Cigarette Ads

Recently it was brought to my attention that new cigarette ads were going to be implemented. The ads were designed specifically for the individual cigarette packages. These images are going to include black lungs, smokers with a hole in the esophagus and more disabilities smoking can cause. Although I agree with the ads and bringing awareness to the dangers of smoking, I do not however, feel its right to have to market these images directly on cigarette packing. Does McDonald's have to put images on its packing of the harm their products can cause a persons body? Do alcohol companies have to show damaged livers on their packaging? The answer is a resounding NO. What do you think?

Venting through Facebook

Currently I bartend at a restaurant on the outskirts of Atlanta. We are a high volume establishment with a good amount of our customers being regulars. This past week, on one of my days off, a customer ordered a "Top-Shelf" margarita. He informed the server that the margarita did not taste like a "Top-Shelf" margarita and nor did it taste like the one from his last visit. After consulting with the bartender on staff, the server informed the customer it was in-deed a "Top-Shelf". The customer left highly dissatisfied and took to our Facebook page to share his displeasure and the fact that he would never be back. The owner happened to see the post, replied back instantly and called the restaurant from home to have the server written up. It is interesting how social media is being used by customers and when used effectively can be a positive means of communication. It gave the manager a chance to earn back the loyalty of that customer.

Restaurant Payment

As a server/bartender at a high volume restaurant I've realized how time consuming and annoying it can be to close out a customer's tab. Often times having to run and grab someone's change or run their card can take a few minutes. There's even some instances where people get frustrated having to wait for their server to come and take payment for the bill. It would be more convienent and efficient if restaurants, especially higher quality and volume ones, installed credit card/ cash payment methods directly at the table. If customers could divide up their own checks, pay the bill when they are ready and not have to wait for the server this would benefit both parties and allow for a faster turnover rate.