Ashley Nickens
Summary
Dedicated Server with proven expertise in delivering exceptional customer service in fast-paced settings. Excels in managing multiple tables, ensuring accurate order-taking, and fostering a positive dining atmosphere. Committed to maintaining high standards of professionalism and cleanliness, contributing to enhanced guest satisfaction.
Overview
1
1
Certification
12
12
years of professional experience
Work History
Server
Art and Jakes
Clarkston, Michigan
08.2024 - Current
- Menu & product knowledge — Strong knowledge of food, ingredients, preparation methods, and beverages; able to explain dishes and make recommendations.
- Demonstrated familiarity with wine, cocktails, and spirits and recommended appropriate pairings.
- Upselling & sales — Comfortably recommending premium items, add-ons, and pairings while maintaining a guest-focused approach.
- Managed allergies, dietary restrictions, special occasions, customized orders, and precise table service to enhance guest experience.
- Multitasking under pressure — Handling multiple tables and courses efficiently during busy service.
- POS & payment handling — Processing large checks accurately and efficiently.
- Coordinated with hosts, bussers, food runners, bartenders, sommeliers, kitchen staff, and management to ensure smooth service operations.
- Resolved complaints and service issues professionally, protecting guest experience and satisfaction.
Server
Mesa
Royal Oak, Michigan
08.2021 - 08.2024
- Provided exceptional customer service in a fast-paced restaurant environment.
- Coordinated with kitchen staff to facilitate timely food delivery, contributing to overall service efficiency.
- Ensured cleanliness and organization of dining area and serving stations to enhance customer experience.
- Fostered positive communication with customers to enhance their dining experience.
- Maintained cleanliness and organization of dining area and serving stations.
- Acquired in-depth knowledge of menu items and ingredients to assist customers effectively.
- Processed cash, debit, and credit transactions efficiently to ensure smooth operations.
- Maintained food safety and sanitation practices to uphold health standards in the restaurant.
- Successfully managed multiple tasks in a high-pressure dining setting.
- Worked closely with team members to coordinate efforts and enhance customer satisfaction.
- Teamwork and cooperation with kitchen and front-of-house staff
- Demonstrated strong multitasking and time-management skills to prioritize tasks efficiently.
- Maintained stamina during extended work periods to ensure consistent customer care.
- Obtained responsible alcohol service certification to comply with local regulations.
- Gained valuable experience in serving and hospitality roles to enhance customer interactions.
Recruiter / Account Executive
S&K Staffing
Pontiac, USA
06.2017 - 11.2021
- Managed full-cycle recruiting across multiple industries, ensuring timely placement of candidates in high-volume environments
- Conducted candidate sourcing, screening, interviewing, salary negotiation, and offer presentation
- Developed strong client relationships, enhancing account satisfaction through consultative management
- Generated new business through B2B sales, cold calling, and trade shows
- Prepared employment contracts and ensured clear communication of compensation, benefits, and expectations
- Trained and mentored junior recruiters on effective sourcing strategies and interviewing techniques, improving team capabilities
- Improved record-keeping systems to enhance compliance and operational efficiency
Sales Agent
American Income Life
Troy, USA
07.2016 - 06.2018
- Sold life insurance policies, facilitating underwriting processes for timely approvals
- Sold life insurance policies while assisting with underwriting processes
- Trained new agents on effective sales techniques, compliance, and building client relationships
- Resolved customer concerns, streamlining quoting processes to enhance client satisfaction
- Resolved customer concerns and streamlined quoting processes
Customer Service Associate
Walmart
Port Huron, USA
06.2014 - 08.2016
- Delivered high-volume customer service in a fast-paced retail environment
- Resolved customer concerns, escalating issues to ensure timely solutions
- Supported daily store operations and managed cash handling, ensuring accuracy
- Exceeded productivity and service goals, enhancing overall customer satisfaction
Education
Associate Degree - Law Enforcement
St. Clair County Community College
Port Huron, MISkills
- Menu knowledge
- Taking accurate food and drink orders
- Upselling food, drinks, and specials
- Processing payments and handling cash accurately
- Food safety compliance
- Maintaining a clean, organized dining area
- Table management
- Guest experience enhancement
- Working well under pressure
- Time management and multitasking
- Teamwork and communication with kitchen and front-of-house staff
- Resolving customer concerns professionally
- Attention to detail and order accuracy
- Customer service excellence
Certification
- CDL A
- Chauffeur's Permit
- Valid Driver's License
Timeline
Server
Art and Jakes
08.2024 - Current
Server
Mesa
08.2021 - 08.2024
Recruiter / Account Executive
S&K Staffing
06.2017 - 11.2021
Sales Agent
American Income Life
07.2016 - 06.2018
Customer Service Associate
Walmart
06.2014 - 08.2016
Associate Degree - Law Enforcement
St. Clair County Community College