There are a few characteristics that all professionals have in common, regardless of what industry they represent. One of those traits is the willingness to invest in personal betterment. That investment takes the form of both time and money in exchange for education, tools, travel, networking opportunities, professional attire, etc. As professional bartenders, we are not exempt. Those who are taken seriously are on a continuous path of personal investment.

Not unlike carpenters, bartenders have tools…and serious bartenders own theirs. You can certainly ask your owner to cover the cost of a new muddler or mixing glass, but then it belongs to them. I purchase my own tools as often as possible. When I leave, it leaves. Owning your own tools is a statement about your willingness to invest in yourself and your trade. If you want to call yourself a professional bartender, tool ownership is required.

Another area of requirement is ongoing education. It is important to budget a certain number of hours per week for education outside of work. This can manifest itself as time spent sifting through on-line articles and spirits publications. It might also involve attending a brand-sponsored event to learn more about a particular product. In an industry where products and trends are constantly evolving, there is a never-ending flow of information to keep up on. There are also a number of available certification paths. Basic sommelier, cicerone, and spirits certifications are highly accessible. Certifications, however, can get pricey, and I certainly understand that one could opt for the information without paying for the official certifications. While I am not implying that every bartender needs to seek every certification under the sun, I am implying that certifications represent personal investment. It is up to each of us to determine what certifications are appropriate for our personal professional needs.

Finally, networking is an incredibly worthwhile investment. I am currently spearheading the formation of a USBG chapter in our market, and I am excited to engage myself and my market within the USBG community. USBG Pulse is an incredible resource to get to know the bartenders within your market, as well as those outside it. Here are some additional tips for professional networking:

  • Become acquainted with brand-reps, and offer your place of employment as an event site.
  • Make it a point to visit bars in other markets (either on-line or, preferably, in person), and take note of what is working for them.
  • Participate in as many competitions as possible, for both exposure and inspiration.
  • Get involved with the community. Consider a night where you donate your tips to a specific cause. (Be sure to check with your city/state to comply with any charity event regulations.)
  • Be an ambassador of the trade. Your best networking opportunity is across the bar, which will generate significant word-of-mouth advertising. Make every move professional and every word polite.

Personal investment determines your level of professionalism. If you desire to be regarded as a professional, a certain amount of personal investment is required. Everything from your personal appearance and tools to your product knowledge and mixology know-how is vital. Perfection may be asymptotic, but investment in yourself as a service professional is guaranteed to get you closer.

What do you do to invest in yourself?