Bartender Truth, 10 years in the making...

I have been fortunate enough to work in the Restaurant business as a Bartender for almost 10 years. My past jobs over the years span from Business, usually Accounting jobs to anything in Non-Profit. Bartending has been the most financially sustainable thus far and found I have a real nack for affecting peoples lives while making money at the same time. Perfect combo. Being a successful Bartender in New York City gives me a real sense that I am in charge of aspects of the job and how much money I can attain. Now on to the nitty gritty of this job. I know you've seen those funny videos on Bartender truths and behaviors by patrons. It seems we all have the same stories across the board. It's really amazing. We become peoples psychiatrist, life coach, friend, advice giver, even match-maker. These are all things that make up our 8-12 hour shifts. And the money we get to do all this isn't even close to what we should be getting. It can be exhausting not only physically but mentally as well. Aside from the fun stuff Bartending entails, the downside can be really off putting to most. 1. The Zero dollar paychecks... and I mean Zero, because if you are on the books and don't make enough it can all go to taxes. So you are basically working for FREE until your first customer and that first tip. And we all know that can be a long time until that happens on a slow day shift. 2. #METOO No secret this industry is built on what people look like and how we dress and act. It has been or was acceptable to do what you needed or take any treatment by management, coworkers, or patrons, to get that tip. With the Me Too movement that has come to the forefront. It is time to hold people accountable for their actions, even our own. We have no human resources departments especially in Mom and Pop Restaurants, so who do you tell if your job is infringing on your human rights, self esteem, and the ability to do your job in a safe space. We work for tips by providing a service but we don't just do anything for it, and should not tolerate any and all bad behavior period! 3. We are not slaves! You come to me for a service by providing food and drink. Don't be that person who wants everything done for them, exactly how you like it, says this has been the best service, you are amazing, and doesn't tip. Do not leave your house if you don't have money to eat, drink, and TIP! Tipping is not an incentive program. Even if it's bad service it's a service. So if you had someone just wait on you and you didn't appreciate the level they provided, DO NOT tip nothing. That means you just aided in slavery. We are not your personal bartender or short order cook. 4. TIP in Cash! People are carrying cash less and less but please, I implore you tip anyone providing a service in cash. Our tips should not be taxed by the establishment because the customer wants to use a Debit/Credit card. I've gone on a little long, but its my first post back in years. Lot's to say. More to come! Thank you for reading! One of my favorite quotes... "Be the Change you wish to See in the World" -GHANDI Love and Light