Free Waitstaff Resume Template - Google Docs
In competitive markets, a single serving position can attract 50+ applications. Your resume isn’t just paperwork—it’s your ticket past the first round of elimination.
1. Contact Header: Make It Professional
Name in slightly larger font (16–18pt)
Phone, email, city/state (no full address needed)
LinkedIn URL (if it's complete and relevant)
Avoid: Unprofessional email addresses or irrelevant social media links
2. Skills Summary: The “Instant Qualifier”
Place this at the top—before your work experience. Restaurant managers want to see the essentials immediately.
Essential Service Skills (Include all that apply):
POS systems (Toast, Aloha, Micros, etc.)
Table section management
Upselling techniques
Cash handling and check splitting
Handling high-volume covers efficiently
Reservation systems (OpenTable, Resy)
Food & Beverage Knowledge:
Wine service and knowledge (include varietals/regions)
Beer styles and food pairings
Allergy and dietary accommodations
Course pacing and menu explanation
Cocktail menu familiarity (if applicable)
Soft Skills That Matter:
Guest relationship building
Team coordination during service
Handling complaints and pressure gracefully
Opening and closing responsibilities
Experience in casual, upscale, or fine dining environments
3. Work Experience: Show Impact, Not Just Tasks
Format: Position | Venue | Dates | Location
Weak Example:
Server at Olive Garden. Took orders and served food.
Strong Example:
Lead Server | The Blue Fig | May 2022–Present | Austin, TX
Managed 6-table section during 200+ cover nights with 97% ticket accuracy
Increased dessert sales by 18% through suggestive selling techniques
Trained 10+ new servers on menu knowledge, timing, and guest engagement
Maintained top-ranked server position on guest feedback surveys for 6+ months
Pro Tip: Use metrics—guest counts, tips, sales increases, average ticket size, review scores.
4. Education & Certifications: The Credibility Builders
Food Handler Certification (required in most regions)
Alcohol Service Certification (TIPS, ServSafe, etc.)
Formal hospitality or customer service training
Language skills (if relevant to venue clientele)
Degrees in hospitality, communications, or related fields
5. Additional Relevant Experience
Hosting or bartending experience
Tasting menu or wine pairing service
Leadership roles in other customer-facing positions
Cross-training in bar or kitchen
Guest service awards or written praise from managers or customers
Tailoring Your Resume to the Venue Type
Upscale or Fine Dining
Emphasize: Formal service training, wine and spirits knowledge, pacing, attention to detail
Fast-Paced Casual or Brunch Spot
Highlight: Multitasking, speed, table turnover, cheerful guest energy
Hotel or Resort Restaurant
Showcase: Professionalism, consistency, coordination with multiple departments, international clientele experience
Bar and Grill / Sports Venue
Focus on: High guest volume, fast POS usage, drink knowledge, ability to manage large sections
The X-Factors: What Sets Top Servers Apart
Upselling Power
"Increased average ticket by $9 through beverage and appetizer recommendations"
"Improved wine pairings by 30% with updated presentation strategy"
Efficiency and Accuracy
"Served 25+ guests per shift with zero comped meals in six months"
"Maintained 98%+ ticket accuracy using handheld POS"
Leadership
"Trained five junior servers, three of whom were promoted to lead roles"
"Developed an opening/closing checklist adopted company-wide"
Guest Loyalty and Service Excellence
"Named in over 15 positive Yelp reviews for exceptional service"
"Built a base of regulars who consistently requested my section"
Formatting for Maximum Impact
Length: 1 page only
Font: Clean and professional (Calibri, Arial, Georgia)
Spacing: Clear, consistent section breaks
File format: PDF only (preserves formatting)
File name:
Firstname_Lastname_Server.pdf
Before You Submit
Have another industry professional review your resume
Proofread carefully—typos suggest sloppiness under pressure
Update your references and alert them to potential contact
Research the venue and tailor your resume to match
Optional: Attach a short cover letter highlighting why you're a strong match for that specific venue
Follow-Up Strategy
After submitting, visit the venue as a guest if possible. Introduce yourself briefly to the manager, mentioning your application. This puts a face to your resume and demonstrates initiative and professionalism.
Final Thought:
Your resume should show that you’re not just applying anywhere—you’re prepared to contribute to their team, with the skills and mindset that fit their service style. That’s what gets you the interview.
