Want a bartending job in Vancouver BC? 

But you have no bartending experience? Keep reading for our job search strategy. 

So you want to be a bartender, but every job posting asks for experience. The classic catch-22: how do you get experience when no one will hire you without it?

Breaking into bartending isn't easy. Competition is fierce, and managers are risk-averse—a slow or inexperienced bartender can cost a venue thousands in lost revenue.

Even with perfect technical skills, many first-time bartenders struggle to find work. Why? Because mixing drinks is only one small part of the job.

But don't worry. We've helped thousands of complete beginners successfully launch bartending careers over our 40+ years of Commercial Bartender training.

Your ability to land a job depends on mastering the five "P's" of bartending employment:

1. Place
2. Personality
3. Practice 
4. Past experience
5. Persistence 💸

1. PLACE: What's your ideal bartending job in Vancouver?

Be strategic about WHERE you apply:

High-end cocktail bars? Start as a barback to learn the craft

Want immediate experience? Family-owned restaurants often hire beginners

Looking for high volume practice? Consider event venues and festivals

Want good tips? Regulars who frequent neighbourhood pubs often offer better earning potential with less competition

2. PERSONALITY: Where will you "fit in"? 

Different venues require different personality traits. Consider if you're a natural fit before applying.

Be honest with yourself: Are you quick-witted and enjoy banter? You might thrive in a busy sports bar.

Prefer refined conversation about flavour profiles? A craft cocktail lounge could be your perfect match.

Love creating memorable moments but hate late nights? Consider hotel bars with earlier closing times.

You don't need to be extroverted to bartend, but it helps.

Managers look for reliability, positive attitude, and calm under pressure—someone who connects with guests while handling multiple tasks efficiently.

Remember: You're not just mixing drinks – you're creating experiences. Show this understanding in interviews.

3. PRACTICE: Have you shown an interest in bartending?

Managers can immediately spot someone who's just looking for any job versus someone passionate about the craft.

Have you researched spirit categories? Can you handle basic tools? Have you made cocktails at home? These details reveal your genuine interest.

This is where bartending school gives you an edge—20 hours of structured, hands-on practice builds muscle memory and confidence that's immediately apparent to hiring managers.

4. PAST EXPERIENCE: Do you have transferable skills?

Translate what you already have to match venue requirements.

Showcase your customer service skills: Retail experience? Restaurant work? Customer support?

For example: Applying to a sports bar? Highlight how you handled multiple customers simultaneously at your retail job during holiday rushes—similar skills to managing game day crowds.

Focus on transferable skills. Get our complete resume building guide here.

5. PERSISTANCE

This is where most bartending hopefuls fail. They apply to 2-3 places, get rejected, and give up.

Successful graduates typically apply to 15+ establishments before landing their first position. Each interview is practice for the next one.

Pro tip: Visit venues during slower times (Tuesday/Wednesday afternoons) and ask to speak with the manager directly. Bring your resume. This approach shows initiative and gives you a chance to make a personal impression.

Ready to put these strategies into action?

Our Commercial Bartending Course includes job search preparation, resume review, and interview coaching to give you the best possible chance of success.