What Are Bar Managers Looking For?

If you’re looking for bar work in Sydney, The Keystone Group’s National Bars Manager, Manuel Terron, reveals what he looks for in his staff.

What key things does a bartender need to find work behind a bar?

The most obvious is experience and an RSA certificate, but for me the key is passion, that is something that you cannot teach someone.

How important is it to have an RSA and an RCG? Can you employ someone without them?

In today’s climate of overregulation, it is essential to have an RSA, otherwise you can’t work in Australia. RCG will give you the option to work in a gaming environment, but not a necessity for bar work.

Will the type of experience required depend on the venue?

Definitely. The experience for a pub is on a more basic level, whereas without solid cocktail experience, it would be near impossible to find work behind a cocktail bar.

What can someone do if they have no previous bar experience?

The best thing to do is gain a foothold in the industry either waiting tables, bar-backing or something that is more basic and doesn’t require too much technical knowledge. Then work towards learning from the people working the bar and wait for the chance where you can move laterally.

Can a new employee expect to do a trial shift? What sort of things would they be asked to show?

All new employees must prove themselves on a series of trial shifts where they would have to show they’re capable of handling the tills or POS system, knowledge needed for that particular style of bar and the passion or desire to want to be at the venue and in this business.

Does the Keystone Group have a training program? What can bartenders expect if working for Keystone?

What we try and do at Keystone is provide an environment where bartenders are mentored and trained to elevate their current skill set through our Elite program and within the venues from our Key Staff. They are also given the opportunities to move throughout the group to experience different types of service and again build on the knowledge they currently have.

How can bartenders continue to improve their skills?

Read! Practice! Persevere! Work hard! I would also add to this to get into cocktail competitions as they will push the creativity and provide a forum to become better.

If someone was on a working holiday visa, would this put managers off hiring them?

Not at all, especially when the busy season comes along.

How would you describe the Sydney bar industry?

It is probably one of the top cities globally for quality bartenders. With that said it is also difficult to find staff here…

What are the best things about working in the bar industry?

I’m sure 100 people would have 100 different answers. I would say that apart from the friendships built in this industry, it is about creating a moment or experience for someone that lasts forever!

You can get essential bar skills and experience on a range of courses with BarMax. With several locations in Sydney and around NSW, head to www.barmax.com.au

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