Heather Benfer
Hayden,ID
Summary
Energetic server with a proven track record at Walter Hansel Wine Bar & Bistro, excelling in guest engagement and hospitality service expertise. Skilled in wine pairing and memory retention, I significantly boosted repeat customer rates. Demonstrated exceptional customer service by effectively managing high-volume dining and special dietary needs, ensuring customer satisfaction and repeat business. I am enthusiastic and a reliable professional who takes pride in providing excellent service and creating memorable dining experiences for restaurant customers. Skilled in anticipating customer needs, addressing complaints and resolving issues in timely manner.
Overview
14
14
years of professional experience
Work History
Server
Walter Hansel Wine Bar & Bistro
Santa Rosa, CA
06.2016 - 08.2024
- Demonstrated strong multitasking skills by managing multiple tables simultaneously without compromising service quality.
- Served food and beverages promptly with focused attention to customer needs.
- Boosted repeat customer rates, remembered regular guests' preferences and greeted them by name.
- 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.
- Cultivated warm relationships with regular customers.
- Supervised set up of banquet food stations and coordinated service to multiple dining areas.
- Trained new staff on menu knowledge and service protocols, raising team's overall performance.
- Addressed customer complaints or concerns professionally, ensuring swift resolution and maintaining positive relationships.
- Developed strong rapport with regular customers through genuine hospitality efforts leading to repeat business.
- Extensive wine training and knowledge
- Ensured customer satisfaction with detailed attention to special dietary needs and preferences.
- Helped customers with dietary restrictions, allergies and intolerances obtain safe, delicious food by working closely with kitchen staff on alternatives.
- Performed opening and closing duties, ensuring the dining area was prepared for seamless service transitions.
Server
Catellis
Geyserville, CA
03.2010 - 05.2016
- Worked with POS system to place orders, manage bills, and handle complimentary items.
- Presented menus to patrons promptly after seating and answered questions about menu items, making recommendations upon request.
- Increased sales with upselling techniques and thorough knowledge of menu items, specials, and promotions.
- Explained menu items and suggested appropriate options for food allergy concerns.
- Assisted in planning and execution of special events, contributing to restaurant's reputation for hosting.
- Boosted repeat customer rates, remembered regular guests' preferences and greeted them by name.
- Alcohol and wine training and knowledge
Education
Associate of Science - Kinesiology
Santa Rosa Junior College
Santa Rosa, CACosmetology
Paul Mitchell
Sacramento, CA05.2010
Skills
- Strong Work Ethic
- Exceptional customer service
- Guest Engagement
- Hospitality service expertise
- Wine pairing knowledge
- Food Running
- High-volume dining
- Service prioritization
- Reliable and Responsible
- Guest Relations Management
- Tableside Etiquette
Timeline
Server
Walter Hansel Wine Bar & Bistro
06.2016 - 08.2024
Server
Catellis
03.2010 - 05.2016
Associate of Science - Kinesiology
Santa Rosa Junior College
Cosmetology
Paul Mitchell