Do the job you're paid for

Today is a red letter day... I work so hard at being the most focused bartender in regards to my staff members and the one time I'm not it totally comes back to bite me in the butt.

My barback has been off work for over a month. He had another gig to cover so he was not at our club. Last night was his first night back and I was very excited. He has been my barback for over 2 years and we have a great working relationship. I don't have to follow him around and make sure he's doing what he is supposed to do... well, normally.

Welcome "exception to the rule"... I knew he was a bit out of sorts because there were many, many times when I couldn't find him. Literally. He was no where to be found. Then when I would call for him and use our short cut sign language for items that I needed he was oblivious. It's like he had only been working with me a couple of days. That is insane! Just a month ago I knew that when I locked the door behind me to close up everything would be done the way it was supposed to be.

I recieved a call from my boss (who is also one of my closest friends) and he had on his "you're in trouble" voice. Now, I've heard this voice 2 other times in the four years I've worked at the club and I really don't like to hear that voice. Again, I try very hard to do my job and do it right. He said that my barback did very little of the closing duties he is assigned and, of course, because I didn't double check his work it was on my back. I didn't even think about double checking his work. He's been doing his job and doing it well for quite a while.

I apologized to my boss and told him that I would talk to my barback next shift. I will not put up with him making me look bad. The worst part about it is this kid not only gets paid by the club but also gets tipped out from me and the 2nd bartender. He makes serious bank for 2 1/2 hours of work. I mean, I'd love to put that little tip out right into my pocket! The worst part of it is I tipped him extra last night. EXTRA and I get a call today about his shoddy work. This is not good. Mama is not happy.

Next week should be interesting... stay tuned.

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