Michael Gustafson
Summary
Engaged Server/Bartender with expertise in delivering outstanding service in fast-paced restaurant settings. Skilled in anticipating customer needs and fostering a welcoming atmosphere, while building strong rapport with guests. Highly organized and efficient, excelling in multitasking and prioritization. Seeking to contribute to a team-oriented establishment focused on exceptional dining experiences.
Overview
6
6
years of post-secondary education
31
31
years of professional experience
Work History
Blackjack Dealer
Magic City Lions Club
Minot, North Dakota
09.2024 - Current
- Dealt cards efficiently in fast-paced gaming environment.
- Managed table operations and ensured compliance with gaming regulations.
- Engaged with players to provide a friendly and welcoming atmosphere.
- Handled cash transactions accurately and securely during gameplay.
- Maintained cleanliness and organization of gaming tables at all times.
- Compiled reports on daily activities as required by management.
- Balanced tables upon completion of each shift to verify accuracy of funds handled during shift.
- Performed chip exchanges and payouts accurately according to established procedures.
Bartender Trainer
Applebees
Minot, North Dakota
02.2025 - 06.2026
- Trained new bartenders on drink preparation and upselling techniques to increase sales and improve service quality.
- Trained bartenders on drink recipes and service techniques, enhancing overall customer experience at a popular restaurant chain.
- Maintained knowledge of bar and menu options to prepare drinks and make food recommendations.
- Resolved customer complaints efficiently while upholding company values, contributing to customer satisfaction and loyalty.
- Ensured compliance with local health regulations related to food handling and alcohol service.
Server
Buffalo Wild Wings
Kalispell, MT
03.2023 - 11.2024
- Provided exceptional customer service in a fast-paced dining environment.
- Greeted and seated guests, providing exceptional service in a fast-paced environment.
- Coordinated with kitchen staff to ensure accurate order preparation and timely delivery, enhancing overall dining experience.
- Demonstrated strong knowledge of the menu, including specials and promotions, to make recommendations and answer questions.
- Coordinated with kitchen staff to ensure accurate order preparation and timely delivery, enhancing overall dining experience.
- Resolved customer complaints promptly and professionally, ensuring customer satisfaction and retention.
- Ensured work area remained clean and organized throughout shifts.
- Collaborated with team members to foster a positive work environment and lead by example.
Bartender
Marina Cay
Bigfork, MT
05.2021 - 08.2022
- Prepared and served alcohol and non-alcohol drinks while efficiently taking orders for dining guests.
- Crafted and served a diverse range of cocktails and beverages, enhancing guest experience.
- Created daily drink specials to effectively upsell and promote featured products.
- Checked customer identification regardless of physical appearance to confirm legal drinking age.
- Created daily drink specials to effectively upsell and promote featured products.
- Complied with all food and beverage regulations.
Combat Engineer
US Military-army
02.1995 - 08.2008
- Executed engineering tasks to support military operations
- Conducted recruitment processes to identify top talent
- Information Systems Analysis and Management
- Completed rigorous training program to develop leadership skills
Education
Business, Psychology
University of North Dakota
Grand Forks, ND 05.1998 - 01.2001
High School Diploma -
Minot High School
Minot, ND 09.1992 - 06.1996
Skills
- Customer-Focused
- Communication and Teamwork
- Problem-Solving
- Decision-Making
- Multitasking
- Thrive Under Pressure
- Organization and Prioritization
- Attention to Detail
- Results-Oriented
- Quick Learner
- Forward Thinking
- Great with People
- Menu knowledge
- Customer relationship management
- Team collaboration
- Conflict resolution
- Problem solving
- Attention to detail
- Expert mixology
- Alcohol safety regulations
Military Experience
US Military - Army, 02/15/95, 08/01/08, Combat Engineer, Recruiter, Information Systems Analysis and Management
Timeline
Bartender Trainer
Applebees
02.2025 - 06.2026
Blackjack Dealer
Magic City Lions Club
09.2024 - Current
Server
Buffalo Wild Wings
03.2023 - 11.2024
Bartender
Marina Cay
05.2021 - 08.2022
Business, Psychology
University of North Dakota
05.1998 - 01.2001
Combat Engineer
US Military-army
02.1995 - 08.2008
High School Diploma -
Minot High School
09.1992 - 06.1996