A great server cover letter can help you differentiate from the competition during your job search, especially when applying at upscale restaurants. The key is to emphasize your expertise in guest relations, fine dining, and hospitality by conveying your most notable achievements. This guide provides cover letter examples and expert tips to help you translate your experience within the restaurant industry into a powerful marketing document.
Server Cover Letter Templates and Examples
- Entry-Level
- Mid-Career
- Senior-Level
How To Write a Server Cover Letter
A great server cover letter has five main elements:
1. Heading. Use a professional template to enhance the style and presentation of your cover letter. Be sure your heading includes:
- Your name, title, and contact info
- The current date
- The addressee’s details
2. Salutation. Greet the hiring manager by name — Mr. or Ms. [Last Name]. If you can’t find the hiring manager’s name, use a variation of “Dear Hiring Manager.”
3. Introduction. Open with a strong introductory paragraph that conveys your interest in the job, years of experience, and relevant qualifications. Include one of your most notable career achievements within the hospitality industry to send a clear message that you can provide value to the dining establishment you’re applying to.
Example
During my time with Fogo De Chao, I delivered an exceptional fine dining experience at an upscale Brazilian restaurant. I also led initiatives to improve collaboration between servers, hostesses, and kitchen staff, which led to a 15% increase in guest satisfaction scores. I believe that my experience in fine dining will allow me to thrive as a server at your establishment.
4. Body paragraphs. Continue to emphasize your career achievements in your body paragraphs using tangible examples, hard numbers, and metrics. Mention something specific about the restaurant’s reputation or cuisine any why this draws you to apply for the opportunity. Consider including a list of bullet points to break up the text on the page and enhance the reading experience.
Example
Chima Steakhouse’s reputation for the authenticity of its cuisine is what draws me to apply for this position. Having already garnered expertise in Brazilian cuisine, I am confident I can deliver an outstanding dining experience based on my previous achievements:
- Collaborated with servers, back of the house, and restaurant managers to enhance service delivery, which improved guest satisfaction scores from 75% to 95% over six months
- Educated guests on Brazilian cuisine, upsold menu items and appetizers, recommended wine pairings, and achieved 120% of monthly sales quotas
- Trained 12 new servers on guest relations, menu items, ServSafe protocols, and service standards
5. Closing section. Think of your conclusion as a call to action. Ask the hiring manager to contact you so you can learn more about the position. Be sure to thank them for their time and consideration.
Example
I would like to schedule an interview to provide more insights into how my fine dining experience and leadership skills could benefit your establishment. Feel free to contact me via phone or email at your convenience. I appreciate your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Meera Patel
Server Cover Letter Tips
1. Emphasize your passion for the hospitality industry
To make a lasting impression on the hiring manager, it’s important to convey your passion for the hospitality industry. Restaurants want servers who take pride in their occupation, as this is essential for delivering an exceptional dining experience. It also shows you’re committed to growing within the field.
2. Highlight your guest relations and leadership skills
Being able to cater to guest needs during peak restaurant hours is a key aspect of serving. As you craft your cover letter, emphasize your ability to communicate effectively with both guests and restaurant teams to deliver high-end service. This sends a clear message to hiring managers that you’re the ideal culture fit for their establishment.
3. Quantify your achievements as a server
Another way to differentiate yourself from other applicants is by quantifying your accomplishments as a hospitality professional. Featuring your guest satisfaction scores and sales metrics is a great way to establish your credibility as a strong server. It also shows time management skills, as it takes great skill to provide quality service during high-volume periods.
Server Text-Only Cover Letter Templates and Examples
- Example #1
- Example #2
- Example #3
Mina Sayed
Server | [email protected] | (123) 456-7890 | San Francisco, CA 12345 | LinkedIn
January 1, 2024
Mr. Robert Santos
Hiring Manager
Empellon
(987) 654-3210
[email protected]
Dear Mr. Santos,
During my time with Fogo De Chao, I delivered an exceptional fine dining experience at an upscale Brazilian restaurant. I also led initiatives to improve collaboration between servers, hostesses, and kitchen staff, which led to a 15% increase in guest satisfaction scores. I believe my experience in fine dining will allow me to thrive as a server at your establishment.
Chima Steakhouse’s reputation for the authenticity of its cuisine is what draws me to apply for this position. Having already garnered expertise in Brazilian cuisine, I am confident I can deliver an outstanding dining experience based on my previous achievements:
- Collaborated with servers, back of the house, and restaurant managers to enhance service delivery, which improved guest satisfaction scores from 75% to 95% over six months
- Educated guests on Brazilian cuisine, upsold menu items and appetizers, recommended wine pairings, and achieved 120% of monthly sales quotas
- Trained 12 new servers on guest relations, menu items, ServSafe protocols, and service standards
I would like to schedule an interview to provide more insights into how my fine dining experience would be an asset to your team. You may contact me via phone or email for any additional questions you may have about my background. I appreciate your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Mina Sayed
Server Cover Letter FAQs
Why should I include a server cover letter?-
Although cover letters are not usually required for server positions, taking the time to include one speaks volumes about who you are as a professional. It also allows you to convey your genuine interest in the position by mentioning specific details about the restaurant you’re applying to.
How do I make my cover letter stand out?-
If you’re applying for a server job at an upscale restaurant, you can make your cover letter stand out by mentioning specific fine dining establishments you’ve worked at in the past. It’s likely the hiring manager will be familiar with these restaurants, which adds to your credibility as a hospitality professional.
How long should my cover letter be?-
It’s normally best to keep your cover letter concise and focused, limited to no more than three or four paragraphs. This keeps the hiring manager’s eye on your most notable achievements and qualifications, as providing too much information may negatively impact the reading experience.
Craft a new cover letter in minutes
Get the attention of hiring managers with a cover letter tailored to every job application.
