A Note On "Resting Bitch Face" In Restaurant Service

Waiting tables, bartending and related professions can have unbearable moments like any job or career.  Service industry gigs can carry the frustrations that come with working a rough shift and being on your feet for hours.

But here’s the thing, at the end of the day, we’re getting paid to be kind to people. It's pretty simple.

Over the past couple of years, I’m sure you’ve read a BuzzFeed article or two about the recent obsession over “resting bitch face.”   This is not a new phenomena as melancholy may be our natural emotional state (thinky reads on that here).  Relaxed facial muscles are arguably the norm. 

But there's a strange, double-standard lurking behind this whole bag.

Somehow, if you are a woman and not smiling, it’s seen as inattentive, unapproachable and disinterested.  Whereas, if you’re a man — especially in the service industry, it’s written off as brooding.  I’m sure you’ve seen it, experienced it, and know the men I’m talking about.

I've seen females in the service industry called out for "resting bitch face" first-hand.  If this is happening in your restaurant, you sure as heck better be telling your smug dudes the same thing.

Final point: everyone, just smile :)

““If you are a woman and not smiling, it’s seen as inattentive, unapproachable and disinterested. Whereas, if you’re a man — especially in the service industry, it’s written off as brooding.””