Being well-organized is an important part of being a good host or hostess.

If your restaurant takes reservations, be sure to factor them in when you’re planning your seating chart!

If possible, ask busy servers if they’re ready for another table before you seat them. You can also ask servers if they’re comfortable handling big groups if you have a large party come in.

Make eye contact. A host or hostess can’t afford to be shy! Making eye contact shows you value a guest’s patronage. [7] X Research source If you’re busy with another guest when someone arrives, acknowledge the new arrival with a smile or by saying something like “I’ll be right with you!” Your goal as a host or hostess is to make customers feel welcomed and appreciated—that’s why being charismatic and having a positive attitude are so important.

Be prepared to get water or other small items for guests. If they request more than that, politely let them know that their server will be right with them.