A waiter applying for a job needs to show employers that they have the physical stamina needed to service customers by presenting menus, taking orders and delivering food to their table.
Are you looking for a Waiter job? If so then you’ve got to know the skills, competencies and abilities needed for the role, as they are exactly what potential employers will expect you to have. However, before you start putting these in your CV, it’s best to find out precisely what the position requires from an applicant. It’s only when you have this information that you can be sure that you are giving the employer what they want.
By: Iejaz Uddin – Updated: 23 January 2026
Importance of skills in your CV
To stand out from other candidates its vital that you list your most relevant skills., as this is the best way to stand out from the competition. Additionally the industry specific keywords used to describe your skills can help your application get past any automated Application Tracking System that a Hiring Manager is using to screen CVs.
What skills to focus on
Waiters play a key role in delivering exceptional service and creating memorable dining experiences for guests. Show recruiters you are a highly motivated individual who understands timing, anticipation, and guest flow. Stress that you take pride in delivering seamless, memorable service every shift.
Key skills for a Waiter
Today’s Waiters need a wide range of skills to to perform effectively in a busy food and hospitality environment. They have to be able to work both sides of a counter, wearing many hats during the day and give perfect customer service to every diner and foodie.
Provide a great dining experience
Restaurant owners and caterers want to see evidence that you can create a enjoyable eating experience. Do this by explaining that you’re a foodies who believes life should be full of flavour and that you will bring your unique flavour to work.
Waiter hard skills
Hard skills and practical, quantifiable and technical abilities that are usually gained through front line working experience. Below is a list of must have hard technical skills that should be included in your CV or cover letter.
Taking Orders
- Ensuring that food and drinks are delivered accurately and efficiently.
- Can upsell specials, add-ons, and beverages.
Customer Service
- Greeting and seating guests in a professional and friendly manner.
- Handling guest queries and complaints with professionalism and courtesy.
- Ensuring guests feel seen, welcomed, and genuinely looked after.
- Responding quickly to needs of the customer and managers.
Menu Knowledge
- Having a good understanding of the food, dishes and drinks being offered, along with related allergens and specials.
- Ability to explain dishes, ingredients, and preparation methods clearly.
- Can accurately answer guest questions about food and what is on the menu.
Table Maintenance
- Can set tables, clear used dishes, and ensure the dining area remains clean and tidy.
- Knowledge of silver spoon service and able to bring food from the kitchen on large silver platters.
- Keeping tables clean, organized, and presentable at all times.
Bar Management
- Keeping an eye on stock levels and topping up supplies whenever needed.
- Ensuring that food is displayed appropriately and complies with food safety and health policies.
- Following responsible alcohol service guidelines and asking for identification from patrons who may be underage.
Teamwork
- Supporting colleagues who might be overwhelmed and contributing to smooth restaurant operations.
- Collaborating effectively with kitchen, bar, and other staff.
- Contributing positively to team culture and performance.
- Liaising with team members to maintain a high level of hospitality and service.
- Supporting colleagues by covering key busy times and assisting during staff absences.
Multitasking
- Juggling multiple diners orders, tables, and other kitchen tasks simultaneously.
- Can remain aware of the status of different tables at all times.
Using point-of-sale systems
Show you can utilise software to assign patrons to tables, take orders, send orders to the kitchen staff and process cash or card payments.
- Processing payments accurately and efficiently.
- Comfortable using digital ordering and payment systems.
Food safety
Tell recruiters you know how to handle food and utensils safely according to food safety policies and procedures.
- Understand how to prevent cross-contamination between foods.
- Ensuring that food is free from contaminants such as bacteria, viruses, chemicals and physical objects.
Waiter soft skills
Soft sales skills are personal attributes and traits that are not of a technical nature or related to product knowledge. Listed below are a list of soft skills that could boost your application.
Attention to Detail
- Able to remember orders, dietary needs, and small requests in absolute detail and without error.
- Taking accurate food and drink orders.
Calm Under Pressure
- Remaining cool, calm and composed in a busy environments with lots of activity going on.
- Can work fast and accurately without looking like I am rushing between tasks.
- Have the patience, personality and perseverance to thrive in a pressurised catering environment.
Adaptability
- Able and willing to change working hours at short notice, including covering late nights and weekends.
- Can adjust quickly to changing guest needs and service demands.
- Quick to learn new menus, procedures, and specials.
Communication
- Can explain complex menus and drinks in a clear manner to patrons.
- Serving up food and drinks with a smile.
- Strong listening and collaboration skills.
Physical
- Have the physical stamina needed for standing and walking during a long shift.
- Always smartly dressed and well groomed for work.
- Can carry trays, plates, and drinks safely and efficiently.
Waiter CV example
Restaurant Waiter CV example