Jennifer Swartz
Santa Maria,CA
Summary
Dynamic server and trainer with extensive experience at Santa Maria Applebee’s excelling in upselling strategies and effective team member training. Proven ability to enhance customer satisfaction through accurate order processing and safe food handling, fostering loyalty and repeat business while maintaining high service standards in fast-paced environments.
Overview
2027
2027
years of professional experience
Work History
Server/Trainer
Santa Maria Applebee’s
11.2023 - Current
- Trained new servers on menu knowledge and customer service standards.
- Evaluated server performance and provided constructive feedback for improvement
- Implemented efficient service techniques to enhance guest satisfaction
- Conducted role-playing scenarios to prepare servers for diverse customer interactions
- Trained new team members on restaurant procedures, menu items, and performance strategies.
- Mentored new hires through the training process, ensuring they became productive team members quickly and efficiently.
Server/Trainer
Santa Maria IHOP
Santa Maria, CA
08.2018 - 11.2023
- Demonstrated strong knowledge of food and beverage service standards and led by example to instill in new servers.
- Maintained cleanliness standards throughout dining areas, contributing to a positive dining experience for guests.
- Monitored new server performance and offered continuous support throughout training period.
- Developed strong relationships with regular customers, encouraging repeat business and loyalty to the establishment.
- Enhanced customer satisfaction by providing efficient and friendly service during peak hours.
- Ensured accurate order taking and input into POS systems, reducing errors in food preparation and billing processes.
- Actively participated in team meetings to discuss strategies for increasing efficiency and improving customer experiences.
- Instructed servers on proper techniques for taking orders, serving food and providing customer service.
- Coached servers on proper food handling techniques to maintain compliance with health department regulations and uphold food safety standards.
- Established and maintained positive relationships with trainees to drive successful learning outcomes.
- Assisted in new server onboarding and orientation to cultivate seamless transitions.
- Taught servers to memorize menu ingredients and provide information on preparation methods.
- Implemented upselling techniques, boosting overall revenue for the restaurant.
- Provided feedback and guidance to help servers develop industry skills and knowledge.
- Reduced order errors and improved service speed by implementing hands-on training approach for POS system usage.
Server
Broadview Restaurant
Galesburg, IL
2016 - 2018
- Delivered exceptional customer service, ensuring satisfaction and repeat business.
- Assisted in menu item recommendations, enhancing dining experience for guests.
- Maintained cleanliness and organization of dining area, meeting health standards.
- Processed orders accurately, coordinating with kitchen staff for timely delivery.
- Handled cash transactions and balanced registers at shift end to ensure accuracy.
- Collaborated with team members to streamline workflow during peak hours, enhancing service speed.
- Served food and beverages promptly with focused attention to customer needs.
- Collaborated with team members during busy shifts for efficient workflow and excellent guest experiences.
- Cultivated warm relationships with regular customers.
- Performed opening and closing duties, ensuring the dining area was prepared for seamless service transitions.
- Enhanced customer satisfaction by promptly attending to their needs and providing personalized service.
- Maintained a clean and orderly dining area for an enjoyable guest.
- Bussed and reset tables to keep dining room and work areas clean.
- Addressed customer complaints or concerns professionally, ensuring swift resolution and maintaining positive relationships.
- Resolved customer complaints promptly and professionally to maintain positive reputation.
- Handled cash transactions accurately, contributing to balanced daily financial reports.
- Set positive tone for entire dining experience as first point of contact for incoming guests.
- Supported colleagues during peak hours, fostering a collaborative work environment that enhanced overall productivity levels.
- Developed strong rapport with regular customers through genuine hospitality efforts leading to repeat business.
- 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.
- Used slow periods to restock supplies, ice, trays, and delivery bags.
- Adhered to proper food handling procedures and safety guidelines for the well-being of guests and team members alike.
- Maximized table turnover rate by managing reservations and seating arrangements.
- Increased sales by suggesting additional items like desserts and drinks based on customers' orders.
Education
Special Education
Carl Sandburg College
Galesburg, ILSkills
Effective time management
Menu memorization
Safe food handling
Order accuracy
Upselling strategies
Team member training
POS system proficiency
Cash handling
Food presentation
Server etiquette
Timeline
Server/Trainer
Santa Maria Applebee’s
11.2023 - Current
Server/Trainer
Santa Maria IHOP
08.2018 - 11.2023
Server
Broadview Restaurant
2016 - 2018
Special Education
Carl Sandburg College