What pre-service responsibilities should I include in a Head Waiter job description?

Pre-service responsibilities are key for a Head Waiter to ensure smooth operations once guests arrive. These include overseeing the setup of the dining area, confirming reservation details, and coordinating with the kitchen to review the menu and special requests. A Head Waiter also needs to ensure all staff are briefed and ready for service.

Common misunderstanding: Pre-service tasks are just about physical setup.

While setting up the dining area is important, pre-service also involves strategic planning like staff briefings and reviewing guest reservations to personalise service, which are crucial for exceptional guest experiences.

Let's say you are a maitre d' preparing for the evening service. You're not just arranging tables and checking cutlery. You're also reviewing tonight's reservations to note special occasions, briefing staff about menu changes, and coordinating with the kitchen about dietary requirements.

Common misunderstanding: Kitchen communication isn't needed before service starts.

Communication with the kitchen is essential to confirm menu items, discuss any potential issues with ingredients, and understand the timing for dishes. This ensures the front of house and kitchen are aligned, which helps in delivering seamless service.

Let's say you are a maitre d' starting your shift. You discover the kitchen is out of salmon for tonight's special, the new apprentice chef needs extra time for complex dishes, and there's a large party arriving at 7 PM. Without this pre-service communication, your team would be unprepared for these challenges.

How do I describe communication responsibilities between the kitchen and floor staff?

Effective communication between the kitchen and floor staff is vital. In the job description, highlight the Head Waiter's role in facilitating clear and continuous communication. This includes relaying guest feedback to the kitchen, updating the floor staff about wait times or menu changes, and resolving any immediate issues that arise during service.

Common misunderstanding: Communication is only needed when problems occur.

Proactive communication is key, not just reactive. Regular updates and check-ins can prevent many service issues and enhance the dining experience.

Let's say you are a maitre d' during a busy evening service. Instead of waiting for problems, you regularly check with the kitchen about timing, update servers about table preferences, and communicate with hosts about wait times. This prevents bottlenecks and keeps service smooth.

Common misunderstanding: Digital tools replace face-to-face communication completely.

While digital tools help in maintaining records and sending quick updates, face-to-face interactions are crucial for immediate problem-solving and maintaining a personal touch in the fast-paced environment of a restaurant.

Let's say you are a maitre d' managing a busy kitchen pass during dinner service. Your tablet shows order statuses, but when a special dietary request needs urgent clarification or a dish is taking longer than expected, you need immediate face-to-face communication to solve problems quickly.

What team briefing duties should be mentioned for a Head Waiter role?

Team briefing is a critical duty for a Head Waiter. Mention responsibilities such as conducting pre-shift meetings to discuss the menu, special guest needs, reservations, and any specific service focus areas. It's also important to motivate the team and set the tone for the service period.

Common misunderstanding: Briefings are just for passing information.

Beyond information sharing, briefings are crucial for team building, clarifying roles, and motivating staff, which directly impacts service quality.

Let's say you are a maitre d' conducting the pre-service briefing. You're not just announcing tonight's specials and reservations. You're also checking staff morale, clarifying responsibilities for special events, and motivating the team for a successful service.

Common misunderstanding: Quick briefings at shift start are sufficient.

While a start-of-shift briefing is important, effective communication requires ongoing updates throughout service. Situations change, new information emerges, and staff need continuous guidance to maintain service standards.

Let's say you are a maitre d' during service when a VIP guest arrives unexpectedly, the weather changes affecting outdoor seating, or a staff member calls in sick. You need to brief the team again with updated information and revised plans to maintain smooth operations.