We’ve all heard someone say, “When I go out, I never pay for drinks.”
Whether you think they’re exaggerating or not, the truth is that they probably get free drinks all the time.
It’s a simple recipe, really.
They know the right words, the right timing, how to show just the right amount of confidence to impress their bartenders and finesse their way to drinking for free.
If you’d like to learn how to do the same, you’ve come to the right place.
Here are some moves you can make next time you’re at a bar that will guarantee you are admired and get your drinks on the house:
- Yell For Their Attention and Wave Your Hands Frantically
It’s definitely possible that the bartender doesn’t see you when working a busy night.
Putting yourself in the forefront of their attention will gain you respect and let them know to serve you first, since you are signaling your eagerness to give them your business.
The louder and more frantic you are, the more likely you’ll be thanked with a free beverage.
- Just Ask
You miss 100% of the liquor shots you don’t take.
A simple “Can I have this for free and not tip you?” can go a long way.
- Order Water
Your bartender will think “Wow this person is sober and still finds the strength to approach the bar, I shouldn’t charge ‘em for the water.”
- Tell Them to “Make It Strong”
Although this isn’t exactly free, you’ll still receive more than you’re paying for.
Because bartenders’ main intent is to get people as drunk as possible, as fast as possible, they will appreciate that you are letting them know exactly what you want.
When they ask if you’d like to upgrade to a double-shot, politely decline and give a hardy wink. They will understand that you don’t want to pay for the alcohol you just asked for and give it to you without charge.
- Be A Female That Thinks She’s Hotter Than She Is
Bartenders love this one. They reward the confidence with whatever the “pretty” girl would like to drink.
- Name Drop
If you know someone that works there or has worked there, ask if they’re around.
This lets the bartender know you are cool with their coworker and will feel you deserve a free drink due to association.
- Walk Away Without Paying
The easiest way. It asserts dominance and you will be looked at as someone who takes what is theirs.
- Talk About How You Used to Bartend and “Get How It Works”
There’s nothing a bartender wants to hear more about than the fact that you used to pour beers at your family’s holiday parties when you were 12.
Bringing up your common ground also gives you a pass in case you do act inappropriately later in the night.
The more you talk about it, the more inclined they will be to remove items from your bill.
- Tell Them How to Do Their Job Better
If you feel that their service is inadequate, don’t hesitate to point it out.
They will feel bad and comp your drinks as an apology.
Don’t forget to be specific and assertive here.
Conclusion
Getting on your bartender’s good side definitely has its advantages.
By utilizing the key behaviors we discussed, your local bars will have you A-listed, gaining you respect and leaving your bill with a balance due of $0.