Offering truly exceptional hospitality requires wearing a lot of hats. Over the years, I've developed a hierarchy of what I consider to be the most essential bartending skills.First and foremost, is the ability to accurately ring in every single drink you make. Working the register isn't glamorous, and doesn't show off your personal flair or 'mixology' skills, but without the ability to make sure the bar is paid for every drink, there is no bar. Juggling multiple orders over multiple tabs is challenging, mentally taxing, and absolutely essential to good bartending.Second most important I feel is the ability to control the bar. Alcohol lowers inhibitions, and without the power to gracefully enforce civility an order, it's easy for a bartender to get pushed around. Over serving, allowing altercations to escalate into something uglier, or, worst of all, overlooking underage clientele. A good bartender sets the tone of the bar, keeps the peace, and offers a safe, reliable environment for the customer to enjoy themselves responsibly within.The third crucial skill is what I like to call 'hospitality readiness'. This is an awareness of what needs to be done in the bar. Checking on the client at the crucial moment just before their drink runs dry and they are also open to approach. Making sure the garnishes and ice are topped off in the rare lulls between orders. During the rush, ensuring every client knows you have your eye on them, and that you really will be with them as soon as you can. People want to feel special and taken care of, and a good bartender will have all their soldiers lined up and ready, their finger always on the pulse of the bar.Actually fixing the drinks, I think, is the simplest to learn (though challenging to master) of the bartending skills. If you're working from a cocktail list, it doesn't take more than a week or two to dial in the exact construction of every drink on the menu. All it takes is attention to detail and practice. When it comes to knowledge of cocktail lore, clients who order obscure drinks almost always enjoy walking the bartender through their preferred method. Most bartenders have their own favorites they are already expert at if the client wants to be shown something new. A ready willingness to put the client's experience first is always more powerful than being able to rattle off recipes from a generic bartender's bible.Mastering true hospitality is a lifelong pursuit, I feel, and like all other callings, no one ever truly reaches the top of the mountain. You do the best you can, one day at a time.