Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
ERICA COOLEY

ERICA COOLEY

Chicago,IL

Summary

Accomplished server and bartender with 15+ years of experience in the food and beverage industry, specializing in customer service and team collaboration. Proven ability to enhance guest experiences through effective communication and multitasking in high-pressure environments. Skilled in training new staff and maintaining high standards of cleanliness and organization. Committed to fostering a positive work atmosphere and ensuring customer satisfaction.

Overview

17
17
years of professional experience

Work History

Server/Waiter

Garcias
03.2025 - Current
  • Developed descriptive company overview emphasizing its Jerry Garcia-inspired music venue theme.
  • Servering food and beverage in music venue inspired by Jerry Garcia
  • Setting up space for service
  • Running food and drinks for other servers
  • Informing guests of specials for food and upcoming shows.
  • Collaborated with kitchen staff to ensure timely delivery of food orders and maintain high levels of customer satisfaction
  • Cultivated a positive work environment through effective communication, teamwork, and recognition programs
  • Music venue inspired by Jerry Garcia

Server/Bartender

Guinness
09.2023 - 03.2025
  • Maintained cleanliness and organization of the bar area, ensuring a pleasant dining experience for guests
  • Provided exceptional customer service by promptly greeting and seating guests, taking accurate orders, and delivering food and beverages in a timely manner
  • Demonstrated extensive knowledge of the bar menu, including specialty cocktails, craft beers, and wine selections
  • Assisted in training new servers on menu knowledge, service standards, and POS system operation

Server

All-star seafood and sports
02.2020 - 04.2023
  • Demonstrated exceptional multitasking skills during peak hours, accurately managing XX tables
  • Collaborated with kitchen staff to ensure timely delivery of food orders to customers
  • Provided recommendations on menu items based on customer preferences and dietary restrictions
  • Maintained cleanliness of dining area by promptly clearing tables, sanitizing surfaces, and restocking supplies as needed
  • Handled cash transactions accurately using POS system while maintaining a balanced cash drawer at the end of each shift

Server

Punch Bowl Social
05.2018 - 02.2020
  • Managed a team of up to 5 servers, providing guidance and support to ensure exceptional customer service
  • Developed and maintained relationships with regular customers, resulting in increased repeat business by XX%
  • Assisted in the creation and execution of special events, including menu planning, staffing coordination, and setup
  • Mentored new servers on best practices for delivering excellent service while maintaining efficiency during busy shifts

Server

Buddy Guys Legends
06.2008 - 08.2018
  • Used slow periods to restock supplies, ice, trays, and delivery bags.
  • Worked with POS system to place orders, manage bills, and handle complimentary items.
  • Explained menu items and suggested appropriate options for food allergy concerns.
  • Cultivated warm relationships with regular customers.
  • Served food and beverages promptly with focused attention to customer needs.
  • Bussed and reset tables to keep dining room and work areas clean.

Education

Certification in Medical assistant - undefined

Everest, Chicago, IL

Truman College , Chicago, IL

Skills

  • Serving
  • Food service
  • Restaurant experience
  • POS
  • Food safety
  • Food industry
  • Food handling
  • Customer service
  • Bartending

Timeline

Server/Waiter - Garcias
03.2025 - Current
Server/Bartender - Guinness
09.2023 - 03.2025
Server - All-star seafood and sports
02.2020 - 04.2023
Server - Punch Bowl Social
05.2018 - 02.2020
Server - Buddy Guys Legends
06.2008 - 08.2018
Everest - Certification in Medical assistant,
Truman College - ,

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ERICA COOLEY