She was having a bad night.
The weather was deteriorating. The normally-bustling Friday night crowd was sparse. She wasn’t making money.
My wife and I had tickets for a show, so we braved the sleet and ventured out on the town. The frosty forecast had already caused many restaurants to close early. But this particular eatery was still open. And the waitress in the next section was NOT happy.
She complained to her co-workers about the weather, her customers, her meager tips, and the slow business.
Mind you, I wasn’t eavesdropping. She was standing in the middle of the dining area a good fifteen feet from our table. Raising a stink. Loudly.
Now, as a former waiter myself, I understood her frustration. I’ve walked many a mile in her well-worn shoes.
But, as I was listening to her gripe, grouse, and grumble, I caught a glimpse of her t-shirt.
Yup. “I Heart My Job.”
Sure, her shirt was company-issue. Every employee was wearing one, including our server who graciously granted my odd request to take a picture of her shirt.
I’m not necessarily chastising the girl for venting, although I would’ve preferred she use her inside voice. But I AM calling her out for her bad fashion sense.
If your shirt says you love your job, act like it.
Even when the weather’s bad.
Even when the tips are lousy.
Even when the customer’s rude.
Even when the kitchen messes up the order.
Even when your boss gives you the worst section.
Even when work is the LAST place you want to be.
Because, if your shirt says one thing and your actions show me something completely different, one of you is lying.
Liars get bad tips.
Show me the love.
Or at least fake it.
Hmmm. Maybe that’s why actors make such good waiters.