Bartending positions are not easy to get these days. Everyone is applying for the same position while most have no idea what they're doing. Seperating yourself from the pack can be as simple and having a better understanding of what it really takes to be a bartender.

Here are a couple of rules to remember in regards to hygiene and safety measures in a professional bar. Its easy to forget that these standards are also laws in many states which is why we cannot stress the importance of them for your safety, your friends and the bar's customers! In fact, your managers expect you to know these standards before you even apply for the position.

Keep your bar clean by constantly glancing around and picking up any trash such as napkins, straws, and garnishes as well as used glasses. Bar equipment should be washed thoroughly and shined like bar spoons and cocktail strainers each time they are used - even between drinks. Wash your hands often - in particular after any contact with raw citrus fruit. This will prevent scaling of the hands and infection.

Make sure you are well-groomed, in particular focus on your hands - especially your fingernails because they receive the most abuse on the job. Always be sure to use soap when you wash your hands as the oils from garnishes need the extra scrub to remove them. Keep your nails short. Don't use bright nail polish colors if you paint your nails, so the focus is on you and your drinks instead of your bright fingernails. Leave a little room at the top of the drink so the customer can carry it. It causes wet puddles across the bar and will have your bar smelling much worse by the end of the night. You also want to avoid having customers spill on themselves and others.

Make it a point to be proactive with regard to your bar's sanitation. The significance can't be stressed enough. Honestly, your workplace and your customers will definitely appreciate your time and effort made. And you can prevent yourself from losing your job over something as simple as cleanliness and hygiene.