Waitering in the Big Apple: Is it Worth It?
So, you've been eyeing those sleek black uniforms and the effortless way waiters in NYC seem to juggle plates, orders, and demanding customers. You're probably wondering, "Is it all glitz and glamour, or is it more like juggling chainsaws while blindfolded?" Well, let's spill the beans on the actual life of a waiter in the concrete jungle.
The Myth vs. Reality
Let's bust some myths first. No, waiters don't make millions overnight. Yes, there are nights when the tips are so good you could buy a small island (in theory), but there are also nights when you'd be happy with enough to cover your subway fare. It's a rollercoaster, people.
The average waiter in NYC makes around $33,280 a year. But hold your horses, that's just the average. It's like saying the average New Yorker lives in a penthouse. Sure, some do, but most of us are crammed into shoeboxes with questionable plumbing.
Tips: The Bloodline of a Waiter
Tips are the lifeblood of a waiter. They can make or break your night, your week, even your month. You've probably heard horror stories of people stiffing their servers, but don't let that deter you. Most New Yorkers are actually pretty decent tippers. And when they're not, there's always the satisfaction of knowing they're probably a terrible person in general.
The Perks (and the Perils)
Apart from the potential for good tips, being a waiter in NYC has its perks. You get to meet all sorts of people, from celebrities to crazy uncles. You also get to eat some pretty amazing food (although you might not always have the appetite).
But let's not forget the perils. There's the constant juggling act of multiple orders, the dreaded rush hour, and the inevitable spills and broken plates. And let's not even talk about dealing with difficult customers. It's like herding cats, but with less fur and more attitude.
How to Survive as a Waiter in NYC
So, you're still determined to conquer the world of waitering? Good for you! Here are a few tips to help you survive:
- Develop a thick skin: You're going to hear some stuff. A lot of stuff.
- Master the art of multitasking: Juggling plates, taking orders, and pouring water while looking effortlessly cool is a skill.
- Learn to love your feet: You'll be doing a lot of walking.
- Embrace the chaos: Things will go wrong. It's inevitable. Just roll with it.
- Find your zen: You need a way to unwind after a long shift. Whether it's yoga, meditation, or drowning your sorrows in pizza, find what works for you.
FAQs
How to deal with a rude customer? Smile, stay calm, and remember, they're probably having a worse day than you are.How to remember all the orders? Practice, practice, practice. And maybe invest in a really good memory app.How to handle a spill? Clean it up quickly and efficiently. And maybe apologize profusely.How to get better tips? Provide excellent service, be friendly and attentive, and maybe throw in a few extra napkins for good measure.How to survive a rush? Take a deep breath, stay organized, and remember, it will eventually end.