Professional Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline

Nekia Smith

Fenney Grill
Leesburg,FL
12
years of professional experience

Dedicated professional with a proven track record in delivering exceptional customer service and enhancing guest experiences. Skilled in multitasking, cash handling, and effective communication, ensuring operational efficiency and customer satisfaction. Excellent teamwork ethic and leadership skills.

Work History

Waitress

5 Years
Fenney Grill | 06.2021 - Current
  • Delivered exceptional customer service, ensuring a positive dining experience for all guests.
  • Managed table assignments and prioritized service efficiency during peak hours.
  • Collaborated with kitchen staff to ensure timely food preparation and order accuracy.
  • Trained new waitstaff on restaurant protocols and customer interaction techniques.
  • Handled cash transactions accurately, maintaining financial accountability throughout shifts.
  • Implemented process improvements that reduced wait times during busy periods.
  • Maintained cleanliness and organization of dining areas in compliance with health regulations.
  • Handled high-pressure situations with composure, maintaining excellent service standards even during busy shifts.
  • Exhibited strong multitasking abilities, balancing multiple tables and orders while delivering prompt service.
  • Maintained clean and welcoming dining environment, ensuring a positive guest experience.
  • Remained calm and poised when dealing with difficult customers or during busy shifts.
  • Used cash registers and credit card machines to cash out customers.
  • Supported teamwork atmosphere among staff members through clear communication and collaboration during shifts.
  • Kept server areas clean and stocked to increase efficiency while working tables.
  • Collaborated with team members to consistently provide efficient service during peak hours.
  • Maintained customer satisfaction with timely table check-ins to assess food and beverage needs.
  • Enhanced customer satisfaction by providing attentive service and promptly addressing any concerns.
  • Managed cash transactions accurately, ensuring proper change was provided to customers as needed.
  • Built rapport with regular customers through friendly interactions and attentiveness to their preferences.
  • Demonstrated adaptability by quickly learning new menu items and incorporating them into knowledgeable recommendations for guests.
  • Proved successful working within tight deadlines and a fast-paced environment.
  • Carried out complete opening, closing and shift change duties to keep restaurant working efficiently and teams ready to meet customer needs.
  • Answered customers' questions, recommended items, and recorded order information.
  • Collected payment for food and drinks served, balanced cash receipts and maintained accurate cash drawer.
  • Displayed enthusiasm and promoted excellent service to customers, successfully increasing referrals, and walk-in business.
  • Processed orders and sent to kitchen employees for preparation.
  • Shared knowledge of menu items and flavors, enabling customers to make personal decisions based on taste and interest.
  • Maintained thorough menu knowledge to sufficiently answer questions regarding menu item sourcing, ingredients and cooking methods.
  • Maintained order efficiency and accuracy through clear communication with kitchen staff, earning numerous recommendations from satisfied customers.
  • Inspected dishes and utensils for cleanliness.
  • Helped customers with dietary restrictions, allergies and intolerances obtain safe, delicious food by working closely with kitchen staff on alternatives.
  • Printed dining checks with total due, collected payment and offered receipts to complete transactions.
  • Strategically timed check-ins with customers to take orders and confirm satisfaction with meals after delivery, taking action to correct any problems.
  • Checked guests' identification before serving alcoholic beverages.
  • Increased sales significantly by upselling higher-end products to customers.
  • Monitored patrons for alcohol intake to appropriate levels and took measures to curtail inappropriate behavior.

Waitress, Lead, Bartender

2 Years 2 Months
Tierra Del Sol | 04.2019 - 06.2021
  • Provided exceptional customer service, enhancing guest experiences through attentive support and prompt service.
  • Managed daily operations, coordinating dining room activities to ensure efficient workflow and guest satisfaction.
  • Trained and mentored new staff on menu items, service standards, and company policies to uphold quality expectations.
  • Collaborated with kitchen staff to accurately relay orders and accommodate dietary restrictions for diverse clientele.
  • Implemented process improvements that streamlined order-taking procedures, reducing wait times during peak hours.
  • Resolved customer complaints effectively, maintaining a positive dining atmosphere while ensuring repeat business.
  • Conducted inventory checks and restocked supplies to maintain optimal stock levels and operational efficiency.
  • Developed strong relationships with regular patrons, fostering loyalty through personalized service and attention to detail.
  • Presented menus to patrons promptly after seating and answered questions about menu items, making recommendations upon request.
  • Oversaw daily bar operations, ensuring efficiency and high service standards.
  • Trained and mentored junior bartenders, enhancing team skills and performance.
  • Managed inventory control processes, optimizing stock levels and reducing waste.
  • Collaborated with management to streamline service procedures and enhance customer experience.
  • Conducted regular quality checks on beverages, maintaining consistency in taste and presentation.
  • Kept detailed inventories and notified management of ordering needs for liquor, beer, wine, and bar supplies.
  • Resolved customer complaints promptly and professionally, preserving positive relationships between the business and its clientele.
  • Trained new bartenders on company policies, drink recipes, and customer service best practices to maintain consistent performance across the team.
  • Upsold daily specials and beverage promotions to exceed daily sales goals.
  • Maintained a clean and well-organized bar area, ensuring compliance with sanitation standards and enhancing guest experience.
  • Enhanced customer satisfaction by providing exceptional service and crafting high-quality beverages.
  • Managed cash handling procedures accurately, reducing discrepancies in daily financial reports.
  • Performed opening and closing duties, printing sales reports, setting up for incoming shift, preparing cash drawers, and taking inventory.
  • Handled simultaneous customer, team, and business needs while avoiding unnecessary delays or errors.
  • Collaborated with management to create enticing promotions for special events and holidays, driving increased foot traffic to the establishment.
  • Participated in local community events as a representative of the establishment, promoting brand visibility and fostering new business opportunities.
  • Assisted in menu development, incorporating seasonal flavors and trends into popular craft cocktails.
  • Maintained secure cash drawers, promptly resolving discrepancies in daily totals.
  • Developed a loyal customer base by fostering an engaging and welcoming atmosphere for patrons.
  • Safeguarded legal compliance by enforcing responsible alcohol consumption policies and verifying age requirements as needed.
  • Reduced waste and improved cost efficiency with careful monitoring of liquor usage and optimal ordering practices.
  • Closed out cash register and prepared cashier report at close of business.
  • Coordinated with kitchen staff to ensure timely delivery of food orders to guests at the bar area, enhancing their overall dining experience.
  • Crafted special drink and cocktail menu items for seasonal offerings.
  • Implemented effective staff performance evaluations, providing constructive feedback and guidance for ongoing professional development.
  • Kept alcoholic beverages well-stocked and organized to meet expected demands.
  • Increased sales with innovative cocktail creations and upselling techniques, leading to improved overall revenue.
  • Served high customer volumes during special events, nights, and weekends.
  • Upsold menu items to customers, driving up per sale revenues and maximizing profits.
  • Kept bar presentable and well-stocked to meet customer needs.
  • Organized bar inventory and storage procedures to keep stock within optimal levels and meet expected customer demands.
  • Trained new bartenders on drink preparation, product promotion, garnish preparation, and sanitation protocol.
  • Followed alcohol awareness procedures for preventing excessive guest intoxication.
  • Adhered to state laws regarding alcoholic beverage services and customer regulations.
  • Obtained cash bank and stocked service bar to prepare for operation.
  • Upheld strict regulations for safe alcohol service and food safety.
  • Cultivated strong relationships with repeat customers, engaging in friendly conversation and memorizing drink orders to promote loyalty.
  • Assisted with inventorying beverage stock and bar supplies.
  • Prepared custom drink orders by accurately measuring and mixing house ingredients.
  • Used extensive knowledge of beer, wine and spirits to make informed recommendations to customers.
  • Maintained impeccably clean, attractive and well-stocked bar area.
  • Regularly cleaned and sanitized bar area, beer lockers, refrigeration and storage areas.
  • Created attractive bar displays by strategically arranging bottles and glasses.
  • Mixed unique and interesting cocktails for customers, including bar specials.
  • Kept bar stocked with liquors, juices and garnishes for drinks.
  • Verified drinking age requirements of customers by carefully reviewing photo identification.
  • Practiced safe work habits, wearing protective equipment and consistently following MSDS and OSHA standards.
  • Handled high-pressure situations with composure, maintaining excellent service standards even during busy shifts.
  • Exhibited strong multitasking abilities, balancing multiple tables and orders while delivering prompt service.
  • Maintained clean and welcoming dining environment, ensuring a positive guest experience.
  • Remained calm and poised when dealing with difficult customers or during busy shifts.
  • Used cash registers and credit card machines to cash out customers.
  • Supported teamwork atmosphere among staff members through clear communication and collaboration during shifts.
  • Kept server areas clean and stocked to increase efficiency while working tables.
  • Collaborated with team members to consistently provide efficient service during peak hours.
  • Enhanced customer satisfaction by providing attentive service and promptly addressing any concerns.
  • Managed cash transactions accurately, ensuring proper change was provided to customers as needed.
  • Maintained customer satisfaction with timely table check-ins to assess food and beverage needs.
  • Demonstrated adaptability by quickly learning new menu items and incorporating them into knowledgeable recommendations for guests.
  • Proved successful working within tight deadlines and a fast-paced environment.
  • Carried out complete opening, closing and shift change duties to keep restaurant working efficiently and teams ready to meet customer needs.
  • Collected payment for food and drinks served, balanced cash receipts and maintained accurate cash drawer.
  • Displayed enthusiasm and promoted excellent service to customers, successfully increasing referrals, and walk-in business.
  • Maintained thorough menu knowledge to sufficiently answer questions regarding menu item sourcing, ingredients and cooking methods.
  • Helped customers with dietary restrictions, allergies and intolerances obtain safe, delicious food by working closely with kitchen staff on alternatives.
  • Printed dining checks with total due, collected payment and offered receipts to complete transactions.
  • Strategically timed check-ins with customers to take orders and confirm satisfaction with meals after delivery, taking action to correct any problems.

Waitress, Bartender, Lead

5 Years 3 Months
Beef O' Bradys | 01.2014 - 04.2019
  • Delivered exceptional customer service, ensuring a positive dining experience.
  • Managed multiple tables efficiently during peak hours, enhancing overall restaurant flow.
  • Collaborated with kitchen staff to ensure accurate and timely order delivery.
  • Trained new waitstaff on menu items and service protocols, improving team performance.
  • Assisted in maintaining cleanliness and organization of dining area to meet health standards.
  • Implemented suggestions for menu updates based on customer feedback, enhancing offerings.
  • Resolved customer complaints promptly, fostering repeat business and loyalty.
  • Developed strong relationships with regular patrons, encouraging a welcoming atmosphere.
  • Provided exceptional customer service, fostering a welcoming environment for patrons.
  • Maintained cleanliness and organization of bar area, ensuring compliance with health standards.
  • Trained and mentored new staff in bartending techniques and customer engagement strategies.
  • Managed inventory levels, reducing waste through efficient stock control practices.
  • Developed signature cocktails, enhancing beverage menu appeal and increasing sales opportunities.
  • Collaborated with kitchen staff to coordinate food and drink pairings for special events.
  • Implemented process improvements that streamlined service delivery during peak hours.
  • Managed cash handling duties responsibly, ensuring accurate accounting at the end of each shift.
  • Efficiently opened or closed the bar according to established procedures, ensuring preparedness for each shift.
  • Contributed to a positive work environment through effective teamwork and communication with colleagues.
  • Maintained a clean and organized workspace, ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations.
  • Developed loyal clientele by consistently delivering outstanding service and engaging in friendly conversation.
  • Increased customer satisfaction by providing excellent service and crafting high-quality cocktails.
  • Reduced wait times for drinks by efficiently managing the bar area and prioritizing orders.
  • Enhanced overall guest experience by promptly addressing concerns and resolving issues professionally.
  • Assisted with staff training, sharing expertise in bartending techniques and customer service best practices.
  • Educated customers on drink options, making personalized recommendations based on preferences or dietary restrictions.
  • Supported special events through attentive service, adapting quickly to varying needs of guests or clients.
  • Proactively addressed potential conflicts or disturbances among patrons, maintaining a safe atmosphere for all guests.
  • Trained new staff on bar procedures, cocktail recipes, and customer service standards, ensuring consistent service quality.
  • Adapted to fast-paced environment, effectively managing multiple drink orders simultaneously without compromising quality.
  • Resolved customer complaints with empathy and professionalism, turning potentially negative experiences into positive ones.
  • Enhanced dining experience, suggesting food and drink pairings that complemented menu offerings.
  • Streamlined bar operations by maintaining clean and organized work area, ensuring efficient service.
  • Optimized beverage cost and waste management, regularly reviewing and adjusting pour sizes and inventory levels.
  • Fostered culture of teamwork, collaborating with colleagues to ensure smooth operation during high-traffic periods.
  • Maintained extensive knowledge of cocktail recipes and preparation techniques, ensuring high-quality beverage menu.
  • Handled cash and card transactions accurately, reducing discrepancies and balancing till at end of each shift.
  • Enhanced customer experience with engaging conversations and personalized drink recommendations.
  • Increased repeat customer numbers, creating welcoming atmosphere and remembering regulars' favorite drinks.
  • Improved team morale and efficiency, leading by example and offering support during peak hours.
  • Ensured compliance with health and safety regulations, routinely checking and documenting bar cleanliness and equipment functionality.
  • Facilitated smooth workflow, coordinating with kitchen and floor staff to expedite orders.
  • Enhanced establishment's reputation, consistently receiving positive feedback on customer satisfaction surveys.
  • Developed loyal clientele by engaging in friendly conversations and providing exceptional service.
  • Contributed to event success, planning beverage menus and efficiently serving large groups.
  • Boosted beverage sales, designing and promoting range of signature cocktails.
  • Managed bar inventory, restocked supplies and placed orders for spirits, beer, wines, and mixers.
  • Prepared garnishes by evenly slicing and pitting fruits.
  • Applied knowledge to create innovative cocktails, enhance flavor profiles and expertly pair food and drinks.

Education

High School Diploma

Leesburg High School | Leesburg, FL | 06-2011

Skills

Customer service
Strong multitasking
Greeting guests
Team collaboration
Cleanliness
Order taking
Attention to detail
Cash handling
Decision-making
Safe food handling
Hospitality service expertise
Handling complaints
Menu recommendations

Timeline

Waitress

Fenney Grill
06.2021 - CurrentRead More

Waitress, Lead, Bartender

Tierra Del Sol
04.2019 - 06.2021Read More

Waitress, Bartender, Lead

Beef O' Bradys
01.2014 - 04.2019Read More

Leesburg High School

High School Diploma
Read More
Nekia Smith