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Restaurant Waiter Cover Letter Example

Writing a waiter cover letter can seem like a daunting task. It’s important to craft a document that stands out from other applicants while effectively communicating your qualifications, experience, and enthusiasm. This guide provides tips and guidance on how to write a compelling waiter cover letter, as well as an example to help you get started.

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Restaurant Waiter Cover Letter Sample

Dear [Hiring Manager],

I am writing to apply for the position of Restaurant Waiter at [restaurant name]. With my experience in customer service, I am confident that I would be a great asset to your team.

I have more than three years of experience working in the restaurant industry. During that time, I have honed my customer service skills and learned the tricks of the trade to provide the best dining experience for customers. I am able to anticipate their needs and go above and beyond to exceed their expectations.

I have experience in all aspects of restaurant service, including taking orders, serving meals, and cleaning tables. I am adept at quickly and accurately entering orders into the restaurant’s POS system and handling cash transactions. I am also well- versed in food safety standards and restaurant regulations.

I am an enthusiastic team player who is eager to assist other waiters and the kitchen staff when needed. I am organized, punctual, and take pride in my work. I am also proficient in English, Spanish, and Italian.

I am confident that I can be a valuable asset to your restaurant team. Please find enclosed my resume and do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions. I look forward to hearing from you.

[Your Name]

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What should a Restaurant Waiter cover letter include?

A restaurant waiter cover letter should include the following details:

• An introduction to who you are and why you are interested in the waiter position.
• Your qualifications, including any relevant education and experience.
• An explanation of the skills and qualities that will make you an exceptional waiter.
• Details of any previous experience in the restaurant industry.
• A description of the customer service skills that you possess.
• A mention of any special training or certifications that you have in food service.
• A description of the type of environment you thrive in and why.
• A strong and confident closing statement expressing your enthusiasm and willingness to be part of their team.

Restaurant Waiter Cover Letter Writing Tips

Writing a cover letter for a restaurant waiter position can be daunting. To make the job search process smoother, here are some tips to consider when writing your cover letter.

• Start by introducing yourself and explaining why you are the perfect fit for the job.
• Elaborate on your experience in the restaurant industry and any other relevant experience you may have.
• Highlight your excellent customer service skills and any customer service awards you may have.
• Demonstrate your understanding of the restaurant’s mission and values, and how you could help them reach their goals.
• Mention any certifications or qualifications that you may have that would be beneficial to the role.
• Be sure to mention your availability to work flexible hours, if applicable.
• Briefly discuss any additional skills that could benefit the role, such as language skills.
• Conclude the letter by reiterating your enthusiasm and commitment to the role.
• Include your contact information and thank the employer for their time and consideration.

Common mistakes to avoid when writing Restaurant Waiter Cover letter

Writing a cover letter for an employment opportunity as a restaurant waiter can be an intimidating task, so it is important to avoid common mistakes that could cost you the job you are looking for. Here are some common mistakes to avoid when writing a restaurant waiter cover letter:

• Not highlighting your customer service skills: As a restaurant waiter, you need to demonstrate strong customer service skills in your cover letter, such as being able to anticipate customers’ needs, having a friendly and polite attitude, and being able to multitask.
• Neglecting to mention your knowledge of food: As a restaurant waiter, it is essential to have a working knowledge of food and beverages. Be sure to mention any experience you have in this area, such as familiarity with various types of cuisine or knowledge of wine and cocktails.
• Failing to demonstrate a commitment to teamwork: Restaurant waiters need to be able to work well with others, particularly with the kitchen staff and other wait staff. Make sure to include examples that demonstrate your ability to work as part of a team.
• Not addressing the letter to the hiring manager: A generic or impersonal cover letter is a sure- fire way to get your application passed over. Make sure to take the time to find out who the hiring manager is and address the letter directly to them.
• Failing to proofread and edit your letter: It is essential to proofread and edit your cover letter to ensure that it is error- free. Poor grammar and spelling mistakes are a major red flag and can easily take you out of contention for the position.

By avoiding these common mistakes when writing your restaurant waiter cover letter, you will be sure to make a positive impression and increase your chances of landing the job.

Key takeaways

A restaurant waiter cover letter is a critical component of any job application. It is your chance to make a great impression on the hiring manager and convince them to consider you for the job. Here are some key takeaways to help you write a memorable waiter cover letter:

• Highlight your relevant experience: Focus on any experience you have in the restaurant or hospitality industry. Show the hiring manager that you have the experience needed to be a successful waiter.
• Focus on your customer service skills: Point out any customer service experience you have. As a waiter, you’ll be dealing with customers all day, so it’s important to show the manager that you have top- notch customer service skills.
• Show your enthusiasm for the job: Demonstrate your enthusiasm for the role and for working in the restaurant industry. Show that you are passionate about the job and that you will bring a positive attitude to the workplace.
• Include some personal touches: Let the hiring manager know why you are passionate about working in the restaurant industry. Explain what drew you to the job and why you are excited to work in this specific restaurant.
• Be concise and direct: Keep your cover letter concise and to the point. Avoid rambling on, and make sure to answer any questions the job posting asks.

By following these tips, you can create a well- crafted restaurant waiter cover letter that will make a great impression on the hiring manager and make them consider you for the job. Good luck!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. how do i write a cover letter for an restaurant waiter job with no experience.

Writing a cover letter for an Restaurant Waiter job when you have no experience can be intimidating. However, with a little bit of research, you can make sure your cover letter stands out from the competition. Start by researching the restaurant and its menu offerings, as well as the general atmosphere of the place. This will help you to showcase your knowledge and enthusiasm for the job.

When writing the letter, be sure to focus on the skills and attributes you have that would make you an ideal candidate. Highlight any customer service experience you may have, as well as any leadership or teamwork skills you possess. Even if you have no previous experience working in a restaurant, you may still have transferable skills that could make you an asset to their team.

Finally, be sure to emphasize your enthusiasm for the job and your eagerness to learn. Employers want candidates who are willing to learn and grow with the job, so be sure to emphasize this in your cover letter.

2. How do I write a cover letter for an Restaurant Waiter job experience?

If you already have some experience working as a restaurant waiter, your cover letter should be a showcase of your accomplishments and skills. Begin by detailing your experience, including the type of restaurant, the number of customers served, and the particular duties you were responsible for.

Next, discuss the specific skills, attributes, and accomplishments that make you an ideal candidate for the job. These could include any awards or recognition you’ve received, as well as any special projects you’ve undertaken or challenges you’ve met.

Finally, be sure to emphasize your enthusiasm for the job and your eagerness to continue growing and learning. Employers want candidates who are passionate about their work, so be sure to express this in your cover letter.

3. How can I highlight my accomplishments in a Restaurant Waiter cover letter?

When writing a cover letter for an Restaurant Waiter job, it’s important to highlight your accomplishments. Showcase the awards or recognition you’ve received, as well as any special projects you’ve undertaken or challenges you’ve met. If you’ve received any positive customer feedback, be sure to mention it as well.

It’s also important to discuss the specific skills and attributes you have that would make you an ideal candidate for the job. Highlight any customer service experience you have, as well as any leadership or teamwork skills you possess.

Finally, be sure to emphasize your enthusiasm for the job and your eagerness to learn. Employers want candidates who are passionate about their work and willing to learn and grow with the job, so be sure to express this in your cover letter.

In addition to this, be sure to check out our cover letter templates , cover letter formats ,  cover letter examples ,  job description , and  career advice  pages for more helpful tips and advice.

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Waiter/Waitress Cover Letter Examples and Templates for 2024

• Cover Letter Examples
• Cover Letter Text Examples

How To Write a Waiter/Waitress Cover Letter

Waiter and waitress positions that require a cover letter are often high-paying opportunities at upscale establishments. To differentiate yourself from the competition during the job search , feature accomplishments that emphasize your sales expertise, interpersonal skills , and knowledge of the hospitality industry. This guide provides examples and expert advice to help you build an accomplishment-driven cover letter and secure your next big job opportunity.

Waiter/Waitress Cover Letter Templates and Examples

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Waiter/Waitress Text-Only Cover Letter Templates and Examples

Anthony Gentile Waiter | [email protected] | (123) 456-7890 | Philadelphia PA, 12345 | LinkedIn

January 1, 2024

Pat Martin Hiring Manager Franko’s Italiano (987) 654-3210 [email protected]

Dear Ms. Martin,

As a waiter at Olive Garden, I delivered a high-quality dining experience to guests in a fast-paced, high-volume restaurant. Due to the unlimited refills for more than half of the menu items, this position required quick thinking under pressure to ensure guest satisfaction. These experiences have allowed me to develop an advanced understanding of guest relations and time management, which will allow me to thrive in your server position.

Franko’s Italiano has a reputation for the authenticity of its cuisine, which resonates with me as a hospitality professional. Having acquired my initial serving experience at a chain restaurant, I am eager for the opportunity to apply my hospitality and service skills in a fine dining establishment. I can provide valuable contributions to your team based on the following experiences from my career:

• Achieved 120% to 150% of sales goals month over month by educating guests on menu items, upselling entrees and appetizers, and providing recommendations based on guest needs
• Provided quality service to up to 80 guests per day, coordinated with hostesses, servers, and kitchen staff, and supported team members during high-volume periods
• Ensured compliance with ServSafe regulations and COVID-19 safety protocols

I would like to schedule an interview to provide more insights into how my experience within the hospitality industry can be an asset to your restaurant. Feel free to contact me via phone or email at your earliest convenience. I appreciate your time and consideration.

Best regards,

Anthony Gentile

Allison Rosenberg Waitress | [email protected] | (123) 456-7890 | New York, NY, 12345 | LinkedIn

Hector Martinez Hiring Manager Empellon (987) 654-3210 [email protected]

Dear Mr. Martinez,

As a waitress at Casa Villa, I provided an exceptional fine dining experience to clientele at an upscale Mexican restaurant. I identified many opportunities to enhance the quality of service for our guests and supported efforts to strengthen collaboration between the front-of-the-house and back-of-the-house staff. My experience in fine dining and leadership skills will allow me to thrive in the waitress position with your restaurant.

Empellon’s reputation for excellence in its food quality and service standards strongly aligns with my professional background. I can provide valuable contributions to your team based on the following achievements from my professional career:

• Coordinated with the front and back of the house and management to improve guest satisfaction metrics from 78% to 92% by enhancing communication protocols and providing training to servers on effective usage of the point-of-sale (POS) system for custom items
• Upsold menu items and daily specials to guests, provided education on dishes, ingredients, and spice levels, and achieved 130% of monthly sales goals
• Provided training to over 15 new servers on restaurant service standards, daily operations, menu items, and the company POS system

I hope to speak with you further regarding how my experience within fine dining can help your restaurant continue to deliver quality service to your guests. You may contact me for more information on my background at your convenience. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Allison Rosenberg

Skyler Thompson Waitress | [email protected] | (123) 456-7890 | Boston, MA 12345 | LinkedIn

Caleb Morris Hiring Manager The Mariner Restaurant (987) 654-3210 [email protected]

Dear Mr. Morris,

As a waitress with over 10 years of experience within the hospitality industry, I’ve developed an expertise in fine dining and sales techniques. At The Ocean Wind, I upsold specialty cocktails and gourmet seafood specials to generate over $90,000 in annual revenue. I worked collaboratively with hostesses, servers, and kitchen staff to improve daily operations and service standards. My experience within the restaurant industry would be an asset to your team.

The Mariner Restaurant’s reputation for providing both an exquisite dining atmosphere and upscale seafood is what draws me to apply for this position. With my strong passion for the hospitality industry, I can help your establishment continue to grow this prestigious reputation based on the following accomplishments from my career:

• Delivered high-quality service to more than 100 guests per day, upsold high-end seafood entrees and specialty cocktail beverages, generated over $95,000 in annual sales, achieved guest satisfaction ratings of 90%, and contributed to a 5-star Google ranking
• Provided training to over 17 new hires on a complex menu with over 30 items and delivered coaching and mentorship to improve sales and communication skills
• Educated guests on a variety of seafood entrees and cuisine to achieve 150% of sales goals, including oysters, littleneck clams, cherrystone clams, quahogs, lobster, cod, and crawfish

I hope to speak with you further regarding how my fine dining experience can help your restaurant continue to deliver quality service to your guests. You may contact me for more information on my background at your convenience. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Skyler Thompson

To write a great waiter/waitress cover letter, build your document around your most compelling achievements and experiences within the hospitality industry. Highlight your ability to drive guest satisfaction and deliver an exceptional dining experience. Emphasize your background collaborating with back of the house and wait staff to enhance restaurant operations. Below, we’ll walk you through each section of your waiter/waitress cover letter:

1. Contact information and salutation

List all essential contact information at the top of your waiter/waitress cover letter, including your name, phone number, email, and LinkedIn URL. Greet the hiring manager by name — Mr. or Ms. [Last Name]. If you can’t find the hiring manager’s name, use a variation of “Dear Hiring Manager.” Avoid salutations such as “To Whom It May Concern,” as these greetings are less personal and widely considered outdated.

2. Introduction

Open your waiter/waitress cover letter with a strong introductory paragraph to grab the attention of potential employers. Emphasize your years of experience within the hospitality industry and mention restaurants you’ve worked for in the past. Feature one of your most impressive career achievements to demonstrate your customer service, sales, and serving skills.

In the example below, the candidate highlights the types of establishments they’ve worked for in the past. They also focus on highlighting their exceptional sales skills using hard numbers. This helps to show their keen attention to detail, which is essential for any server position. By featuring deeper insights into your hospitality background, you can strengthen the impact of your waiter/waitress cover letter.

As a waitress with over 10 years of experience within the hospitality industry, I’ve developed an expertise in fine dining and sales techniques. At The Ocean Wind, I upsold specialty cocktails and gourmet seafood specials to generate over $90,000 in annual revenue. Collaborating with hostesses, servers, and kitchen staff, I improved daily operations and service standards. My experience within the restaurant industry would be an asset to your team.

3. Body paragraphs

In the body paragraphs of your waiter/waitress cover letter, continue to emphasize your hospitality experience using tangible examples from your career. Say something specific about the restaurant’s reputation and why this draws you to apply for the opportunity. Demonstrate your ability to deliver exceptional service to guests during high-volume periods and support the restaurant’s image through positive interactions.

Notice how this candidate personalizes their application by showing their familiarity with the establishment’s cuisine. They also establish how their experience working in high-volume chain restaurants will allow them to transition into fine dining. Telling your unique story is a great way to help your waiter/waitress cover letter stand out in today’s job market.

• Achieved 120% to 150% of sales goals each month by educating guests on menu items, upselling entrees and appetizers, and providing recommendations based on guest needs
• Provided quality service to over 80 guests per day, coordinated with hostesses, servers, and kitchen staff, and supported team members during high-volume periods
• Ensured compliance with ServSafe regulations and customer service standards

4. Waiter/waitress skills and qualifications

Although it’s impractical to feature a comprehensive list of skills on your waiter/waitress cover letter, integrate keywords from the job description into your paragraphs. Focus on providing examples of you utilizing these skill sets in fast-paced restaurant environments. Below, we’ve gathered a variety of skills you can consider adding to your waiter/waitress cover letter:

5. Closing section

In the conclusion of your waiter/waitress cover letter, include a call to action (CTA) that invites the hiring manager to bring you in for an interview. Further emphasize how your background within the hospitality space can positively impact sales or guest satisfaction. Be sure to thank the hiring manager for their time and consideration in the last sentence of the paragraph.

Waiter/Waitress Cover Letter Tips

1. use specific examples to highlight your serving skills.

When detailing your serving skills, provide tangible examples of your unique experiences within the restaurant industry. In the example below, the server wants to transition from a chain restaurant to a fine dining establishment. Although they don’t have experience working in an upscale environment, the candidate provides key details about their time at Olive Garden that showcase their capabilities as a waiter.

They included those insights because many of the menu items are refillable without additional charge. This position can be especially challenging for even an experienced server during peak hours. By providing these details, the candidate showcases time management skills that are transferable across the hospitality space.

• As a waiter at Olive Garden, I delivered a high-quality dining experience to guests in a fast-paced, high-volume restaurant. Due to the unlimited refills for more than half of the menu items, this position required quick thinking under pressure to ensure guest satisfaction. These experiences have allowed me to develop an advanced understanding of guest relations and time management, which will allow me to thrive in the server position at your restaurant.

2. Quantify your serving experience

Sales experience is a crucial aspect of any waiter or waitress position. To capture the hiring manager’s interest, leverage numbers and metrics from throughout your serving career. If you generated substantial revenue, the monetary figure should be prioritized over a percentage. But if you aren’t confident that the dollar figure is high enough to impress the reader, use percentages to show how you exceeded monthly or weekly sales goals. In the example below, the applicant has experience working in a fine dining establishment and effectively demonstrates their sales and customer service capabilities:

• Delivered high-quality service to over 100 guests per day, upsold high-end seafood entrees and specialty cocktail beverages, generated over $95,000 in annual sales, achieved guest satisfaction ratings of 90%, and contributed to a 5-star Google ranking

3. Feature your leadership abilities

Your ability to work collaboratively with both front-of-the-house and back-of-the-house staff is valuable to hiring managers within the restaurant industry. Communication breakdowns between servers and kitchen personnel are a frequent cause of operational issues for many establishments, so your leadership abilities are important to feature in your cover letter. In the example below, the candidate provides a strong example of coordinating with each of the various team members to improve food service delivery and communication protocols:

• Coordinated with the front and back of the house and management to improve guest satisfaction metrics from 78% to 92% by enhancing communication protocols and providing training to servers on effective usage of the POS system for custom items and guest requests

Waiter/Waitress Cover Letter FAQs

Why should i include a waiter/waitress cover letter -.

While most waiter/waitress positions are obtained through industry connections, taking the extra step to provide a cover letter certainly won’t hurt your chances. Submitting a cover letter speaks to your professionalism and genuine enthusiasm for the hospitality industry, even if it isn’t requested in the job application.

How long should my waiter/waitress cover letter be? -

It’s best to keep your cover letter short but engaging when applying for serving positions at upscale restaurants. Crafting a cover letter for this type of role shows your initiative and interest in the role and avoids having your most compelling achievements overshadowed by including an excess of information.

How do I make my cover letter stand out? -

The best way to make a lasting impression on the hiring manager is by aligning your waiter/waitress cover letter with the restaurant you’re applying to. Mentioning specific details about their reputation or cuisine shows you’ve researched beforehand and makes your cover letter stand out during the application process.

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Frank Hackett

Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW)

Frank Hackett is a professional resume writer and career consultant with over eight years of experience. As the lead editor at a boutique career consulting firm, Frank developed an innovative approach to resume writing that empowers job seekers to tell their professional stories. His approach involves creating accomplishment-driven documents that balance keyword optimization with personal branding. Frank is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) with the Professional Association of Resume Writers and Career Coaches (PAWRCC).

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Waiter Cover Letter Samples & Examples That Worked in 2024

How to craft an jaw-dropping waiter cover letter

Waiters are vital staff members at any restaurant, providing exceptional customer service to guests by taking their orders, providing them with drinks, and ensuring they have a great experience. To earn a position as a waiter, you need a compelling cover letter that showcases your best abilities.

In this guide, we will teach you 5 easy steps for creating an excellent cover letter as a waiter. Keep reading to learn all about how to:

• Create visual flow on your cover letter with a header & headline
• Tailor your waiter cover letter for specific employers & positions
• Craft the perfect introduction for your waiter cover letter
• Highlight your best skills & accomplishments as a waiter
• Finish your waiter cover letter with a compelling closing statement

1. Create visual flow on your cover letter with a header & headline

Unlike a resume, a cover letter is not broken into many different sections with dedicated titles and purposes. As such, to give your cover letter a sense of structure and flow , you must create a well-formatted header and headline.

Your cover letter header comes first, listing key details such as:

• Your name and professional title
• Your professional contact information
• The name of the restaurant you are applying to
• The address of the restaurant (especially important if there are multiple locations)

Here is an example of a well-formatted waiter header

Jane Smith , Waitress

(123) 456-7890 | [email protected] | linkedin.com/in/jane-smith

To: Cracker Barrel Hiring Department 1234 Street Address Chattanooga, TN 37405

Following your header is your cover letter headline . This is a brief title statement used for hooking an employer’s attention as quickly as possible.

When writing your headline, you should always use a keyword related to the position, an eye-catching number or trigger word , a powerful adjective or verb, and a promise to the employer that indicates the letter is written specifically for them.

Here is an example of a strong waiter cover letter, followed by a quick explanation of its main components

My 3 Best Customer Service Skills as a Waiter & How They Can Benefit Your Restaurant’s Guests

Trigger Word/Number: 3 Skills Keyword: Customer Service, Waiter Adjective/Verb: Best, Benefit Promise: Your Restaurant’s Guests

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2. Tailor your waiter cover letter for specific employers & positions

Once you have completed your cover letter header and headline, it’s time to move on to the body text of the cover letter. Before you can do this, however, you should consider tailoring your cover letter to the exact employer and position you are applying to.

Tailoring a cover letter means making it as specific and relevant to a particular employer as possible. To accomplish this, you must thoroughly research the company and its values and needs beforehand.

As you complete this research, an important detail to search for is who at the restaurant is responsible for reviewing job applications and cover letters. Using this information, you can create a personalized greeting that addresses this specific person by name.

Here are 3 examples of personalized cover letter greetings

• Dear Mr. John Doe,

Dear Hiring Manager John Doe,

• Dear Manager John Doe,

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3. Craft the perfect introduction for your waiter cover letter

As a waiter, it is crucial to attract an employer’s attention as quickly as possible with the details you include in your cover letter.

To make your introduction as compelling as possible, make sure to include:

• A brief overview of your professional history
• A statement on why you are enthusiastic about applying to this company
• A mutual acquaintance (when possible)

Pro Tip: Always include a mutual acquaintance when you can, as this builds rapport with an employer. If you lack a mutual acquaintance, use a professional platform like LinkedIn to start expanding your professional network.

Here is an example of a well-written waiter introduction

I am a professional waiter with 3+ years of experience working in the local dining industry. As a long-time patron of your restaurant, I was excited to hear that you currently have openings in your waitstaff to fill. My friend and peer, Ms. Mary Joe, is currently a valued member of your waitstaff and can attest to my relevant skills and qualifications for this position.

4. Highlight your best skills & accomplishments as a waiter

Now that you have your introduction in place, your next step is to write the body paragraphs of your cover letter. A good cover letter will contain between 2 to 4 body paragraphs that answer key questions, such as:

• What excites you about working at this company?
• What do you hope to learn from working at this company?
• What accomplishments or qualifications make you stand out as an applicant?
• What key skills do you possess that are relevant to the position?

As you describe your skills and accomplishments as a waiter, make sure the information you include is as specific and quantifiable as possible. This will help you show the employer the real-life value you can bring to their restaurant.

Here are 6 examples of waitstaff skills to describe in a cover letter

• Exceptional verbal communication
• Physical stamina and strength
• Upselling techniques
• Excellent menu memorization abilities
• Customer conflict management and problem resolution
• Friendly and welcoming demeanor

Here is an example of how to describe an accomplishment in a waiter’s cover letter

As a waiter at [Former Employer], I was honored with the Front of House MVP award by my former employer for my exceptional customer service and sales. I earned this award in part thanks to my excellent upselling techniques, which resulted in my weekly sales being an average of 20% higher compared to the other waitstaff’s. 

5. Finish your waiter cover letter with a compelling closing statement

You’ve made it to the end of your cover letter – now all that is left is to write a compelling conclusion . Your closing statement needs to convince the employer to contact you by including key information , such as:

• An enthusiastic sentence saying you are looking forward to hearing from them
• An additional sentence stating you will follow up, including how you will contact them or how they can contact you
• A formal sign-off

Here is an example of a compelling conclusion from a waiter’s cover letter

I am eager to get to know your guests and staff better if brought on to your waitstaff team. I hope to hear from you soon and am available to meet any day between the hours of 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The best way to reach me is a (123) 456-7890 or at [email protected] after hours. If I have not heard back by next Tuesday, I plan to follow up that afternoon.

Appreciatively,

[Applicant Name]

If you have ever wondered how a cover letter differs from a resume,  this article will tell you everything about the key differences between the two .

Martin Poduška

Martin is a resume expert and career advice writer at Kickresume. In his five years at Kickresume, he has written hundreds of in-depth, painstakingly researched resume advice articles and, as chief editor, he has also edited and revised every single article on this website. Tens of thousands of job seekers read Martin’s resume advice every month. He holds a degree in English from the University of St Andrews and a degree in Comparative Literature from the University of Amsterdam .

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Waiter Cover Letter Sample (+Writing Tips)

Are you searching for a waiter job? Your first step towards securing that position is crafting an impressive cover letter. A well-written cover letter can greatly increase your chances of getting an interview and ultimately landing the job you desire.

In this article, we provide you with a sample cover letter for a waiter resume, along with some valuable writing tips to help you create a standout cover letter that highlights your skills and experience. Whether you’re an experienced waiter or just starting your career in the food service industry, this guide will provide you with the necessary tools to create a compelling cover letter.

Read on to discover how to effectively introduce yourself to potential employers and make a positive impression with your waiter cover letter.

Sample Cover Letter for Waiter Resume

Jerry Andrew 65 Churchill Street Muskegon, MI 52014 (000) 208-5214 jerry @ email . com

October 7, 2023

Mr. John Doe Hiring Manager MHP 85 Divine Ave Muskegon, MI 98877

Dear Mr. Doe:

As a success-driven food service professional, I am excited to apply for the waiter position at MHP. I am confident that my skills and experience make me a strong candidate for the role. With a proven track record in the food service industry and a passion for delivering exceptional customer service, I am eager to contribute to the success of your establishment.

In my previous role as a server at ABC Restaurant, I honed my communication skills and meticulous attention to detail. From setting tables and arranging place settings to warmly welcoming guests and taking their food and beverage orders, I consistently provided professional and attentive service. By consistently going the extra mile for customers, I was able to increase my previous employer’s overall profits by 20% within three months.

Aside from my table service duties, I am highly adept at effectively communicating orders to the kitchen staff, operating POS systems, and handling payments from patrons. I pride myself on maintaining accurate records of requests and funds, and I am experienced in processing credit card payments with precision using point-of-sale registers.

As an enthusiastic team player, I am eager to discuss your long-term plans for MHP and how my skills align with your vision. I will follow up with your secretary in a few days to inquire about the status of my application and to schedule an interview. In the meantime, please feel free to contact me at (000) 208-5214.

Thank you for considering my application. I am confident that I would be a valuable addition to your team and I look forward to the opportunity to contribute to the success of MHP.

Jerry Andrew

How to Write a Great Cover Letter for a Waiter Job?

Writing a great cover letter for a waiter job is essential to make a positive impression on potential employers. Here are some tips to help you create an effective cover letter:

1. Highlight your relevant skills : Emphasize your skills and abilities that are essential for a waiter position. For example, excellent communication and interpersonal skills, the ability to multitask, a positive attitude, and attention to detail are valuable qualities for this role.

2. Tailor your letter to the job description : Customize your cover letter to align with the specific requirements and responsibilities mentioned in the waiter job description. Make sure to demonstrate how your experience and skills directly relate to the waiter position.

3. Show enthusiasm : Convey your genuine interest in the job and the company. Explain why you are enthusiastic about working as a waiter for the particular establishment.

4. Provide specific examples : Share specific examples from your previous experience that demonstrate your abilities as a waiter. For instance, you can mention achievements such as improving customer satisfaction or increasing sales.

5. Include relevant keywords : Use keywords from the job description to showcase your understanding of the waiter role and to help your cover letter stand out.

Crafting a well-written cover letter is essential when applying for a waiter position. By following the provided sample cover letter and utilizing the writing tips, you can create a standout cover letter that highlights your skills and experience. Remember to emphasize relevant skills, tailor your letter to the job description, show enthusiasm, provide specific examples, and include relevant keywords. With a compelling cover letter, you can greatly increase your chances of securing an interview and ultimately landing the waiter job you desire.

• Catering Waiter Cover Letter Sample
• Top 2 Waiter Resignation Letter Samples (+Writing Guide)
• Reference Letter for a Restaurant Waiter
• Buffet Waiter and Waitress Cover Letter Sample

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Professional Waiter Cover Letter Examples for 2024

Your waiter cover letter should immediately highlight your passion for customer service and your experience in the hospitality industry. Demonstrate your understanding of the importance of a positive dining experience. In your cover letter, emphasize your ability to work seamlessly in a team and manage multiple tasks efficiently. Express your eagerness to bring your skills to their restaurant and contribute to their team's success.

Cover Letter Guide

Waiter Cover Letter Sample

Cover Letter Format

Cover Letter Salutation

Cover Letter Introduction

Cover Letter Body

Cover Letter Closing

No Experience Waiter Cover Letter

Key Takeaways

Crafting a waiter cover letter can often be trickier than juggling plates during a dinner rush. You've probably hit 'apply' more times than you can count, only to realize each application requests not just your resume, but a compelling cover letter that brings your experience to life. This isn't a place to rehash your resume. It's where a single, shining professional victory takes center stage, told through a story that's distinctly yours – no clichés allowed. And remember, like the perfect menu, your cover letter should leave them wanting more, never spilling over the one-page limit.

• Including all the must-have paragraphs in your structure for an excellent first impression;
• Learning how to write individual sections from industry-leading cover letter examples;
• Selecting the best accomplishment to tell an interesting and authority-building professional story;
• Introducing your profile with personality, while meeting industry standards.

And, if you want to save some time, drag and drop your waiter resume into Enhancv's AI, which will assess your profile and write your job-winning cover letter for you.

If the waiter isn't exactly the one you're looking for we have a plethora of cover letter examples for jobs like this one:

• Waiter resume guide and example
• McDonalds cover letter example
• Banquet Bartender cover letter example
• Restaurant Server cover letter example
• Barback cover letter example
• Hotel Bartender cover letter example
• Ice Cream Server cover letter example
• Assistant Restaurant Manager cover letter example
• Reservations Manager cover letter example
• Front of House Manager cover letter example
• Banquet Server cover letter example

Waiter cover letter example

Aiden Williams

Dallas, Texas

+1-(234)-555-1234

[email protected]

• Emphasize relevant experience and measurable achievements: Citing tenure with Sodexo as a Lead Food Service Coordinator and highlighting a specific initiative that reduced wait times demonstrates both relevant experience and the capacity to deliver measurable improvements, which is attractive to potential employers.
• Showcase leadership and team management: Mentioning the leadership of a 10-person team and the achievement of a 99% compliance rate with health inspections illustrates strong team management skills and a commitment to maintaining high standards.
• Align personal values with company values: Expressing an appreciation for culinary excellence and operational efficacy indicates that the candidate's personal professional values are in line with those of the potential employer, suggesting a good cultural fit.

The must-have sections and format of your waiter cover letter

When writing your waiter cover letter, keep in mind that it'll only be read by the recruiters and not the Applicant Tracker System (or software used to assess your profile). That's why you should structure your content with a/an:

• Header (apart from your contact information, include your name, the role you're applying for, and the date);
• Personalized salutation;
• Opening paragraph to win the recruiters over;
• Middle paragraph with key details;
• Closing that starts from clichés;
• Sign off (that's not mandatory).

Industry standards dictate your paragraphs to be single-spaced and to wrap your content in a one-inch margin. Designing your waiter cover letter, refer to one of our templates , which automatically takes care of the spacing and margins.

Choose the same font for your waiter cover letter as you did for your resume : the likes of Lato and Bitter would help you to stand out in a sea of cover letters in Arial or Times New Roman.

Export your whole waiter cover letter from our builder in PDF to keep the same formatting and image quality.

The top sections on a waiter cover letter

Header: Include your contact information, the date, and the employer's contact information to ensure the hiring manager knows who you are and how to reach you.

Greeting: Use a polite and personalized salutation to address the hiring manager or restaurant owner directly, demonstrating your attention to detail and respect for the individual.

Introduction: Clearly state the position you're applying for, express your enthusiasm for the role of a waiter, and provide a brief overview of your most compelling qualifications that match the restaurant's needs.

Body: Discuss your relevant experience, skills in customer service, multitasking abilities, knowledge of food and beverages, and any specialty such as familiarity with fine dining or specific cuisines, which will set you apart as a candidate tailored for waiting staff roles.

Closing: End with a professional closing statement that thanks the employer for their time, reiterates your interest in the position, and mentions your availability for an interview, signaling your eagerness to take the next step in the application process.

Key qualities recruiters search for in a candidate’s cover letter

• Exceptional customer service skills: Recruiters look for candidates who can demonstrate the ability to provide a pleasant and satisfying experience for diners, including dealing with complaints gracefully.
• Experience with point-of-sale systems: Familiarity with POS technology is essential for efficiently processing orders and payments.
• Strong memory and attention to detail: A good waiter must remember customers' orders, any special dietary requests, and the restaurant’s menu details.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment: Recruiters seek individuals who can keep calm under pressure and handle multiple tasks simultaneously without sacrificing service quality.
• Teamwork and communication skills: Since waiters work closely with kitchen staff and other front-of-house employees, the ability to communicate effectively and work as part of a team is crucial.
• Flexibility with scheduling: The hospitality industry often requires employees to work evenings, weekends, and holidays, so recruiters look for candidates with availability that matches the restaurant's needs.

How to greet recruiters in your waiter cover letter salutation

As the saying goes, "You never get a second chance to make a first impression."

Write your waiter cover letter salutation to be more personalized to the actual hiring manager, who is set to assess your profile by:

• greeting them on a first-name basis, if you have previously communicated with them (e.g. "Dear Sam,");
• using their last name, if you have more formal communication or haven't spoken to them (e.g. "Dear Mr. Harrows" or "Dear Ms. Marshall");
• writing "Dear HR Team" or "Dear Hiring Manager", if you have no clue about who's recruiting for the role.

Search on LinkedIn, Google, or the company website to find information as to the recruiter's name.

In any case, avoid the impersonal "Dear Sir or Madam".

List of salutations you can use

• Dear Hiring Manager,
• Dear [Restaurant Name] Team,
• Dear [Manager's Name],
• Dear [Restaurant Owner's Name],
• Dear [Department Name] Manager,
• Dear [Company Name] Representative,

How to start your waiter cover letter introduction

The opening paragraph of your waiter cover letter can seem like a real enigma.

Where do you start writing ?

In your waiter cover letter introduction, focus on yourself by stating what:

• gets you motivated and excited about the role;
• you like best about the company, from culture to awards.

Write no more than two sentences, which are both authentic and show your enthusiasm for the opportunity.

The middle or body of your waiter cover letter body: a great instrument to tell a story

Now that you've set the right tone with the greeting and introduction of your waiter cover letter, it's time to get down to business .

Hear us out, the body of your waiter cover letter is the best storytelling instrument you have, in your job-hunting arsenal.

Writing the next three to six paragraphs, take the time to reassess the advert to discover job-crucial requirements.

Next, choose one accomplishment that covers those key skills and talents.

Use precisely that achievement to tell an exciting story of how you match the ideal candidate profile.

In the undertones of your story or waiter cover letter body, hint at the difference you'd make and sell your application as the perfect one for the job.

Final words: writing your waiter cover letter closing paragraph

The final paragraph of your waiter cover letter allows you that one final chance to make a great first impression .

Instead of going straight to the "sincerely yours" ending, you can back up your skills with a promise of:

• how you see yourself growing into the role;
• the unique skills you'd bring to the organization.

Whatever you choose, always be specific (and remember to uphold your promise, once you land the role).

If this option doesn't seem that appealing to you, close off your waiter cover letter with a follow-up request.

You could even provide your availability for interviews so that the recruiters would be able to easily arrange your first meeting.

The zero experience waiter cover letter: shifting the focus to your unique value

Don't worry if you have no conventional professional experience . Within your whole experience, there's plenty more you can write about in your waiter cover letter.

Take, for example, your biggest achievement or award - dedicate your cover letter body to describe it and the job-relevant skills you've learned.

Your professional ambitions could also take center stage. Describe what you plan on achieving in the next five to ten years and the efforts you're making towards your dreams.

Key takeaways

Creating your waiter cover letter should be a personalized experience for the role and the recruiter, where you:

• Format your cover letter using the same ATS-friendly font (e.g. Railway) as you did for your resume;
• Greet recruiters, using their name, and follow up with two sentences to introduce yourself, your interest in the role, and to stand out;
• Map out one key success from your career (or life) that has taught you job-crucial skills;
• Substitute your lack of experience with an achievement from your internships, degrees, or volunteering gigs;
• End with a promise for your potential or your availability for an interview.

Cover letter examples by industry

AI cover letter writer, powered by ChatGPT

Enhancv harnesses the capabilities of ChatGPT to provide a streamlined interface designed specifically focused on composing a compelling cover letter without the hassle of thinking about formatting and wording.

• Content tailored to the job posting you're applying for
• ChatGPT model specifically trained by Enhancv
• Lightning-fast responses

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Waiter/waitress cover letter example

Competition for waiter/waitress jobs can be huge, but a compelling cover letter can help you to stand out from the crowd.

Your cover letter shouldn’t come as an afterthought to your CV. If you ace them both, you’ll have tripled your chances of landing an interview.

So, I’ve created this waiter/waitress cover letter example and step-by-step writing guide, to help you win recruiters over and land an interview.

Here’s what the guide will cover:

Guide contents

Waiter/waitress cover letter example

How to write a cover letter for your cv.

• What to include in a waiter/waitress cover letter

The waiter/waitress cover letter example above should help you picture what your finished cover letter should look like.

The candidate introduces themselves in a way which is friendly yet professional, enticing the reader to open the CV and consider their application.

Build your CV now 

Breakdown of a good cover letter

The diagram below shows the 7 key steps you need to focus on in order to write an attention-grabbing cover letter. If you follow these steps, recruiters will be eager to open your CV and find out more about you.

Write the cover letter in the body of your email/message

The aim of your cover letter is to introduce yourself and encourage recruiters to read your CV.

Therefore, it’s always best to write your cover letter directly in the body of the email you send, with your CV attached.

This way, you know for sure that your cover letter will actually be seen.

If you add it as an attachment, it’s highly unlikely to be opened, meaning you’d have missed out on a golden opportunity to connect with employers.

Quick tip:  Try to find the name and email address of the recruiter or hiring manager of the company, so you can bypass the competition and land in their inbox directly. Hospitality roles often get hundreds of applications through job sites, so this will significantly increase your chances of getting noticed.

Write a compelling subject line

Another benefit of sending your cover letter in the body of an email is that you can craft an attention-grabbing subject line.

Applicants who apply via a job board won’t be able to personalise theirs, so it’s an amazing opportunity to make your application stand out from the crowd.

A simple yet effective approach to this is to create a short professional summary of yourself which is tailored to the role you’re applying for.

For example, if you’re applying to be a waitress in a busy restaurant environment and have worked in similar environments before, you’d make it known in your subject line, like this:

• Experienced waitress with 6 years of experience in fast-paced city restaurants
• Skilled waiter with 1 year of experience of serving customers in a busy pub

If you have less relevant experience, you could write something which matches the skills listed in the job advertisement. For example, if the employer is looking for someone with great customer service skills, you might write:

• Bright student with excellent customer service skills

Address the recruiter/employer by name

Writing too formally can come across as unfriendly and impersonal. These days, it’s much better to address the recruiter/employer by their name, with a more relaxed and friendly tone.

So, how do you find the appropriate name?

Often, you’ll see the recruiter’s name and contact details at the top or bottom of the job advertisement. If you can’t spot it, try out the following tricks:

• Head over to the cafe, restaurant or bar website and see if there’s a ‘meet the team’ page or similar. If you find someone with a HR, recruiter or hiring manager title, use their name in your email. Some smaller establishments might not have an internal recruitment team, so in this case, use the manager’s name.
• If there’s no staff page on the website, try out LinkedIn. Type the name of the establishment into the search bar, head to their page and scan through the list of employees. Restaurant/cafe/bar managers are more than likely to be on LinkedIn, so you should be able to find an appropriate name here.

Write in a friendly but professional tone

The language you use in your cover letter matters, and you need to strike the right balance in order to make a positive first impression.

Speaking in an overly formal tone may sound detached and unfriendly, but speaking too casually could come across as rude and disrespectful.

So, you need to meet somewhere in the middle, aiming to sound friendly yet professional – an opening line like “I hope you’re well” is a great start.

Quick tip: A poorly written CV will fail to impress recruiters and employers. Use our quick-and-easy CV Builder to create a winning CV in minutes with professional templates and pre-written content for every industry.

Check out our CV examples.

Highlight your most relevant skills

As soon as the reader sets eyes on your cover letter, it needs to be clear that you’re well-matched to the role. This way, they’re far more likely to go ahead and read your CV.

You can do this by highlighting your most relevant skills . Go back to the job ad and note down the top skills the employer is looking for.

Next, go through the list and tick off the ones you feel you have. These are the skills that you should include in your cover letter.

Keep it brief

All too often, applicants end up writing an entire page or more for their cover letter – but this is a huge mistake.

Recruiters , hiring managers and restaurant managers simply don’t have the time to read through numerous pages text, so a long cover letter probably won’t even be read.

So, by keeping yours short and concise in the body of your email, you can ensure your cover letter is read and leaves a positive impression on busy recruiters.

Aim for 4-8 sentences which simply summarise your relevant skills and encourage the reader to open your CV.

Sign off professionally

Lastly, sign off with a sleek, professional signature, as shown below.

You should include your full name, contact number (mobile is usually best) and your email address. Format it for impact by using a bold or italic font.

Not only does this show great business etiquette, but it also makes it easy for recruiters to pick up the phone and give you a call.

What to include in your waiter/waitress cover letter

Your cover letter content will inevitably reflect your individual experience and skills, but generally, a waiter/waitress cover letter should mention the following:

Who you’ve worked for –  Roles in the hospitality industry can vary massively, so it’s essential to distinguish your type of experience – for example, you might have worked in exclusive high-end restaurants, cafes, country pubs or hotel restaurants.

Product/service knowledge – Are you a cocktail wizard, have the brains for allergens and ingredients, or really know your stuff when it comes to Italian food? If you have any type of industry skill or knowledge which is relevant to the role you’re applying for, it’s a huge selling point – so make it clear in your cover letter.

Level of experience – Have you been working as a waiter or waitress for several years, or will this be your first role? State how many years of experience you hold early on in your cover letter.

Waiter/waitress skills – Make sure to match your skills with the job description and show off those which you possess, whether that’s customer service, food or drink prep or health and safety.

How you can benefit a new employer – Do you have a track record of decreasing guest waiting time, leading teams or positively handling customer complaints? Entice the reader to open your CV by communicating exactly how you benefit help the team.

Your waiter/waitress cover letter for your CV

Whilst writing your waiter/waitress cover letter, remember that the key is to make an impact and entice the reader to open your CV.

So, it needs to be short, snappy and punchy, putting forward a high-level view of why you’d make the perfect hire.

Before hitting that send button, double-check it for spelling and grammar mistakes and typos, as it needs to be 100% flawless.

Paired with an impactful waiter/waitress CV , you’re bound to win an interview in no time!

Good luck with your job search!

Restaurant Waiter Cover Letter Example

The restaurant waiter is a professional who works in the hospitality industry, serving food and beverages to customers who are dining out. The waiter brings dishes to tables and checks on patrons during their meals, offering drinks or additional food items as needed. When customers have finished eating, the waiter clears the table of dishes and checks with them to see whether they would like more drinks or desserts.

The restaurant server is often responsible for taking payments at the end of meals and for handling bills, such as splitting checks among multiple parties.

Write an amazing cover letter for the position of Restaurant Waiter using our Restaurant Waiter Cover Letter Example and Cover Letter Writing tips.

• Cover Letters
• Hospitality

Restaurant Waiters are employed in industries like restaurants, hotels, state government, amusement and recreation, local government, and bars. The typical workweek for a Restaurant Waiter is 48 hours, which is standard for the industry.

Restaurant waiters earn an average of $9.65 per hour, or $20,910 a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The top 10% of waiters and waitresses earn more than $21,440 a year, while the bottom 10% earn less than $18,200 a year.

What to Include in a Restaurant Waiter Cover Letter?

Roles and responsibilities.

The day-to-day of a Restaurant Waiter is varied and demanding, with a wide range of job responsibilities. As a Restaurant Waiter, you will be expected to:

• Greet guests in a friendly and professional manner.
• Present menus and help customers select food/beverages.
• Prepare tables by setting up linens, silverware, and glasses.
• Serve food/bills/make recommendations if asked by the customer
• Upsell additional products when appropriate.
• Take accurate food orders to ensure that orders are prepared properly.
• Check customer IDs to ensure that they meet minimum age requirements for consumption of alcoholic beverages.
• Collect payments from customers (cash or credit).

Education & Skills

Restaurant waiter skills:.

• Highly organized and detail-oriented.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Positive and upbeat attitude.
• Team player.
• Proactive takes initiative
• Computer Skills.
• Food Knowledge.

Restaurant Waiter Education Requirements:

• There is no specific education requirement to become a restaurant waiter, but most employers prefer candidates who have at least a high school diploma or equivalent. Some employers may also require waitstaff to complete a training program or to have related experience in the foodservice industry.

Restaurant Waiter Cover Letter Example (Text Version)

Dear [name of hiring manager],

I am writing to apply for the waiter position at your restaurant, [restaurant name]. I am a very detail-oriented person who really enjoys working in a professional capacity.

One of my strengths is customer service. I do not like to see my customers unhappy and will go out of my way to make sure they’re comfortable and happy. If a customer needs something, I would be very quick to respond and help them.

My two years of experience as a waiter at [previous employer] have given me a variety of valuable skills that will be very helpful in this position.

• Extremely punctual and can arrive early for my shifts if necessary.
• Have mastered excellent customer service skills through the many interactions that I have had with customers on a daily basis.
• Have great interpersonal skills and know-how to build rapport with customers in order to provide them with an enjoyable dining experience.
• Strong attention to detail and take great pride in ensuring that everything is just so for my tables, from proper food temperature to cleanliness of the dining area.

I hope you will give me the opportunity to show you my skills so that we can work together in the near future!

Sincerely, [Your Name]

When writing your waiter cover letter, be sure to focus on your skills and experience in the hospitality industry. Emphasize your ability to provide excellent customer service, and highlight any experience you have in a supervisory or management role. Additionally, be sure to mention any training or certification you have in foodservice.

Refer to our Restaurant Waiter Resume Sample for more tips on how to write your resume and accompany it with a strong cover letter.

Customize Restaurant Waiter Cover Letter

Get hired faster with our free cover letter template designed to land you the perfect position.

Related Hospitality Cover Letters

Waitress Cover Letter with No experience Sample

When you’re trying to land your first job as a waitress with no prior experience, crafting a well-thought-out cover letter can make all the difference. I’ve helped many friends and clients write successful cover letters for waitress positions, even when they had no experience in the role. The trick lies in highlighting your transferable skills, enthusiasm, and willingness to learn.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through how to write a waitress cover letter with no experience, share three unique templates, and give you tips from my personal experience. By the end, you’ll feel confident in writing a cover letter that stands out to potential employers.

Waitress Cover Letter Generator

Disclaimer: This is a basic cover letter generator to help you draft a Waitress cover letter. Please ensure you review and customize it to match your specific experience and job application.

Key Takeaways

• What You’ll Learn : How to write a standout cover letter for a waitress position, even without direct experience.
• Who It’s For : Job seekers with little or no waitressing experience looking to impress employers.
• Main Points Covered : Key structure of the letter, important transferable skills, and examples of enthusiasm and willingness to learn.
• Real-Life Tips : How I’ve successfully helped others land waitress jobs without experience.
• Bonus : 3 free templates tailored to different types of restaurants and job settings.

Step-by-Step Guide to Writing a Waitress Cover Letter with No Experience

1. start with a strong introduction.

The first paragraph should hook the reader. Even if you don’t have any experience, your enthusiasm and eagerness to learn should shine through. For example:

“Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name], I am excited to apply for the waitress position at [Restaurant Name]. While I do not have formal experience in waitressing, I bring a positive attitude, strong work ethic, and a passion for providing excellent customer service that will make me a valuable addition to your team.”

This intro is all about capturing attention with enthusiasm and a can-do attitude. Remember, restaurant managers are often looking for people who are eager to learn and have a good attitude over someone with experience but a poor mindset.

2. Highlight Transferable Skills

Though you may lack direct waitressing experience, you likely possess relevant skills from other areas of life, such as volunteering, school projects, or even other jobs. Skills like communication, multitasking, and handling stressful situations are invaluable in the waitressing world.

From my experience, I’ve often emphasized transferable skills like teamwork, communication, and the ability to handle fast-paced environments when helping friends and clients with no experience land waitressing jobs.

Here’s a list of skills to focus on:

3. Emphasize Your Willingness to Learn

Restaurants want someone who is trainable, and this can be your biggest asset. Show that you are ready to absorb knowledge, take on responsibilities, and grow with the team. 

Mention any instances where you’ve quickly learned new skills or adapted to new environments, whether it’s from school, volunteer work, or personal projects.

For example:

“Although I do not have direct experience in waitressing, I am confident that my ability to learn quickly, adapt, and work well under pressure will make me a strong fit for the role.”

4. Explain Why You’re a Good Fit for That Specific Restaurant

Personalize your cover letter for the job you’re applying to. Research the restaurant, understand its vibe and clientele, and tailor your cover letter accordingly. Are they a fast-paced diner, a high-end restaurant, or a cozy café? Show that you’ve done your homework and explain why you would thrive in their environment.

“I am particularly drawn to [Restaurant Name] because of its reputation for excellent customer service and its welcoming environment. I believe my strong communication skills and my passion for making guests feel at home would align well with the values of your restaurant.”

5. Close with Confidence

End your cover letter by expressing enthusiasm for the position and suggesting a potential follow-up.

“I would love the opportunity to discuss how I can contribute to your team and bring value to [Restaurant Name]. Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to hearing from you soon.”

Real-Life Examples from My Experience

When helping a friend secure her first waitressing job at a local diner, I advised her to focus on her experience working in her college’s event planning team. 

Though she had no waitressing experience, she was used to dealing with people, coordinating tasks under pressure, and working as part of a team—all of which made her an appealing candidate. This approach worked, and she got the job despite stiff competition.

Template 1: General Waitress Cover Letter with No Experience

Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],

I am excited to apply for the waitress position at [Restaurant Name]. While I may not have formal experience in waitressing, I have strong communication skills, a positive attitude, and a passion for delivering excellent customer service. My ability to multitask, work in a fast-paced environment, and learn quickly makes me confident that I can thrive in this role.

Thank you for considering my application. I am looking forward to the opportunity to contribute to your team.

Sincerely, [Your Name]

Template 2: Waitress Cover Letter for a High-End Restaurant

I am writing to express my interest in the waitress position at [Restaurant Name]. Though I am new to waitressing, I bring a commitment to exceptional service and professionalism that aligns with your restaurant’s values. My experience in volunteer event coordination has taught me how to remain calm under pressure, manage multiple tasks, and always put the guest first.

I would love the opportunity to join your team and contribute to the memorable dining experiences your guests expect.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Template 3: Waitress Cover Letter for a Casual Café

I am writing to apply for the waitress position at [Café Name]. While I do not have direct waitressing experience, I have always thrived in fast-paced, customer-facing environments. My part-time job as a cashier has given me strong communication skills, and I pride myself on my ability to create a welcoming atmosphere for customers.

I would be thrilled to contribute to the friendly environment at [Café Name] and help ensure that every guest leaves with a smile.

Thank you for considering my application.

Final Thoughts

Writing a cover letter for a waitress position when you have no experience might seem daunting, but with the right approach, it can actually be an advantage. Employers often value attitude and willingness to learn over experience. 

By following the steps in this guide, you can create a strong, persuasive cover letter that will help you stand out in the hiring process.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: how do i write a “waitress cover letter with no experience”.

Answer: I focus on highlighting transferable skills such as communication and teamwork, which are valuable in any job. Then, I emphasize my eagerness to learn and my passion for delivering great customer service.

Q: What should I include in a “waitress cover letter with no experience”?

Answer: I include a strong introduction, mention skills I’ve gained from other jobs or volunteering, and explain why I’m excited about working at that specific restaurant. This approach has worked for many people I’ve helped write cover letters.

Q: Can I get a job with a “waitress cover letter with no experience”?

Answer: Absolutely! I’ve seen friends and clients get hired based on a strong cover letter that showcases their enthusiasm, adaptability, and readiness to learn, even without direct experience.

Q: How can I make my “waitress cover letter with no experience” stand out?

Answer: I personalize the letter for the restaurant, showing that I’ve researched their style and values, and focus on my ability to work well in fast-paced environments. I always make sure to reflect genuine enthusiasm for the role.

Q: What transferable skills should I mention in a “waitress cover letter with no experience”?

Answer: I always highlight skills like multitasking, communication, and handling pressure, as these are crucial for a waitressing job. For example, working in retail or as a cashier has many overlaps with serving in a restaurant.

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Examples of cover letters for a waiter job

When applying for a waiter position, your cover letter is an opportunity for you to tell your story, without being stuck in the formatting constraints of the resume. The best format for writing a cover letter is as follows:

It’s with great pleasure that I’m responding to your advertisement for a Waiter at The Flagship Restaurant. I’ve been working in the restaurant industry for the last 15 years, and I love serving guests and creating a one-of-a-kind experience for them every time they’re at one of my tables. Anticipating the needs of my guests is of paramount importance to me because I love helping restaurants grow their clientele, and I believe that creating a fun and friendly experience is one of the factors that I have the most control over as a Waiter. I do, however, also believe that guests want their order to be served correctly and in a timely fashion. That’s why I work to communicate effectively with cooks and help other Waiters by expediting and running their tables’ food.

In my previous position at Innovation Restaurant, I served guests by greeting them as soon as they were seated and by serving their drinks, most of the time, within two minutes of them having ordered. Innovation Restaurant has a quality-assurance program that uses secret guests who rate their experiences at the restaurant. For both of the two secret guests that I served, I was given perfect scores on timeliness of service and menu knowledge. I also helped management refine the training program so that new Waiters would better learn how to serve their guests.

I’m so excited at the opportunity to learn about the food at The Flagship Restaurant and to connect with the restaurant’s other Waiters and the guests. If hired, I’ll be happy to help others learn techniques that create quality experiences for guests, and I’ll continually be looking for ways to improve the service that I give.

Hiring Manager

20 South Parkway

Some key points that you will find relevant to your job opportunity include:

Jack Jobseeker”

Dear [Mr./Mrs./Ms.] [Manager’s Name],

I’m writing to you with regards to applying to the waitress role I saw on [Website Name]. With over five years of experience providing excellent service to diners at quality establishments, I know that I’m a strong candidate to fill out your team.

While working as a waitress at the Longhorn Grill in Los Angeles, I learned the ins and outs of the industry, including food handling techniques and how to take orders efficiently in a 120+ seat restaurant. I also served as a hostess and waitress at Mike’s Fancy Kitchen, where I was introduced to bussing tables and proper cleaning techniques for maintaining a hygienic dining experience.

My accomplishments include:

[Your Name]”

“Dear Mrs. Dickerson,

I am very enthusiastic about the open position I found on www.careerbuilder.com seeking an experienced Waiter for your restaurant. Please review my included resume.

I look forward to communicating with you further. If you could please call me at (555)-555-5555 to schedule a time to come in, I would very much appreciate it. Thanks for your time.

Kimbery Campbell”

Upon review of your posting for a Waiter at Giselle’s, I was eager to submit my resume for your review. As an enthusiastic professional with 9 years of serving experience, I am prepared to make an immediate and positive impact on your restaurant in this position.

From taking customer orders and refilling glasses to setting tables and ensuring timely food and drink delivery, my experience has prepared me to excel as your new waiter. For the past nine years, I have provided excellent customer service in consecutive serving positions for both casual and fine dining establishments. My additional strengths in team collaboration, problem solving, and organization position me to thrive in this role.

Highlights of my background include:

Serving as Head Waiter for Blue Wave Restaurant in San Diego and Skyline Fine Dining in Calabasas, as well as a Waiter for Cherry’s in multiple locations across the region.

Training and coaching new servers while acting as a mentor to model restaurant procedures.

Collaborating with peers and management to ensure outstanding levels of customer satisfaction.

Earning consistent praise from restaurant management due to exceptional job performance.

With my excellent previous experience, coupled with my enthusiasm and dedication to ensuring optimal customer experiences, I could swiftly surpass your expectations as your new waiter. I look forward to discussing the position in further detail. Thank you for your consideration.

McKinley Morganfield”

Frequently Asked Questions:

How do i write an application letter to a restaurant worker.

“All my experience and skills would make me a great new addition to your establishment. I have attached my resume, which contains a more in-depth look at my experiences and skills. I look forward to hearing from you and would love to visit your restaurant for an interview. Thank you for your time and consideration.”

How do you say you have no experience but are willing to learn in a cover letter?

Example: “I believe that my enthusiasm and willingness to learn to make me a strong candidate.”

https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/cover-letter-samples/waiter#:~:text=Dear%20Hiring%20Manager%2C,at%20one%20of%20my%20tables.

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9 Real Restaurant Manager Resume Examples That Worked in 2024

Restaurant Manager

Best for senior and mid-level candidates

There’s plenty of room in our elegant resume template to add your professional experience while impressing recruiters with a sleek design.

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Like this template? Customize this resume and make it your own with the help of our Al-powered suggestions, accent colors, and modern fonts.

Restaurant Manager Resume

• Restaurant Resumes by Experience
• Restaurant Resumes by Type

If not for restaurant managers, nothing would get done in the restaurant industry. You hire personnel, coordinate schedules, order supplies, facilitate a warm environment, and maintain the budget. Your job helps shape modern social relations, community, city structure, and economy.

You shouldn’t have to become a professional at resume or cover letter writing to show employers your potential.

Thankfully, that’s not necessary. We’ve reviewed countless restaurant manager resumes, built tons of resume examples , and discovered what works and what won’t for landing interviews.

We distilled that information into nine free restaurant manager resume samples to help you make a resume to impress in 2024.

or download as PDF

Why this resume works

• Your restaurant manager resume should  show  rather than tell your job performance. Use metrics to discuss the employees you managed, health inspection scores, quarterly or annual returns, money saved through efficiency, reviews, and staff retention.
• Important : don’t spell out the numbers. Numerals break up the visual monotony of letters and catch hiring managers’ eyes.
• If you opt for a summary, customize it to each job you apply for. Review the job description and incorporate essential skills. It’s additionally important to mention the restaurant by name.
• It might seem like a headache, but you’ll score fewer interviews if you fail to customize and mass spam a generic resume to employers.

Restaurant Assistant Manager Resume

• Try using words like “spearheaded” and “overhauled” to highlight the ability to work without constant supervision.
• Check the job description of the positions for which you apply. Though you can include skills related to all restaurant management jobs, you’ll have the best chance of getting past the ATS if you match your skills to those highlighted in the job description.
• Because of the competition for restaurant manager jobs, hiring teams automate the initial stage with Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to accelerate the review process. Recruiters can filter resumes for specific job skills to remove any who may be a poor fit.
• Include relevant skills for restaurant managers, such as customer service and interpersonal skills, troubleshooting, organization, leadership, and flexibility.

Entry-Level Restaurant Manager Resume

• Demonstrating a history of serving, bartending, and supervising on your entry-level restaurant manager resume shows that you know the nuances of a dining establishment well enough to keep things running smoothly.

Restaurant General Manager Resume

• Employers try to sift through applicants quickly to determine legitimate candidates. Placing your most significant experience at the top of the page will ensure your restaurant general manager resume lands in the interview pile rather than the bin. 
• Focus on successes with metrics to back them up. For example, instead of writing “ job duties included budgeting and basic accounting skills ,” your resume would shine with “ generated restaurant target sales figures and individual server target sales, analyzing weekly data to make improvements, resulting in annual sales 11% above targets .”

Restaurant Assistant General Manager Resume

• Phrases with hard-hitting numbers, such as cutting labor costs by $376 per week and saving 16 minutes per day… and reducing food waste by 902 pounds and saving the restaurant $5,637 per month are precisely what we’re talking about here.

Fast Food Restaurant Assistant Manager Resume

• You want to go through the job description in detail, highlighting the buzzwords pertinent to the open position. Then, get creative and weave them appropriately into your masterpiece. It’s like seasoning your application just right to make sure it gets through that automated gatekeeper and catches the recruiter’s eye.

Restaurant Bar Manager Resume

• Find examples of how you streamlined processes across teams to bolster your resume. For instance, finding innovative ways to communicate with the kitchen staff shows your ability to make operations easier for everyone.

Pizza Restaurant Manager Resume

• If you have a background at any restaurant, you can highlight transferable skills. For instance, highlight using ingredients before spoilage as a chef (saving the restaurant money), engaging in positive customer service, and increasing delivery efficiency.
• Use active voice, action words, concise sentences, and metrics in every bullet point as you build your resume  to make your application professional and polished.

Fast Food Restaurant Manager Resume

• It’s best to highlight the most relevant jobs on your fast food restaurant manager resume . These should be at least two and no more than four work experiences.
• We recommend including three to six bullet points for each work experience and less than 200 characters per point. To achieve the most impact in the fewest characters, you need to use quantifiable metrics.
• If this is a challenge, don’t sweat it.  Writing the perfect resume  is no easy feat and may require some adjustment. Use our  resume checker  to see how you can make improvements that land you more interviews.

Related resume guides

• Food Service Worker