Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
Larissa Fortson

Larissa Fortson

Foley,AL

Summary

An inspirational and self-motivated Cosmetic Sales Professional with 15+ years of experience in the Cosmetology/Beauty Industry. Have 20+ years in a variety of Customer Service positions, including: Management experience Restaurant service and Retail Have additional 5 years of experience in business ownership /Management and a Certification in Cosmetology. Operations professional with expertise in streamlining processes and driving operational excellence. Adept at fostering team collaboration and ensuring seamless execution of projects. Valued for reliability and adaptability in dynamic environments, with strong skills in communication and leadership.

Overview

25
25
years of professional experience

Work History

Assistant Manager of Operations

Rita’s
03.2022 - Current
  • Coordinated with General Manager in different operational issues and promotional activities.
  • Helped team members maintain business professionalism by coaching each on methods for delivering exceptional service to every customer.
  • Taught employees how to collaborate on daily job tasks and achieve service targets.
  • Managed daily operations, delegating tasks appropriately to ensure smooth functioning of the facility.

Counter Manager for Edge Beauty

Dillards
02.2023 - 07.2024
  • Participated in special events or promotions as needed to boost sales and increase brand visibility in-store or online platforms.
  • Conducted monthly audits of stock levels for accurate record-keeping purposes.
  • Developed strong relationships with clients, resulting in repeat business and referrals.
  • Increased customer satisfaction by providing exceptional service and product knowledge.

Sales Associate

The Estée Lauder Companies
10.2021 - 03.2023
  • Exceeded sales objectives by 35% through empathetic customer service, there by building customer confidence and incentivizing return customers
  • Build trust-based relationships with clients through a combination of cosmetic products expertise and exemplary customer service, resulting in positive customer feedback in online reviews
  • Collaborate with customers during the sales process to customize product recommendations
  • Surpassing individual client needs through receptive interpersonal communication and consistently developing further product expertise on the store's products through ELC Learning Hub and independent research, providing customers with knowledge and resources for informed purchases
  • Utilize an in-depth understanding point-of-sale software to better serve customers by utilizing lesser-known program functions beyond price checking, printing receipts, and conventional transactions

Owner / Manager

L & D Construction Services
02.2013 - 10.2015
  • Founded a construction company with my husband. 15 staff that specialized in high-quality new residential framing projects
  • Collaborated with subcontractors to reach profitable and mutually beneficial contracts resulting in strong business relationships
  • Utilized interpersonal skills garnered over x number] years in customer service and a receptive listening ear for client needs to exceed client expectations with superb construction work
  • Strengthened business partnerships with existing clients and cultivated new relationships with prospective clients through receptive and responsive sales and marketing techniques

Bartender

07.2007 - 12.2012
  • Provided customer service in a bartender role at the Oar House

Bartender / Bar Manager

Jumbo's Grill and Sushi Bar
01.2004 - 01.2007
  • Performed opening and closing duties, printing sales reports, setting up for incoming shift, preparing cash drawers, and taking inventory.
  • Developed loyal clientele by consistently delivering outstanding service and engaging in friendly conversation.
  • Served high customer volumes during special events, nights, and weekends.
  • Kept bar presentable and well-stocked to meet customer needs.

Lancome Beauty Advisor

Belk, Inc.
07.2002 - 10.2004
  • Showcased the qualities of cosmetics and fragrance to customers by delivering informative and knowledgeable demonstrations and individualized cosmetic advice, boosting sales and satisfying customer needs
  • Built lasting client relationships through face-to-face guest interactions on the sales floor and at point of service that motivated sale while providing excellent customer

Bartender

01.2003 - 01.2004

Sales Associate

McRae's
04.2000 - 10.2002
  • Met and exceeded sales expectations in the hosiery, jewelry, and purse department by exemplifying customer-first values, thereby maximizing revenue and promoting the company's reputation

Fragrance Sales Associate

Dillard
10.1999 - 12.2001
  • Provided exemplary customer service and product expertise to recommend the ideal fragrance for each individual customer
  • Point of sale and direct customer sales/service while balancing other responsibilities, ie
  • Point of sale, stock, inventory, and merchandising

Education

Cosmetology certification -

Fortis Institute
05.2021

Skills

  • Sales
  • Management
  • Customer Service
  • Contract Negotiation
  • Marketing
  • Interpersonal Skills
  • Point of Sale
  • Makeup Application
  • Retail
  • Cash Handling

Timeline

Counter Manager for Edge Beauty - Dillards
02.2023 - 07.2024
Assistant Manager of Operations - Rita’s
03.2022 - Current
Sales Associate - The Estée Lauder Companies
10.2021 - 03.2023
Owner / Manager - L & D Construction Services
02.2013 - 10.2015
Bartender -
07.2007 - 12.2012
Bartender / Bar Manager - Jumbo's Grill and Sushi Bar
01.2004 - 01.2007
Bartender -
01.2003 - 01.2004
Lancome Beauty Advisor - Belk, Inc.
07.2002 - 10.2004
Sales Associate - McRae's
04.2000 - 10.2002
Fragrance Sales Associate - Dillard
10.1999 - 12.2001
Fortis Institute - Cosmetology certification,
Larissa Fortson