Considering the amount of emotional support bartenders provide their patrons, I think we deserve a pay raise, or, at the very least, more social recognition for our efforts. The real work, my friends, is not the pouring of the pints, it is the therapy we provide. The environment is ripe for it, picture this: you’re a regular, drinking at your favourite watering hole. The bartender is a friendly face that always looks pleased to see you. They ask you about your week. They ask about your sick dog. They ask if you want another drink. And another. As you sit there your bartender is starting to get more charming/clever/wise than when you arrived. You start speaking passionately about an issue and that reminds you of a very personal story that you haven’t shared with your close friends because you’re worried that they will judge you. You can disclose to your bartender, however. They are seemingly objective and removed from the situation.
You are a bartender and a regular is sharing something that is way too personal and it makes you slightly uncomfortable because you barely know them. You didn’t ask to be privy to this information but you are subjected to it anyway. This happens a few more times during your shift.
REPEAT.
Mediation, public relations, therapy, consultation. We do it all. It’s a hard job that deserves more respect than it gets. Show your bartenders a little appreciation.
thebemusedbartender 
As a bartender are you obliged to keep the secrets divulged across the bar? Does doctor-patient confidentiality apply to cheap therapists?
LikeLike
Great question. If it is personal and does not affect any mutual parties than I keep it to myself. We are not paid like doctors, however, and therefore don’t have to keep to confidentiality agreements.
LikeLike
Mostly drink at home (wine with dinner, etc.) but do go to a local bar with colleagues. Nice, sharp writing, great observations. Promise to behave and not be too needy next time I’m in a bar.
LikeLike