How to become a Bartender in Illinois

Aug 6 / Bar McMan
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Bartending can be a rewarding and dynamic career, offering the chance to interact with a diverse range of people while showcasing your creativity with drinks. If you're looking to become a bartender in Illinois, there are several steps and requirements to navigate. This article will guide you through the necessary courses, useful training, job hunting, and tips for excelling in the bartending industry.

Before we Start...

Becoming a bartender in Illinois is a fun and exciting journey! First, get your BASSET and Food Handler certifications to make sure you’re legally ready to serve drinks. You can easily do this online at www.illinoisBASSET.com. Next, boost your skills with mixology and customer service training. Start your job hunt on sites like Indeed and Glassdoor, and don't forget to network with industry pros. When you land that first job, be friendly, reliable, and quick on your feet. Expect to make a good hourly wage plus awesome tips, but be prepared for long hours. Invest in comfy, non-slip shoes and learn the lingo like “86’d” and “on the rocks.” Master the basics of pouring and handling customers, and you’ll be well on your way to a thriving bartending career. Cheers!

Step by Step

Step 1: Get Certified

1. BASSET Certification

First things first, you need to get your BASSET certification. This is a must in Illinois. BASSET (Beverage Alcohol Sellers and Servers Education and Training) teaches you all the important stuff about serving alcohol responsibly. You’ll learn how to check IDs, spot drunk customers, and handle tricky situations.

2. Food Handler Certification

Next, you need a Food Handler Certification. This proves you know how to handle food safely. It’s all about hygiene and keeping things clean.

Where to Get Certified

You can get both certifications online at www.illinoisBASSET.com. It’s easy and convenient!

Step 2: Get Some Extra Training

While the certifications are the only legal requirements, extra training can give you an edge:

Mixology Classes: Learn how to mix drinks like a pro. You’ll get to know about different spirits, liqueurs, and how to create amazing cocktails.

Customer Service Training: Knowing how to talk to and handle customers can make your job much easier and more fun.

Barista Training: If you can make a mean coffee, you’ll be even more valuable, especially in places that serve both coffee and alcohol.

Step 3: Start Looking for Jobs

Now that you’re certified and trained, it’s time to find a job. Here’s where to look:

Job Websites: Check out Indeed, Glassdoor, LinkedIn, and Craigslist.
Networking: Talk to people in the industry. Sometimes, it’s about who you know.
Local Spots: Visit local bars and restaurants. Sometimes, they have job openings posted right there.

Step 4: What Employers Want

When you apply, here’s what bars and restaurants usually look for:

Experience: If you’ve worked as a barback or server, that’s a big plus.
Personality: Be friendly, outgoing, and cool under pressure.
Reliability: Show up on time and be dependable.
Skills: Know your drinks, how to pour, and be quick without making mistakes.
Step 5: Get Your Foot in the Door

Starting out can be the hardest part. Here’s how to do it:

Start Small: Look for entry-level jobs like barback or server.
Be Eager to Learn: Show that you’re ready to learn from experienced bartenders.
Network: Join local bartender groups and attend industry events.

Step 6: Know What to Expect

Wages: Bartenders in Illinois usually make between $9 and $15 per hour.
Tips: Tips can boost your earnings. You might make an extra $100-$300 per shift, depending on where you work.

Step 7: Handle the Long Hours

Bartending means working late nights and long hours. Here’s how to cope:

Rest: Make sure you get enough sleep.
Balance: Try to balance work with your personal life.
Support: Keep in touch with friends and family for support.

Step 8: Wear the Right Shoes

You’ll be on your feet a lot, so get good shoes:

Non-Slip Shoes: Safety first! You don’t want to slip on a wet floor.
Cushioned Insoles: To keep your feet comfortable.
Durability: Invest in quality shoes that last.

Step 9: Learn the Lingo

Knowing the language of the bar is key, See our top 10 below.

Step 10: Master the Basics

Free Pouring

This is pouring drinks without a measuring tool. Practice your counting (e.g., a four-count equals one ounce) to get it right.

Pouring a Pint of Lager

Tilt the glass at a 45-degree angle.
Pour the beer down the side of the glass.
Straighten the glass as it fills, creating a nice head (1-2 inches of foam).

Step 11: Deal with Customers Like a Pro

Be Attentive: Greet customers as soon as they arrive.
Stay Calm: Handle difficult situations with patience.
Offer Suggestions: Help customers pick drinks they’ll love.

10 Common Industry Language Terms Used in Bars and Restaurants...

1. 86'd
Explanation: This means that an item is out of stock or no longer available. If you hear “we’re 86’d on chicken wings,” it means there are no more chicken wings left to serve.

2. Behind
Explanation: A warning used when moving behind someone to avoid collisions in a busy environment. If you’re carrying drinks or hot food, saying “behind” alerts others to your presence.

3. On the Rocks
Explanation: A drink served over ice. If a customer orders a whiskey “on the rocks,” they want it with ice.

4. Neat
Explanation: A drink served without ice or mixers, straight from the bottle into the glass. “I’ll take a bourbon neat” means just bourbon, no extras.

5. Last Call
Explanation: The final opportunity for customers to order drinks before the bar closes. When you hear “last call,” it’s time to wrap up orders.

6. In the Weeds
Explanation: A term used when someone is overwhelmed with tasks. If a bartender says they’re “in the weeds,” it means they’re really busy and could use some help.

7. Behind the Stick
Explanation: Refers to the bartender working behind the bar. If you’re “behind the stick,” you’re the one making the drinks.

8. Well Drink
Explanation: A basic mixed drink made with the bar’s standard, lower-cost liquors. If someone orders a “well vodka soda,” they’re getting the house vodka with soda water.

9. Happy Hour
Explanation: A designated time period with discounted drinks and sometimes food. Bars use “happy hour” to attract more customers during slower times.

10. Tab
Explanation: A running total of a customer’s orders. If someone wants to “start a tab,” they’re planning to pay for all their drinks at once, usually at the end of their visit.

Conclusion...

Embarking on a bartending career in Illinois is an exciting and rewarding journey. By following the steps outlined in this guide, from obtaining your BASSET and Food Handler certifications to mastering essential bartending skills, you'll be well-prepared to enter the industry. Remember, you can complete your required training conveniently online at www.illinoisBASSET.com.

If you have any questions or need further assistance, feel free to reach out to us at support@illinoisBASSET.com. We're here to help you every step of the way. Cheers to your new career in bartending! 🥂

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