Birthdays Hens, and Stags
These are usually intent on having a good time and the main problem will be their general behaviour. They tend to be loud, over-excited, and desperate to have a laugh, or prove they've still got the old magic!
Dealt with early this behaviour can be kept under control and everyone gets to have a great time. This means you have to react swiftly and firmly to any transgressions of the "House" rules. Only a tiny percentage will not comply with a polite request made with a friendly smile. However unchecked it will get worse, and create a bad atmosphere. This may cause some customers to leave because they feel uncomfortable, or threatened. It may enourage others to stay as they sense an opportunity. It may spread to other customers and cause unnecessary conflict. What it will do is make it increasingly difficult to for you to do your job - and the more they have had to drink - the more likely it will end up in a Physical Attack!
The key points are
- Act early
- Make sure your colleagues know where you're going and why
- Smile
- Make eye contact
- Be polite
- Explain to the customer - what the problem is and why it needs to stop!
- Make a note in your Pocket Book