[diabolus413]

I've been busy compiling research on what appear to be the hottest and/or most popular clubs in Vegas. The vast majority of them are union, so I'm planning on joining the Local 165 to take advantage of the employment opportunities. I understand that, as a bartender, I won't be able to actually pour drinks until I complete their five month class and receive my pour card. So I'm timing my move to Vegas for sometime in October, so I have a solid 2-3 months to land a job at a club and will be in a prime position to attend the pour class when it starts in January.

My question to anyone who might have experience in the matter, is how you would go about landing this job in the first place?

My normal MO would be to show up on what I would expect to be the slowest night of the week, maybe ten minutes after opening. Ask to speak to a manager, and have a cover letter and resume professionally typed and printed. Depending on the venue, I tailor my clothing up or down as need be. For a gritty rock club, black t-shirt and jeans. For an upscale venue, I'd show up in a dark suit and tie.

This was going to be my approach after I make the move. I had the chance to speak with a few people from Vegas, but I'm getting different answers about which way to proceed. Some people tell me I don't want to speak to anyone at the club itself, and instead want to arrange a meeting with the food & beverage manager of the casino, who handles all staffing at the restaurants and clubs.

Another person said it would depend on whether or not the club is owned by the casino it is located in, or if it operates as an independent venue (such as the Hakkasan being owned by the Hakkasan Group). In the latter case, I would probably approach someone at the club directly. Thoughts?

For what it's worth, these are the clubs I will be targeting primarily:

Hakkasan
XS
Omnia
Marquee
Light
Drai's
Surrender
1 OAK
Chateau
Tao
Hyde
Intrigue
Jewel

Thanks for any insight you can provide!

[BBMW]

I think the odds of walking into one of the top clubs and getting any job is very slim. Do you have any bartending experience?

Try to get any job in any casino that's union, then internally transfer to any bar. Get the experience, get the card, develop connections. Hook up with someone who works for one of the top clubs. The may be able to tip you off when things open up and/or walk you into the manager. And don't be surprised if at points money will have to change hands.

What you're looking to do is get into one of the most desirable blue collar jobs in Vegas. It is NOT going to be quick or easy.

[diabolus413]

Originally Posted by BBMW

I think the odds of walking into one of the top clubs and getting any job is very slim. Do you have any bartending experience?

Try to get any job in any casino that's union, then internally transfer to any bar. Get the experience, get the card, develop connections. Hook up with someone who works for one of the top clubs. The may be able to tip you off when things open up and/or walk you into the manager. And don't be surprised if at points money will have to change hands.

What you're looking to do is get into one of the most desirable blue collar jobs in Vegas. It is NOT going to be quick or easy.

I've been working solely as a bartender for about three years, and prior to that another five years as a busser and/or barback in a variety of drinking establishments (sports bars, night clubs, and lounges). Got another couple years in generic food service at restaurants, but I really want to get away from food altogether. Not averse to doing it if I absolutely have to, but I'm hoping with the high concentration of clubs in Vegas that I won't.

[BBMW]

I REALLY don't think you're walking into a major club at any position without connections. The fact that you have experience does help. But there are lots of bartenders in Vegas, and they all want those jobs.

[diabolus413]

Originally Posted by BBMW

I REALLY don't think you're walking into a major club at any position without connections. The fact that you have experience does help. But there are lots of bartenders in Vegas, and they all want those jobs.

Yeah I'm anticipating competition will be fierce, considering the kind of money there is to be made. I've decided I'm going to move into a shared living situation (even though I hate having roommates and can easily afford my own apartment) to keep my living expenses to below $500 per month. I also have enough in savings that I can afford to cover all my expenses for a very long time until I land something. Hopefully someone will see what I can bring to the table and bring me aboard before too long.

[BBMW]

Do you have a car?

[diabolus413]

Originally Posted by BBMW

Do you have a car?

No, but I get around on a motorcycle.

[BBMW]

Okay, so you have some form of transportation. The bike can work in Vegas, especially if it works for you in LA.