What are some first steps to take if you want to become a bartender?

Bartender school

I have been bartending for a few years now and there are a few things you can do to become a bartender.
You can get a job at a restaraunt, start as a server, and work your way up to serving behind the bar. OR the best thing to do is what I did and attend a bartending school.

You can only learn so much by being a bartender without any professional training. A good bartending school teaches you everything you need to know to have the drinks pouring all night. I attended the Maryland Bartending Academy and feel I benefited, as a bartender, from my experiences at the Academy.

If you are in or around Maryland, check out http://www.marylandbartending.com
This is how I got started and it will give you all the information you need to know.

How to Become a Bartender

Step 1
First of all, you're gonna have to pound the pavement unless you know someone who owns a bar or something. Get together your job experience and reference contact info.

Step 2
Apply in person anywhere you want to work. Make sure you look hot if it's a nightclub or bar, professional if it's upscale or in a business district. Best times to apply are between 2-4 at neighborhood bars and restaurants. 8-10 pm at nightclubs and late night venues. Avoid Mondays and Tuesdays since bar managers usually won't be there on those nights.

Step 3
If you don't have any bar experience, consider working as a host, server, bar back or cocktailer at the place you want to work. Bar managers are more willing to train a new bartender if they know you already.

Step 4
Learn your drinks and know how to pour an accurate ounce. You could go to bartending school but it's just as easy to learn as you go or paying attention to the bartender the next time you're sitting at a bar.

Step 5
If you're given a shift that isn't ideal, make sure you're the best bartender working that shift before you complain. If you can't keep up on a mediocre Tuesday night, don't think for a minute that you'll get the Friday night happy hour shift.

http://www.ehow.com/how_2225074_become-a-bartender.html

study how to make some of the popular mixed drinks.