A bartending school or class that teaches basic to advanced bartending can provide many benefits. But there are also drawbacks. This article explains the pros and cons of whether it is worth going to bartending school.
Pros
Education and Skills
The most obvious pro is the education and skills you would gain. Inexperienced bartenders can expect to learn the basics of mixology, drink recipes, bartending techniques, customer service, bar management, and operations. These skills and education can make you more desirable in the market, get more tips, and advance faster.
Networking
A not-so-obvious pro is the opportunity to network. These schools often include well-known trainers and fellow bartenders you can begin networking with. This network helps to create professional opportunities, knowledge sharing, and mentorship.
Credentials
Many bartending schools have industry-recognized credentials. These can help you become a desirable candidate or act as a point of leverage when asking for a raise or promotion.
Practical Experience
The skills that you will learn are often paired with practical experience. Students may be asked to create garnishes, make popular recipes, and go through the steps of shutting down the back of the bar.
Cons
Cost
The skills that you will learn are often paired with practical experience. Students may be asked to create garnishes, make popular recipes, and go through the steps of shutting down the back of the bar.
Time Commitment
These classes often also take a large amount of time. This time could be spent working, doing hobbies, or spending time with family.
Limited Experience
While these classes offer practical experience, they are often limited. More often than not, the class takes place away from customers and will not teach you how to think on the go. Instead, you are only limited to the setting in which your bartending school is set.
Alternatives
There are alternatives for bartending schools. For example, there are books, online courses, and videos, and you can do your own research online.
If you’d rather access an online course at your leisure, Serving Alcohol offers Behind The Bar Excellence for only $15. It teaches you everything a new bartender needs to know before beginning.
