What Bartenders Don’t Like About Their Customers: An Inside Look

Introduction

Being a bartender is a challenging but rewarding job. However, it's not without its fair share of colorful and frustrating customer experiences. Many bartenders have encountered various issues and nuances in their daily work, from the rude and obnoxious to the extra-sensitive. Their experiences can often be the subject of stories and jokes but they also highlight the importance of understanding and respecting bar etiquette.

The Rude and Aggressive Customer

One of the most common complaints among bartenders is dealing with aggressive and rude customers. These individuals can be a nightmare to serve, as their behavior often leaves a lasting negative impression. Even the most skilled and experienced bartenders can find it challenging to remain calm and professional in the face of constant criticism, unprovoked rudeness, and even physical threats. Such encounters not only affect the bartender's mental well-being but can also impact the working atmosphere of the entire establishment.

Lookdown and Disrespectful Customers

Respect is something that every bartender values and deserves. However, there are customers who, due to their demeanor, can make serving them a daunting task. Bartenders often come across customers who look down on them, treat them as if they are inferior, or simply don't appreciate the hard work and skills that go into their job. While it's important to provide service to all customers, these attitudes can make it difficult to maintain a positive and professional demeanor, especially when they hinder the smooth running of the bar.

Mindfulness and Sensitive Issues

There are also customers who are dealing with their own internal turmoil and may ask for help or express themselves in ways that make the bartender uncomfortable. Bartenders often have to tread a fine line between being compassionate and professional, especially in such situations. They need to be able to handle sensitive conversations or emotional outbursts with care and respect, all while ensuring that the rest of the customers are not disrupted.

Common Behaviors That Aggravate Bartenders

Drunks Rudeness

Drunk customers can be particularly difficult to handle. Their behavior can range from mild irritation to outright aggression. Whether it's vocal abuse, inappropriate gestures, or even physical altercations, dealing with drunk patrons can be incredibly stressful. Bartenders often have to take a stand and enforce rules, sometimes without the backing of a supervisor, which can be challenging.

Know-it-alls and Smartmouths

Customers who believe they know it all, or those with an excessive need to prove their knowledge, can be a nuisance. These individuals often dominate conversations and may not listen to others. Bartenders may find it frustrating when these customers continually show off their knowledge or dismiss the expertise of the bartenders, even when it is clear that the bartenders have the correct information. This behavior can not only disrupt the bar’s flow but can also make the bartender feel undervalued and disrespected.

Yellers and Whistlers

Overly loud customers who yell or whistle can be extremely disruptive. For instance, someone who persistently whistles while ordering their drinks can create a chaotic environment in which it becomes nearly impossible to take orders or communicate effectively. Meanwhile, yellers can make it difficult for bartenders to focus on their work and provide a great service, especially when the noise levels are high and it becomes hard to process orders accurately.

Money Tossers and Floor Jerks

Customers who casually toss their money onto the bar or those who walk off without paying can be a significant stress for bartenders. This not only frustrates the bartender but can also create an unfair and uncomfortable situation. Additionally, customers who insist on the bar floor—making it difficult to clean and maintain a professional and clean environment—can be particularly bothersome, especially when there are other responsible and respectful customers also in the establishment.

Show-offs and Creeps

Show-offs can be a source of irritation, as they often flaunt their wealth or engage in attention-seeking behavior, which can distract from the needs of other patrons. Creepy customers can also present a real concern for bartenders, as they may create a hostile and uncomfortable environment. Body language, tone of voice, and other subtle signs can alert bartenders to such individuals, but handling these situations can be delicate and require a certain level of sensitivity and objectivity.

Flirters and Trolls

While some flirtatious behavior from customers can be fun, overly persistent flirtation or trolling can be a real issue. Customers who try to make inappropriate remarks or continuously intrude on conversations can make little to no business, but can significantly detract from the overall atmosphere. Moreover, persistent flirtation can create a hostile work environment, making it challenging for bartenders to perform their duties without feeling unwelcome or threatened.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while the role of a bartender is not without its challenges, understanding these common issues can help both bartenders and customers create a more pleasant and productive environment. By developing an awareness of these issues, customers can show more respect and understanding towards the hard work of bartenders, while bartenders can focus on providing excellent service with a sharper and more mindful approach to their challenges.