How you would greet your guest at the Table? Make sure you provide your standard welcome and greeting for your guests

Taking control of your table right off the bat is a great way to connect with your customers and be more efficient. So, when I greet a table, the first thing I say is "Hey y'all, is this your first time joining us at 'the name of the restaurant'?"

If the answer is YES, I follow up with: "if you'd like me to run over the menu I'd be more than happy to give you some suggestions or guide you on how to best access the menu." In doing so, I'm being helpful without seeming too pushy and offering the table the option of being autonomous.

If they do want help with the menu, I start by offering a few options from each section (appetizers, entrees, desserts, drinks) that I personally enjoy and know well enough to elaborate on. By making the first move and providing suggestions you're comfortable with, you'll come off as knowledgeable and be providing great customer service. This is a great way to set yourself up for success.

I'm being helpful without seeming too pushy and offering the table the option of being autonomous.

If the answer is no, and they've been to the restaurant before, I take a more passive approach and mention, "Well, if you need any suggestions or have questions, I'm here for you." It may seem simple but using the right verbiage here is key. You want to them to feel like they're being taken care of without coming off as intrusive.

It seems simple, but just by peaking their interest in you, you're building a relationship beyond guest and server. This is a prime example of using your personality to your advantage.