Last summer, I took part in a three-week ‘Summer Work Experience’ scheme. I chose to be a waitress in a restaurant since I would like to meet different people and serve them.
The first week working as a waitress in a small restaurant in Tsim Sha Tsui was exciting. All sorts of people, from locals to foreigners, and rags to riches came to dine in the restaurant. The manager and my colleagues treated me very well. They were willing to answer all my questions and handle bizarre cases for me. I quickly adapted to the environment and I learnt fast because there were a lot of customers to serve and to practise the skills. Life was busy. Nevertheless, the week passed peacefully.
During the second week, I even received compliments for my hard work. On Saturday afternoon, I thought life would be the same as in previous days. However, I was wrong, terribly wrong.
A plump woman, wearing designer-brand clothes, carrying a Prada handbag, and with a stylish haircut, came into the restaurant for an afternoon tea. After she sat down, she scanned the whole menu for exactly ten times. Finally, she made up her mind and ordered the cheapest set tea, which only cost twenty-five dollars. My sixth sense told me she would give me great trouble when she secretly stuffed the wet tissues and sachets of sugar into her handbag.
After she finished, she asked me, “I am a platinum cardholder of HSBC. Will I get any discounts?”
“Yes, 20% off,” I replied politely.
“I am also a member of the restaurant. Will I get any offers?” she asked again.
“Yes, it’s also 20% off. But the two discounts can’t be used simultaneously.” I said patiently.
“Why not?” She snapped, raising her voice.
“It’s the restaurant’s policy.” I said with a smirk. “The tea only costs twenty-five dollars. How much discount do you want?”
“I don’t like your tone. Call your manager! I want to complain!” She yelled.
“Oh! Please don’t. I’m new here. I’ll give you a free drink out of three choices if you don’t complain.” I tried to negotiate with her.
“What are the choices?” she asked. Her eyes were beaming and as big as dinner plates.
“Hot water, warm water and cold water.” I answered coldly.
After that, she stormed out of the restaurant, leaving twenty-five dollars on the table.
My colleagues tried to comfort me and told me that she was the most difficult customer in the restaurant. They all advised it was best to meet her demands. Fortunately, the manager did not give me a hard time and gave me some useful tips about handling fussy customers. Therefore, the last week went as smoothly as silk.
After participating in the scheme, I realized that working as a waitress wasn’t as easy as I had thought. I had to work for long hours and stand for a long time. After work, I felt so exhausted that I did not want to speak. It was a tough job. I needed to be patient and polite even when the customers had unrealistic requests. However, I also felt content because I learnt a lot of communication skills and developed friendships with my colleagues. I had such a great experience.
There will be another ‘Summer Work Experience’ scheme next summer. If you want to join the scheme, please act fast. Don’t miss the chance.