Bartending has long been one of the most popular professions worldwide. And while most of the skills bartenders need to be successful are learned on the job, bartending schools are another option to cover the basics. Over the past decade, learning and taking courses online has blossomed, and the bartending industry is no exception. There are now dozens of reputable online courses that will teach you how to become a bartender.
The question, though, is what kind of results you should expect. Whether you complete a bartending course in person or online, your ultimate expectations should be reasonable. Don’t expect to land a high paying bartending gig solely on the basis of having completed a course. It just doesn’t work that way. However, if you use such a course as a refresher or as a way to secure job placement, it may well prove worth your while.
What You Should Expect From An Online Bartending Course
Online bartending courses are ideal for those who need to learn at a flexible pace. Typically, you should expect to pay anywhere from $50 on the low end to $200 on the high end to access the course. This is, of course, somewhat lower than a live course. While there is normally no set time limit to complete the course, most online schools will at a minimum recommend completion parameters.
You should expect many of the same modules as a live, in person course. Training will be provided on alcohol awareness, as well as any state regulations as applicable. You’ll typically work along with a virtual bartender, with interactive voice, in the areas of mixology, bar procedures, and drink recipe knowledge.
What You’ll Get From An Online Course
The main benefit you’ll gain from an online bartending course is flexibility. Most vendors will offer the opportunity to take the course entirely online, or offer packaged materials mailed to your home. Successful completion of the course will net you a certificate/diploma, along with basic, rudimentary knowledge of how to be a bartender.
Some online vendors will also offer some level of job placement assistance, depending upon where you live and where they have established industry contacts. This is much less common as opposed to on site bartending courses, where job placement assistance is more prevalent and even expected.
Summary
Online bartending classes are an excellent option for those who are considering a bartending career. You’ll get the basics, and the cost is minimal, as is the commitment. On the other hand, if you have decided to pursue bartending as a job or career, we recommend a combination of an onsite bartending school and as much experience as you can get. Online bartending schools have their place, but it’s very important you enter the relationship with realistic expectations.
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