I'm not really sure where to post this since I'm not a teen anymore. I have recently started a new job as a waiter at a chain restaurant. So far it's been about five days on my own, and I find it difficult at times. There is plenty of running around because of certain unlimited appetizers. It becomes more difficult when they cut the people who make the unlimited appetizers and we have to make it ourselves with a smaller wait staff. I had a terrible night, two nights ago, and I had a talk with my manager. He told me there were two customer complaints, but that he sees my ability to improve. He noted on my sincerity with the guests (customers) and my focus, but that I was trying to do too much at once and move too fast. My co-workers say this is nothing different than from their first month. Everytime I end up performing sub-par (in my opinion) to my guests, I take it personally. Actually for two nights so far I've stayed up quite late thinking how I could have done better. Perhaps this is from insufficient training? This is making me feel less confident in myself and depressed. I'm thinking about trying to just get a cashier job at a local pharmacy instead. Less pay though.
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Being too hard on myself?
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Hey there Drw. I think you should wait it out some more. One month is (in my opinion) too short of a time to judge anything, aside from maybe underwear preferences. It sounds like you're doing fine, and you have lots of time to learn how to be a better waiter. Everyone has to learn at least a couple new skills with any new job, let alone one where you deal with people everyday and have to be very personable. I think you should give it some more time and see how you do.
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Thanks for those words. I did have a more successful day, yesterday. It being a Tuesday where it was semi busy was a factor when comparing it to a Friday night. I did make two very minor mistakes, but that shows me that I wasn't focused enough. As long as I can adjust my work schedule to fit my needs, I think I might keep this for a little while.
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Keep in mind that you JUST started. Of course you're going to get better in time! Put these things behind you and focus on improvement and take the things your boss is saying to you as advice and learn from that. He's telling you these things because he knows you can improve and he has faith.. if he didn't he would have fired you by now.
Stay strong and dont be so hard on yourself. -
I agree with others too. Everybody has to start somewhere but it takes time. You need to learn from mistakes and improve. There is no need to be hard on yourself. Also try relaxing yourself and don't let stress build up. Best of luck with your work.