Are you looking for a way to make some extra cash on the side? Perhaps a second job that’s flexible and fun? Have you ever considered bartending? That’s right, you could be the life of the party and earn some extra income while you’re at it. But can you be a bartender as a side job? Is it really that simple?
Many people choose to pick up bartending as a side job because it offers a lot of flexibility. You can work evenings and weekends, leaving your weekdays free for your full-time job or other commitments. Plus, it’s a social and active job that can be both enjoyable and rewarding. But being a bartender is more than just pouring drinks and cracking jokes. It requires a specific set of skills and personality traits that not everyone possesses.
If you think bartending could be the ideal side job for you, there are a few things you need to consider before you start pouring. Do you have the confidence and charisma it takes to engage with all types of people? Can you handle the fast-paced environment and handle multiple orders at once? Do you have a good memory for drink recipes and orders? These are just a few things to think about when deciding if bartending is the right side gig for you.
Opportunities for Part-Time Bartending
If you have ever considered becoming a bartender as a side job, there are plenty of opportunities to do so. In fact, bartending is one of the most popular part-time jobs for those looking to earn extra income. The rise of the gig economy has also made it easier for people to find part-time bartending gigs, as many bars and restaurants are now turning to staffing agencies or freelance websites to find workers for busy nights.
- Banquets and Events: Catering companies and event venues often need bartenders to serve drinks at weddings, corporate events, and other special occasions. This type of part-time bartending work usually pays well and allows for flexible scheduling.
- Nightclubs: If you enjoy working late nights and weekends, bartending at nightclubs can be a lucrative part-time job. Keep in mind that these types of establishments can be fast-paced and require experience in handling rowdy crowds.
- Restaurants and Bars: Many restaurants and bars require part-time bartenders to work during busy shifts, such as weekend nights or happy hour. Keep an eye out for job listings or directly reach out to local establishments to inquire about part-time positions.
While part-time bartending can be a great way to earn extra money, it’s important to note that it can also be physically demanding and require strong communication and multitasking skills. It’s also essential to obtain any necessary certifications or licenses required by your state or city before getting started.
Benefits of bartending as a side job
Are you looking for a way to supplement your income while maintaining your current job? Consider becoming a bartender as a side job. Here are some of the benefits:
- Flexible Schedule: As a bartender, you can typically choose the shifts that work best for your schedule. This can be especially beneficial if you have a traditional 9-5 job or have other commitments that may conflict with a more rigid schedule.
- Extra Income: Depending on the location, bartenders can earn a substantial amount in tips alone. This additional income can help with paying off debt or saving up for a special purchase or vacation.
- Social Setting: Bartending can be a great way to meet new people and expand your social circle. It’s a unique environment where you can develop relationships with regular customers and create a sense of community within your workplace.
But it’s not just the financial and social benefits that make bartending an excellent side job. It also offers a chance to develop crucial skills that can benefit you in your primary career, such as:
- Customer Service: As a bartender, you are responsible for providing excellent customer service to a wide range of personalities. These skills can translate well to other customer-facing positions or even management roles.
- Time Management: A bartender must be able to multitask and manage their time effectively, especially during peak hours. This skill can be applied to other roles where being efficient and organized is critical.
- Teamwork: Working in a busy bar environment requires teamwork and collaboration. You’ll have the opportunity to work with a diverse group of people, learn from them, and build upon your teamwork skills.
Overall, the benefits of bartending as a side job are plentiful. Not only can it provide you with additional income, but it can help you develop essential skills that will benefit you in other areas of your life and career.
Tips for balancing a bartending side job with a full-time job
Having a side job as a bartender is a great way to earn extra money, but it can also be challenging to balance it with a full-time job. Here are some tips to help you balance your bartending side gig with your primary job:
- Create a schedule: Plan your bartending shifts around your full-time job schedule. Make sure you block off time for your primary responsibilities, such as work and rest, before you schedule any bartending shifts.
- Manage your time: Use your time wisely and avoid any distractions that may interfere with your productivity like watching TV or scrolling through social media. Instead, use any downtime you have between shifts to relax and recharge for the next one.
- Stay organized: Keep track of your schedule and bartending earnings. You can use a calendar or scheduling app to prevent double booking or overlapping schedules. Additionally, monitoring your bartending earnings will help you verify the increase in income.
Communication Tips: Full-Time Employer And Bartender Employer
Communication is key for managing multiple jobs. Consider these communication tips:
- Tell your full-time employer exactly what you’re doing. This can prevent any misunderstandings and conflict of interest. Make sure that you let your supervisor know that your bartending work won’t interfere with your job commitments.
- Let your bartender employer know your full-time job schedule also. Providing them with your already booked dates where you won’t be available to work can help avoid any scheduling conflicts and miscommunication.
- Be honest about your work schedule limitations and be mindful of your time constraints. You need to ensure that your full-time employer and your bartending employer respect each other’s schedules. Examples are:
Full-Time Job Priorities Side Job Priorities Monday to Friday Weekend Nights Early First Shifts Lateshifts Holiday seasons and Festivals dates Festival events and the holiday season
Time Management Techniques for a Side-Gig Bartender
Here are additional time management techniques you can use to balance your bartending work with your day job:
- Create a routine: Following a consistent routine is the key to having a well-managed schedule. Establishing a balance between your work schedule, social activities, exercise, and of course, your rest.
- Be efficient: Use any available downtime you have to perform personal or domestic duties and ensure they do not clash with each other. Consider using meal prep time for lunch periods in the full-time job or get yourself organized by making your laundry, in between bartending shifts space to prevent being overwhelmed with chores after work
- Self-care practices: Ensure that you get good quality sleep, eat healthily, hydrate, and do things that relax you. Don’t forget to spend time on activities outside of work and bartending, such as spending time with family, friends, and maintaining social networks.
Essential skills needed for part-time bartending
Part-time bartending can be a great way to earn extra income while exploring your passion for mixing drinks and socializing with customers. However, to succeed in this field, it’s essential to possess a set of skills that will set you apart from the competition. Here are some of the most important skills you need to be a successful part-time bartender:
- Good communication skills: A part-time bartender needs to be an excellent communicator. You will be dealing with customers all the time, and you need to be able to communicate effectively with them to ensure they have an exceptional experience.
- Attention to detail: The art of making great cocktails is all about precision and attention to detail. Part-time bartenders must pay close attention to the measurements of different ingredients of a drink to achieve just the right balance of flavors.
- Multi-tasking: Part-time bartending involves handling multiple tasks simultaneously. You will need to prepare different drinks, collect payment from customers, clean the bar, and also engage in conversations with customers.
Training and certification
Although possessing the right skills and attitude is a good start, getting proper training and certification can significantly improve your chance of success as a part-time bartender. Some essential training and certification include:
- Bartender school: Attending a reputable bartender school can provide you with the necessary knowledge and skills to be a successful part-time bartender. You can choose from an in-person or online course depending on your preference and budget.
- Alcohol serving certification: Most states require bartenders to obtain certification before they can serve alcohol legally. The certification process is usually straightforward and involves taking a short course and exam.
The importance of a positive attitude
To be a successful part-time bartender, you need to have a positive attitude. You must be friendly, approachable, and able to engage in meaningful conversations with customers. Many people come to bars to unwind and socialize, and having someone who can make them feel welcome and valued can make all the difference.
Bartending tools
Part-time bartending requires the use of different tools, and having them at your disposal can make your work easier and help you produce better drinks. Some of the necessary tools include:
| Tool | Function |
|---|---|
| Shaker | Used to combine two or more ingredients and mix them together |
| Jigger | Used to measure the quantity of ingredients for a cocktail accurately |
| Hawthorne Strainer | Used to strain ice and other solid ingredients from a cocktail |
| Muddler | Used to crush or grind herbs, fruits, and spices to release their flavors into a cocktail |
As a part-time bartender, being prepared with the necessary skills, training, equipment, and tools is essential to succeed in this profession. Practice makes perfect, so the more you practice, the better you’ll become, and who knows – bartending might turn into your full-time career!
How to Find Part-Time Bartending Jobs
Bartending can be a fun and rewarding job, but it’s not always a full-time career for everyone. If you’re looking to make some extra money or want to try your hand at bartending, finding a part-time job is a great option.
- Start with Your Network: Let your friends and family know you’re interested in bartending and ask if they know of any openings. You can also reach out to former coworkers or classmates who may work or have connections in the industry. Networking can be one of the best ways to discover opportunities and get your foot in the door.
- Check Job Websites: Online job boards like Indeed, Glassdoor, and SimplyHired can be a great resource for finding part-time bartending jobs. You can search by location, hours, and experience to find job openings that match your needs. Be sure to check the websites frequently as new jobs are added all the time.
- Visit Local Bars: Sometimes the old-fashioned way is the best way. Simply walk into a bar or restaurant and ask if they have any part-time bartending positions available. Bring along a copy of your resume and be prepared to answer any questions the manager may have about your experience and availability. It’s a good idea to hit up bars and restaurants that you’re interested in working at.
If you’re having trouble finding a part-time bartending job, consider working as a barback or server. It’s a great way to get your foot in the door and gain some experience in the industry. Once you’ve established yourself, you’ll have a better chance of securing a bartending role.
Overall, finding a part-time bartending job is all about being proactive and persistent. Keep your eyes open for opportunities and don’t be afraid to put yourself out there. With a bit of effort, you’ll be mixing drinks and making money in no time.
Potential earnings from bartending as a side job
Bartending can be a lucrative side job for those who are social and enjoy the energy of a bar or nightclub. The amount of money earned from bartending as a side job varies depending on a variety of factors, including location, experience, and the type of establishment worked in. Here are a few things to keep in mind when considering the potential earnings from bartending as a side job:
- Hourly rate: Bartenders typically earn an hourly rate in addition to tips. Hourly rates can range from minimum wage to $20 or more per hour, depending on the establishment and the bartender’s experience.
- Tips: Tips are where bartenders can really make some serious money. Depending on the establishment and the night, bartenders can earn anywhere from $50 to $500 or more in tips in a single shift. Tips are typically based on the quality of service provided and the number of drinks served.
- Type of establishment: The type of establishment can also impact a bartender’s earnings. Bartenders in high-end bars and nightclubs can earn significantly more in tips than those working in dive bars or casual restaurants.
While it’s difficult to provide an exact number for the potential earnings of a bartender as a side job, here is a table that provides a general idea of the hourly pay and potential tip earnings based on the type of establishment:
| Type of Establishment | Hourly Pay | Potential Tip Earnings |
|---|---|---|
| Dive bar or casual restaurant | $10-$15 | $20-$200 per shift |
| Mid-range bar or restaurant | $15-$20 | $100-$400 per shift |
| High-end bar or nightclub | $20-$30 | $250-$500 per shift |
It’s important to note that these numbers are just estimates and individual earnings can vary widely. However, it’s clear that bartending can be a lucrative side job for those who have the skills and personality to succeed in the industry.
Balancing the social aspects of bartending with other commitments
Bartending is a profession that requires a lot of social interaction, and it can be challenging to balance those social aspects with other commitments you may have in your life. However, with some careful planning and self-discipline, it is possible to juggle both bartending and other responsibilities. Here are some tips to help you manage:
- Schedule your time wisely – Make sure you allocate enough time for your other commitments such as family, school, or any other jobs. This will give you a clear idea of when you can work in bartending shifts.
- Don’t over-commit – It can be tempting to take up every bartending shift that comes your way, especially if you are trying to make extra money. However, this can quickly lead to burnout and exhaustion. Only take up shifts that you can manage without sacrificing your other commitments.
- Communicate with your employer – Your employer should understand that bartending is not your only responsibility and will likely be accommodating if you need to take time off or reduce your shifts. Make sure you communicate your schedule and availability well in advance.
Another challenge when balancing the social aspects of bartending is taking care of yourself. Late nights, stressful customers, and the pressure to perform can take a toll on your mental and physical health. Here are some ways to take care of yourself:
- Get enough sleep – Make sure you get a reasonable amount of sleep, especially after a long and late shift.
- Stay hydrated – Bartending can be physically demanding, and it’s important to stay hydrated to keep your energy levels up.
- Practice self-care – Whether it’s meditation, yoga, or another self-care practice, make sure you have some time set aside to take care of your mental and emotional well-being.
Finally, you should also be mindful of the social aspects of bartending and how they can impact your other commitments. Some customers may want to chat and socialize for extended periods, which can be fun but may also eat into your time. Here are some ways to manage:
Setting boundaries – You can set boundaries with customers politely, such as telling them you have other responsibilities and need to attend to other customers. This way, you can chat and socialize without compromising the quality of service you provide.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| Great opportunity to socialize and meet new people. | Can be physically and mentally exhausting. |
| Potential to make good money in tips. | May interfere with other commitments, such as family or school. |
| Flexible schedule that can work well as a side job. | You may have to work late nights and weekends. |
Bartending can be an excellent side job that allows you to socialize and make some extra money. However, to balance the social aspects of bartending with other commitments, it’s important to schedule your time wisely, communicate with your employer, take care of yourself, and set boundaries with customers.
Can You Be a Bartender as a Side Job? FAQs
1. Do I need previous experience to be a bartender as a side job?
No, you don’t need previous experience, but some bartending schools offer certification courses that can help you acquire the skills you need to work as a bartender.
2. How much can I earn as a bartender working part-time?
It varies depending on the establishment where you work, but on average, bartenders earn around $20 per hour in tips and wages.
3. Do I have to work late hours as a part-time bartender?
Most of the time, bartenders work during the evening and late hours when bars are busiest. However, some establishments may have daytime shifts available as well.
4. Will I have a flexible schedule as a side job bartender?
Yes, working as a bartender part-time can offer a flexible schedule that allows you to work around other commitments.
5. Do I need to have a special license to be a bartender?
Yes, you will need to obtain a bartending license, which varies by state. Most places have courses and testing available to help you obtain the necessary license for bartending.
6. Can I do a bartending gig just for a one-time event?
Yes, some businesses offer event bartending services, which can be a one-time gig or recurring events. It’s a great way to gain experience and earn extra money.
7. Is it possible to turn bartending into a full-time career?
Yes, it is possible to turn bartending into a full-time career if you have the skills and are willing to commit to the industry.
Closing Thoughts
Thanks for reading our FAQs about bartending as a side job! Bartending can be a profitable and fun way to earn extra money while also gaining valuable skills. Remember to check your local laws and regulations before applying for a bartending job and become certified before starting. We hope to see you again soon!