Being a hostess and an introvert at the same time?

[Anonymous]

I just got a job at Texas Roadhouse, as a hostess, and am in high school full-time, taking all college classes. I've had training all week from 3-9:30, and have had an exorbitant amount if pressure between school and learning all the different hostess positions, restaurant layout, the entire menu (including the combos, what goes with what, and ounces if every meat product we serve) line dances, and table numbers. I feel as though I have NOTHING together and can't remember anything, which is a problem, since we open Saturday. I'm also very uncomfortable with my position, since I have to tell every single guest about our "story," set their table, and communicate with the updaters all at the same time. We're going to be extremely busy, and they haven't even told us our schedules yet. If I knew I was going to have to do 5 different positions as a hostess and have the hardest job in the restaurant, instead of the other way around, I would NOT have taken it. We only get paid $7.50 an hour and don't get to keep our tips, as well. Does anyone have any advice with this?

[meatballs21]

I was exactly the same for my first job - introvert forced to be the front of house for a lively restaurant.

You will very quickly learn to fake happiness and enthusiasm as you are giving the first impression to every customer who comes in. Try to have as much fun as you can because otherwise you will find it extremely difficult to handle, especially when things get busy.

Even with all the pressure, I would sooner be a host than a server. You bring them in, seat them, give them menus, tell them your server will be right with you. Your job is essentially done with that party apart from saying goodbye as they leave.

[Asker]

I guess my heart just isn't in it. I'd rather take a job at Lowe's and get paid $10.50 to be honest, until things calm down and I can balance my priorities better. I have to go in for training in an hour and I feel like I'm suffocating.

[meatballs21]

If your heart isn't in it, it will show quickly. Restaurants can have high staff then over for this reason.

Front of house don't get tips, unless it's one of those places where all tips go into a pot and are shared evenly. If you know you can get that job st Lowe's, you might consider getting out now. Just tell them this isn't the job for you.

[Asker]

I just terrible because my manager cries every time she talks to all of us and how "proud of the team we have." I just didn't realize how involved this was going to be, or how much pressure it was going to put on me as an individual. And yes, that's exactly the type of tip-sharing we do. I just don't think $7.50 is enough pay for this training and the amount of positions we actually have to learn in less than a week.

[Asker]

feel* terrible

[meatballs21]

Don't let those crocodile tears fool you. That is extremely unprofessional manipulative behavior from her.

[starzcapz]

you're getting out of your comfort zone, I mean handling a lot of stress builds your character, I did full time school and full time work too and trust me when life puts pressure on you it will only make you better