My job in Belgium: Working as a waiter in a cocktail bar

What is your job?

I am a barman in a cocktail bar in the centre of Leuven. Depending on which colleagues are working with me that day, I either make the cocktails or I serve. Two years ago, when I began working here, I had to learn the 40 different cocktails that are on our menu off by heart. That was a very busy time as it was also the beginning of the academic year.

During the week, the majority of our customers are students and then Thursday is our busiest day. At the weekend, older people tend to come in and then it can be just as busy as it is on Thursdays. 

Do you like your job?

Yes, I like my job a lot. I've already worked for six years in the bar/catering industry. Before that I worked in various jobs such as an electrician and roadie for a tour management company. But that suited me a lot less than working in the catering business. 

My job now is above all else, changeable, and you have to learn the finer details. At the moment and upon my own initiative I am learning "cocktail flairing": via YouTube I am learning how to use a shaker and a bottle. I've been bitten by the bug, I love it so much.

It's a pity though that working in the bar industry is always a bit risky because a lot of businesses go bankrupt.

What do you think of your salary?

My salary is OK. I earn €1,656 gross (€1,340 net). You don't need a diploma to work in the bar industry, so I didn't expect to earn a seriously high income. But don't underestimate our job, it is mentally and physically demanding. We're constantly standing and handling heavy crates and always on the move. Besides that we have to concentrate all the time and even under pressure remain on our feet because it is always busy in our business. 

How many hours do you work per week?

I work 35 hours per week: seven hours a day for five days. I begin in the early evening and work through until the bar closes, usually a little after midnight. I like this working rhythm because I am not a morning person. 

I don't usually work on Fridays and Saturdays, which is a complete luxury in the bar business. How did this happen? Purely by chance, as it was the work pattern of my predecessor.

Would you change your job for a higher salary?

I did that once. I left a nice job for a job where I earned a lot more money. Then I was really sorry. You do a job you like, with a nice atmosphere and great colleagues...that's worth more than more money. So I learned my lesson well, I would only change for more money if I could also get the whole package. 

What is your biggest expenditure? 

My rent. Unfortunately, as a single person it is virtually impossible to buy something, especially in the Leuven area.

What do you like to spend your money on?

On relaxing: going out with friends, going on holidays and eating out. 

What is your dream?

I dream of owning my own bar business. I have a few ideas of the direction I'd like to go in but I'm keeping those ideas to myself.