How to Create a 5-Day Bar Manager Onboarding Training Plan

Date modified: 21st July 2025 | This article has been written by Pilla Founder, Liam Jones, click to email Liam directly, he reads every email.

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Day 1: Bar Operations and Team Introduction

The first day focuses on immersing your new bar manager in the physical environment, operational systems, and team dynamics that will form the foundation of their role.

This orientation day ensures they understand your bar's unique setup, meet their team, and begin to grasp the operational flow that drives your establishment.

Bar Layout and Operational Systems

Why it's essential: A bar manager must understand every aspect of the physical space and systems to effectively manage workflow, identify bottlenecks, and optimise operations.

Key activities:

ElementInstructionsNotes
Bar Layout TourWalk through service areas, storage spaces, and prep stations, explaining workflow designPoint out efficiency features and known bottlenecks
POS System IntroductionDemonstrate basic functions, reporting capabilities, and integration with other systemsFocus on manager-specific functions and reports
Security ProtocolsReview cash handling procedures, safe access, key control, and closing proceduresEmphasise manager responsibilities for security
Compliance OverviewExplain licensing requirements, age verification protocols, and responsible service policiesReview documentation requirements and inspection preparation

Team Introduction and Relationship Building

Building rapport with the bar team is crucial for management success and will set the tone for future leadership.

Key activities:

ElementInstructionsNotes
Staff IntroductionsFormal introductions with each team member, discussing their experience and specialtiesNote individual strengths and development areas
Observe Service FlowWatch a service period with minimal intervention to understand current dynamicsIdentify team communication patterns and service bottlenecks
Meet Key StakeholdersIntroduce to kitchen leadership, front-of-house managers, and other department headsClarify interdepartmental relationships and expectations
Review Staffing StructureDiscuss reporting relationships, shift leadership roles, and communication channelsClarify delegation authority and decision-making boundaries

Bar Product Knowledge Foundation

Begin building comprehensive product knowledge that underpins quality control and staff development.

Training focus:

  • Review house cocktail menu with rationale behind each recipe
  • Sample signature drinks with discussion of preparation techniques
  • Introduce spirit categories and house pour brands with pricing strategy
  • Discuss wine and beer selections with food pairing suggestions

Day 1 Assessment Questions:

  • Can they navigate the bar layout and explain the workflow logic?
  • Have they demonstrated understanding of the POS system basics?
  • Can they identify all team members and their primary roles?
  • Do they understand the core product offerings and their importance?

Day 1 Success Indicators:

  • Shows confidence navigating the physical space
  • Takes initiative in meeting team members
  • Asks relevant questions about operational systems
  • Begins to identify potential improvement areas

Day 2: Financial Management and Stock Control

Day two focuses on the financial responsibilities that form the core of bar management success. Understanding profitability drivers, inventory systems, and purchasing procedures will establish the foundation for effective business management.

This financial immersion ensures your new bar manager grasps how to protect profits while maintaining product quality and availability.

POS System Mastery and Financial Controls

Why it's essential: Effective financial management requires deep understanding of your specific systems and control mechanisms to prevent loss and maximise profitability.

Key activities:

ElementInstructionsNotes
Advanced POS TrainingCover manager functions including voids, comps, discounts, and report generationEmphasise security protocols and approval processes
Daily Financial ProceduresDemonstrate cash handling, safe counts, banking procedures, and reconciliationInclude error correction and discrepancy investigation protocols
Pricing Strategy ReviewExplain pricing structure, margin expectations, and promotional pricing guidelinesDiscuss seasonal and special event pricing considerations
Loss Prevention SystemsReview camera placements, inventory controls, and theft prevention measuresInclude staff monitoring and accountability systems

Inventory Management and Stock Control

Effective inventory management directly impacts profitability and service quality, making these skills essential for bar management success.

Key activities:

ElementInstructionsNotes
Inventory System TrainingDemonstrate inventory counting procedures, software usage, and variance trackingPractice using inventory tools and technology
Par Level ManagementReview par levels for all products, seasonal adjustments, and special event considerationsExplain the rationale behind minimum stock requirements
Stock Rotation ProtocolsDemonstrate proper storage, FIFO principles, and quality control checksInclude shelf life guidelines for perishable items
Wastage TrackingExplain wastage recording procedures, acceptable thresholds, and reduction strategiesDiscuss the financial impact of various types of wastage

Purchasing and Supplier Management

Building effective supplier relationships and mastering ordering procedures ensures product availability and cost control.

Training focus:

  • Review approved supplier list with contact information and ordering procedures
  • Explain order scheduling, lead times, and delivery protocols
  • Discuss quality control checks for deliveries and rejection procedures
  • Introduce negotiation strategies for pricing, promotions, and special orders

Day 2 Assessment Questions:

  • Can they navigate the POS system independently to access financial information?
  • Do they understand the inventory management system and counting procedures?
  • Can they explain the pricing strategy and margin expectations?
  • Are they comfortable with ordering procedures and supplier management?

Day 2 Success Indicators:

  • Demonstrates ability to run and interpret basic financial reports
  • Shows understanding of inventory control importance through questioning
  • Takes initiative in identifying potential cost-saving opportunities
  • Displays comfort with financial responsibility aspects of the role

Day 3: Service Standards and Customer Experience

Day three shifts focus to the customer-facing aspects of bar management. Establishing service excellence, developing memorable experiences, and handling customer interactions effectively will differentiate your venue in a competitive market.

This service immersion ensures your bar manager can maintain consistency while fostering the distinctive character that defines your establishment.

Service Standards and Protocols

Why it's essential: Consistent service delivery requires clear standards and protocols that can be communicated, demonstrated, and reinforced by management.

Key activities:

ElementInstructionsNotes
Service Sequence ReviewWalk through the ideal customer journey from greeting to farewellHighlight critical touchpoints and timing expectations
Quality Control StandardsDemonstrate drink presentation standards, garnish requirements, and glassware specificationsInclude visual references and examples of acceptable variations
Upselling TechniquesReview strategic upselling opportunities, premium product suggestions, and appropriate timingPractice scenario-based upselling conversations
Pace ManagementExplain service pacing expectations during different business periods and customer scenariosDiscuss indicators of appropriate vs. inappropriate pacing

Customer Experience Management

Creating memorable experiences while effectively handling challenges builds reputation and encourages return visits.

Key activities:

ElementInstructionsNotes
VIP and Regular Customer ProtocolsReview recognition systems, special treatment guidelines, and personalization opportunitiesIntroduce key regulars and their preferences
Complaint HandlingPractice the complaint resolution process, compensation guidelines, and documentation requirementsRole-play common complaint scenarios
Special Requests ManagementDiscuss accommodation policies, customization boundaries, and decision-making authorityInclude examples of requests to approve vs. escalate
Feedback CollectionDemonstrate feedback tools, review procedures, and action planning processesExplain how feedback influences service development

Bar Atmosphere and Experience Development

Creating the right ambiance and distinctive experiences helps build your venue's identity and customer loyalty.

Training focus:

  • Review music selection, volume control, and atmosphere management
  • Discuss lighting adjustments throughout service periods
  • Explain promotional display standards and merchandising techniques
  • Introduce signature service elements that differentiate your venue

Day 3 Assessment Questions:

  • Can they articulate your service standards and explain their importance?
  • Do they demonstrate effective complaint handling techniques?
  • Can they identify opportunities to enhance customer experience?
  • Do they understand how atmosphere elements contribute to venue identity?

Day 3 Success Indicators:

  • Shows attention to service details during observation periods
  • Proactively addresses potential service issues
  • Demonstrates appropriate decision-making in customer scenarios
  • Begins to embody the service style of your establishment

Day 4: Staff Management and Development

Day four focuses on the people management aspects of bar leadership. Developing skills in scheduling, training, performance management, and team building will enable your bar manager to build and maintain a high-performing team.

This leadership immersion ensures they can effectively manage your most valuable asset—your staff—while promoting a positive workplace culture.

Staff Scheduling and Labour Management

Why it's essential: Effective scheduling balances labour costs with service quality, making it a critical skill for maintaining profitability while meeting customer expectations.

Key activities:

ElementInstructionsNotes
Scheduling System TrainingDemonstrate scheduling software, template usage, and publication proceduresInclude budget constraints and labour targets
Forecasting TechniquesExplain business pattern analysis, event impact prediction, and seasonal adjustmentsPractice creating schedules for various scenarios
Staff Availability ManagementReview time-off request procedures, availability change protocols, and coverage requirementsDiscuss handling conflicting requests fairly
Labour Cost ControlDemonstrate labour reporting, variance analysis, and adjustment strategiesConnect scheduling decisions to financial outcomes

Training and Skill Development

Building team capabilities through effective training ensures service quality and prepares staff for advancement opportunities.

Key activities:

ElementInstructionsNotes
Training Program OverviewReview existing training materials, progression paths, and certification requirementsDiscuss manager's role in ongoing staff development
Coaching TechniquesDemonstrate effective coaching methods, feedback delivery, and progress trackingPractice coaching conversations with role-play scenarios
Product Knowledge DevelopmentExplain processes for introducing new products, conducting tastings, and testing knowledgeInclude supplier partnership opportunities for training
Cross-Training StrategyDiscuss cross-training benefits, implementation approach, and documentation requirementsIdentify current cross-training opportunities

Performance Management and Team Building

Creating a positive, accountable team culture requires consistent performance management and intentional team development.

Training focus:

  • Review performance evaluation procedures, documentation requirements, and timing
  • Explain progressive discipline processes, documentation standards, and legal considerations
  • Discuss team recognition programs, incentives, and non-monetary motivation techniques
  • Introduce conflict resolution strategies, mediation techniques, and escalation procedures

Day 4 Assessment Questions:

  • Can they create an effective schedule that balances service needs with labour targets?
  • Do they demonstrate coaching skills that will develop team capabilities?
  • Can they explain your performance management system and documentation requirements?
  • Do they show understanding of team dynamics and motivation techniques?

Day 4 Success Indicators:

  • Creates a sample schedule that meets business needs and budget constraints
  • Demonstrates effective coaching during staff interactions
  • Shows appropriate leadership presence with the team
  • Identifies potential performance issues and development opportunities

Day 5: Strategic Planning and Business Development

The final day elevates focus to strategic initiatives that drive business growth and innovation. Developing skills in marketing, event management, trend analysis, and business planning will enable your bar manager to contribute to your venue's long-term success.

This strategic immersion ensures they understand their role in building the business beyond day-to-day operations.

Marketing and Promotion Management

Why it's essential: Effective marketing initiatives drive new business, increase average spend, and build brand recognition in a competitive market.

Key activities:

ElementInstructionsNotes
Social Media StrategyReview social platforms, content guidelines, posting schedule, and engagement protocolsClarify manager's role in content creation or approval
Promotional CalendarExplain annual promotional planning, seasonal campaigns, and evaluation metricsConnect promotions to business objectives and target markets
Local Partnership DevelopmentDiscuss community engagement strategy, partnership opportunities, and implementation approachIdentify potential new partnerships to pursue
Marketing Budget ManagementReview allocation processes, tracking procedures, and ROI measurementExplain approval processes for marketing expenditures

Event Planning and Execution

Successful events can significantly boost revenue while showcasing your venue's capabilities to new customers.

Key activities:

ElementInstructionsNotes
Event Portfolio ReviewDiscuss current event offerings, target markets, and profitability analysisIdentify potential new event concepts
Event Planning ProcessDemonstrate planning tools, timeline development, and resource allocationPractice creating an event plan for an upcoming opportunity
Staffing and PreparationExplain event staffing strategies, preparation checklists, and setup proceduresReview post-event evaluation processes
Private Function ManagementReview booking procedures, contract requirements, and customization optionsDiscuss upselling strategies for private events

Business Analysis and Strategic Planning

Data-driven decision making and strategic planning capabilities will elevate your bar manager from operational executor to business builder.

Training focus:

  • Demonstrate sales analysis tools, trend identification, and performance tracking
  • Explain contribution to annual business planning and budget development
  • Discuss competitive analysis techniques, market positioning, and differentiation strategy
  • Review innovation processes, new product development, and menu engineering principles

Day 5 Assessment Questions:

  • Can they interpret business performance data and identify improvement opportunities?
  • Do they understand your marketing strategy and their role in implementation?
  • Can they develop an effective event plan that aligns with business objectives?
  • Do they demonstrate strategic thinking about business growth opportunities?

Day 5 Success Indicators:

  • Identifies meaningful insights from business performance data
  • Proposes realistic marketing or promotional ideas
  • Shows understanding of event profitability drivers
  • Demonstrates forward-thinking approach to business development

Final Onboarding Review and Future Development Planning

Conclude the onboarding process with a comprehensive review and forward-looking development plan:

  • Conduct a two-way feedback session on the onboarding experience
  • Identify strengths demonstrated during the onboarding period
  • Establish development priorities for the first 90 days
  • Set clear performance expectations and review timelines
  • Create a resource list for ongoing reference and learning
  • Schedule regular check-ins for the first month post-onboarding

This structured 5-day onboarding plan provides your new bar manager with a comprehensive foundation while allowing flexibility to adapt to your specific venue's needs. By systematically covering operations, finance, service, staff management, and strategic planning, you'll accelerate their integration and effectiveness in this critical leadership role.

Remember that learning continues well beyond these initial five days. The most successful bar managers continue to develop their skills through ongoing coaching, peer networking, and industry education throughout their careers.