#Handling Complaints Gracefully

[dilfhos]

WALKING ON GLASS.

#!WHO; SEBASTIAN MICHAELIS x fem!reader

#!CC: power play, o.sex (receiving), implications of demonic entities

NETWORKS @angelshub @bitchcraftinc @planetonet

The sound of dishes smashing against the floors was deafening as it carried throughout the manor. The splintering shatter of an expensive set caused the three three other house aids to grimace. In the upper room of Ciel Phantomhive, his eyes closed and he sighed, for regret was starting to cloud his mind in hiring you— the new maid. The help to what he’d already deemed, ‘A full house.’

Sebastian bowed gracefully, his head cocked slightly as he smiled.

“I will see to it that the mess will be cleaned young master.”

“Make sure that you do. I have very little patience left.” Phantomhive waved off. Sebastian then walked out shutting the door behind him with a soft click. He pulled at his pristine gloves as he walked down the hallways, a devilish grin splitting his face.

When he’d arrived at the kitchen door he’d picked up on quips of complaints from you and Mei-Ren.

“I’m going to be done for sure this time...” You whined, brushing glass pieces onto a dustpan.

“I’m sure you won’t. The young master is lenient. During my recent years I was such a klutz and Sebastian had to—”

The butler opened the door and the conversation halted with unease in the air. Mei-Ren stood nervously and you kept your head low as your fingers trembled to pick up the rest of the glass. The heat of eyes boring into the side of your head didn’t go unnoticed as they clinked softly together in the pile.

“You may go. I shall handle this.” Sebastian’s velvety voice remained low, his eyes glued on your crouched form. Mei-Ren gave a reassuring glance towards you and bowed quickly. After the haste retreating footsteps, the room was quiet except for the soft sound of tinkling glass shards.

“Stand please,” Sebastian hummed, his red eyes trailing your straned movements; your chest rose and fell slightly and he could hear the quickening tapping of your beating heart. Your eyes looked everywhere but at him, which he found a bit rude but another lesson to be made at a later date.

You clasped your hands in front of your body, ready to endure whatever verbal penalty was sure to be made. This wasn’t your first offense.

Countless of glassware had been destroyed by your hand, not to mention the mistakes you’ve made since you were hired by the young master. From nearly burning down the manor due to attempted meals, to using the wrong chemicals in the garden. All resulting in Sebastian’s stern dispraises. Phantomhive pegged you to be just as bad as his other servants put together.

Sebastian began to snake towards you, his movements precise and elegant. With ease, he’s stepped through the shards of remaining glass, not even trailing it behind him. As he got closer, you subconsciously shrunk back until you hit the far wall with a small gasp.

Sabastian brought his hand to his mouth, swiftly biting the fingertip of his glove and pulling it off, all the while his gaze never left yours. Leaving the glove on his left hand, he pressed both palms against the wall on either side of your head, effectively caging you in. He picked out the accelerated beating in your chest as his face lowered towards yours.

Sebastian was never going to admit this to any mortal, but he a part of him was looking forward to another slip up from you. Ever since the young lord hired you, your entire essence intrigued him. On more accounts than one, the need for self restraint became nearly intangible whenever you were around. He knew humans were creatures who could not reject temptation. Never had he thought he’d be acting just like them.

His eyes held a dark glint in them as his lips stretched into a grin.

“That set was a favorite of the young lord,”

“I’m sorry! I slipped and I really tried to catch my fall, but I only ended up making things worse.”

“Yes, the ordeal is quite unfortunate,” He continued. “The entire glass set was a precious family heirloom.” The demon lied, which was proven to be effective given the horror stricken look on your face. You were on the verge of tears and your lips parted to let out a soft sigh.

Sebastian brought a finger under your chin, pulling your head up in his direction. For the first time, you were made to look into his piercing eyes and you gulped.

“I’m sure I can come up with a reason for the destruction of the valuables.” His eyes shone mischievously and a second later, it hit you. And he knew that you were not going to reject the offer. In return, his knee slid upwards, dragging out a gasp from you at the sudden movement and the friction against your core. He smirked and lowered his sight to the rise and fall of your chest, zeroing in on your breasts.

“Lift your uniform and turn around.” His order was low and straight to the point, sending a shiver down your spine. He stepped back, allowing you to do so and once you were facing the wall, your cheeks heated up in how vulnerable you were now before the butler. A second or so later, you felt cool air hitting your heat and you whimpered, turning your head slightly. You then felt strong hands taking hold on your hips, gripping them in a way that sent dull pain throughout your legs.

“Face the wall.”

Sebastian moved closer, licking his lips at the scent of your femininity. It was different and he was intrigued. His finger hooked through the side of your panties, pulling them taut and exposing your glistening lower lips. He leaned forward, giving you a quick and experimental lick, causing you to release a not-so-quiet cry.

“I would strongly suggest keeping your voice down, yes? We wouldn’t want an audience.” He chuckled before returning his mouth to your pussy. You quickly clenched your uniform dress in one hand as the other covered your mouth, muffling your moans in your gloved hand.

His tongue flattened against you, teasing your clit before trailing back until it disappeared inside of you, writhing and thrusting against your gummy walls. Your body was growing flush as he worked his mouth against you, drawing more and more of your slick.

Sebastian’s movements started off as sensual and graceful, much like his surface personality. But each second his senses spent engulfed in your heat ignited something primal in him. His refined technique was abandoned and replaced with one less coordinated but more enthusiastic nonetheless.

Subconsciously, his fingers dug deeper into your hips releasing more added pleasure than pain. Obscene wet noises arose, synchronizing with your low moans. A hand left your hip to push past your folds and curled upwards, effectively sending a shock through your body resulting in a cry this time.

Sebastian hummed, taking the action into memory and his ministrations seemingly went lazy. At this point, it wouldn’t take much more for you to come and he knew this, doing it again.

His face pushed deeper against you, his tongue nudging your clit and at the same time curling his finger and this is what sent you over the edge.

The noise that escaped wasn’t suppressed behind your palm this time. Your thighs quivered as you calmed down, whimpering as the butler gave you a final few laps before standing. Now more than before, you wanted to feel him, see him, touch him as he ravaged you with what he had to offer.

Turning around slightly, you caught a glimpse of darkness, the air around you suddenly cold. Murkiness surrounded you, as you only caught a flash of his twisted face in a snarl—a stark contrast to his typical refined features. A shiver ran down your spine, his grip returning but tighter than the last.

“You still refuse to listen.” His breath was ticking your ear, tone menacing but the same velvet that compelled your limbs to relax.

Before you could come up with some half thought out apology, he sheathed his dick into you, grunting softly when he was flush against your ass. Not knowing when he had the time to release himself, you keened at the sudden intrusion as you shifted and tightened around him.

He sighed, strumming his fingers on your hips before pulling out and pushing into you firmly. His movements formed a rhythm as you were rocked against the wall. By now, your hand had fallen from your mouth and was instead placed on the surface in front of you. Movements increasing in speed as well as forcefulness, moans poured from you, wafting through the kitchen and you could only hope that’s where they’ll remain.

Sebastian grunted before yanking your hands behind you, wrists gripped under his one hand with precision at the small of your back. He’s reverted to fucking you with reckless abandon, his own breathing just barely ragged.

You, however were a mess, your vision blurred with wetness, voice producing a low mantra of the butler’s name as a desired pressure began to build up within you. Over and over, his thrusts hit that sweet spot within you that pushed you closer and closer to that moment of bliss.

“What do you think of this lesson?” It was a strange question, at the even most strangest time. It barely processed in your ears and you’re only half inclined to answer in the state you’re in. However, his hand reaches to tilt your head back, face ethereally perfect as golden pools stare into your soul.

“Hnn..?” You couldn’t think, much less articulate any response he was looking but that was alright. He just wanted to drink in the gloss in your eyes as your mouth moves, no words escaping. Your cunt pulsated around him, each stroke drawing more and more of your essence from your body. Perhaps, he thought, it would be wrong to indulge in a bit of the human soul. Not when you were so vulnerable and pliant under his mere gaze. You didn’t see him now. You didn’t see what he’d become again, as the only thing you that surrounded you was the grip of the cold and your cunt being stretched out.

Only when he released you with a low chuckle did the static disipitate and the pressure snaps, his hand quick to hold your cries.

Delicious aftershocks took hold of you, controlling your convulsions as you clenched repeatedly around Sebastian’s cock. You couldn’t see the subtle twist of his features as he approached euphoria as well, his grip icy as he held you against the wall. Following suit soon after, his hot come spilled into you in copious amounts, filling you until it trickled down your thighs.

He pulled out and your legs buckled slightly beneath you before he chuckled and you were spun around.

“Hey now,”

Sebastian was altogether neat. His uniform remained as immaculate as they were when he walked in, white gloves on and pristine. His face retained its usual fair skinned complexion, void of sweat or any indication of vigorous activity.

Meanwhile, you knew you looked a complete mess if it wasn’t obvious. Sebastian cocked his head and smiled warmly, a bright expression that contrasted the devil in his eye.

“Despite how pleasurable this lesson has been, I implore you to exercise caution and heighten your awareness. The young master would not appreciate any more recklessness from you and neither will I.” As he spoke his teeth gleamed only adding to the weight of his words engraved in your mind.

Still you straightened, your hands clasping tightly over your uniform as you nodded curtly.

“Yes Sebastian!”

After that encounter in the kitchen, your mistakes and slip-ups had been reduced to very little occurrences to absolutely none.

“See I knew you’d get the hang of things!” Mei-Ren beamed.

“Maybe I’ll let you cook something small again. Seeing how much you improved and all.” Baldroy had praised, fanning a smoking pot.

Each of the house aids were ultimately pleased you were doing better than you had been before.

Even Phantomhive seemed content, but not at all surprised knowing Sebastian had a hand in it. The butler was delighted as well, rewarding your improvements with favorable pleasures every now and again.

He still needed to teach you a lesson about listening after all.

DILFOS. do not plagiarize my content— current or archival.

[brujamala-aka-gigi]

Mid Week Energy Check

a pac reading made to provide insight into whats going on energetically around you or with you because sometimes it's not only about what you are responsible for, but also about the things that you cannot control yet influence your life.

pile 1. pile 2. pile 3.

images are from pinterest and dividers from @saradika-graphics

•☽────✧˖°˖Number 1 ˖°˖✧────☾•

Okay I see some drama, a lot of self indulgence and plenty of questionable economic decisions as a consequence. It seems like new beginnings are becoming more and more exciting, everything is new and shiny, there's no complaints so far, but I see some signs of a comedown from this high. Positivity might feel almost too forced and toxic, almost as if it's only there to hide and deceit you from more serious matters. There's nothing wrong with some excess on time to time I think, but don't get hooked on these feelings of intense and rapid happiness as in the long run, it won't serve your real purpose. Idealism at this moment seems to be more important than doing the actual work to pursue these ideals. Remain careful, as plenty of people who surround you are being lead to indulge in reckless behavior, not saying you shouldn't, just saying you should do it while being conscious of it. There will be a lot of talking, a lot of promises and many ideations of new ways to do the same, but don't get caught on that if you already see yourself deviating from your path. Expect some confrontational situations too, specially if you decide to call out anyone. This is a moment where your ability to find balance will be tested.

•☽────✧˖°˖Number 2 ˖°˖✧────☾•

You might feel like you have been left alone and betrayed, maybe by others or maybe by yourself. But more important than that, is the fact that your own personal power won't be affected for the long run. Don't allow the effects of someone's lack of morality and self esteem stain your own values and the way you perceive others. No need to get paranoid and look for who is going to backstab you either, they will show themselves pretty quickly by leaving your side if you tap in with a calmer approach to any insecurity you have. Don't focus on concealing your perceived weaknesses, focus on nurturing your strengths and showcasing them gracefully only when you know they are celebrated genuinely. Conflict could be inescapable some times, don't take it as something that should be solved by the conventionally aggressive ways, but more so as an opportunity to take assertive and strategic approaches when possible. If you are forced to be in situations where it seems impossible to keep it together and remain calm, don't be afraid to walk away and handle it whenever your mind is clear, as it's likely people might be waiting for you to loose your cool or testing your patience.

•☽────✧˖°˖Number 3 ˖°˖✧────☾•

As depressing as things might seem right now, the chance to move forward into safety will be granted as long as you are open to the idea of asking for the help of others, and letting them help you. Loneliness sometimes could be more of a feeling than a fact, you might not be able to see who is there to actually help you and guide you towards building stronger foundations to be at peace with yourself. It is also quite normal and understandable to feel isolated during periods of change. There's plenty for you to do in order to find fulfilment, but you will have to get in touch with a more creative side of you in order to find people who will accompany new journeys of emotional and spiritual development. You are not the type of person who has an easy time asking for others to be compassionate, but this moment might be nice to begin having compassion for yourself, understanding that it's impossible to keep a streak of overachievement forever, and you are not disappointing anyone by being tired or ill. Let those who celebrate your success, take care of you when that same success has made you tired.

•☽────✧˖°˖ THE END ˖°˖✧────☾•

Hiii, its me, Gigi (the tarot reader).

I hope this PAC reading was useful. I'm still figuring out how to make the Post itself pretty but so far this looks kinda okay i guess.

I'm thinking about making a themed ask game sometime on this blog, most likely during the weekend because i do feel like reading tarots for other people again eventually. Last time i read tarots online it was on reddit but i was kinda doing that as a part time job.

ANYWAYS: I hope everyone is doing amazing this week or at least not doing too bad and working on getting better. I'm so thankful for all the notes on my other PAC readings <3 i genuinely was expecting to just end up rambling about tarot into the void of tumblr i guess, but this was a nice surprise <3

Much love, Gigi <3

(btw if you feel like following me I'm trying to post tarot related blogs and PACS as often as possible, for those who asked and I couldn't reply yet: I still don't know if I'm putting up a tarot services menu thing, but I'm sure I'll end up doing a tarot ask thing this weekend) (btw if you feel like following me I'm trying to post tarot related blogs and PACS as often as possible, for those who asked and I couldn't reply yet: I still don't know if I'm putting up a tarot services menu thing, but I'm sure I'll end up doing a tarot ask thing this weekend)

｡ ﾟ ꒰ঌ ✦MASTERPOST & PAID SERVICES໒꒱ ༘*.ﾟ

[icarustypicalfall]

rear view

rudy parra x reader

prompt by the beautiful @glitterypirateduck from her head canons right here <3

summary: your husband takes it on his behalf to fix your car, and mayne teach you a thing or two.

warnings: none, sfw, pure fluff, writer knows nothing about cars and used a YouTube video for names cuz i forget them a lot 💀

note: I couldn't spare time to write the other second parts to my other fics because much stuff is on mind (i blame courses but you didn't hear it from me) bare w me pook :0

"give me some morphine"

Summer felt ethereal, with cool nights spent in the warm embrace of your husband's hometown, reveling in each other's presence.

The majority of your time was devoted to hosting delightful gatherings, inviting friends over for barbecues. Among these occasions, you had the pleasure of encountering Rudy's colleagues, his brothers who held his utmost trust. You did enjoy these moments, but being alone with Rudy was an entirely different euphoria. He possessed a tender nature, a resolute man who wore his heart on his sleeve. This charismatic gentleman enchanted you effortlessly.

"mi cielo.. I have never witnessed a beauty like you before.. If heaven is real, your eyes are the windows"

Rudy was an enigma, a puzzle whose depths you could only admire, never fully decipher. How could the stoic sergeant, known for barking commands and battling cartels, be utterly captivated by you? He yearned for your attention, effortlessly remembering every tiny detail about you. Nevertheless, you had no complaints; he was a gift, a gracious blessing from Mother Nature to those less fortunate.

"Amor, it's burning out here. Please, avoid the sun," Rudy exclaimed, raising his gaze from the car hood, his brows furrowed in concern. Undeniably, it was a sweltering evening, a usual summer day in Las Almas.

You gracefully retreated, opting to perch on the doorstep, observing your husband as he toiled on your car.

Earlier, you had complained about the vehicle's malfunction, making Rudy take it upon himself to adress the issue.

He toiled shirtless, leaning against the imposing car. His bare back flexed with each forward motion, droplets of sweat adorning his scarred skin imparting an alluring radiance beneath the scorching Mexican sun. With a sigh, Rudy set aside the wrench and rested his hand upon the car's hood. He leaned slightly against the grille, inspecting something intently.

You smiled, sighing contentedly as you drew your knees closer to your chest, tenderly caressing your leg while tilting your head to the side. Observing your husband as he worked was your favorite activity, his focused traits and calm demeanor made you chuckle slightly. He was your beloved man.

Rudy glanced up, chuckling warmly as he motioned for you to approach. Curiosity piqued, you peeked beneath the hood, raising an eyebrow. Although you possessed some knowledge about cars (less than minimum, you have no clue how you got a driver license), you preferred leaving repairs to professionals.

Rudy gently clasped your hand, his calloused and now soiled palm enveloping yours as he whispered in your ear, "Well, amor, I believe I found the problem."

Guiding your hand, his fingers led yours to rest upon a yellowish handle. "Give it a pull," he instructed.

Confusion clouded your mind as you obediently complied. The handle swiftly detached, revealing a metallic rod coated with a residue akin to the oil that stained Rudy's hands. He held the object delicately, presenting it to you with a tender smile.

"This, amor, is a dipstick. We use it to monitor the oil level in the engine," Rudy explained, his dark eyes penetrating yours. Gripping the end of the dipstick, he pointed out the small perforations and minuscule markings.

"It is prefered to regularly check the fluids in the engine, imbalance, whether too little or too much oil, can lead to problems.

In your case, it seems there was insufficient oil. Do you see these maximum and minimum marks? They indicate the acceptable oil level."

His tone exuded confidence and playfulness as he explained. Rudy was surely quite advanced and had more knowledge than you did. He smiled, wipping the stick with a small cloth.

A faint blush tinted your cheeks as you nodded, acknowledging your negligence. Rudy erupted in laughter, his bright personality and humor filling the air. He returned the dipstick to its rightful place before turning his attention back to you.

"Well, amor, no need to panick. Now you know what to inspect before assuming the worst. Sì?"

Once again, you nodded, this time intertwining your fingers with his warm hand and tenderly caressing his cheek.

"Thank you Ru'... You waited so long to show off these skills, didn't you?"

"What skills?" he playfully queried.

"Fixing cars... You must be quite proud," you teased.

He chuckled, encircling his arm around your waist and drawing you closer for a kiss. His voice carried a mischievous undertone as he whispered, "Surely, I deserve a kiss after all, don't you think?"

*dying from how cute he is*

𓆩♡𓆪 kindly like and rebelog 𓆩♡𓆪

MASTERPOST

[bonesandthebees]

[Did this prompt Tobyn to threaten his life? Yes, but it wasn’t anything Phil hadn’t heard before.] I love this kid too. Should I be worried that Phil has heard many threats upon his life. What has this man done to get where he is now?

[To his surprise, Quackity also petitioned Phil to see him, and took the refusal less gracefully than his counterpart did.] taking bets on his intentions now. Was he going to A) apologise. B) try and get Wilbur to not sell him out. C) kiss him or D) all of the above (I’m sure I missed a few options).

[He’s a lot smarter than most give him credit for] Phil figured. And Wilbur will soon confirm. [Phil didn’t even spare a glance at Tomys.] again this kid is not important to Phil unless Wilbur can gain something from it (like his undying loyalty while he has a crown on his head). This line makes that painfully clear.

[When his eyes met Phil’s though, he flinched.] Hi, I would like to file a formal complaint.

[“I’m sorry,” Wilbur blurted out, looking as though he was struggling to stay conscious. “I didn’t see- I didn’t know-”/“It’s okay, Wil. You did well,” Phil reassured him, resting a hand on his cheek./Wilbur blinked a few times as if he wasn’t sure he’d heard Phil right. Then, whatever tension he’d still been holding onto seemed to snap, and he slumped into Phil’s hold as his eyes fluttered shut.] I am going to explode (I am currently waiting for Icy to read this chapter so I can watch nym explode as well).

[“Your father will be glad to hear you’re alright. He was saying what a waste it would’ve been-”] yk, Phil is not looking at him, but I want to know what Tomys was looking at. Did he see the hug? Was he jealous? Did he want that too. Cuz this would suck. But I’m not sure he would even want a hug from his own father. Especially given the whole “did not tell me I am now a possible heir to the throne” thing. But I do need to know if Tomys saw that hug and what he felt if he did, because I doesn’t really match up with how Wilbur talks about his father.

[“I think I broke my leg,” Wilbur then said, eyes still closed as he grimaced./“We’ll get that fixed for you. Don’t worry,” Phil reassured him, carding his fingers as best he could through the tangled curls on top of his head, “it’s okay now. I got you.”] *distant screaming* also Wilbur’s first line made me giggle so bad. But I am genuinely insane about the hair thing and the parallels. Phil has been thinking about that the entire time and it’s basically the first thing he does.

(I wonder if Phil did not want anyone else there because he did not want anyone to see his weakness, his love for his son, which could be used against him and in turn would bring that son in danger. Or if he really just does not want to share. Part of it is genuine concern too because we knew he was going to let Wilbur sleep first should he have come back when he was meant to.)

Lastly, [It was time to handle Schlatt.] murder Murder MURDER

MURDER

MURDER

(5/5)

-🌲

oh yeah phil has heard a lot of death threats before. gotta love tubbo not giving a shit that phil is literally the consil and instead just being like "fuck you I want to see my best friend"

hmm what were quackity's intentions I suppose you'll see in the next chapter :)

yup, phil doesn't give two shits about tommy in any real way. he only cares about what tommy can offer them in terms of power. tommy as a person means nothing to him. he just wants to make sure his son is okay.

father son reunion yayyyyy poor wilbur 😭

oh yeah, tommy saw the hug. he definitely had thoughts about it, but he was also a bit more focused on seeing puffy again and also his own exhaustion after spending a week in the mountains

I had to include the hair thing again phil might suck at showing emotion but damn if he doesn't love his son

phil both wanted his reunion with his son to be as private as possible, but also he genuinely didn't want to overwhelm wilbur. he knew that niki would want to talk to him and make sure he was alright, and since quackity wanted in as well he had a feeling quackity would do the same. he didn't know how badly injured wilbur was and what state he was in, so he didn't want him to get freaked out by a ton of people clambering around him asking if he was okay.

:)

[touchlikethesun]

I feel like people are being nit-picky and lumping in any and all criticism because shes been on a pedestal for a while and her fans would seek out people who don’t like her to start fights so this slight downfall (shes a rich white women well versed in crocodile tears she will be fine) is an opportunity for any and all grievances. Like when your friend breaks up with someone and you lump in petty complaints like “they chew too loud” with the legit grievances like “they shouldn’t have yelled at grandma”.

no exactly, i think for a lot of people voicing their opinion about tswift rn, they've been bottling up all of their negative opinions for so long because they thought they'd have to deal with backlash from her fans, so now that it is suddenly publicly acceptable to criticise her, they are taking it as carte blanche to hate on her for every little thing they don't like about her - either legit like her detrimental effect on the environment and paradoxal place in politics (how can she be both sooo progressive and yet at the same time have no obligation to speak on politics? it's an oxymoron) or petty like how she personally annoys some people by being self-centered and unself-aware, the latter being not on the same level as the former camp of criticisms at all.

to be clear tho, i do not feel bad for tswift for the current backlash. i do think there are many different choices she could have made and actions she could have taken to cultivate a healthier fanbase, that would have made it possible for her to avoid the current PR disaster she's in, so as far as i'm concerned this is at least a little bit of her getting her just deserts. i really hope her and her team learn from this moment and start encouraging her to behave like celebrity icons that are secure in their status are supposed to behave. (there are trade offs for celebrity status and being able to gracefully accept criticism - at least publicly - is one of those trade offs, and it's something that will help one maintain longevity. think about the difference in how people view beyonce vs nicki minaj, and what's different about their public image/their fanbases. now think about how tswift actually handles her image and her fans, and tell me who she more resembles.)

but also, as you said, she's a rich and powerful white woman, surrounded and supported by dozens if not hundreds of other rich and powerful white people. she'll be fine, and she'd be fine even if she never appeared in public or released a song ever again.

[tgrailwar]

so I guess everyone who DIDNT vote to drop a goddamn foreigner into the hgw don’t count then ruler?? All the voters who either chose avenger or abstained bc they thought it was a bad idea are just chopped liver now? They clearly were also voting for this to happen???

Oh YES that makes PERFECT sense how could I have been so blind obviously not asking for something is the exact same as asking for it, clearly

…I liked you better when you were trying to do this war right

RULER: "Good evening, Master. It seems like you have some complaints, and also that you forgot what you're doing here. Allow me to remind you. You are one of our gracious volunteered participants to a Holy Grail War, a magic ritual that involves at minimum six Servants dying. It seems as if Team Foreigner is the only one who 'got the memo', so to speak."

"I see that you are angry, and cannot stop that emotion in the same way that you cannot handle the force of destruction hurtling itself towards the Servants that you're supposed to be killing in the first place. It's been a great many attempts, none of them to be remembered and concerned about now, because we've reached an objective success. I appreciate your candidness, and now, as I said before: please die gracefully. Goodbye."

[tearose26]

A Defense(?) of Holly

I’ll be upfront: I do not think Holly has done anything wrong across the books and that Lucy’s contempt can be mostly (but not entirely) attributed to having a huge case of bitch eating crackers. That said, I do think a lot of the friction between the two is exacerbated by the fact that to Lucy, Lockwood and co is her home, while to Holly, Lockwood and co is her workplace.

Lucy’s coworkers are her roommates (and, though this is more unspoken in the books, her family); her work life and private life are intertwined to the point of being almost inseparable. This is not something Lucy dislikes; I don’t have the book on me at hand, but I distinctly remember Lucy at the beginning of The Hollow Boy reflecting on how busy they were but how contented she feels with the life she has. Holly’s introduction feels incongruous in part because her presence is purely professional. She does not move in with them and thus develop the kind of domestic closeness with them that comes from being roommates; she arrives at 9 am, works her contracted set of hours, then goes home.

As such, Holly does not share in the informal bickering that Lucy, Lockwood and George engage in. She, like most of us who work, puts on a professional work persona and sticks to it. It does mean that she is going to come across as kind of fake and insincere, because all professional work personas (particularly of the white-collar, secretarial kind that Holly does) necessarily involve a bit of faking and insincerity. This kind of exactingly agreeable, pleasant and polite behaviour is, coincidentally, something that Lucy is extremely bad at both doing and engaging with.

This is not really anyone’s fault, I would say. Just as Lucy treats her home as a home, Holly, quite reasonably, treats her workplace as a workplace. She sees herself as under no obligation to share her private life and true feelings with her colleagues, and where annoyances/disagreements among the trio are normally resolved through direct arguments/bickering, she does so through trying to come up with for the most conflict-defusing, maximally diplomatic response.

I have to admit, if I were in Lucy’s shoes, I also wouldn’t take to the workplace-ification (so to speak) of my home particularly gracefully. Imagine if you were lying in bed having a nice sleep-in and a work colleague knocked on your door and asked, hey sorry hope I’m not disturbing but I was wondering if you were coming to the 10:30 meeting? I would feel kind of uncomfortable and imposed on! At the same time, it wouldn’t be fun for the person knocking on the door either; it’s an awkward situation for all! I know the example I used is not quite the same as the actual event in The Hollow Boy, but in my opinion Holly’s main sin was being a bit gauche in how she handled it.

While we aren’t privy to Holly’s thoughts throughout The Hollow Boy (worse yet: everything we get is through Lucy’s perspective), I see no evidence that Holly is being deliberately manipulative or underhanded towards Lucy. All I see is Holly doggedly trying to maintain a professional relationship with a colleague who, let’s be real, is being an asshole to her. (In my head I like to imagine she goes home each night and vents to her flatmates about ugh this bratty teen who has decided to hate me for some goddamn reason) When Holly loses it and finally goes off at Lucy, the vast majority of her complaints are (very reasonably!) about Lucy’s unfounded and poorly-disguised contempt towards her.

(On a slightly unrelated note: I do think, strangely enough, that The Hollow Boy may be the book I enjoyed the most. It certainly has the most going on, psychologically, with Lucy regarding her feelings of jealousy, inadequacy and displacement. But you do need to have a certain patience for teenage bullshit, because frankly a lot of it is teenage bullshit. All this drama is really just Lucy not knowing two basic co-worker skills: How To Interact With Colleagues You Don’t Personally Vibe With and How To Use Your Words To Tell Someone That What They Are Doing Is A Bit Annoying.)

[elixirbur]

Heartstopper season two rant

CW: self harm mention, ed mention, season two spoilers (obvi)

Okayy so I just finished Heartstopper season two and it's so good omg! I binge-read the entire series last year, so I kinda knew what to expect in terms of content but they totally went above my expectations. They handled Charlie's ed so gracefully, and so realistically it was almost emotional for me ngl. Same in the end scene with Charlie opening up to Nick about his old self-harm. Once again, so graceful and realistic, pretty sure I've had that convo word for word before.

My Nick Nelson/ Kit Connor obsession is coming back I can just feel it. He also looked so good in this season omg??? AND HIM SPEAKING FRENCH??? I almost died dead. It's like everyone's chemistry just got amplified 200x. Tao and Elle's storyline throughout the season was INSANE I was screaming every time they were on screen/pos. They are my fav slow burn I can't. Also, Darcy's arc about being confident in school compared to her home life hit SO HARD guys it's not even funny I kin her so bad. Just everyone's story arcs this season was so good and fulfilling and just amazing. Absolutely no complaints.

[annadeedee]

I've been looking into the environmental impact of various fabrics, specifically (organic) cotton and linen vs tencel/lyocell, and some of the information online online about the latter seems... wrong? Or at least contradicts my direct experience with the fabrics.

Tencel uses much less water and land than cotton, and emits less total CO2, so it's supposed to be more sustainable. But of course, you have to look at the total lifespan of a garment: if your tencel t-shirt used a third of the water than a cotton shirt, but will fall apart after a year of use, then it seems more wasteful than that Dr. Who tee you got as a present twelve years ago and is still going strong. And here's where I'm confused.

If you google tencel, you'll get hundreds of articles and blog posts, most of them independent from Ecovero (the company that makes Tencel), claiming that it not only uses fewer resources than regular viscose, cotton or linen, but also lasts longer, looks better, doesn't shrink, and so on. But I own clothes made of Tencel! It behaves like viscose! Fancier viscose, sure, but it ages like milk! AND it doesn't feel cooling on the skin on hot days, which is another common claim, and it refuses to hold its shape properly!

I own a dress out of woven tencel, some t-shirts in both 100% lyocell and 50-50 blend with cotton, and a pair of trousers in a tencel-cotton twill.

The dress basically looks and feels like a cheap viscose fast fashion dress, the hems and seams twist and the fabric wants to tear at the seams and fray through them. I've already had to patch it near the pockets after two washes (in the delicate cycle!), because the fabric couldn't handle the weight of my phone.

The T-shirts are flowy, which can be nice, but the surface already looks really old, and again the necklines get twisted because the fabric isn't stable enough to hold its shape. They're serviceable, but that's about it, and if I need to look more polished or professional than my usual "just dragged myself out of bed and into the math department", I wouldn't pick any of them.

The trousers are pretty new and feel like slightly softer cotton twill, so I don't have any complaints so far, but again, the surface is showing some wear after a few washes, and they don't feel like they'll last me as long as regular cotton twill, or even the linen pants I wear every other day in the summer and still look and feel exactly the same as they did three years ago.

TL;DR: I've yet to meet a tencel garment that ages gracefully. If I have to keep replacing tencel clothes every year and they kind of look like like crap after the first month or two, I don't see how that's supposed to be better than sturdy clothes made from organic cotton and linen which will last me decades!

Help me, people. Am I just unlucky, or do others have this experience, too?

[table-talk-essentials]

Checklist For a Successful Restaurant

Here’s a comprehensive checklist for running a restaurant business successfully, covering essential aspects from operations to marketing:

1. Planning & Concept Development

Define your restaurant’s concept and target audience.

Research competitors and local market trends.

Develop a detailed business plan, including budget and revenue projections.

Choose a suitable location with high foot traffic and target demographic access.

2. Legal & Administrative Tasks

Register your business and obtain necessary licenses (e.g., food license, liquor license, health permits).

Ensure compliance with local safety and hygiene standards.

Get insurance coverage (liability, property, workers’ compensation).

3. Financial Management

Set up accounting software to track expenses and revenue.

Develop a pricing strategy that balances affordability and profit margins.

Monitor cash flow regularly and create a contingency fund.

Establish partnerships with reliable suppliers for cost-effective inventory.

4. Menu Planning

Curate a menu that aligns with your concept and appeals to your audience.

Include profitable items with a good mix of food cost and customer demand.

Update the menu periodically based on customer feedback and trends.

5. Staffing

Hire skilled kitchen staff, waitstaff, and managers.

Provide comprehensive training on service standards, hygiene, and safety.

Implement employee scheduling to optimize labor costs.

Foster a positive work environment to reduce turnover.

6. Operations

Design an efficient kitchen layout and workflow.

Develop standard operating procedures (SOPs) for consistent service.

Implement a POS system to manage orders, inventory, and payments.

Ensure cleanliness and hygiene are maintained in all areas.

7. Marketing & Branding

Create a strong brand identity (logo, tagline, theme).

Build an engaging website with an online reservation and ordering system.

Optimize your Google My Business listing for local search visibility.

Leverage social media platforms to share promotions and updates.

Offer loyalty programs and special deals to retain customers.

Partner with delivery apps (e.g., GrabFood, Foodpanda).

8. Customer Service

Train staff to provide excellent customer service and handle complaints gracefully.

Gather feedback through surveys or reviews and act on it promptly.

Create memorable dining experiences (ambiance, personalization, events).

9. Monitoring Performance

Regularly review financial reports and key metrics like table turnover, average check size, and profit margins.

Analyze customer feedback for continuous improvement.

Monitor inventory and minimize waste with proper stock management.

10. Staying Adaptable

Stay updated on food and restaurant industry trends.

Innovate menu items and introduce seasonal specials.

Be prepared to pivot strategies during challenges (e.g., market changes, economic downturns).

[abhishek-gupta]

Flight Attendant School: Your Gateway to an Exciting Career in Aviation

Becoming a flight attendant is a dream for many who love travel, meeting new people, and providing exceptional customer service. Flight attendant schools play a crucial role in preparing aspiring cabin crew members for this dynamic profession. In this blog, we’ll explore what flight attendant schools offer, the curriculum, the benefits of attending one, and what you can expect from your training.

1. What is Flight Attendant School?

Flight attendant school is a specialized training program designed to equip individuals with the skills and knowledge needed to become successful flight attendants. These schools may be operated by airlines, vocational institutions, or dedicated training centers. The primary goal is to prepare students for the realities of working in the aviation industry by providing comprehensive education on safety protocols, customer service, and emergency procedures.

2. Curriculum Overview

A typical flight attendant school curriculum covers a variety of essential topics, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for their roles. Here are some key areas of focus:

1. Safety and Emergency Training

Safety is paramount in aviation, and flight attendant schools emphasize this critical component. Training includes:

Emergency Procedures: Learning how to handle emergencies, including evacuations, in-flight medical situations, and dealing with unruly passengers.

Safety Equipment: Familiarization with emergency equipment such as oxygen masks, fire extinguishers, and life vests, as well as how to use them effectively.

First Aid and CPR: Basic medical training to assist passengers who may require immediate help.

2. Customer Service Excellence

Providing outstanding customer service is a vital part of a flight attendant's role. The curriculum typically includes:

Communication Skills: Techniques for clear and effective communication with passengers and crew members.

Conflict Resolution: Strategies for managing difficult situations and resolving passenger complaints gracefully.

Cultural Sensitivity: Training on how to interact respectfully with passengers from diverse backgrounds.

3. Aircraft Familiarization

Flight attendants must be well-acquainted with the specific aircraft they will be working on. Training usually includes:

Aircraft Layout: Understanding the seating arrangement, emergency exits, and locations of safety equipment.

Onboard Procedures: Familiarizing students with the procedures unique to different aircraft models.

4. Practical Training

Hands-on training is a crucial aspect of flight attendant school. Students typically participate in:

Mock Flights: Simulations of in-flight service and emergency scenarios to practice skills in a controlled environment.

Role-Playing Exercises: Practicing real-life situations with instructors and fellow students to build confidence and competence.

3. Benefits of Attending Flight Attendant School

Enrolling in a flight attendant school offers numerous advantages that can significantly enhance your career prospects:

1. Comprehensive Training

Flight attendant schools provide a structured learning environment where students gain a thorough understanding of the aviation industry. This training equips them with the skills needed to handle various situations that may arise during flights.

2. Networking Opportunities

Attending flight attendant school allows you to connect with industry professionals and fellow aspiring flight attendants. Networking can lead to job opportunities, mentorship, and valuable insights into the hiring process.

3. Increased Employability

Completing a flight attendant program demonstrates to potential employers that you are serious about your career and possess the necessary skills and knowledge. Many airlines prefer hiring graduates from reputable training programs, giving you a competitive edge in the job market.

4. Confidence Building

The hands-on training and practical experience gained during flight attendant school help build confidence in your ability to perform the job effectively. This confidence is crucial when interacting with passengers and handling emergencies.

4. The Application Process for Flight Attendant School

If you’re interested in attending flight attendant school, here are the steps you can follow:

1. Research Schools

Look for flight attendant schools that are accredited and have a good reputation. Consider factors such as curriculum, instructor qualifications, and job placement rates.

2. Check Admission Requirements

While specific requirements may vary, most flight attendant schools require:

A high school diploma or equivalent.

A minimum age of 18 or 21.

Proficiency in English; knowledge of additional languages can be an asset.

3. Prepare Your Application

Submit your application along with any required documents, such as a resume and personal statement. Some programs may also require an interview.

5. Career Prospects After Flight Attendant School

Upon completing a flight attendant program, graduates can expect a range of career opportunities in the aviation industry. Many start their careers as flight attendants for regional or major airlines, while others may pursue roles in training, customer service management, or airline operations. With experience, flight attendants can advance to senior positions or transition into specialized roles within the industry.

Conclusion

Flight attendant school is a vital stepping stone for anyone looking to embark on a rewarding career in aviation. Through comprehensive training in safety, customer service, and practical skills, aspiring flight attendants are well-prepared to meet the challenges of the job. The benefits of attending such a program extend beyond training, offering networking opportunities and a competitive edge in the job market. If you’re ready to take to the skies and start an exciting journey, consider enrolling in a flight attendant school today!

[icml]

Enhance Your Skills with Conflict Resolution and Customer Service Training

In Melbourne’s competitive market, exceptional customer service can set a business apart from its rivals. Customer service training in Melbourne focuses on equipping staff with the tools they need to engage effectively with clients. This training covers areas such as communication techniques, understanding customer needs, and handling complaints gracefully.

[uihmblog]

What Skills Do You Need to Be a Good Hotel Manager?

Becoming a successful hotel manager requires a combination of practical skills and personal qualities. Hotel management is a dynamic field that demands both technical expertise and the ability to handle various challenges with ease. Whether you are managing a small boutique hotel or a large international chain, there are key skills that can help you thrive in this industry. Let’s explore some of the essential skills needed to be a good hotel manager.

Strong Communication Skills

A hotel manager must communicate effectively with both staff and guests. This involves not only giving clear instructions to your team but also listening to their feedback and addressing any concerns. Similarly, dealing with guests requires tact, diplomacy, and the ability to handle complaints gracefully. Clear communication ensures smooth operations and fosters positive relationships between staff and customers.

If you are looking to improve these skills, enrolling in an International Hotel Management Course in Udaipur can provide valuable insights into managing communication in a multicultural environment. These courses help develop a manager's ability to communicate with people from different cultural backgrounds, which is crucial in today’s global hospitality industry.

Leadership and Team Management

As a hotel manager, you are responsible for leading a team. This means motivating your employees, setting clear goals, and ensuring everyone works toward the same objectives. Effective leadership also involves understanding your team’s strengths and weaknesses and delegating tasks accordingly. A good leader creates an environment where staff feels supported and encouraged to perform at their best.

To build leadership skills, many professionals choose to pursue Hotel Management Courses in Udaipur. These courses offer training on team dynamics, conflict resolution, and effective leadership strategies, all of which are essential for managing a successful hotel.

Problem-Solving Abilities

In the hospitality industry, problems can arise at any time—whether it’s a booking issue, a maintenance problem, or a guest complaint. A hotel manager must think on their feet and solve issues quickly and efficiently to ensure guest satisfaction. Problem-solving also extends to managing the hotel’s operations, from inventory management to staff scheduling.

Hotel Management Courses in Udaipur are designed to teach aspiring managers how to handle day-to-day challenges in a hotel setting. Through case studies and practical training, these courses help students develop the ability to solve complex problems while maintaining high standards of service.

Financial Management

Running a hotel also involves overseeing budgets, managing expenses, and ensuring profitability. A good hotel manager must have a solid understanding of financial principles to make informed decisions that benefit the business. This includes everything from controlling costs to maximizing revenue streams through room pricing and additional services.

An International Hotel Management Course in Udaipur often includes modules on financial management. Learning how to handle the financial aspects of hotel operations can help managers ensure the hotel’s success and long-term sustainability.

Customer Service Skills

One of the most important aspects of hotel management is ensuring that guests have a pleasant and memorable stay. A good hotel manager must be passionate about customer service and always strive to exceed guest expectations. This requires attention to detail, the ability to anticipate guest needs, and a friendly, approachable demeanor.

Courses in hotel management often emphasize the importance of customer service. By focusing on guest satisfaction, you can build a strong reputation for your hotel and encourage repeat business.

Multitasking and Time Management

Hotel managers are often juggling several tasks at once. From overseeing check-ins to handling emergencies, no two days are the same in the hotel industry. To be a successful hotel manager, you need to prioritize tasks effectively and manage your time well to ensure that everything runs smoothly.

Taking an International Hotel Management Course in Udaipur can help you develop these critical time management and multitasking skills. These programs often include practical training that simulates real-world hotel operations, allowing students to practice handling multiple responsibilities under pressure.

Cultural Awareness

With hotels catering to guests from around the world, cultural awareness is becoming increasingly important for hotel managers. Understanding and respecting different cultural norms can significantly improve the guest experience. A good hotel manager should be able to create an inclusive environment where all guests feel welcome.

Many hotel management courses, including those offered in Udaipur, place a strong emphasis on cultural sensitivity. These courses prepare students to manage hotels that cater to an international clientele, equipping them with the knowledge needed to navigate cultural differences effectively.

Conclusion

A career in hotel management is both challenging and rewarding. To excel in this field, you need a wide range of skills, including communication, leadership, problem-solving, and financial management. Enrolling in specialized courses such as the International Hotel Management Course in Udaipur or other Hotel Management Courses in Udaipur can provide you with the knowledge and practical experience needed to develop these essential skills. Whether you are just starting your career or looking to advance in the hospitality industry, these skills will help you manage a successful and thriving hotel.

[getflare]

How to Manage Delayed Deliveries in Shopify: A Complete Guide

Delayed or Missed deliveries can be a major headache for e-commerce businesses. They can lead to unhappy customers, damage your brand's reputation, and hurt your bottom line. But with the right strategies in place, you can effectively manage delayed deliveries and minimize their impact on your business.

What are the Causes of Delayed Deliveries?

Before you can address the issue, it's important to understand the common causes of delayed deliveries:

Shipping Carrier Issues: Carrier delays can be caused by various factors, such as inclement weather, labor shortages, or increased shipping volume.

Inventory Shortages: If you don't have enough inventory to fulfill orders promptly, it can lead to delays.

Order Processing Errors: Mistakes in order processing, such as incorrect addresses or shipping methods, can cause delays.

Product Availability Issues: If a product you're selling becomes unavailable, it can delay order fulfillment.

Proactive Strategies to Prevent Delays

Choose Reliable Shipping Carriers: Select shipping carriers with a proven track record of on-time deliveries. Consider factors like their coverage area, delivery speed, and customer service.

Maintain Adequate Inventory Levels: Regularly review your inventory levels and ensure you have sufficient stock to meet demand. Use inventory management software to track stock levels and reorder as needed.

Optimise Order Processing: Streamline your order processing procedures to minimize errors and reduce processing time. Implement quality control measures to catch mistakes before they lead to delays.

Communicate with Customers: Keep customers informed about potential delays and provide them with accurate shipping information. Use email or SMS notifications to update them on the status of their orders.

Offer Multiple Shipping Options: Give customers a choice of shipping methods and delivery times to accommodate their preferences and needs.

Consider Using a Third-Party Fulfilment Service: If you're struggling to manage shipping and fulfillment on your own, consider outsourcing these tasks to a third-party fulfillment service.

Handling Delayed Deliveries Gracefully By FLARE

Acknowledge the Delay: When a delay occurs, be transparent with the customer and apologize for the inconvenience. Explain the reason for the delay and provide an estimated delivery date.

Offer Compensation: Consider offering compensation to the customer, such as a discount on their next order or a gift card. This can help to improve customer satisfaction and loyalty.

Monitor the Shipment: Keep track of the shipment's progress and provide regular updates to the customer. This will help to alleviate their concerns and maintain their trust.

Address Complaints Promptly: If a customer complains about a delayed delivery, respond to their concerns promptly and professionally. Take steps to resolve the issue and ensure the customer is satisfied.

By implementing these strategies, you can effectively manage delayed deliveries and minimize their impact on your Shopify business. Remember, proactive measures and excellent customer service are key to maintaining a positive reputation and building customer loyalty.

[galaxyinstitute-blog]

Top Customer Service Skills Every Waitstaff Should Master: Training Insights

In the bustling world of hospitality, waitstaff play a pivotal role in shaping a customer's experience. Whether it’s a casual café or a fine dining restaurant, waitstaff are the face of the establishment, and their interactions with customers can leave a lasting impression. While great food and ambiance matter, excellent service is often what keeps customers coming back.

At Galaxy Training Institute, we focus on helping aspiring waitstaff hone the essential customer service skills they need to excel in this demanding yet rewarding profession. The following key skills are must-haves for anyone looking to stand out as a top-tier member of a waitstaff team. Let’s dive into what it takes to make the dining experience not just good, but exceptional.

1. Communication is Key: Mastering Verbal and Non-Verbal Skills

Effective communication is the cornerstone of good customer service. Waitstaff need to be clear, concise, and polite in their verbal communication, but that’s only half the battle. Non-verbal cues like facial expressions, posture, and eye contact play an equally important role in delivering stellar service.

Verbal communication is about more than taking orders. It's about guiding customers through the menu, explaining specials, and handling inquiries. The ability to upsell by suggesting additional menu items like appetizers or drinks can increase a customer’s overall satisfaction and the restaurant's revenue. In fact, research shows that upselling techniques can increase sales by 10-30%.

At Galaxy Training Institute, we emphasize the importance of both verbal and non-verbal communication. Through hands-on training, we simulate real-world dining scenarios where students practice these skills. For instance, maintaining eye contact while speaking to customers and using open, welcoming body language can make a customer feel valued and heard.

2. Attentiveness: Knowing When to Step In and When to Step Back

Great waitstaff have an almost intuitive sense of when their guests need something. This ability, known as attentiveness, is crucial for providing a smooth and enjoyable dining experience. Being attentive doesn’t just mean checking in every few minutes—it means knowing how to read the room.

For example, a table that’s engaged in conversation may not want to be interrupted frequently, while a table with kids might need quicker service. Learning how to gauge these needs is an art that can be developed through practice and feedback.

A study by QSR Magazine revealed that customers are more likely to leave a generous tip if they feel that the service was attentive but not overbearing. Waitstaff who can strike this balance will be appreciated by their customers and will likely enjoy better tips.

At Galaxy Training Institute, our students participate in role-playing exercises that help them learn how to assess and respond to different customer behaviors. Whether it’s sensing when to offer a dessert menu or when to refill a water glass, being attentive is a skill that takes time and experience to perfect.

3. Patience: Handling Difficult Situations with Grace

Let’s face it—working in the hospitality industry can be stressful. From dealing with demanding customers to managing multiple tables at once, waitstaff are often under pressure. That’s why patience is one of the most critical traits for any successful waitstaff member.

Not every dining experience will go smoothly, and customers won’t always be easy to please. However, the ability to remain calm, composed, and patient in the face of challenges can make all the difference. Patience allows waitstaff to handle complaints gracefully, whether it’s a mix-up in the order or a delay in the kitchen.

According to Deloitte, 63% of customers say they are more likely to return to a business if they feel their complaints are handled effectively. Waitstaff trained to stay patient under pressure are more likely to de-escalate tense situations and keep customers satisfied.

At Galaxy Training Institute, we prepare our students for these moments by incorporating real-world scenarios into our training. Whether it’s simulating a busy Friday night or role-playing a difficult customer, our training helps future waitstaff practice maintaining their composure when things don’t go as planned.

4. Time Management: Juggling Multiple Tables Efficiently

One of the most challenging aspects of being waitstaff is the need to manage multiple tables and tasks at once. Without effective time management skills, it’s easy to become overwhelmed, leading to mistakes and unhappy customers.

Top waitstaff are masters of multitasking. They know how to prioritize tasks, such as placing drink orders, delivering food, and checking on customers without missing a beat. Good time management is crucial for ensuring that every customer receives timely service, from being greeted at the door to receiving their check.

In fact, a study by Restaurant Business found that 59% of diners rate speed of service as one of the most important factors in their overall dining experience. Waitstaff who can juggle multiple tasks while still providing personal, attentive service will set themselves apart.

At Galaxy Training Institute, we teach our students the importance of efficiency through practical, hands-on training. Students learn how to manage their time effectively, ensuring that no table is left unattended, even during peak hours. They are also taught how to anticipate customer needs—like offering a refill before a glass is empty—which helps streamline service and enhance the customer experience.

5. Product Knowledge: Knowing the Menu Inside and Out

Customers appreciate when waitstaff are knowledgeable about the menu. Being able to recommend dishes, suggest wine pairings, or explain how a dish is prepared can elevate the dining experience. In fact, 70% of diners say they trust a server’s recommendation when it comes to choosing menu items, according to a survey by Toast POS.

Waitstaff should not only know what’s on the menu but also understand ingredients, preparation methods, and any dietary considerations. Whether it’s knowing which dishes are gluten-free or recommending the perfect dessert, having in-depth product knowledge can make a significant impact on customer satisfaction.

At Galaxy Training Institute, our programs include extensive menu training. Students learn how to study and memorize menu items, as well as how to offer informed suggestions based on customer preferences. This not only builds confidence but also enhances the dining experience for guests.

6. Conflict Resolution: Turning Complaints into Opportunities

No matter how great the service, mistakes happen. Whether it’s a wrong order, a delayed dish, or a customer who isn’t happy with their meal, complaints are inevitable. However, how waitstaff handle these complaints can make or break the dining experience.

Conflict resolution is about turning a negative situation into a positive one. Waitstaff who can listen to a customer’s concerns, apologize sincerely, and offer solutions (such as a free dessert or a corrected order) can often turn a complaint into a positive experience.

According to Harvard Business Review, businesses that successfully resolve complaints see a 9% increase in customer loyalty. This shows just how critical it is to train waitstaff in conflict resolution.

At Galaxy Training Institute, we train our students to handle complaints professionally and empathetically. By practicing real-life scenarios, our students learn how to manage difficult conversations, offer solutions, and ensure that customers leave satisfied, even after a mishap.

7. Empathy: Connecting with Customers on a Personal Level

Perhaps one of the most overlooked but vital skills is empathy. Great waitstaff don’t just serve food; they make customers feel understood and valued. Empathy allows waitstaff to connect with guests on a personal level, creating a memorable dining experience.

Whether it’s noticing that a customer is celebrating a special occasion or understanding dietary restrictions, empathetic waitstaff go the extra mile to ensure customers feel special. In fact, a report from PWC found that 73% of consumers say a positive customer experience is what drives their loyalty to a business.

At Galaxy Training Institute, we emphasize the importance of empathy in our training programs. Students learn not just to serve, but to connect with guests, creating an experience that goes beyond the meal.

Conclusion: Mastering the Art of Customer Service

Becoming a top-tier waitstaff member requires a combination of communication, patience, empathy, and time management skills. At Galaxy Training Institute, we believe that with the right training, aspiring waitstaff can develop these essential skills and excel in their careers. By focusing on hands-on experience, role-playing, and real-world scenarios, our programs prepare students to provide the kind of exceptional service that keeps customers coming back.

Whether you’re just starting out or looking to improve your skills, mastering customer service is the key to success in the hospitality industry. Join us at Galaxy Training Institute and take the first step toward becoming a hospitality professional who truly stands out.