Lavenia Dotson
Summary
Friendly, courteous and articulate. Good eye for detail; well organized, skilled in setting priorities. Highly effective in promoting a positive, productive, work environment. Positive, professional attitude; committed to excellence. Work well in team with people of all ages.
Overview
12
12
years of professional experience
Work History
Advocate
Youth Advocate Program
05.2023 - Current
- Established good relationships; provide guidance and support.
- Develop and Implement mentorship plans.
- Conduct regular meetings; check-ins to track progress.
- Assist in needed support with youth and their family.
- Participate in community outings, for growth and learning.
- Provide transportation to weekly soft skills and SPARC meetings.
- Provide regular reports to program PD and AD.
Lead Food Server
Point O Woods Golf Club
07.2021 - 11.2021
- Established relationships with private members and assisted them with planning events.
- Improved teamwork among serving staff through regular training sessions on communication skills and workplace etiquette.
- Increased operational efficiency by assisting in inventory and restaurant organization.
- Set up and execute special events for 100 plus guests with private parties or themed dinners by coordinating with special event department.
Cocktail Server
J Parker
07.2016 - 03.2020
- Elevated customer satisfaction by promptly addressing any concerns or special requests.
- Enhanced customer experience by efficiently taking and delivering drink orders, providing excellent service to 25 plus customers in one setting.
- Contributed to team success by assisting co-workers during high-volume periods when needed.
- Improved inventory management by consistently tracking stock levels; communicating shortages to supervisors in timely manner.
Server/Bartender
Hard Rock Hotel
Chicago, IL
06.2015 - 09.2016
- Coordinated with kitchen staff to ensure timely delivery of orders, resulting in satisfied customers.
- Provided attentive service during high-volume periods without sacrificing attention to detail or guest rapport.
- Performed opening and closing duties, ensuring dining area was prepared for seamless service transitions.
- Drink preparation, inventory management, cash handling, cleanliness, ability to upsell drinks and food items for bar.
- Assisted in training new hires, providing guidance on restaurant standards and best practices.
Restaurant Manager
Parrot Cage Restaurant
Chicago, IL
06.2012 - 06.2014
- Managed restaurants budgets and financial plans.
- Reduced staff turnover rate with effective leadership, open communication, and employee development opportunities.
- Managed daily operations to ensure a high level of efficiency, consistency, and quality in both food and service.
- Facilitated regular safety training sessions for all team members to ensure a safe working environment free from accidents or injuries.
Education
Associate of Arts -
Kennedy King College
Chicago, IL 05.2001 -
Skills
Policy Development
Training delivery
Analytical Reasoning
Mentorship
Timeline
Advocate
Youth Advocate Program
05.2023 - Current
Lead Food Server
Point O Woods Golf Club
07.2021 - 11.2021
Cocktail Server
J Parker
07.2016 - 03.2020
Server/Bartender
Hard Rock Hotel
06.2015 - 09.2016
Restaurant Manager
Parrot Cage Restaurant
06.2012 - 06.2014
Associate of Arts -
Kennedy King College
05.2001 -