CARISSA BATTEN
Dunnellon,FL
Summary
Dynamic cannabis professional with a robust foundation in customer service and becoming a product expertise, poised to make a meaningful impact in a fast-paced retail environment. Recognized by my peers for guiding customers in product selection while ensuring a seamless purchasing experience. Strong teamwork and adaptability skills enhance collaboration, complemented by reliable product knowledge and exceptional interpersonal abilities. Committed to fostering positive customer relationships and driving sales through informed recommendations and outstanding service.
Overview
28
28
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Personal Care Specialist
RISE Dispensaries
Dunnellon, FL
07.2025 - Current
- Enhanced customer experience through personalized service and expert product recommendations.
- Sold flowers, concentrates and edibles in fast-paced environment.
- Assisted medical use customers in identifying cannabis medicines and methods of medication that best fit individual needs.
- Built patient loyalty and retention by delivering excellent shopping experiences.
- Created inviting environment for patients by maintaining store organization and cleanliness.
- Performed cash, card, and check transactions to complete patient purchases.
- Listened to patient needs and desires to identify and recommend optimal cannabis products.
- Managed efficient cash register operations.
- Developed strong rapport with patients and created a positive VIBE of business.
- Delivered energetic responses to patients in-store and by telephone, going above and beyond to serve needs.
- Worked to meet or exceed special targets for rewards, reviews, round-up donations and specific product promotions.
College and Career Mentor
AmeriCorps Program
Orlando, FL
08.2024 - 07.2025
- Guided students through the college application process
- Advised students on choosing majors, career paths, or life in general
- Fostered positive relationships with mentees, building trust and open communication throughout the mentorship program.
- Enhanced learning by using real-life examples and relatable scenarios during mentoring sessions.
- Motivated students by using positivity
- Helped high school seniors and their families accrue financial aid to help pay for higher education
- Guided individuals in career exploration and professional development through one-on-one mentoring sessions.
Server/Service Professional/Certified Trainer
Olive Garden
Orlando, FL
03.1998 - 07.2025
- Experienced in guest service while handling challenging situations
- Visited every table that came into the restaurant
- Ran the dining room on extremely busy and non busy days
- Managed multiple tasks with proper time management
- Trained over 400 employees with my knowledge of the restaurant
- Utilized leadership to train and mentor trainees/team members/peers
- Assisted team during rush periods to foster/promote teamwork
- Handled daily monies ($1-$1,000) coming in and out
- Performed lead server duties by overseeing opening/closing procedures
- Increased guest check averages by promoting appetizers, specialty items, and wine
- Managed multiple tables efficiently, maintaining high service standards during peak hours.
- Coordinated with kitchen staff to ensure timely and accurate order delivery to guests.
- Mentored junior servers, fostering team collaboration and improving overall service quality.
- Worked with POS system to place orders, manage bills, and handle complimentary items.
- Collaborated with team members during busy shifts for efficient workflow and excellent guest experiences.
- Maintained a clean and orderly dining area for an enjoyable guest experience.
- Provided attentive service during high-volume periods without sacrificing attention to detail or guest rapport.
Crisis Counselor for 24 Hour Hotline
Crisis Clinic of the NW Peninsulas
Bremerton, Washington
01.2012 - 01.2013
- Managed crises in a short amount of time
- Acquired knowledge of community resources
- Multiple tasking of crisis situations
Community Relations Director Internship
Mending Hearts Charities, INC
01.2009 - 12.2009
- Accrued donations for fundraisers and families
- Oversaw the children's community village house
- Developed skills on how to run a small and successful NPO with very little money
- Helped poverty-stricken families find assistance
Education
Masters - Non-Profit Management
University of Central Florida
Orlando, FL12-2013
Bachelors - Public Administration, Nonprofit Management
University of Central Florida
Orlando, FL01-2009
Skills
- Cross-functional teamwork
- Efficient time management
- Motivational support
- Effective organizational skills
- Demonstrating positive behaviors
- Cannabis Product Knowledge
- Effective multi-tasking
Certification
CPR
Timeline
Personal Care Specialist
RISE Dispensaries
07.2025 - Current
College and Career Mentor
AmeriCorps Program
08.2024 - 07.2025
Crisis Counselor for 24 Hour Hotline
Crisis Clinic of the NW Peninsulas
01.2012 - 01.2013
Community Relations Director Internship
Mending Hearts Charities, INC
01.2009 - 12.2009
Server/Service Professional/Certified Trainer
Olive Garden
03.1998 - 07.2025
Bachelors - Public Administration, Nonprofit Management
University of Central Florida
Masters - Non-Profit Management
University of Central Florida