Key Responsibilities That Come With Selling And Serving Alcoholic Beverages
Introduction
If you are working as a bartender or planning to start working one day, it is very important that you are fully aware of the responsibilities of being one. It is very well-known just how far reaching the effects, and consequences of alcohol consumption can be.
With all this in mind, if you are planning to become a bartender, you should consider enrolling in the RSA certification training course, where you will learn all the important skills and acquire the necessary knowledge in regards to selling and serving drinks responsibly. Throughout this article, we will touch upon some of the most important skills you will learn there.
Managing patrons and problem anticipation
Usually, it is up to the staff to keep a close eye on the customers, who are consuming alcoholic beverages, and their effect on other people in their surroundings. In most cases, potential problems can be easily resolved by being aware of the current situation before it escalates into something serious. One of the skills you will learn and perfect at an RSA training course will involve dealing properly with customers who display severe signs of intoxication, such as abusive language, rowdiness, and acts of violence.
Advising the customers on the content of various drinks
While it may sound surprising, many people are usually completely unaware of what their drinks consist off. Just because the majority of beer bottles are of the same size, does not mean that they contain the same amount of alcohol. The same goes for pretty much every other alcoholic beverage. Keep in mind that a standard glass of wine looks very small when served in a large glass.
When serving drinks, try to stick to the “standard glass” drink measurements and make sure to avoid filling up large glasses, otherwise, you can easily end up doubling the standard measure. Keep in mind that spirits can be quite deceiving. If you pour manually, make sure not to fill until it overflows. To avoid this guessing game, try using a standard automatic pourer.
Providing the customers with a range of options
Always try to assist the customers so that they drink within appropriate limits. Also, let them choose the drinks that have a very low alcohol content or none at all. Avoid pushing strong drinks over those that have a lighter alcohol content. Keep in mind that there should always be some alcohol-free options available, such as soft drinks, water, juices, etc. If there is enough space, try setting up a self-service water station for the customers to use.
Providing assistance to intoxicated customers and refusing service
If a customer is clearly intoxicated, you have the right to refuse the service. You should know that there can be dire consequences for both the person who serves alcoholic drinks, as well as the owner of the venue where the event takes place. To avoid these consequences, do not hesitate to refuse a service to an individual who is clearly intoxicated.
Instead of serving an alcoholic drink, offer them a non-alcoholic one. Also, remember that it is your responsibility to assist them, as well. If they are showing signs of severe intoxication, provide them with a place to sit, bring them water, and call an emergency medical staff, if necessary. If you see these individuals leaving …