Working in restaurants is definitely character building. Especially if you work in an area that gets lots of tourists.

During the Summers in college I worked as a server at a fine dining restaurant in Cape Cod, Massachusetts. It was up to $60 a plate so our clientele had some high expectations. There were times where it felt like I was getting chewed up and spit out with no 20% tip in sight. But other times I would make a $200 tip just for serving a bottle of champagne with a smile on my face and think, "actually, this is a pretty good gig!"

In order to flourish as a server or bartender, you have to be mindful that people are coming to you for a certain experience. At the end of the day it's not really about the spicy margarita or the piece of haddock you served. If you enhanced their experience with your presence you will be rewarded for it. (most of the time)

 Kaitlyn who works at the Porthole in Portland, Maine makes customers who come in as strangers leave feeling like they made a new best friend.

She has been behind the bar for more than a decade, greeting everyone from visitors, lobstermen, and longtime locals. Her enthusiasm and adoration for the wharf in contagious. The team at the Porthole feels so lucky to have her.

Kaitlyn's hard work is about to be rewarded in a big way but she needs your help. There are only two days left to vote for The Bar Boss Competition Featuring Jon Taffer.

What does she get if she wins?

 

If Kaitlyn wins she will be sent to Nashville for a chance to appear on the cover of Food & Beverage Magazine and win $20,000. This is a big deal so make sure you vote for our girl here. (she's currently in 5th place so we need to kick those votes up a notch, people!)

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