KEY POINTS:
What was your first job?
My first paid job was as a waitress during university holidays at Tudor Towers in Rotorua at a time when T-bone steak, eggs and chips greasily adhered to a porcelain plate, washed down with a glass of Bakano, was the mark of civilised dining.
I received less than the minimum wage for broken shift work, six days a week finishing at 10.30pm. I had to bank on tips from tourists to increase my basic take home pay of $24 a week. (Yes, I'm that old.)
Did you enjoy it?
It was hell on wheels. Waitresses have to be nice to everyone.
I hated the uniform which was black skirt and white shirt with a ghastly black bow tie. I undermined it as best I could with a bouffant hairstyle. The best part was the free meals, great cheese omelettes and wiener schnitzel.
What did you learn?
To pass my exams in a bid to avoid waitressing long-term. The value of money was another lesson. Before that I assumed it fell from the sky (ie parents). I have also learnt to be excessively polite to restaurant staff.
How long did you stay?
Four months, three days, four hours, and 15 minutes. Luckily, the university year began.
What was your boss like?
No comment. I am writing a novel with my first boss as the villain.
Advice for someone starting out?
Speak up if something is wrong with your pay and conditions. If you are working for a short-term purpose, think of the end goal. If it's a career position, grab it and make it yours.
