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Essential Checklist for Your First Serving Job: What You Need to Succeed!

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Just got a new serving job? Looking for ideas on what to bring to your first day and what clothes to wear? This is the list for you! Everything you need is provided and made simple so you have the best idea on what to get!
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Essentials

Everything you need to take orders and provide the best service!

 
Hallee Conley profile picture
I use these aprons all the time! They are easy to clean and look sharp!
Syntus 3 Pack Black Server Aprons, 3 Pockets
 
Hallee Conley profile picture
Some cute pens are great for a server! I would go with a multicolor pack if you are worried about losing them, the colors are easy to spot!
Ddaowanx Gel Smooth Writing Cute Pens
 
Hallee Conley profile picture
These are some of my favorite pens, they are basic but work well!
Pilot Retractable Roller Ball Pen, Black, 12-Pack
 
Hallee Conley profile picture
If you need to take paper orders, these are perfect and are a great option, and allow for a lot of customization!
Methdic Guest Checks Server Notepads 5 Books
 
Hallee Conley profile picture
A notebook cover holds everything you need and makes you look very professional! These come in a few different colors as well.
Premium Leather Waitress Serving Notebook Organizer

Clothes

Black is the most common color for servers to wear, as it looks sharp and clean. However, feel free to switch out colors as preferred!

 
Hallee Conley profile picture
I get a ton of compliments on these shoes at every place I've worked at!
Dr. Martens womens Combs W
 
Hallee Conley profile picture
These are good non-slip shoes that match well with any outfit!
Women Canvas Slip On Non Slip Casual Sneakers
 
Hallee Conley profile picture
These are the best shirts for serving, they are soft and comfortable and hold up well!
Amazon Essentials Women's Regular-Fit Crewneck Tee
 
Hallee Conley profile picture
A large pack of black shirts is a must if you work many back to back shifts and do not have time to do laundry!
OKBA 5 PCS Black Round Neck Polyester T-Shirts
 
Hallee Conley profile picture
Long sleeve shirts also work well, and look very nice and fitted.
Abardsion Women's Long Sleeve Crop Top
 
Hallee Conley profile picture
Black comfy socks are the best for a serving job, as it matches with everything and looks professional.
Womens Crew Socks Size 5-9 Cotton 6 Pack
 
Hallee Conley profile picture
These are some comfy and stretchy pants that still look professional!
Women’s Business Casual Stretch Flare Pants
 
Hallee Conley profile picture
Another pair of professional black pants that are comfortable and look great! These ones are straight cut and would look great in any setting!
Womens High Waist Straight Leg Pants

Hair

 
Hallee Conley profile picture
Scrunchies, especially satin, will help protect your hair if you need to tie it up!
Kitsch Satin Scrunchies for Women, 5 pcs
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Hallee Conley profile picture
Hair ties are important for serving jobs, as keeping your hair up and out of the way is important for food safety!
Kitsch Black No Damage Hair Ties, 20pcs
 
Hallee Conley profile picture
It's good to have a dry shampoo handy, in case your hair looks a bit greasy. Working in a restaurant especially during long shifts might make it look a bit oily.
Kitsch Volumizing Rice Protein Dry Shampoo 1oz
 
Hallee Conley profile picture
Hair perfume is a great way to smell good on the job, and make your customers like you more!
Kitsch Hair Perfume Trio Set - 3x10mL
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Hallee Conley profile picture
Hair clips are another great way to keep your hair up and out of the way while you work!
LuSeren 4.3in Large Matte Hair Claw Clips
 
Hallee Conley profile picture
Bobby pins are great to have on you, just to hold your hair up and nice while you work your shift!
Amazon Basics No Slip Bobby Pins, 48 Count, Black