PSEUDO NAMES - Oh you can call me...................

Using a pseudo name while working in the service industry is not always common yet it’s not uncommon. Most people use their real names but every once in a while some creep-o weird-o wants to know all about you and your business. You know how you meet people and you notice something different, something that is just slightly off. I’m not saying it’s a bad thing per-se, but it’s something that’s just plain off.

Examples of these types of people:

- the over excited patron that continues to talk and talk to whomever is at the bar and to you. You being the well mannered bartender/server that is paid to sorta listen. They will even continue the story they are telling as you walk away and help other people and they are still going on and on as you return. (most times these people find out your name somehow behind your back)

- the silent type that drinks and drinks and stares at your every move. They keep to themselves until they eventually have a decent buzz and start barking out things that you hardly understand. These types always remember one particular time with you. ie: that Halloween costume you wore that one year. This is literally the only thing they have in common with you and bring it up ALL the time.

-grumpy old crotchety men and women that come in every once in a while and are a pain in the ass. Their sole purpose is to come in and complain. They will drink and eat everything given to them but will let you know how terrible it is the whole time. Many times they want to talk to the person in charge.

-drunk people - enough said.

This only brushes on a few notable examples - If you work in the industry you surely know the type(s).

There is a definite art to using a pseudo name and it takes practice. You must be a seasoned server, aware of your surroundings at all time. You must be quick witted and sharp as a tack. As a server/bartender you must have a name picked out and stick with that name. The last thing you want happening is fumbling over several names and being caught hesitating to say your name. One name should do it and it should roll off the tongue with ease. You want to be able to say your pseudo name easily especially while your being starred at or casually walking away. Another thing that may be of value to you is letting your co-worker know of the pseudo name so they don’t blow the cover.

My pseudo name is: Donna! and I use it with gusto and pride.

True Story:

An old gentlemen came in looking like he was straight out of the rat pack, ordered a beer and started talking to all the broads. Badda Bing Badda Boom! lemme tell you honey, back in my day I used to run with the good ole’ boys. He was everyone’s best buddy as he reminisced about the golden times of life. He wasn’t a bother other than non-stop talking and singing. I had seen this guy come in before and he seemed harmless other than making young broads uncomfortable. He started asking everyone their names, when he got to me I was ready. “Hey honey, what’s your name”? I looked him straight in the eyes without hesitation and replied: “Donna!”

It was as easy as that - and from that moment on, Donna was born.

What’s your pseudo name?