Why is it essential for servers to have good communication skills?

Having good communication skills is essential for servers because they are the primary link between the guests and the kitchen staff. Clear communication allows servers to accurately convey the customers' orders, preferences, and any special requests to the kitchen team, ensuring that the food meets the guests' expectations. Additionally, effective communication fosters collaboration among the entire restaurant staff, which is crucial for maintaining a smooth operation where orders are fulfilled correctly and efficiently.

In a busy restaurant environment like Cracker Barrel, where multiple tables and orders are being handled simultaneously, the ability to communicate clearly also helps in reducing errors and misunderstandings, thus improving the overall dining experience for customers. While making small talk can enhance customer relationships and impressing guests with vocabulary might create a good impression, the fundamental purpose of communication in this context is to ensure that all parties involved are on the same page, which directly impacts service quality and operational efficiency.