As most of you know I have been on a quest to hit every I’m Not at Work special up throughout the city. Sounds easy right? Well you know, not counting the damage to my liver! One problem…I keep running into bartenders (or waitresses) who have no idea what I am talking about when I get to the bar. I would guess that 1 out of every 6 times I have tried to use my card I have heard the following phrase: “I’m sorry, I have never seen that card before. What is I’m Not at Work?” Naturally, all I can think is ARE YOU FUCKING SERIOUS?!?!? (Note: I believe at all times I should have any discount I was told about honored…Yes, I am that cheap)
Now keep in mind, it is not the bartender/waitress’ fault most of the time. Turnover in the restaurant/bar industry can be high and the owners/managers obviously aren’t thinking about I’m Not at Work when they first train a new hire. Some of the better venues have the specials written out somewhere or even have a key on the register that has the deal listed making it easier for the bartenders to learn. Although, that is not always the case. Either way, you have to be able to get around any obstacles in your way and get your card honored so here are a few tips that I have picked up in my travels to help you out when you run into a clueless bartender.
1) Always pre-empt pulling out your card by asking the bartender/waitress if they are familiar with I’m Not at Work
2) If they don’t know what you are talking about it, explain it to them (it’s a 24/7 Happy Hour service throughout NYC and your bar is one of the participating venues). It also doesn’t hurt to tell them their deal.
3) If they still don’t believe you, try and show them. I have a Smart Phone (like most normal people these days) so bust our your phone and go to the site to show them their deals.
4) If they are STILL being a dick about it, ask them to go talk to their manager.
Most of the time, you will not have to get to the process of asking for their manager but if need be, always go that route. Only one time did I get denied but it was all just miscommunication and in the end, I went back another day and they are honored the deals and even threw a few free beers my way for the inconvenience. Remember people, not everyone on their staff will be familiar with the program, so don’t get ashamed and give up if they don’t recognize your card right off the bat. You paid for the membership fee and you WILL get your money’s worth…as long as you play your cards right!
Drink on fellow INAW members.
Stay tuned for another review next week while I continue stomping my way through NYC’s finest establishments.
