how to write an application letter to be a waitress

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5 Waitress Cover Letter Examples to Win the Job in 2024 

• Waitress Cover Letter
• Waitress Cover Letter Example by Experience
• Waitress Cover Letter Example by Role
• Write Your Waitress Cover Letter

Each diner matters, and you make sure they know it by taking orders, serving food and drinks, and cheerfully communicating order alterations to kitchen staff. You answer guests’ questions, thanks to your consistent knowledge of new or seasonal items, and can make recommendations.

But how do you share all that value when writing a cover letter and complementary waitress resume so recruiters can see how seriously you take your job? What skills and experience are they looking for?

We’ve got your back with our five waitress cover letter examples created after years of helping people like you. Or check out our free cover letter generator for a cover letter that’s delicious from start to finish!

Waitress Cover Letter Example

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123 Fictional Avenue Nashville, TN 37011 (123) 456-7890

September 30, 2023

Olivia Moore The Pancake Pantry 123 Fictional Lane Nashville, TN 37011

Dear Ms. Moore,

As a seasoned waitress with a solid eight-year track record and a die-hard fan of southern-style pancakes, I’m confident I’d rock as a part of The Pancake Pantry team. Just like I relish every bite of a well-stacked blueberry pancake, I dig roles that push my multitasking skills and boost my abilities.

During my time at The Loveless Cafe, I sharpened my ability to take swift and correct orders. Using restaurant order software like TouchBistro helped cut order errors by 11%, helping maintain a nice and steady customer satisfaction score of 84%.

On top of that, I’ve got quite an eye for setting up tables and creating a visually pleasing dining atmosphere. This talent notably enhanced the dining experience at The Catbird Seat, another spot I’ve added to my resume, facilitating a 16% increase in tip rate.

But wait, there’s more. among my arsenal of skills is a deft hand at handling trays. Over at Biscuit Love, I frequently carried hefty tray loads without breaking a sweat—or a dish. My nifty tray handling usually lets me serve 12% more tables every shift, bumping up customer service and the overall productivity of our team.

While I’ve learned some priceless lessons from these past roles, I’m psyched to bring my fiery passion for top-notch dining and smooth service to The Pancake Pantry. I look forward to chatting about how my multitasking, precision, and tech savviness could help create a dining experience your patrons will never forget. Thanks for considering me.

Enclosures: Resume Application 2 letters of recommendation Any Food Handling Certification

Why this cover letter works

• Blow away the recruiter with compelling anecdotes that capture your prowess in fostering business and creating memorable experiences for patrons (Think cutting order errors by 11% and 84% customer satisfaction score). Then, solidify your credibility by highlighting relevant certifications like a Food Handling Certificate.

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Pair Your Cover Letter with a Matching Waitress Resume

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Waitress No Experience Cover Letter Example

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123 Fictional Avenue Honolulu, HI 96795 (123) 456-7890

Mason Lewis Duke’s Waikiki 123 Fictional Lane Honolulu, HI 96795

Dear Mr. Lewis,

A fervent admirer of the hospitality industry with a background in fast-paced food service environments, I am pleased to offer my unique skills to Duke’s Waikiki as an entry-level waitress. Being adept in table setting and clearing, mixology, and wine service, I am fired up to deliver exceptional experiences that leave lasting memories for your valued customers.

The diverse and dynamic Royal Hawaiian, where I interned for six months, was a fertile training ground for mastering table setting and clearing. Creatively setting tables and executing expedient table clearing surged the table turnover rate by an impressive 21%. My proficiency with Toast POS software enhanced my efficiency, facilitating a swift and smooth dining experience for our guests.

Volunteering as a bartender at Mai Tai Bar, a beacon of Honolulu’s vibrant nightlife, allowed me to refine and showcase my cocktail creation and service skills. The result? A substantial 23% boost in evening sales. Additionally, honing techniques in properly opening and serving wine and deepening my understanding of various wine varieties delighted connoisseur patrons. This facilitated a robust 26% increase in average wine sales.

I further enriched my customer service skills in a one-year co-op at Hyatt Centric Waikiki Beach. By leveraging my bilingual ability in English and Spanish, I fostered a welcoming atmosphere for diverse guests. My knack for understanding customer needs and my trained ability to manage high-stress situations saw a notable uptick of more than 18% in positive guest feedback surveys.

As part of the energetic Duke’s Waikiki team, I bring a well-blended mix of superlative customer service skills, advanced mixology techniques, table setting, clearing expertise, and deftness in wine handling. I look forward to discussing opportunities for these skills to elevate Duke’s Waikiki’s commitment to offering unmatched hospitality experiences. Thank you for considering my application.

Ayodele Obi

• Transferable skills from other hospitality roles can propel your candidacy ahead of the competitors. An example is the multilingual prowess honed from engaging guests in Waikiki Beach.

Waiter Cover Letter Example

Copy this text for your waiter cover letter!

123 Fictional Avenue New York City, NY 38101 (123) 456-7890

March 07, 2024

Noah Kim Upland 123 Fictional Lane New York City, NY 38101

Dear Mr. Kim:

The inspiring stories I’ve heard about Upland’s exceptional dining experience for every patron offer a compelling testament to the restaurant’s dedication to quality, hospitality, and integrity. As I pursue a role as a waiter, I’m confident that I can not only adapt to but also enhance the vibrant dynamic of your esteemed establishment.

Throughout my career, I have demonstrated a knack for upselling, most notably premium wine and dessert options at The Capital Grille, leading to a 27% increase in average check value. Such experiences have honed my ability to effectively offer menu recommendations and additional information. Furthermore, my proficiency in various restaurant management software, including Micros RES, OpenTable, and Restaurant365, aligns with the technical skills required for seamless order-taking and delivery.

My tenure at Trinity Place has ingrained in me the importance of teamwork, effective communication, and speedy service—qualities you seek in a candidate. I have consistently received positive customer feedback for my attentiveness, patience, and positive attitude, underscoring my commitment to fostering a pleasurable dining experience.

At Upland, I aim to blend my strong work ethic, proven track record in enhancing customer satisfaction, and ability to multitask food and beverage orders to your restaurant. I can’t wait to discuss how my background, skills, and enthusiasm can contribute to your establishment’s continued success and growth.

Thank you for considering my application.

Alexander Ivanov

Enclosures: Resume Application 2 letters of recommendation

• Better yet, recount notable instances when your efforts were acknowledged by happy customers or even your co-workers. This will serve as a stamp of approval for your excellence.

Restaurant Waitress Cover Letter Example

Copy this text for your restaurant waitress cover letter!

123 Fictional Avenue Pittsburg, PA 48111 (123) 456-7890

Sophia Smith Sienna Mercato 789 Fictional Lane Pittsburg, PA 48111

Dear Ms. Smith:

I’m impressed by Sienna Mercato’s 4.4/5 star rating from over 2,800 customers on Google. The glowing reviews openly shared by your patrons resonate deeply with my commitment to excellence in customer service and hospitality. My resourcefulness in handling challenges, keen awareness of dining trends, and deep understanding of the intricacies of customer service, paired with effective task management, place me in a robust position to uplift your team’s performance and guest satisfaction.

At The Commoner and Kaya, I developed a keen understanding of the nuances of dining service, including preparing custom alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages and maintaining an extensive knowledge of menus to educate and assist guests. My ability to exceed sales targets by up to 16% through proactive up-selling and a customer-first attitude was recognized with an employee of the month award. Furthermore, my experience at SHOP ‘n SAVE honed my skills in fast-paced environments, ensuring efficient service without compromising the quality of the customer experience.

I’m particularly drawn to this role because it emphasizes contributing to a pleasant and memorable dining experience, from preparing the room for dining to ensuring the patrons’ needs are met throughout their visit. My track record of maintaining a positive and personable demeanor, complemented by my ability to work collaboratively with kitchen staff to coordinate meal progression, aligns perfectly with your restaurant’s commitment to exceptional service.

Eager to bring my strong work ethic, organizational skills, and passion for customer service to your restaurant, I look forward to discussing further how I can contribute to your team and your unique dining experience.

Thank you for your consideration,

Charlotte Dubois

Enclosures: Resume Application Transcripts

• First, it shows you did your homework on the establishment, and you value the shared experiences of its patrons, ultimately establishing an instant connection with the hiring manager. Secondly, such a reference acts as a testament to your appreciation of quality service, which could enhance your appeal.

Cocktail Waitress Cover Letter Example

Copy this text for your cocktail waitress cover letter!

123 Fictional Avenue Detroit, MI 48127 (123) 456-7890

James Hill Punch Bowl Social Detroit 123 Fictional Lane Detroit, MI 48127

Dear Mr. Hill,

As a local who’s been hearing stories about the decor and vibe at Punch Bowl Social Detroit, I realized that being a mixologist with a way with people, I could put my skills to work in creating great nights out for others. I bring a deep knowledge of mixology, garnishing skills, and a firm grasp of Michigan’s liquor laws that I’m ready to put to work behind your bar. I’m proficient in combining flavors, decorating cocktails, and collaborating with a team to deliver peak evening experiences you can proudly associate with Punch Bowl Social Detroit.

After working at Candy Bar Detroit, where I experimented with bespoke cocktails that eventually spiked sales by 36%, I realized how important it was to understand the nuances of customer’s preferences. Along the way, I strictly adhered to Michigan liquor laws, balancing the establishment’s needs with the enjoyment of its patrons.

My passion for garnishing became apparent when I was at The Sugar House, where my garnishing techniques were noted by patrons and even led to an increase in cocktail orders by up to 18%. The aesthetic appeal of my cocktails didn’t just make them Instagrammable but also increased customer satisfaction by a measurable amount.

Working at a busy bar-top at The Keep, where cocktails flowed like Detroit’s river, I learned to make drinks in sync with my colleague’s banter and the rhythm of the music. My speed and accuracy led to an 11% increase in customer retention rates. This speed and precision would translate directly into satisfying your clientele’s thirst and social needs.

Having racked up experience in mixology, garnishing, and local liquor laws, I believe my role at Punch Bowl Social Detroit would be a winner for both of us. I’m eager to tackle any ordeals, whether it’s a packed night or a tricky cocktail, and you’ll see why once we’ve chatted about the role more. Thank you, and I can’t wait to hear from you.

Amina Bello

• Mixology skills, knowledge of local liquor laws, understanding customer preferences, and fostering sales rank high in the skills and wins to outline in your piece. Subtle casualness is acceptable.

Related cover letter examples

• Waitress Resume

How to Format a Waitress Cover Letter

You’ve probably heard plenty about how your resume should line up with the job description , and your cover letter should pair with it just as deliciously! (We mean stuff like not over-selling your deep frying skills to a recruiter seeking a waitress to recommend wine pairings.)

Read the job description thoroughly and look for any of your job skills that overlap with their requirements. Try to match their emphasis when you select your experience points and success stories to share.

Waitress cover letter introduction

Always address your waitress cover letter to someone by name. If the job description doesn’t clearly name the recruiter or hiring manager who’s handling this role, do some added research. (Pulling up a few tabs with company info will help you throughout the rest of your process, too!)

After your formal, personalized greeting, it’s time to create an opening paragraph to grab the reader’s attention and keep them reading.

Connect with the company by aligning with relevant values you might have found in the original job ad or on the company website. Sprinkle in a few of your qualifying skills as you use those values to state why you want to be their next waitress.

Don’t write an overly casual, unprofessional opener like this one, which provides no solid examples of qualifications or a connection to the organization:

What’s up,

I’m super excited about this job and I really need it. I can walk really fast and I love food! Let me tell you more about myself.

This one opens much more professionally, offers solid skills, and creates a way more intriguing connection with the actual establishment:

Mmm, that’s better!

A fervent admirer of the hospitality industry with a background in fast-paced food service environments, I am pleased to offer my unique skills to Duke’s Waikiki as an entry-level waitress. Being adept in table setting and clearing, mixology, and wine service, I am fired up to deliver exceptional experiences that leave lasting memories for your valued customers.

Waitress cover letter body

The body paragraphs in your cover letter are like the main course, guiding the reader through a series of delightful tidbits about your qualifications.

Think of a really impressive experience from your job history and compare it against the job description . Maybe you boosted restaurant ratings with the same attention to detail that caught an easily missed order adjustment. If it aligns with the job requirements, it might just land you the job.

Just keep each paragraph focused on one main success story about the positive impact you left in the industry. Oh, and always provide metrics like customer feedback ratings, sales percentages, or efficiency ratings to give your claims substance.

Example of a well-made body paragraph

During my time at The Loveless Cafe, I sharpened my ability to take swift and correct orders. Using restaurant order software like TouchBistro, I helped cut order errors by 11%, contributing to a nice and steady customer satisfaction score of 84%.

Waitress cover letter closing

Just as you’d ask your diners “Would we care for any desserts this evening?” you’ll need to close off your cover letter with something satisfactory that leaves the reader wanting to come back again. Quickly outline once again why you want the job and how well you’re aligned with it already.

Make sure you add a spritz of desirable traits or skills that connect with the job and the establishment as a whole. And don’t forget your call to action, which should invite further discussion of your waitress qualifications.

And you know how priceless good manners are. Make sure you thank the reader for their time! If you don’t thank them within your closer paragraph, you can use a Thank-you as your signoff. Just make sure that any signoff you use is highly professional, and concludes with your real, full name.

Don’t write a closer like this: we’ve got typos, zero re-connection with the organization, and a completely informal tone and signoff.

Pretty cool, rihgt? Let me know when I can start because I really want to get into restaurant jobs.

Instead, see how some quick, applicable skills pair with ambition and a connection with the establishment to set off that powerful call to action:

What a well-rounded closer!

Having racked up experience in mixology, garnishing, and local liquor laws, I believe my role at Punch Bowl Social Detroit would be a winner for both of us. I’m eager to tackle any obstacle, whether it’s a packed night or a tricky cocktail, and you’ll see why once we’ve chatted about the role more. Thank you for your time, and I can’t wait to hear from you.

Revisit the job description and the business’ website to get a feel for what kind of environment they promote. Whether you write with formal, super-classy wording or a more casual tone should depend on how they sound so that you demonstrate your great fit.

If you can’t find the recipient of your waitress cover letter in the original job post or on their website, look for professional social media accounts. Facebook and LinkedIn are often good sources!

If you have some impressive additions that add value to your application package, yes! Just write “Enclosures:” at the bottom of your letter and list any food safety certifications, professional recommendations from former employers or mentors, etc., that you’ve got up your sleeve.

10 Professional Waitress Cover Letter Examples for 2024

In crafting your waitress cover letter, highlight your exceptional customer service skills. Demonstrate your ability to manage high-pressure situations with grace and efficiency. Showcase your experience with various POS systems and your ability to learn new technologies swiftly. Impress upon the reader your dedication to ensuring a pleasant dining experience for all guests.

All cover letter examples in this guide

Waitress No Experience

Waitress Cashier

Head Waitress

Hostess Waitress

Cocktail Waitress

Bartender Waitress

Bottle Service Waitress

Cover letter guide.

Waitress Cover Letter Sample

Cover Letter Format

Cover Letter Salutation

Cover Letter Introduction

Cover Letter Body

Cover Letter Closing

No Experience Waitress Cover Letter

Key Takeaways

By Experience

As you set out to craft your waitress cover letter, the reality hits: it's more than rehashing your resume. You're here, possibly after realizing the job application demands a customized letter that showcases your professional pride without drowning in clichés. Within a concise, one-page narrative, learn to present that standout achievement that defines your service excellence—and do it with a touch of formality that captivates, not bores, your future employer.

• Including all the must-have paragraphs in your structure for an excellent first impression;
• Learning how to write individual sections from industry-leading cover letter examples;
• Selecting the best accomplishment to tell an interesting and authority-building professional story;
• Introducing your profile with personality, while meeting industry standards.

And, if you want to save some time, drag and drop your waitress resume into Enhancv's AI, which will assess your profile and write your job-winning cover letter for you.

If the waitress isn't exactly the one you're looking for we have a plethora of cover letter examples for jobs like this one:

• Waitress resume guide and example
• Baker cover letter example
• Cook cover letter example
• Fine Dining Bartender cover letter example
• Head Bartender cover letter example
• Chef cover letter example
• Restaurant Manager cover letter example
• Fast Food cover letter example
• Pastry Chef cover letter example
• Head Server cover letter example
• Banquet Bartender cover letter example

Waitress cover letter example

CHARLOTTE JONES

Columbus, Ohio

+1-(234)-555-1234

[email protected]

• Emphasizing relevant experience, such as orchestrating a menu overhaul that shows initiative and a collaborative spirit with kitchen staff, can underscore an applicant's suitability for a leadership role within a restaurant.
• Quantifying achievements with specific metrics, for instance the 25% increase in orders and the reduction in customer wait times, provides tangible evidence of an applicant's impact and capability to enhance the dining experience.
• Demonstrating an understanding of the prospective employer's values, such as their commitment to quality and service, and mirroring that in the cover letter can create a sense of alignment between the applicant's personal ethos and the restaurant's culture.
• Expressing a genuine enthusiasm to grow with the establishment and a desire to contribute positively can signify a proactive and ambitious mindset, which is often sought after for roles in dynamic service environments.

The format of your waitress cover letter: structure, fonts, margins, and more

Your waitress cover letter should include a header (with your name, position, and date); a greeting and introductory paragraph; a body and closing paragraphs; and an optional signature.

Remember that you're writing your waitress cover letter for recruiters - as the Applicant Tracker System won't scan this content.

Here are a few more tips and tricks to keep in mind when formatting your waitress cover letter:

• Use the same font in your waitress cover letter and resume . We recommend modern fonts, e.g. Lato and Rubik, to help you stand out, instead of the stereotypical Arial and Times New Roman.
• Each paragraph should have single spacing, which is already set up for you in our cover letter templates .
• Our cover letter builder follows industry standards for your waitress cover letter formatting - with a one-inch margin, surrounding your content.
• Always export your waitress cover letter in PDF to ensure the image or text quality stays the same and your writing isn't moved about.

The top sections on a waitress cover letter

• Header: Includes the applicant's contact information, the date, and the employer's contact details, which is crucial for ensuring the letter reaches the right person and for potential follow-up correspondence.
• Greeting: It's important to address the hiring manager or restaurant owner by name if possible, as it demonstrates attention to detail and a personalized approach, much like service in the hospitality industry.
• Introduction: In this section, the waitress should clearly state the position she's applying for and express her enthusiasm for the role, which sets the tone for a friendly and engaging cover letter, reflecting the interpersonal skills required for the job.
• Experience and Skills: This part should highlight relevant work history and specific skills like menu knowledge, order accuracy, and superior customer service, which are key to convincing the recruiter of the applicant's suitability for the waitress position.
• Closing and Call to Action: The applicant should end the cover letter by expressing gratitude for the opportunity to apply, reiterating interest in the position, and inviting the recruiter to schedule an interview, showing eagerness and proactivity.

Key qualities recruiters search for in a candidate’s cover letter

• Excellent communication skills: Crucial for accurately taking customer orders and effectively communicating with kitchen staff and team members.
• Strong interpersonal skills: Necessary to interact positively with a diverse range of customers, ensuring a pleasant dining experience.
• Proven ability to multitask: Essential in managing multiple tables, remembering order details, and providing timely service during busy shifts.
• Attention to detail: Important for ensuring orders are correct, special dietary requirements are met, and billing is accurate.
• Physical stamina and agility: Required to handle long shifts on foot and carry trays or plates without compromising service speed or customer experience.
• Experience with point-of-sale systems: Beneficial for efficiently processing orders and payments in a modern dining establishment.

How to greet recruiters in your waitress cover letter salutation

As the saying goes, "You never get a second chance to make a first impression."

Write your waitress cover letter salutation to be more personalized to the actual hiring manager, who is set to assess your profile by:

• greeting them on a first-name basis, if you have previously communicated with them (e.g. "Dear Sam,");
• using their last name, if you have more formal communication or haven't spoken to them (e.g. "Dear Mr. Harrows" or "Dear Ms. Marshall");
• writing "Dear HR Team" or "Dear Hiring Manager", if you have no clue about who's recruiting for the role.

Search on LinkedIn, Google, or the company website to find information as to the recruiter's name.

In any case, avoid the impersonal "Dear Sir or Madam".

List of salutations you can use

• Dear Hiring Manager,
• Dear [Restaurant Name] Team,
• Dear [Hiring Manager's Name],
• Dear [Employer's Title] [Employer's Last Name],
• Dear [Employer's Full Name],
• Dear [Employer's Title and Last Name],

The waitress cover letter intro: aligning your interest with the company culture

You only have one chance at making a memorable first impression on recruiters with your waitress cover letter.

Structure your introduction to be precise and to include no more than two sentences.

Here are some ideas on how to write a job-winning waitress cover letter introduction:

• get creative - show off your personality from the get-go (if this aligns with the company culture);
• focus on your motivation - be specific when you say what gets you excited about this opportunity.

Choosing your best achievement for the middle or body of your waitress cover letter

Now that you have the recruiters' attention, it's time to write the chunkiest bit of your waitress cover letter .

The body consists of three to six paragraphs that focus on one of your achievements.

Use your past success to tell a story of how you obtained your most job-crucial skills and know-how (make sure to back these up with tangible metrics).

Another excellent idea for your waitress cover letter's middle paragraphs is to shine a light on your unique professional value.

Write consistently and make sure to present information that is relevant to the role.

A sincere and original way to end your waitress cover letter

When writing their waitress cover letter, candidates tend to use one of these phrases, "Sincerely yours" or "I look forward to hearing from you".

Both statements show good manners, but your cover letter should end in a more actionable manner .

Write about:

• how you see yourself growing in the role/organization;
• the benefits you would bring about (you'd impress even more with tangible metrics);
• the next steps in the process (provide your availability for interviews).

Keep this in mind when writing your zero experience waitress cover letter

Even though you may not have any professional experience , your waitress cover letter should focus on your value.

As a candidate for the particular role, what sort of skills do you bring about? Perhaps you're an apt leader and communicator, or have the ability to analyze situations from different perspectives.

Select one key achievement from your life, outside work, and narrate a story that sells your abilities in the best light.

If you really can't think of any relevant success, you could also paint the picture of how you see your professional future developing in the next five years, as part of the company.

Key takeaways

Creating your waitress cover letter should be a personalized experience for the role and the recruiter, where you:

• Format your cover letter using the same ATS-friendly font (e.g. Railway) as you did for your resume;
• Greet recruiters, using their name, and follow up with two sentences to introduce yourself, your interest in the role, and to stand out;
• Map out one key success from your career (or life) that has taught you job-crucial skills;
• Substitute your lack of experience with an achievement from your internships, degrees, or volunteering gigs;
• End with a promise for your potential or your availability for an interview.

Waitress cover letter examples

Explore additional waitress cover letter samples and guides and see what works for your level of experience or role.

Cover letter examples by industry

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Enhancv harnesses the capabilities of ChatGPT to provide a streamlined interface designed specifically focused on composing a compelling cover letter without the hassle of thinking about formatting and wording.

• Content tailored to the job posting you're applying for
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CV d'une page : 3 exemples pour en illustrer l'impact

Should i hand in my resume in person, how to write a cover letter – writing guide + examples & downloadable templates, how to make a great resume outline: a comprehensive guide with examples, what's the best way to address a cover letter, ace your next interview with the correct body language.

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