What can help servers effectively identify signs of intoxication?

Building rapport with customers is crucial for servers to effectively identify signs of intoxication. Establishing a friendly connection allows servers to observe their patrons more closely, as they gain insights into customer behavior and drinking patterns. When servers engage with customers and maintain a conversation, they can detect changes in mood, speech, or physical coordination that may indicate intoxication.

Additionally, a strong rapport encourages customers to be more open about their alcohol consumption and their level of intoxication. Regular interactions can lead to familiarity with a patron's behavior when sober versus when they have been drinking, making it easier for the server to notice signs of over-intoxication.

In contrast, while monitoring how quickly drinks are consumed might provide some information, it lacks the personal interaction that helps in assessing a customer's state. Standard drinking games might even lead to increased consumption, potentially obscuring signs of intoxication. Providing discounts could encourage more drinking, which doesn’t help servers identify intoxication effectively and might lead to irresponsible service.