I learned how to become a waiter in my Grandparent's hotel. It was a place folks visited year on year and as such we had a comforting family vibe. The guests needed to feel seen, listened to and cared for as family.
The waiter had one of those smiles, and such a calm way of speaking, that he set the right ambiance for the meal to come.
The waiter was a sweet kid, a teenager I guess. He reminded me of my cousin somewhat, that beneath the smile was a sense of humour always looking for a chance to emerge and play.
It can be a hard gig being a waiter, it's a long time on your feet, much to remember and always you are giving of yourself to help others feel at ease.
There is real skill to being a great waiter and the best restaurants realise this, for they are, above all, a team.