IN-spire
Sian Ferguson, Heads and Tales, Edinburgh Years behind the stick: eight years, eight months What was it about the profession that appealed to you? Every day is different. I get to combine my two loves, alcohol and history, to learn a lot about brands and drinks. The range of people I get to meet on a daily basis cannot be rivalled by any other job I can think of. Also, the hospitality community, especially what I’ve found of the cocktail scene, is an amazing one. No matter where I go, someone knows someone that I know. What do you most enjoy about being behind the bar? The fun we have – between ourselves, with customers, and being able to make up banging drinks for people and seeing that first wee smile after their first sip. Are there times when you are reminded that you are a female bartender rather than simply a bartender? Yes. Shaking drinks (especially double shaking) – it’s all about the boobs with some people! Also doing things like carrying up stock and taking out bins – it’s been commented on a few times that it’s a ‘boy’s job’. How do you describe your bartending style? Simple and effective. Do you think female bartenders bring specific qualities to the bar? It may be slightly stereotypical but generally cleanliness. I’ve worked with some messy ladies, but generally I find women to be less scatty behind the bar. Also I find the girls I’ve worked with don’t get as stressed when the bar is busy as some of the guys. However, I do find girls can be a bit more apprehensive when it comes to cutting people off or if something is kicking off in the bar, they’re more likely to take a step back.
16 - The Cocktail Lovers
What’s the best thing about being a female behind the bar? Some of the friendly banter and comments I can get away with in comparison to the guys! And the worst? Whenever someone says to me “you can’t be the manager you’re a girl”, or when you’re just not in the mood for lewd comments and someone says something inappropriate. Do you think female bartenders are perceived differently in different countries? I’ve only ever been in bars within Europe and the US but from what I’ve seen and from what I see of worldwide competitions, females aren’t perceived differently from males. The only thing I would say is that I could probably name more US lady tenders than anywhere else and I think that’s due to Speed Rack in the States (see p. 30) and all the publicity it creates. What do you think you would have been doing if you hadn’t got into bar tending? I did a degree in Marketing and Communication but working in an office during my placement just wasn’t for me. I did work at a football club though and I loved the event side of things so maybe event management or something like that. Do you have any tips for females thinking about entering the profession? Do it. Do it now. Do it quicker! We need more ace ladies in this industry and the community is really fab. You may sometimes have to have thick skin but if you can give as good as you get and if you love people, you really cannot beat it.