Amanda Cole
Summary
Dynamic and highly reliable bartender with extensive experience, known for exceptional customer service and strong multitasking abilities. Proven track record of enhancing guest satisfaction through effective communication and responsible alcohol service, fostering loyal clientele while maintaining a clean and organized workspace.
Professional hospitality expert with proven skills in mixing and serving beverages, managing bar inventory, and ensuring customer satisfaction. Strong focus on team collaboration, adaptability, and achieving high-quality results. Skilled in providing exceptional service, handling high-pressure situations, and maintaining clean and organized workspace. Known for reliability, flexibility, and creating positive experiences for patrons.
Overview
14
14
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Bartender
Red Lobster Restaurant
02.2020 - Current
- Served high customer volumes during special events, nights, and weekends.
- Managed cash handling duties responsibly, ensuring accurate accounting at the end of each shift.
- Performed opening and closing duties, printing sales reports, setting up for incoming shift, preparing cash drawers, and taking inventory.
- Efficiently opened or closed the bar according to established procedures, ensuring preparedness for each shift.
- Contributed to a positive work environment through effective teamwork and communication with colleagues.
- Maintained a clean and organized workspace, ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations.
- Developed loyal clientele by consistently delivering outstanding service and engaging in friendly conversation.
- Kept bar presentable and well-stocked to meet customer needs.
- Increased customer satisfaction by providing excellent service and crafting high-quality cocktails.
- Followed alcohol awareness procedures for preventing excessive guest intoxication.
Lead Hostess/ Bartender/Restaurant Server
Olive Garden Restaurant
01.2019 - 03.2022
- Managed guest waitlists effectively, minimizing wait times while still accommodating walk-in customers whenever possible.
- Assisted management with hiring, training, and evaluating new host/hostess staff members to maintain a high-performing team.
- Adapted quickly to changing restaurant needs, maintaining composure under pressure and exhibiting excellent problem-solving skills.
- Ensured smooth transitions between shifts by thoroughly communicating pertinent information with incoming team members during shift changeovers.
- Enhanced guest experience by efficiently managing reservations and seating arrangements.
- Regularly reviewed and updated menu knowledge, enabling prompt and accurate responses to guest inquiries.
- Assigned patrons to tables suitable for needs and restaurant section rotation.
- Upheld cleanliness standards throughout the front-of-house area, contributing to the overall ambience of the establishment.
- Implemented strategies for effective conflict resolution, ensuring timely resolution of guest complaints and concerns.
- Collaborated with servers and kitchen staff to optimize table turnover rates and overall restaurant efficiency.
- Promoted a culture of teamwork by consistently supporting fellow employees during busy periods or when shortstaffed.
- Answered customer questions about hours, seating, and menu information.
- Developed strong rapport with guests, leading to a high rate of return visits and positive reviews.
- Actively monitored dining room capacity to maximize seating opportunities while adhering to occupancy limits.
- Managed special events coordination, ensuring seamless execution from initial inquiry through event completion.
- Supported servers, food runners, and bussers with keeping dining area ready for every guest.
- Spearheaded initiatives to improve team communication, fostering a positive work environment among staff members.
- Trained new hostesses on customer service best practices and restaurant policies to maintain high standards of service.
- Greeted customers warmly upon arrival and provided friendly and warm presence throughout dining experience.
- Worked with front of house staff to move tables and adjust seating to accommodate groups with special requests.
- Seated patrons based on guest preferences and seating availability.
- Organized, stocked and cleaned establishment's front lobby during shifts to maintain welcoming appearance.
- Advised customers about special offerings and menu items to help drive sales.
- Answered phone calls to take orders, give information and document reservations.
- Rearranged tables and chairs for large parties and retrieved high chairs for children.
- Backed up servers by checking on tables and retrieving items for guests.
- Opened and closed seating sections according to volume of guests.
- Collected credit card, cash and gift certificate payments and dispensed change for cash transactions.
- Completed daily side work and opening and closing duties without fail.
- Input orders accurately into POS terminal, split bills and accepted payments.
- Took initial drink orders and relayed information to wait or bar staff.
- Minimized customer service complaints by expertly managing customer expectations during busy periods.
- Helped facilitate cooperation between service and kitchen staff to professionally meet guest needs and resolve problems.
- Promoted business loyalty by fostering positive customer relationships.
- Provided patrons with estimated waiting times during peak service hours.
- Maintained balanced cash drawer with correct money values and accurate documentation.
- Assisted customers with delivering orders, carrying additional trays and helping dish out items.
- Served high customer volumes during special events, nights, and weekends.
- Managed cash handling duties responsibly, ensuring accurate accounting at the end of each shift.
- Efficiently opened or closed the bar according to established procedures, ensuring preparedness for each shift.
- Contributed to a positive work environment through effective teamwork and communication with colleagues.
- Maintained a clean and organized workspace, ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations.
- Developed loyal clientele by consistently delivering outstanding service and engaging in friendly conversation.
- Kept bar presentable and well-stocked to meet customer needs.
- Increased customer satisfaction by providing excellent service and crafting high-quality cocktails.
- Followed alcohol awareness procedures for preventing excessive guest intoxication.
- Reduced wait times for drinks by efficiently managing the bar area and prioritizing orders.
- Upsold menu items to customers, driving up per sale revenues and maximizing profits.
- Educated customers on drink options, making personalized recommendations based on preferences or dietary restrictions.
- Handled simultaneous customer, team, and business needs while avoiding unnecessary delays or errors.
- Adhered to state laws regarding alcoholic beverage services and customer regulations.
- Proactively addressed potential conflicts or disturbances among patrons, maintaining a safe atmosphere for all guests.
Server Assistant
T-Rex Cafe
10.2018 - 03.2019
- Greeted customers warmly to provide exceptional customer service.
- Utilized strong multitasking abilities to manage multiple responsibilities effectively, ensuring a smooth flow of service during peak meal times.
- Delivered customer orders promptly and with attention to accuracy and satisfaction.
- Kept close eye on customers to quickly spot leaving guests and clear tables for future patrons.
- Assisted servers in meeting customers'' needs by refilling drinks, providing condiments, and addressing any concerns.
- Maintained clean, safe and organized work environment to safeguard servers and patrons.
- Provided support during large events or private parties by setting up banquet areas according to specific requirements or themes.
- Contributed to a positive team environment by working cooperatively with fellow server assistants and other restaurant staff members.
- Communicated customer needs clearly to kitchen staff for fast, accurate orders.
- Assisted with dining room set up prior to and after service period.
- Maintained knowledge of current menu items, garnishes, ingredients and preparation methods to promptly answer customer questions.
- Complied with all food safety and sanitation regulations to reduce restaurant risks.
- Ensured timely seating of guests by effectively managing waiting lists and coordinating with the host/hostess team.
- Fostered positive dining environment, engaging with guests to ensure satisfaction with meals and service.
- Bolstered team morale and reduced server workload by efficiently managing dish restocking and silverware polishing tasks.
- Promoted welcoming atmosphere, greeting guests upon arrival and assisting with seating arrangements.
- Streamlined communication, using restaurant software to quickly update servers about table status and guest needs.
- Increased service speed, preparing tables with all necessary utensils and condiments before guest arrival.
- Supported kitchen staff by expediting food orders to dining area, ensuring hot and fresh service.
- Streamlined service efficiency, assisting servers with food delivery and urgent customer requests.
- Checked dining area supplies of linens, wrapped silverware, and replenished low stock.
- Greeted customers and provided menus upon arrival to dining room.
Head Bartender/ Bar Back/Cocktail Server
Turtle Creek Casino And Hotel
12.2010 - 09.2018
- Performed opening and closing duties, printing sales reports, setting up for incoming shift, preparing cash drawers, and taking inventory.
- Developed a strong rapport with patrons, resulting in repeat business and increased loyalty.
- Trained new bartenders on drink recipes, mixing techniques, and customer service skills to enhance overall performance.
- Monitored cash handling procedures to ensure accuracy in transactions while minimizing instances of theft or loss.
- Resolved customer complaints promptly and professionally, preserving the establishment''s reputation for excellent service.
- Closed out cash register and prepared cashier report at close of business.
- Followed alcohol awareness procedures for preventing excessive guest intoxication.
- Maintained a clean and organized workspace, adhering to strict hygiene standards for the health and safety of customers.
- Increased customer satisfaction by providing exceptional service and crafting high-quality cocktails.
- Managed inventory efficiently, reducing waste and maintaining optimal stock levels for peak periods.
- Educated staff on responsible alcohol serving practices; created a safe and enjoyable atmosphere for guests while reducing liability risks.
- Kept detailed inventories and notified management of ordering needs for liquor, beer, wine, and bar supplies.
- Managed bar at special events, leading team in providing coordinated service for weddings, business meetings and social gatherings.
- Assisted in event planning and execution, delivering memorable experiences for private parties and corporate functions.
- Served high customer volumes during special events, nights, and weekends.
- Kept bar presentable and well-stocked to meet customer needs.
- Obtained cash bank and stocked service bar to prepare for operation.
- Handled simultaneous customer, team, and business needs while avoiding unnecessary delays or errors.
- Adhered to state laws regarding alcoholic beverage services and customer regulations.
- Cultivated strong relationships with repeat customers, engaging in friendly conversation and memorizing drink orders to promote loyalty.
- Managed bar inventory, restocked supplies and placed orders for spirits, beer, wines, and mixers.
- Regularly cleaned and sanitized bar area, beer lockers, refrigeration and storage areas.
- Upheld strict regulations for safe alcohol service and food safety.
- Used extensive knowledge of beer, wine and spirits to make informed recommendations to customers.
- Tracked bar stock levels and promptly replenished low materials to prevent shortages.
- Assisted with inventorying beverage stock and bar supplies.
- Practiced safe work habits, wearing protective equipment and consistently following MSDS and OSHA standards.
- Managed cash transactions accurately, ensuring proper handling of payments and tips.
- Increased repeat clientele by building rapport with patrons and anticipating their preferences.
- Demonstrated flexibility in scheduling availability, working various shifts including weekends, holidays, and late nights based on business needs.
- Enhanced customer experience by efficiently taking and delivering drink orders, providing excellent service.
- Collaborated with bartenders to ensure timely preparation of drinks for efficient service.
- Contributed to team success by assisting co-workers during high-volume periods as needed.
- Supported a positive work culture through effective communication and teamwork among colleagues across various departments within the establishment.
Education
Associate of Science - Hospitality/ Culinary Arts
North Western Michigan College
Traverse City, MI09-2009
No Degree - Hospitality/ Culinary Arts
TBA Career Tech Center
Traverse City, MI06-2006
Skills
- Strong multitasking
- Highly reliable
- Team player attitude
- Clear and effective communication
- Patience and tolerance
- Outgoing personality
- Cleanliness and hygiene
- Customer service expertise
- Responsible alcohol service
- Payment processing
- Handling difficult customers
- Cash register operation
- Menu memorization
- Hospitality service expertise
- Professional appearance
Certification
- Certified Food Handlers Serv Safe - [7/24 - 7/27]
Timeline
Bartender
Red Lobster Restaurant
02.2020 - Current
Lead Hostess/ Bartender/Restaurant Server
Olive Garden Restaurant
01.2019 - 03.2022
Server Assistant
T-Rex Cafe
10.2018 - 03.2019
Head Bartender/ Bar Back/Cocktail Server
Turtle Creek Casino And Hotel
12.2010 - 09.2018
Associate of Science - Hospitality/ Culinary Arts
North Western Michigan College
No Degree - Hospitality/ Culinary Arts
TBA Career Tech Center
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