If you're an experienced server or bartender, what makes you want to work somewhere aside from good pay? I want to attract the best talent, but my business is pretty new & small. I offer the most competitive pay I can afford, but tbh there are places that can pay more nearby. Beyond that, what would make you stay? Trying to build a great team, so any advice helps!

I used to be a server. Back in the day, I had a place that was consistent and gave me a set schedule that worked with my life. The manager was considerate and really made sure I didn’t feel like I was taken advantage of. He was super flexible and really tried to make it work for everyone. None of the “I’m the boss i decide the schedule and I don’t care if you have a life outside work”. I also try to be like this and my team is pretty happy I think.

Set schedules, comfortable uniform, treat everyone professionally. Be open to suggestions to help things run more efficiently.

Gotta be honest, as long as you show the most baseline level of competency, and don't let anyone put hands on a woman in your establishment, no matter the circumstance, you're doing better than 80% of owners. It's all up after that.

Honestly...good management. I made great money at a place but the management was so negative and awful...I'd rather have a root canal without novicane then continue to work there. Atta boys and girls often...if it's a particular grueling night...make or buy some pizza for the crew, have xmas parties, remember birthdays with cakes so everyone gets to celebrate...etc... make the staff feel seen and important goes a long way.

I was recently hired at a new place for me, 3 years in operation. It is the atmosphere, and I wanted/needed a job, got an interview and 10 days later got hired - kinda' like on the spot, with no 2nd interview - and I never asked what the pay was. I'm in another universe/galaxy at this place. It's the people, the exec who is like a teacher, kind and helpful, and the people on the line, as well as the servers. Make the atmosphere what people want to come to work for, give compliments, and with success help from staff, reward them with more pay, and maybe an occasional bonus, and they will want to stay.

Lead by example. Show that you're not asking people to do anything you wouldn't do yourself. Give the respect you expect. People took the job. That means they all want to be there. We're all here for the same reason. Let's get it done the best way possible and we can all go home proud of our jobs.

For me, decent flexibility and schedules that make sense. Managers and leaders who are semi-decent individuals. I have to be honest, it doesn’t take much for me to be impressed, but I’ve been in some bad places.

Apart from your employees treating the customers as kings,you as the employer should treat your staff as the king's right-hand and a wealth generator.
They(staffs) are the foot soldiers,deals with everything on the ground and you(employer)as a commander, should give necessary required weapons/tools and space..No rocket science.

Honestly. Just be good to your staff. Show them respect and treat them like an equal. I’ve worked for some horrible people. I didn’t want to do ANYTHING for them.. my customers ,yes. But for them,nope… So it makes the vibe very apparent and uncomfortable. Being treated like a real person gets you a lot. You’ll get things done faster,better,and with a smile!!
It’s all about respect.
Now if I could just find a job (period) I’d take any kind of attitude they want to give me. It’s so difficult to find a serving:bartending job anywhere!! It’s disheartening to say the least.

As a server, one thing that I find crucial to keeping a restaurant alive is serious teamwork. When someone is in the weeds, someone else should jump in. If it's not too busy, everyone should join in on the deep cleaning. It should never just be one person running around while others are sitting on a chair, staring at their phones, or chatting.
Also, your servers take care of the guests, so make sure there is some support. The more the server is able to sell, the more money the whole restaurant makes!

I’ve been a server and a bartender

Looking for a job sir . I ready to work with you .

Management is the key to keeping help, People don't quit jobs they usually quit management,

Honestly sometimes it's not about the best pay. I'm a fabulous server and extremely hard worker. With amazing problem solving skills fast on my feet and deticated. If it came down to, for myself, a place that is uptight uncomfortable walking on egg shell type vibe where I'm scared to be myself vs the homey welcoming inviting place id take the later. I personally don't want to work somewhere where I feel like if I step one toe out of line I'm gone. I want to be the best I can be for the restaurant I'm working in. Wether it be fine dining or fast casual. I'm currently seeking employment if you need someone who has tough skin and wants to stay with a place for awhile, just saying.