role originated from software engineering, the Bottle Service Waitress job evolved from the hospitality industry. Here are a few tips to enhance your application for a Bottle Service Waitress position:

• Firstly, highlight your experiences in similar roles - restaurants, clubs or bars. Understanding different types of alcohol, knowing how to serve champagne, and having knowledge of bar equipment can all be beneficial.
• Feature your customer service skills prominently. If you've increased customer satisfaction or been commended for your service at previous roles, mention it in your resume.
• Don't just list your skills - explain how they have impacted your work. For example, instead of merely mentioning that you are detail-oriented, state how your attention to details ensured a high level of service.
• Lastly, highlight your multi-tasking and communication skills. Show how you managed multiple tables efficiently or how your communication skills helped resolve customer complaints. Follow the "SKILL - ACTION - RESULTS" pattern.

Despite not being as tech-centered as product management, the role of a Head Waitress can be similarly nuanced. The following tips should help increase your odds when applying for a Head Waitress position:

Understanding hospitality practices is crucial. Different restaurants subscribe to various service styles - fine dining, fast casual, pop-up, etc. You are likely to be asked about your experience dealing with different styles.

Highlight your leadership experience. As a Head Waitress, you will be expected to lead a team of servers. Emphasize any past leadership roles and how they have enabled you to successfully manage a team.

Prioritize service-centric experiences. Restaurants are businesses of service, and you must have provided exceptional service to thrive in this role. Highlight your achievements, such as “improved customer satisfaction through…” or “decreased customer complaints by…” in your applications.

Most importantly, don’t just say what you did— demonstrate how your actions led to positive outcomes.

Looking to build your own Waitress resume?

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Waiter Resume Examples & Guide for 2024

You’re a waitress or waiter.

You serve unbeatable service to your hungry customers.

But now it’s time to serve an unbeatable resume to your future employer.

This involves presenting your skills and experiences on a silver platter.

Not sure how to do this?

Well, just follow the simple steps in this guide.

• An example of a finished waiter or waitress resume that works
• How to write a waiter or waitress resume that’ll fill up your interview diary
• How to make your waiter or waitress resume stand out [with top tips & tricks]

Before we get into the details, here’s a waiter and waitress resume example, created with our very own resume builder:

Looks great, right?! Follow the steps below to create a resume that’ll have the restaurants in a frenzy to invite you for a trial shift.

Hunting for a different job in the customer service industry? Check out more resume examples that might interest you:

• Server Resume
• Barista Resume
• Bartender Resume
• Cashier Resume
• Customer Service Resume
• Bar and Restaurant Manager Resume
• Receptionist Resume
• Event Planner Resume
• Flight Attendant Resume

How to Format a Waitress or Waiter Resume

Before you can serve the hiring manager, you need to set the table!

But what does this mean?

Well, the resume needs to follow a format that is easy to digest.

This will please the hiring manager, which is always a good thing!

The most common resume format is “ reverse-chronological ”, and it is one that we always recommend to waiters and waitresses.

Essentially, this format allows the hiring manager to immediately see the benefits in hiring you, rather than having to dig down to the bottom of the page. We recommend all waiters and waitresses start with this format.

The following two resume formats also get our approval:

• Functional Resume – If you’re confident in your ability, but lack the restaurant experience, this resume format is recommended. A functional resume focuses on skills, which makes it ideal for those who lack experience or who have gaps in their employment history.
• Combination Resume – Got both skills AND work experience? Then you’ll want to use this format. Specifically, the format combines both “Functional” and “Reverse-Chronological”.

Once you’ve chosen the correct format for your personal situation, you need to organize set a few resume layout rules.

For a professional look, we recommend…   

• Margins - Border with a one-inch margins on all sides
• Font - Pick a professional font that stands out, but not too much
• Font Size - Use 11-12pt for general text and 14-16pt for headings
• Line Spacing - Use 1.0 or 1.15 line spacing
• Resume Length - Try and stick to a 1-page limit. For guidance, view these one-page resume templates .

Use a Waitress or Waiter Resume Template

There’s no argument that Word is a great program for creating simple files.

But when it comes to presenting a well-formatted resume, you should look elsewhere.

You see, Word isn’t the best for holding structure.

Want to avoid an afternoon of headache? Use a waiter or waitressing resume template .

What to Include in a Waiter or Waitress Resume

The main sections in a waiter or waitress resume are:

• Work Experience
• Contact Information

To really make an impression, you can also add these optional sections:

• Awards & Certification

Interests & Hobbies

So those are the resume sections , but what do you write for each of them? 

Let’s find out!

Want to know more about the different sections? View our guide on What to Put on a Resume .

How to Correctly Display your Contact Information

Now, there’s no need for creative content here, but it must be factually correct. 

Get this section wrong, and you can forget about receiving any interview invitations!

The contact information section must include:

• Title - Align this to the role you’re applying for, so “Waitress” or “Waiter”
• Phone Number – Check each number carefully 
• Email Address - Keep your email professional ([email protected]), unlike that one from your childhood ([email protected]).
• Location - Applying for a job abroad? Mention your location.
• Hanna Fakester - Waitress. 101-358-6095. [email protected]
• Hanna Fakester - Superwoman Waitress. 101-358-6095. [email protected]

How to Write a Waitress/Waiter Resume Summary or Objective

Restaurants are always on the lookout for staff.

But this is a fact that only increases competition among your peer group.

With so much competition in the job market, it is no surprise that recruiters spend less than 6 seconds on each resume.

Yep, you heard that correctly!

Although scary, this fact highlights the importance of a powerful resume.

Specifically, you need an opener that hooks the reader in a matter of seconds.

To do this, use a resume summary or objective .

As a waitress or waiter, you know that a friendly introduction is important. Similarly, both resume summaries and objectives are short introductions that go on top of your resume, just under your contact information.

But what is the difference between a summary and an objective?

A resume summary is a 2-4 sentence summary of your most notable restaurant experiences and achievements.

• Experienced waitress with more than five years of restaurant experience providing personable table service at prestigious establishments in London. Awarded “Employee of the Month” for 36 months out of 48 months. Seeking a waitressing role at Restaurant X, where my service skills can be leveraged to achieve the highest quality of service at Restaurant XYZ.

A resume objective is a 2-4 sentence snapshot of your goals and aspirations.

• Enthusiastic and friendly waitress looking for a waitressing role at Restaurant Z. Passionate about keeping customers happy and satisfied. Relevant experience includes serving groups of customers at a local cafe. Skilled in POS and table setting, with a vast knowledge of Italian cuisine. 

So, should restaurant staff use a summary or an objective?

Generally, applicants with relevant work experience should choose a resume summary. An objective is suited to people with the basic skills, but lack relevant experience, like those who are transferring to the restaurant industry for the first time.

How to Make Your Waiter or Waitress Work Experience Stand Out

Recruiters love nothing more than an employee with work experience.

As such, this section is your best chance to impress.

Here’s the best way for waitresses and waiters to structure the work experience section:

• Position name
• Company Name
• Responsibilities & Achievements

The Rising Sun

07/2017 – 03/2020

• Served food to 80+ people a night and multiple tables at a time
• Educated customers on menu items and daily specials, while offering my personal recommendations based on their feedback
• Welcomed and seated customers in a 96-guest restaurant , while taking their preferences into account to keep everyone happy
• Always engaged customers with a personal, yet professional manner, which helped me to win “Employee of the Month” four months in a row

Focus on how you were a valuable asset at your previous place of work. Doing so will allow the recruiter to see the obvious benefits to making you a member of the team.

Instead of saying:

“Member of bar staff”

“Served food to 80+ people a night and multiple tables at a time”

Simply put, the first statement says nothing. It shows you were a member of staff, but doesn’t go into any other details about your position.

The second statement shows that you had to serve tables under stressful conditions to a large amount of customers. 

Hard numbers that prove your skills – can’t argue with that!

What if You Don’t Have Any Restaurant Work Experience?

Maybe you’re studying and looking for your first waitress or waiter job?

Or maybe, you have experience in hospitality, but never in a restaurant setting?

Don’t worry, there are other options.

You just need to show that you have the basic skills and that you’re willing to learn.

For example, if you’ve worked as a hotel receptionist, you can talk about any crossover skills and experiences. Just like a waitress, you would have to be friendly, deal with groups of people, and operate a cash register. 

Use Action Words to Make Your Waiter or Waitress Resume POP!

Spare a thought for the hiring manager for a minute…

You see, they are faced with the same words in every single resume they read. 

But it doesn’t have to be like that. 

In fact, you can use some action words to make your achievements stand out:

• Conceptualized
• Spearheaded

How to Correctly List your Education

Next, it’s time to talk about your education.

There’s nothing too complicated with this section, just simply enter your education history in the following format:

• Degree Type & Major
• University Name
• Years Studied
• GPA, Honours, Courses, and anything else you might want to add

Majoring in Culinary Arts

Boston State University

2018 - Present

• Relevant Courses: Food and Beverage Operations, Food Microbiology and Hygiene, Kitchen Techniques, and Pastry Techniques

Now, you don’t need a degree or higher education to be a waitress, so you may have a few questions in regards to this section. Here are the answers to some of the most frequent questions that we get:

What if I haven’t completed education yet?

• Simply mention every year or the modules that you have studied to date.

Should I include my high school education?

• Generally, you should only include your highest form of education.

What do I put first, my education or experience?

• For a waiter or waitress role, your experiences always come first.

Need more advice? Check out our guide on how to list education on a resume .

Top 10 Skills for a Waiter or Waitress Resume

Whether you’re skilled enough to juggle three plates with one hand or have the ability to remember five orders from the top of your head, the hiring manager will want to know.

However… you can’t list every skill in your arsenal.

So, what do hiring managers want to see?

Essentially, you need to look at the job ad to identify which skills the restaurant is looking for.

Here are some of the most common skills...

Hard Skills for Waiter/Waitress Resume:

• Math (basic calculations)
• POS & cash register 
• Table setting
• Italian cuisine 
• Cognac, whisky, vodka, rum, gin

Soft Skills for Waiter/Waitress Resume:

• Personable and friendly 
• Endurance (long hours)
• Conflict resolution 
• Time management 
• Team player
• The hiring manager will typically ask interviewees for examples of when they have shown the skill listed. As such, only include skills that you actually posses.

Here’s a more comprehensive list of 150+ must-have skills this year.

What Else Can You Include?

Hurrah! We’ve now covered all of the essential sections.

But don’t call final-orders just yet. 

Your resume needs to stand out !

Adding the following sections could be the deciding factor in whether you’re hired for the waitress or waiter role.

Awards & Certifications

Have you ever been employee of the month?

Have you completed any relevant courses on coursera?

If you’ve got something to be proud of, put it in your resume!

• “Employee of the Month” - The Rising Sun
• “Learning How to Learn” - Coursera Certificate

Applying to an Italian restaurant?

Then being fluent in Italian is a good way to shortcut your resume to the top of the pile.

Whether the job description requires it or not, being able to speak multiple languages is impressive – and no one can argue with that!

Rank the languages by proficiency:

• Intermediate

Now, you may be wondering, “ how is my soccer hobby related to my work as a waiter?”

Well, your hobbies allow the hiring manager to learn more about you as a person. 

Interests show that you’ll be a good addition to the team, especially if your hobbies involve social interaction.

Here’s which hobbies & interests you may want to mention.

Include a Cover Letter with Your Resume

Want to really make an impression?

Then you should write a convincing cover letter .

You see, a resume is great at giving the essential facts, but nothing speaks to a hiring manager like a well-written cover letter .

The hiring manager has to read through generic resume after generic resume. 

In fact, it’s not uncommon for the hiring manager to get confused between multiple applications!

A cover letter instantly allows you to make a personal connection .

Oh, and cover letters shows the hiring manager that you care about working for their company.

Here’s how to create a structure that works:

You should complete the following sections:

Personal Contact Information

Include your full name, profession, phone number, email, and address 

Hiring Manager’s Contact Information

Include their full name, position, location, email

Opening Paragraph

To hook the hiring manager, the start of your resume needs to pack a punch. Use concise language to mention:

• The position you’re applying for
• Your experience summary and best achievement to date

Once you’ve sparked the hiring manager’s interest, you can delve further into the following specifics...

• Why you chose this specific restaurant
• What you know about the restaurant culture
• How your skills will be beneficial to the restaurant
• If there are any similar industries or positions you have worked in before

Closing Paragraph

Avoid ending the conversation abruptly, you should:

• Conclude the main points of your letter
• Thank the hiring manager for their time and the opportunity
• End with a call to action. This is a good way to continue the conversation further. A simple “At your earliest opportunity, I’d love to discuss more how I can Restaurant X” will work.

Formal Salutations

Although you should remain personal, the letter should end in a professional manner. Use something like, “Kind regards” or “Sincerely.”

For extra advice and inspiration, read our step-by-step guide on how to write a cover letter .

Key Takeaways

Because if you follow the above advice, you’re about to get that waitress or waiter job!

Let’s total up everything we’ve consumed:

• Choose the correct format for your specific situation. Prioritize the reverse-chronological format, and then follow the best practices on content layout
• Draw the recruiter in with a short, snappy resume summary or objective
• In your work experience section, highlight your most relevant and best achievements rather than your restaurant duties
• Make your application personal and specific with a convincing cover letter

Suggested reading:

• 10+ Best Answers for Why Do You Want to Work Here?
• Why Should We Hire You - 10+ Best Answers
• 22+ Strengths and Weaknesses for Job Interviews [2024 Best Answers]

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Waitress Resume Samples

The guide to resume tailoring.

Guide the recruiter to the conclusion that you are the best candidate for the waitress job. It’s actually very simple. Tailor your resume by picking relevant responsibilities from the examples below and then add your accomplishments. This way, you can position yourself in the best way to get hired.

Craft your perfect resume by picking job responsibilities written by professional recruiters

Pick from the thousands of curated job responsibilities used by the leading companies, tailor your resume & cover letter with wording that best fits for each job you apply.

Create a Resume in Minutes with Professional Resume Templates

• Ensure all security incidents, accidents and near misses are always logged in a timely manner and brought to the attention of the Line Manager
• Communicate effectively with customers, co-workers and supervisors
• Perform other duties as may be assigned by your supervisor from time to time
• Provide guest F & B services in a sequenced manner
• Manage an efficiently operated bar shift that is in accordance with the agreed standards and regulations
• Keeps general appearance and maintenance of Restaurant, Bar & Banquet working areas
• Ensure that the monthly one to one meeting with the Restaurant Manager/ Maitre D' Hotel is kept and that all documentation is up to date
• Assist guests regarding food and beverage menu items in an informative and helpful way
• Understand the Server’s tasks in the outlet
• Follow all safety and sanitation policies when handling food and beverage
• Consistently offer a professional, friendly greeting and engaging service
• Other duties as assigned
• Follow outlet policies, procedures and service standards
• Understand shift end reports in the outlet and the POS system
• Flexibility to respond to a range of different work situations
• Knowledge of Food Hygiene Regulations
• Commitment to delivering high levels of customer service
• Excellent grooming standards
• Positive attitude
• Actively participate in training and development programs and maximize opportunities for self-development
• Perform all tasks as directed by the Manager in pursuit of the achievement of business goals
• Ability to interact with staff and the public in a professional and helpful manner
• Excellent attention to detail
• Ability to work on split shifts
• Excellent leadership, interpersonal and communication skills
• A warm personality, attentive and smartly presentable
• Health in good condition
• Accountable and resilient
• Strong interpersonal skills
• Ability to work on your own or in teams

15 Waitress resume templates

Read our complete resume writing guides

How to tailor your resume, how to make a resume, how to mention achievements, work experience in resume, 50+ skills to put on a resume, how and why put hobbies, top 22 fonts for your resume, 50 best resume tips, 200+ action words to use, internship resume, killer resume summary, write a resume objective, what to put on a resume, how long should a resume be, the best resume format, how to list education, cv vs. resume: the difference, include contact information, resume format pdf vs word, how to write a student resume, bar waitress resume examples & samples.

• Pleasant personality, presentable, energetic, service-oriented
• At least 1 year experience in the same position in any other 5-star property
• Good communication skills / English is a must / Arabic or any other languages would be a plus
• College level

Waitress Resume Examples & Samples

• Basic food preparation skills
• Experience working with multi-cultural teams
• Used to working in a busy outlet

Wait / Waitress Resume Examples & Samples

• Understand the Server’s tasks in the outlet
• Previous Point of Sale System experience an asset
• Basic food and beverage service skills
• Basic knowledge of wines and other beverages
• Holds diploma/certificate in Hospitality or Tourism Management desirable
• One year certificate from college or technical school; or three to six month related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience
• One to Two years work experience as Service Staff in a hotel or restaurant with good standards desirable
• Preferable prerequisite experience in the Hotel, Restaurant or Travel industry
• Training Need: FSMS, HACCP Awareness, How to handle food Complaint, Food Allergen Awareness, Annual Hygiene Refresher Training (HACCP)
• Take orders from guests
• Serving food and beverages to guests
• Taking bill payments
• Ensure tables are clean and tidy
• Liaise with other departments to ensure guests needs are met
• High standards of cleanliness

Breakfast Waiters / Waitress Resume Examples & Samples

• Strive to achieve departmental targets
• Ensure cleanliness of work areas
• More than 500 locations and nearly 200,000 rooms across six continentsInnovations include: pioneering the airport hotel concept, becoming the first coast-to-coast hotel chain in the US, and the first to install televisions in Guest roomsFlagship brand of Hilton Worldwide with properties in more than 77 countriesMore than 70 world-class resorts and more nearly 200 full-service spasHarris Poll EquiTrend®, Brand of the Year - Full Service Hotel for 2010 and 2011Number one C3global brand awareness in the hospitality industry
• Minimum of 2 years’ experience in a similar role
• Experience working in a busy F&B outlet
• Previous knowledge of working in Middle East
• Familiar working with international clients
• Cleans and polishes Glassware, China ware, hollowware and flatware
• Maintains cleanliness and mise-en-place level at working station and service pantry for smooth operation
• Replenishes supply of linen and other Operating equipment
• Keeps general appearance and maintenance of Restaurant, Bar & Banquet working areas
• Follows correct sequence of service outlined in the Standard Operating Manual
• Sets up tables in accordance with Restaurant, Bar & Banquet policy
• Transports soiled dishes from dining room to kitchen and depositing them in proper placing at the Steward area
• Maintains excellent grooming standard at all times

Club Lounge Waitress Resume Examples & Samples

• Requesting of all guests in her assigned area
• She provides all guests with her undivided attention, to allow her to provide the best possible service
• Ensuring the club lounge is properly maintained at all times is her responsibility
• She stocks all the self-service areas, cleans up after guests, assists with food service preparation, sets the area up for service and more
• She keeps the club lounge running smoothly and does her best to make sure all guests leave satisfied
• Present bills to guests and ensures settlement of the same
• Ensure all opening and closing duties are followed according to the checklist
• Responsible for all service preparation, e.g. polishing of glasses, cutlery and wiping tables
• Responsible for clearing and arranging the stations
• Ensure that all billings are correct
• Ensure that effective communication is carried out with all employees, while keeping an effective communication with your supervisor
• Reports guests comments or complaints to the captain/ Headwaiter
• Maintains high level of product knowledge which effects guests experience
• Up selling food & beverage product to increase revenue
• High School Graduate or equal level of qualification
• 2 years experience as a bus boy
• Computer knowledge (MS Office and internet)

Waitress / General Service Resume Examples & Samples

• Ability to read, write, and understand English
• Experience with hotel/restaurant experience or training preferred
• Experience in Micros or other POS system very helpful
• Must be able to work independently and multi-task when necessary
• Must act in a respectful and professional manner, always promoting a positive environment

Related Job Titles

Waitress Resume Summary Examples

Waitress Resume Summary Example #1

A self-motivated, analytical and ambitious team player having extensive experience in process improvement, performance management, sales, and customer service in the Banking and Retail Industry.

Related : Our guide on how to write a resume summary .

Waitress Resume Summary Example #2

Dedicated, innovative and hard- working individual with 5+ years in the hospitality and customer services industry.

Waitress Resume Summary Example #3

I have gained experience from working in different establishments since a young age and now I am actively searching for new employment.

Waitress Resume Summary Example #4

I am a responsible person that can manage the work details without delay. I will work hard to increase revenue and attract new customers by giving good customer service and promoting the product to the customer's satisfaction. I am positive that my abilities and knowledge will help me perform my tasks to the best of my abilities and prove beneficial to the company.

Waitress Resume Summary Example #5

A Hardworking, dedicated and focused professional with years of experience working in Retail, Travel, and Tourism, and the tourist facilities. Possess excellent industry expertise gathered working at resorts and hotels where I managed the service of entertainment both day and night in all its facets.

Waitress Resume Summary Example #6

Enthusiastic Waitress with experience in service in high-end dining establishments. Knowledgeable about food and beverage pairings, inventory management and kitchen preparation. Excellent memorization skills with outgoing, personable attitude.

Waitress Resume Summary Example #7

Motivated Waitress with an engaging personality and flexible approach. Upbeat, friendly and able to anticipate customer needs in order to facilitate enjoyable dining experiences. Strong work ethic with willingness to take initiative.

Waitress Resume Summary Example #8

A hard-working, motivated individual who works well in a team, yet thrives on using her own initiative. A dedicated and determined law student that produces work to a high standard. Easy-going and approachable with a good sense of humor.

Waitress Resume Summary Example #9

Energetic worker focused on delivering excellent service to guests. Tracks menu changes and personalized recommendations for guest satisfaction. Collaborative with wait staff and kitchen workers to exceed expectations with fast, delicious food.

Waitress Resume Summary Example #10

Strong analytical and planning skills, combined with the ability to coordinate the efforts of many to meet organizational goals.

Waitress Resume Summary Example #11

Self-motivator, organized, responsible, and creative person with high energy. My academic and personal experiences have prepared me to effectively be a leader, communicate, and work well with others.

Waitress Resume Summary Example #12

Efficient Cocktail Waitress offering 6+ years experience in the hospitality industry.

Waitress Resume Summary Example #13

An enthusiastic, customer service forward, and culturally oriented professional who will deliver strong communication, creativity, and adaptability skills to your company.

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