Your interactions with guests are important. The most important interaction, however, may be the very first: greeting your guests. Making guests feel welcome goes a long way towards making their dining experience a good one.
Use a polite and friendly greeting when a guest walks in or pulls into the drive-through. For example, you could say, “Hi, how may I help you?” or, “Thanks for coming in tonight. How many are in your party?” If a guest has had a long wait, it’s a good idea to acknowledge it. You could say something like, “Thanks for being so patient. Lunch hour can get very busy.” Additionally, some restaurants may suggest a preferred greeting for employees to use, which can be a helpful tool.
The words you say are not the only way you communicate with guests; your body language also says a lot. Keep your posture and facial expressions open and welcoming. Stand up straight, look customers in the eye, and wear a friendly smile. Even if you are staffing a drive-through, it’s important to smile; a positive facial expression reflects itself in the tone of your voice.
Last but not least, welcome guests to your workplace by maintaining a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. A well-kept establishment gives customers a positive message right away, so work with your coworkers to keep things tidy. Also, even when working quickly, try not to look rushed or hassled. A calm voice and steady walking pace create a relaxed atmosphere. If you work at the counter of a casual restaurant, be patient when taking customer orders; give your guests time to read the menu, and answer any questions respectfully. If a customer remains unclear as to what they want, you might ask, “Is there anything I can do to help you decide?”
Taking the time to welcome guests builds the reputation of your restaurant and encourages guests to return. When you make a strong enough impression, you may even earn better tips.
—Katie Heil
FAQs
Use a polite and friendly greeting when a guest walks in or pulls into the drive-through. For example, you could say, “Hi, how may I help you?” or, “Thanks for coming in tonight. How many are in your party?” If a guest has had a long wait, it's a good idea to acknowledge it.
What do waiters say when welcoming guests in restaurants? ›
The language used during the greeting should be polite, friendly, and professional. Encourage your own staff member to use phrases such as "Welcome," "Good evening," or "How may I assist you?" This helps customers feel acknowledged and sets a welcoming tone.
What to say when welcoming guests? ›
Some suggested Some suggestions include; Hello, welcome; Welcome, good morning; Hello, good afternoon, welcome. Introduce yourself by name making sure your communication is professional, yet personal. “Great to meet you, I'm Nikko”. If occupied with another guest, it is important to acknowledge arriving guests.
How do you welcome a customer as a waitress? ›
Guests should be greeting immediately. They must be acknowledged within 30 seconds of arriving. Greet your guests with a genuine smile and a, "Welcome to ABC Restaurant". This is the time to also check the number of pax (covers) as well as whether they made a reservation or not.
What is an example of what a server should say when greeting a table? ›
Server Greeting Examples
[Howdy, Hiya, What's hangin'?], I'm [first name]. Let me know if you have any questions during your meal, I'm here to help. Hi folks, my name is [first name]. Can I start you all off with our specials? [Dish] is my favorite, I just tried it recently.
What to say to guests as a server? ›
Making guests feel welcome goes a long way towards making their dining experience a good one. Use a polite and friendly greeting when a guest walks in or pulls into the drive-through. For example, you could say, “Hi, how may I help you?” or, “Thanks for coming in tonight.
How to welcome a guest script sample? ›
It gives me immense pleasure to welcome you all to this special event. We are truly honored by your presence today and we are thrilled to have you share this momentous occasion with us. As an anchor, my task is to guide you all through this event, making sure it's a memorable one for everyone involved.
What is a short welcome message for guests? ›
Short Welcome Messages
Example #1: Hi <name>, we are so happy you chose us for your stay. We can't wait to make your adventure unforgettable! Example #2: We are ready to make your stay the best one ever! Welcome <name> and enjoy your time with us.
How do you make guests feel extra welcome? ›
- 1 Prepare in advance. One of the best ways to ensure your guests feel welcome is to prepare in advance. ...
- 2 Greet them warmly. ...
- 3 Show them around. ...
- 4 Anticipate their needs. ...
- 5 Follow up with them. ...
- 6 Invite them back. ...
- 7 Here's what else to consider.
Celebrate that they're here
Every great welcome message should focus on welcoming your team member to their new position, team, and company. Phrases like “welcome to the team”, “we're so glad you're here”, and “we can't wait to get to know you” all let your new hire know you're excited about their presence.
Take these 5 tips to ensure your customers never walk out your door dissatisfied:
- 1) Smile with your greeting. Sam Walton was probably onto something when he hired employees to specifically greet customers entering the store. ...
- 2) Stop what you are doing. ...
- 3) Show, don't tell. ...
- 4) Ask questions. ...
- 5) Dress professionally.
A simple phrase such as “We're so glad to hear you enjoyed your experience and we hope to see you again soon” or “Thank you for dining with us, we're thrilled to know you had a great time” can make all the difference.
What to say to greet customers? ›
15 Excellent Customer Service Greeting Examples to Use
- “Hello, My name is… ...
- “Thank you for bringing this to our attention”
- “Is there anything else I can do for you today?”
- “Happy to help!”
- “Thank you for being our customer”
- “I'm glad I could help, have a great day”
- “I don't know”
say Good afternoon,welcome to, the Restaurant name,introduce yourself and give them all menu,open menus when presenting them to the guest. Take their drinks orders,or you may present a wine list,and later with the food.
How do you introduce yourself as a waiter? ›
Introduce yourself by saying, “Good evening, my name is [your name], and I will be your server tonight. If you have any questions or need any assistance, please feel free to ask.” This introduction not only establishes your role but also reassures guests that you are available to cater to their needs.
What are some words or phrases that waiters at nice restaurants use? ›
Proper Waiter Language
| Yes | Thank You |
|---|
| Not a problem | Have a good one |
| No worries | Take it easy |
| Right away! | Take care |
| My pleasure | Come again |
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