Hostess vs. Waitress

by Neil Kokemuller Google

Hostess and waitress are both very important customer-facing jobs within a restaurant. However, the roles each plays in serving patrons are quite distinct. A hostess is largely responsible for greeting guests and ensuring a quality experience, while the waitress is the point person during the customer's meal. No formal education is required, though you need effective communication skills and a high stress tolerance for both positions.


When restaurant customers first arrive, the hostess greets them, takes their information for a reservation and helps them get seated. She might also indicate any specialties and answer basic questions. During slow periods, the hostess may go around and checks on tables. She may also take payments when customers leave. The waitress is a server. Her primary role is to greet customers at the table, take orders, bring food and drinks, make periodic checks for satisfaction and provide a friendly, quality dining experience.


While the pay of hostesses and waitresses is fairly similar in the long run, the structure of pay and earning potential vary. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics noted average annual pay of $19,570 for hosts and hostesses and $20,710 for waiters and waitresses as of 2012. However, hostesses receive their pay in the form of an hourly wage, while waitresses typically receive a small hourly wage plus tips from diners. Elite servers in a class restaurant often have a higher earning potential than hostesses. Hostesses make a higher hourly wage in fancier establishments where they bear a greater service burden.


A hostess doesn't have to run around quite as much as the waitress in a typical restaurant. You also get paid a standard hourly wage in most cases, though some food establishments have tip-sharing with all staff. The hostess plays a valuable role in welcoming patrons. If you prefer constant movement and enjoy constant interaction with guests and kitchen staff, a waitress position makes sense. You can also potentially earn more if you have a great personality and work in a bustling environment.


Both jobs have high stress, especially during rush hour. Hostesses have to quickly assign tables and optimize seating space, while also dealing with impatient guests. You also can't do much to increase your income, other than prove your worth over time and earn raises. Waitresses are constantly on the go, must maintain a positive attitude even under pressure and may have to interact with rude or unfriendly customers from time to time. You also have to work hard and earn good tips to make a decent living.

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