Mastering The Art of Hiring and Training a Bar Manager

Running a thriving bar business demands more than just great drinks and a welcoming atmosphere; it hinges on having an exceptional bar manager. There is no way you can spend your time working on your bar unless you have a manager in place to handle the day-to-day operations. The process of hiring and training a bar manager can significantly impact the success of your establishment.

TRUST: THE CORNERSTONE OF HIRING

Hiring a bar manager is not merely a business decision; it’s entrusting someone with your livelihood. It’s common to grapple with fears and trust issues in this process. However, it’s crucial to remember that there are many experienced and trustworthy managers out there, and the key is to find the right fit for your business.

• Promoting from Within: Considering promoting a current staff member to the role of bar manager can be a motivating factor for your team. It demonstrates that there’s room for growth within your business. Yet, it also presents challenges, such as navigating pre-existing relationships within the team. It is often harder for a manager promoted from within to initially have the power of management. Too many of their former peers will still think that they are on the same level and may have a tendency to think they can avoid following directions.
• External Hiring: Opting to hire externally can infuse fresh perspectives and innovative ideas into your bar. However, this route necessitates a comprehensive hiring process to ensure the new manager aligns with your bar’s culture and values. Look for candidates who understand the business and how to effectively manage it. But be open to looking outside of the bar industry to hospitality industry managers from restaurants or hotels. Ensuring that your new hire will be able to fit in with and be a champion for your culture is more important than having specific industry knowledge.
• Hiring Friends: Hiring a friend may seem like a secure choice due to an existing trust level. However, it can blur the lines between professional and personal relationships, potentially leading to conflicts. Too often you see situations where someone hired a friend only for that friend to not take the job seriously. Many restaurant and bar rescue shows have been made around this exact premise. That isn’t to say it cannot work, but you have to hire someone who can delineate between your personal and professional relationships.

EFFECTIVE TRAINING AND TRANSITION

Regardless of the path you choose, the key to success is providing your new manager with thorough training and facilitating a smooth transition into their role. Expecting them to excel without proper support can be a recipe for disaster. Instead, build their confidence by gradually delegating responsibilities, allowing them to grow into their position, and allowing you to build confidence and trust over time.

Moreover, implementing systems is crucial. These checks and balances ensure that your delegated responsibilities are executed correctly, providing peace of mind and enabling your manager to perform effectively.

Hiring and training a bar manager is a pivotal process in running a successful bar business. It demands thoughtful consideration, comprehensive training, and a supportive team to navigate the challenges and achievements of bar ownership. By mastering this art, you’re well on your way to maximizing your bar’s potential and achieving long-term success.

For an in-depth discussion on this topic, tune in to The Bar Business Podcast episode.