A bar back, often referred to as a bar assistant or bartender assistant, is an essential role in the hospitality industry, particularly in bars and pubs.
North Light are recruiting a Bar Back! We’re explorers of the extraordinary, and we’re on the lookout for like-minded people to deliver out-of-this-world experiences with feel-good food and expertly crafted drinks in the most captivating venues across the UK.
At New World Trading Company we are all about:
Growth: Embracing new challenges, honing skills, and reaching career heights never thought possible.
We have the tools, support, and opportunities to help you grow, both personally and professionally. Belonging: Feeling valued, supported, and part of something bigger. We champion unique contributions, priorities wellbeing and strive to make a positive impact on our world.
Recognition: Being fairly rewarded for exceptional work. Our salary, torn and bonuses are industry leading and we have a Marvelous Book of Benefits for every employee… not to mention our engagement program me, Tribes, which is the stuff of industry legend. Why join us?
- 50% discount on food for you and all your guests at any of our restaurants.
- Access to the TRONC pot
- Rapidly growing, award-winning, multi-brand company.
- Transparent career progression with our in-house Management Academy
- Company pension scheme.
- An employee assistance program providing support on financial, health and legal issues.
- Discretionary benefits. What You’ll Get Up To As a Bar Back at North Light, Your role really is the backbone of our success and vital in the effective and efficient running of our bars. Guest experience is at the heart of everything you do and you will always champion our service standards whether it behind the scenes or on full view on the Bar floor As the perfect Bar Back, you will support our Bar teams and constantly learn from them to develop yourself. You will be hungry for your next step into a Bartender role and actively drive your development into your next career step. At North Light, we continue to break the mood of the modern restaurant. This means that not only do we encourage individuality, we value it! And believe our business thrives on it – from the spaces we create for guests, to the careers we build for our people – you are your only limit!
challenge’s of working with bar back
Certainly! Here are some potential challenges of working as a bar back:
- Physical Demands: The job often requires lifting heavy crates of beverages, kegs, and bags of ice. This physical aspect of the job can lead to fatigue or strain, especially during long shifts or when handling repetitive tasks.
- Fast-Paced Environment: Bars can get incredibly busy, particularly during peak hours or special events. Keeping up with the rapid pace of the bar, while also ensuring accuracy and efficiency, can be challenging.
- Prioritization: Bar backs are tasked with multiple responsibilities, such as restocking supplies, cleaning, and assisting bartenders. Knowing which tasks to prioritize, especially during busy periods, can be challenging and requires good judgment.
- Communication: Effective communication is crucial in a busy bar environment. Bar backs need to communicate efficiently with bartenders, servers, and other staff members to ensure smooth operations. Clear communication can sometimes be hindered by loud music or the hustle and bustle of the bar.
- Customer Interactions: While bar backs typically have limited direct interaction with customers compared to bartenders, they may still need to assist customers with inquiries or requests. Dealing with demanding or intoxicated customers while maintaining professionalism can be challenging.
- Learning Curve: Every bar has its own layout, inventory, and procedures. Starting as a new bar back requires learning the ropes of the specific establishment, which can take time and patience.
- Late Hours: Bars often operate late into the night, and bar backs may need to work late shifts, including evenings, weekends, and holidays. Balancing work with personal life, especially if you have other commitments, can be challenging.
- Pressure During Busy Periods: During peak hours, such as Friday or Saturday nights, the pressure to perform quickly and efficiently can be intense. Managing stress and staying focused amid a bustling crowd and high volume of orders is essential.
Despite these challenges, many people find working as a bar back to be rewarding, thanks to the opportunities for skill development, camaraderie with coworkers, and the dynamic nature of the job. With experience and dedication, bar backs can overcome these challenges and excel in their role.
benefits of working with Bar Back
Working as a bar back can offer several benefits, including:
- Industry Experience: Working as a bar back provides valuable experience in the hospitality industry, which can be beneficial if you’re interested in pursuing a career in bartending, restaurant management, or other related fields.
- Skill Development: Bar backing involves a variety of tasks, such as stocking supplies, cleaning, and assisting bartenders, which can help you develop valuable skills such as organization, time management, teamwork, and customer service.
- Networking Opportunities: Working in a bar or restaurant environment allows you to meet and interact with a diverse range of people, including customers, coworkers, and industry professionals. Networking in the hospitality industry can lead to new opportunities, career advancement, and valuable connections.
- Flexible Schedules: Many bars and restaurants offer flexible scheduling options, including evening, weekend, and part-time shifts, which can accommodate students, freelancers, or those with other commitments.
- Tips: While bar backs typically earn an hourly wage, they may also receive a share of tips from bartenders or occasionally from customers. This can provide an additional source of income and incentivize hard work and excellent service.
- Team Environment: Working in a bar or restaurant often involves collaborating with a team of coworkers to provide a positive experience for customers. The camaraderie and teamwork fostered in this environment can be rewarding and enjoyable.
- Fast-Paced Environment: The fast-paced nature of working in a bar or restaurant can be exciting and dynamic, keeping shifts interesting and engaging. If you thrive in a high-energy environment, bar backing may be a good fit for you.
- Opportunities for Advancement: Many bar backs eventually transition into bartender roles as they gain experience and develop their skills. Working as a bar back can provide a stepping stone to higher-level positions within the hospitality industry.
A bar back, often referred to as a bar assistant or bartender assistant, is an essential role in the hospitality industry, particularly in bars and pubs. The primary responsibility of a bar back is to support the bartenders and ensure smooth operations behind the bar. This may involve tasks such as:
- Stocking supplies: Bar backs restock bar supplies such as liquor, beer, wine, mixers, garnishes, and ice throughout their shift to ensure the bartenders have everything they need to serve customers.
- Cleaning and organizing: They keep the bar area clean and organized by washing glassware, wiping down surfaces, emptying trash, and maintaining cleanliness standards.
- Assisting bartenders: Bar backs help bartenders with various tasks, such as preparing garnishes, fetching ingredients, and refilling drink stations.
- Customer service: While not directly interacting with customers as much as bartenders, bar backs may occasionally assist in serving drinks, taking orders, or providing information to customers.
- Other duties: Depending on the establishment, bar backs may also be responsible for tasks such as receiving deliveries, inventory, and assisting with opening and closing managing procedures.
To find a bar job in the UK, you can search online job boards, hospitality recruitment websites, or contact local bars and pubs directly to inquire about job openings. It’s also helpful to network within the industry and keep an eye out for job postings in your area. When applying for a bar back position, highlight any relevant experience you have in the hospitality industry, such as previous bar or restaurant work, and emphasize your ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment and provide excellent customer service.
how to apply for the Job
To apply for a bar back position, you’ll want to follow these steps:
- Update your resume: Make sure your resume is up-to-date and tailored to highlight any relevant experience you have, such as previous work in the hospitality industry, customer service skills, and any certifications or training related to bartending or bar backing. CLICK HERE TO APPLY
- Search for job openings: Look for bar back positions on online job boards, hospitality industry websites, and social media platforms. You can also visit local bars, pubs, and restaurants in your area to inquire about job opportunities.
- Prepare a cover letter (optional): While not always required, a well-written cover letter can help you stand out from other applicants. Use the cover letter to introduce yourself, explain why you’re interested in the position, and highlight any relevant skills or experiences you have.
- Submit your application: Follow the instructions provided in the job posting to submit your application. This may involve filling out an online application form, sending your resume and cover letter via email, or dropping off your application in person.
- Follow up: If you haven’t heard back from the employer within a week or two of submitting your application, consider following up with a polite email or phone call to inquire about the status of your application. This demonstrates your continued interest in the position and can help keep you on the employer’s radar.
- Prepare for interviews: If you’re invited for an interview, take the time to prepare by researching the company, practicing common interview questions, and thinking about how your skills and experiences align with the requirements of the job.
- Attend the interview: Dress professionally, arrive on time, and be prepared to discuss your qualifications and why you’re interested in the bar back position. During the interview, ask questions about the job duties, work environment, and opportunities for growth within the company.
- Follow up after the interview: Send a thank-you email or note to the interviewer(s) expressing your appreciation for the opportunity to interview and reiterating your interest in the position. This helps leave a positive impression and keeps you in the employer’s thoughts as they make their hiring decision.
IN SUMMARY
By following these steps and putting your best foot forward, you can increase your chances of landing a bar job. Good luck!