Landing your first bartending gig can indeed feel like a catch-22. Many establishments want prior experience, but you can’t get experience until someone hires you. Here are a few tips to help you break into the industry:<br /><br />Start Small: Consider working as a barback or in a related role at a busy bar or restaurant. This allows you to learn the ropes, build connections, and demonstrate your work ethic.<br />Get Certified: Taking bartending classes or obtaining certifications (like TIPS or ServSafe) shows initiative and helps you understand the basics of mixing drinks and customer service.<br />Highlight Transferable Skills: If you’ve worked in retail, food service, or any customer-facing role, emphasize skills like multitasking, handling pressure, and interacting with customers.<br />Network: Let friends, family, and acquaintances know you’re looking. Referrals can often help you get your foot in the door.<br />Additionally, don’t overlook job opportunities at companies like Dutch Bros. While they’re not traditional bartending roles, positions like barista can give you hands-on experience with drink preparation, customer interaction, and working in a fast-paced environment. It’s a great stepping stone, and you can learn more about applying for barista jobs by exploring online resources about <a href="https://dbmenuss.com/all-about-dutch-bros-jobs-application/" target="_blank">Dutch Bros positions</a>.<br /><br />With the right mix of persistence and preparation, you’ll be shaking up cocktails in no time!