An insight with Jay Corcraighe
In the ever-evolving world of bartending, community and personal growth play pivotal roles. Recently, I had the chance to sit down with Jay, a passionate bartender whose commitment to fostering a supportive environment in the hospitality industry is truly inspiring. What follows is an exploration of Jay's journey, insights, and aspirations within this vibrant field.
Defining Community To Jay, community is more than just a buzzword; it's an essential fabric that binds individuals with shared interests. Jay explains, "Community for me is a group of people coming together under a shared passion—and caring for one another within that interest. It’s about love and trust, extending care and building relationships." Jay's application of this philosophy in the hospitality scene, particularly within bars, is about strengthening bonds and supporting peers in a demanding industry.
Instagram and Brand Identity Jay's Instagram handle, "Barethren," stands as a testament to a network of bartenders unified in purpose. The name, originally a quirky suggestion from a bartending forum, reflects Jay's dedication to highlighting the community aspect of the bar industry. As Jay reveals, “Barethren speaks to pushing this community ethos, sharing love for the people and not just the drinks.”
Facilitating Growth in Auckland's Bartending Scene Jay has not only made a name on social media but also actively contributes to Auckland's hospitality scene. By acknowledging challenges, such as inadequate rewards for effort and high turnover rates, Jay champions initiatives to uplift community morale. Efforts like organizing hospitality meals priced affordably during peak winters and sharing expertise with young bartenders underscore Jay's commitment. "It's about ensuring that everyone in the community is cared for," Jay insists, proving that proactive community building can make significant strides.
The Road Traveled: Lessons from Abroad Having honed their skills on the bustling bar scenes of Brisbane and the Gold Coast, Jay brings back valuable learnings to New Zealand. Experiencing firsthand the diverse cultures and unique challenges faced by bartenders abroad has shaped Jay's perspective on the importance of rapport, both within the team and with patrons. Jay recalls, "My time in Australia taught me the importance of taking my profession seriously, along with the influence of vibrant communities in career growth."
Towards a Better Future in Hospitality Returning to New Zealand with an enriched mindset, Jay is eager to address systemic issues within the industry. Jay's studies in urban planning, albeit unfinished, were driven by a desire to extend community concerns beyond the bar. Now, with a renewed focus on immediate impact, Jay is set on advancing community care within and beyond their venue. Jay stresses, "We are directly responsible for influencing people's relationship with alcohol. Thus, maintaining a safe, friendly environment while advocating for sober-friendly initiatives is crucial."
Rethinking Industry Norms Jay also weighs in on the current state and future direction of the hospitality industry. Contrasting it with the more laid-back Australian culture, Jay encourages New Zealand's bartenders to balance professionalism with a healthy work-life mindset. Additionally, Jay critiques the outdated nature of cocktail competitions. "These have become mere marketing tools," Jay remarks, advocating for a return to valuing creativity over social media hype.
Conclusion Jay's journey through the bartending world is one of resilience, community building, and hope for a more inclusive, supportive industry environment. With ambitions of becoming a recognized advocate for bartenders and creating an inspiring personal brand, Jay is undoubtedly on the path to making impactful, lasting changes. As the industry evolves, voices like Jay's will continue to play crucial roles in shaping a more connected hospitality community.
Listen to the full conversation on Spotify:
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