Small business owner, United States Air Force Veteran seeking to take business from its current start-up phase to established and profitable.
Overview
33
33
years of professional experience
Work History
Owner
Gretchen Made It, LLC
Frederick, MD
04.2022 - Current
Implement quality assurance processes to ensure product excellence.
Develop strategic plans to increase profitability and efficiency.
Manage multiple projects simultaneously ensuring timely completion within budget constraints.
Manage design process for apparel, special occasion decor, gifts, and other specialty items.
Monitor progress of jobs throughout their completion cycle.
Develop illustrations of designs for clients.
Identify markets for new products based on age, gender and lifestyles.
Select materials, colors, graphics, prints and other materials related to various projects.
Participate in local business to business networking events to establish relationships with other local business professionals, non-profit organizations, and individuals.
Participate as a vendor at local trade, craft and artisan events.
Perform regular maintenance on equipment including cleaning and replacing parts as needed.
Emergency Communications Specialist
Frederick County Emergency Communications Center
Frederick, MD
06.2021 - 02.2022
Received emergency calls from citizens and relayed pertinent information to responding officers.
Handled emergency phone calls calmly and obtained pertinent information with composed approach.
Identified needs of customers promptly and efficiently.
Demonstrated strong problem-solving skills, resolving issues efficiently and effectively.
Worked successfully with diverse group of coworkers to better serve the public.
Maintained updated knowledge through continuing education and advanced training.
Completed day-to-day duties accurately and efficiently.
Approached customers and engaged in conversation through use of effective interpersonal and people skills.
Dispatched calls to relevant police, fire or medical response personnel depending on individual call situations.
Ensured compliance with applicable laws, regulations, policies, and procedures related to emergency communications operations.
Advised personnel about accidents, weather conditions or other hazards.
Responded promptly to inquiries from the public regarding department services, policies, and procedures.
Utilized a variety of computer software programs to enter data into databases and generate reports.
Prioritized responses to public emergency and non-emergent calls to promptly dispatch police, fire and EMS while tracking data in real-time.
Maintained knowledge of current technology, protocols, and procedures used in emergency communications operations.
Identified potential threats or suspicious activities through monitoring of emergency radio traffic and phone conversations.
Took caller information, read associated computer information and documented vital details in call tracking and assignment system.
Provided support to law enforcement personnel during emergency situations.
Monitored multiple radio frequencies simultaneously for incoming calls.
Researched vehicle, wanted and missing persons information.
Manager
Double-E Entertainment
Frederick, MD
04.2016 - 04.2021
Managed day-to-day operations of the business, including hiring, training, adherence to standard operating procedures, and quality control for services rendered.
Created Standard Operating Procedures for DJ's an other event professionals.
Foster a work environment that fosters collaboration and a customer-centric culture.
Developed and implemented customer service policies and procedures to ensure a consistent and high-quality customer experience.
Implemented successful business strategies to increase revenue and target new markets.
Prepared staff work schedules and assigned team members to specific duties.
Reviewed financial statements and sales or activity reports to measure productivity or goal achievement.
Created effective business plans to focus strategic decisions on long-term objectives.
Established presence on Social Media to help provide better visibility to the company by the general public.
Directed social media and digital marketing strategy and initiatives to promote brand building, guest retention and revenue-focused activities.
Implemented SEO best practices in social media content to improve visibility and drive website traffic.
Curated user-generated content for promotional use, ensuring alignment with brand standards and copyright laws.
Engaged with the online community, responding to comments and messages to foster a positive brand image.
Developed and implemented comprehensive social media strategies to increase brand visibility and engagement across multiple platforms.
Managed daily content creation and curation for Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn, aligning with brand voice and marketing goals.
Created engaging content for multiple social media platforms, such as Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn.
Crafted visual designs and brand messaging elements for consistency across digital advertising and marketing platforms.
Oversaw special promotional events to drive positive media coverage, boost revenue and enhance sales.
Designed and executed targeted social media advertising campaigns, optimizing for reach, engagement, and conversion.
Employed storytelling for digital content and developed unique campaigns to promote brand engagement.
Owner
You're Worth It Fitness
Frederick , MD
02.2006 - 04.2021
Scheduled appointments for clients and maintained accurate records of each session's progress.
Provided in-home personal training to a variety of individuals with unique, special needs who come from a wide range of backgrounds.
Developed, implemented and monitored individualized fitness programs to meet clients' needs and goals.
Provided nutritional counseling services when necessary.
Led, instructed and motivated individuals during cardiovascular exercise, strength training and stretching activities.
Performed competitive market analysis to identify opportunities for business growth.
Conducted assessments of clients' physical condition and health status.
Created effective marketing strategies to increase clientele base.
Created personal training experiences for clients.
Monitored clients' progress and provided support to ensure they achieved their desired results.
Recommended modifications of exercises to help participants avoid injuries.
Enforced safe exercise equipment use, reminding members of rules and guiding techniques.
Assisted clients with developing reasonable diets and nutritional guidelines.
Instructed group classes in strength training, cardiovascular conditioning, flexibility, balance and posture techniques.
Created inviting fitness spaces that welcomed and included people with diverse backgrounds, abilities and orientations.
Invited individuals of all ages and fitness levels to participate in classes.
Measured client overall fitness by completing comprehensive evaluations and physician clearances.
Demonstrated correct technique while performing various exercises.
Communicated with clients to determine goals and performed client assessments.
Grew customer base through word-of-mouth referrals based on customer satisfaction and results.
Maintained files detailing personal fitness regimens, records and contracts in newly-implemented system to keep client information current.
Provided one-on-one personal training sessions to clients.
Studied multiple programs to provide health education, wellness and fitness program development to clients.
Built and continually expanded knowledge and expertise on latest fitness trends and programs and kept class content fresh and interesting.
Organized special events such as charity fundraisers or seminars related to fitness topics.
Explained and demonstrated fitness and conditioning techniques and movements.
Observed participants during classes, watching for issues and incorrect techniques.
Performed administrative tasks such as filing reports and maintaining records of payments made by customers.
Increased customer base through door-to-door canvassing and initiating cold calls.
Educated members on proper form and technique during workouts.
Researched current trends in the fitness industry and incorporated them into workout routines.
Built and established lasting relationships using encouragement and personal support.
Set up equipment and weights for use by class participants.
Advised clients on proper dieting methods that were compatible with their lifestyle choices.
Treated minor injuries and administered first aid.
Provided guidance on how to create realistic weight loss and gain objectives.
Coached and encouraged participants during exercises and routines.
Managed inventory and supplies to ensure materials were available when needed.
Operated a variety of machinery and tools safely and efficiently.
Utilized various software and tools to streamline processes and optimize performance.
Conducted comprehensive research and data analysis to support strategic planning and informed decision-making.
Utilized advanced technical skills and expertise to troubleshoot complex problems and implement solutions.
Approached customers and engaged in conversation through use of effective interpersonal and people skills.
Completed day-to-day duties accurately and efficiently.
Client Relationship Associate
Key Financial Group
Frederick, MD
04.2019 - 01.2020
Provided exemplary level of service to customers to extend relationships for future business opportunities.
Collaborated with firm's financial advisors to resolve issues, to address team and customer needs, and set goals.
Provided personable service to improve customer service ratings.
Updated system with order specifics and customer details, preferences, and pertinent data related to their unique and/or individual needs.
Addressed customer questions and concerns regarding products and services.
Resolved customer complaints and disputes quickly and effectively.
Responded to client inquiries in a timely manner via phone, email, or chat.
Promoted high customer satisfaction by resolving problems with knowledgeable and friendly service.
Assisted clients with onboarding and account setup processes.
Liaised between customers and financial advisors to meet customer demands.
Maintained CRM databases, ensuring data accuracy and compliance.
Addressed inquiries from clients.
Kept records of customer interactions or transactions, thoroughly recording details of inquiries.
Updated databases with new and modified customer data.
Enhanced productivity and customer service levels by anticipating needs and delivering outstanding support.
Updated customer profiles in the company's CRM software program.
Developed and maintained strong relationships with key clients to ensure satisfaction and loyalty.
Organized and hosted customer appreciation events.
Organized client data into an easily accessible database system.
Prepared and evaluated CRM reports to identify problems and areas for improvement.
Ensured compliance with all relevant policies and regulations when interacting with clients.
Personal Trainer
Sport & Health Club
Frederick, MD
02.2012 - 05.2016
Built and continually expanded knowledge and expertise on latest fitness trends and programs and kept class content fresh and interesting.
Brought greater levels of health to clients weekly through one-on-one customized personal training.
Communicated with clients to determine goals and performed client assessments.
Studied multiple programs to provide health education, wellness and fitness program development to clients.
Suggested exercise modifications to individual clients to avoid strain and injury.
Improved membership enrollment by utilizing sales and marketing methods.
Worked closely with other healthcare professionals such as doctors or physical therapists when necessary.
Developed orthopedic exercise rehabilitation plans to help clients safely transition to pre-injury fitness programs and reduce re-injury.
Enforced safety rules and procedures to minimize injuries.
Demonstrated safe and effective exercise techniques to clients.
Educated clients about the benefits of regular exercise and proper nutrition habits.
Recommended modifications of exercises to help participants avoid injuries.
Explained and demonstrated fitness and conditioning techniques and movements.
Researched current trends in the personal training field for continuing education purposes.
Kept accurate records of client's progress including attendance, measurements and goals achieved.
Assisted clients with developing reasonable diets and nutritional guidelines.
Offered clients educational information and materials to help with preventive care, nutrition, body mechanics, fitness, stress management and ergonomics.
Built and established lasting relationships using encouragement and personal support.
Conducted one-on-one consultations with clients regarding diet and exercise regimens.
Coached and encouraged participants during exercises and routines.
Implemented continuous improvements for scheduling procedures across multiple client calendars and fitness plans.
Motivated clients to reach their fitness goals through positive reinforcement.
Provided personalized fitness programs tailored to individual needs.
Maintained a clean, organized work environment that adheres to safety standards.
Demonstrated safe and proper exercise techniques to clients.
Treated minor injuries and administered first aid.
Assessed client's physical condition, health status and current level of fitness.
Performed administrative tasks such as scheduling appointments and processing payments.
Cultivated relationships with new potential clients by providing free initial assessments.
Maintained files detailing personal fitness regimens, records and contracts in newly-implemented system to keep client information current.
Instructed clients on proper form and technique for various exercises.
Created inviting fitness spaces that welcomed and included people with diverse backgrounds, abilities and orientations.
Arranged motivational exercise programs to promote healthy lifestyle choices.
Set up equipment and weights for use by class participants.
Built and established relationships with members and guests to help in pursuit of fitness goals.
Measured client overall fitness by completing comprehensive evaluations and physician clearances.
Enforced safe exercise equipment use, reminding members of rules and guiding techniques.
Homemaker
Nonesuch
Throughout The United States
04.1994 - 02.2006
Managed household errands and other essential duties.
Took care of family needs while children's father was deployed while managing budgets, educational needs, travel priorities, nutritional needs, and anything else needed by everyone in the family.
Raised five children while managing military life that entailed many moves and deployments.
Mastered the art of staying on a disciplined budget to be a good steward and best manage resources for the family.
Completed many household repair tasks, furniture assemblies, household belonging packing/unpacking, lawn care, and cleaning.
Arabic Linguist
United States Air Force Reserve
San Angelo, TX
07.1992 - 04.1994
Interpreted spoken and written Arabic in real-time settings for high-level meetings.
Used electronic listening system to listen to speakers' statements, determine meanings and prepare translations.
Adhered to ethical codes protecting information confidentiality.
Translated Arabic texts from various media sources into English for government and military use.
Reviewed documents for accuracy, ensuring that all materials were properly translated according to established standards.
Promoted translation accuracy by referring to reference dictionaries, lexicons or computerized terminology banks.
Evaluated audio recordings from foreign sources in order to extract pertinent information relevant to investigations.
Developed strategies to accurately assess the meaning of language nuances within a cultural context.
Confirmed accuracy of technical terms and terminology and remained consistent during translation revisions.
Researched regional slang terms utilized by native speakers in order to more effectively communicate with them.
Collaborated with other linguists to develop best practices for translating text between languages.
Proofread, edited and revised translated documents.
Read legal documents, scientific articles or news reports and rewrote into specified language.
Maintained up-to-date knowledge regarding changes in political climates throughout the region.
Education
MBA - Business Administration
Liberty University
Lynchburg, VA
05-2020
Bachelor of Science - Education/Life Coaching
Liberty University
Lynchburg, VA
05-2015
Other - Arabic Language/Middle Eastern Studies
Defense Language Institute
Monterey, CA
02-1994
Skills
Quality assurance
Project management
Strategic planning
Customer service
Financial analysis
Digital marketing
Social media management
Design development
Team collaboration
Equipment maintenance
Effective communication
Problem solving
Client engagement
Networking skills
Client engagement optimization
Service quality assurance
Verbal and written communication
Customer relations
Timeline
Owner
Gretchen Made It, LLC
04.2022 - Current
Emergency Communications Specialist
Frederick County Emergency Communications Center
06.2021 - 02.2022
Client Relationship Associate
Key Financial Group
04.2019 - 01.2020
Manager
Double-E Entertainment
04.2016 - 04.2021
Personal Trainer
Sport & Health Club
02.2012 - 05.2016
Owner
You're Worth It Fitness
02.2006 - 04.2021
Homemaker
Nonesuch
04.1994 - 02.2006
Arabic Linguist
United States Air Force Reserve
07.1992 - 04.1994
MBA - Business Administration
Liberty University
Bachelor of Science - Education/Life Coaching
Liberty University
Other - Arabic Language/Middle Eastern Studies
Defense Language Institute
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