Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Websites
Certification
Timeline
Generic

Paula Brooks

Washington,DC

Summary

Certified Client Service Specialist (CCSS) with a proven track record of exceeding client expectations. Skilled in understanding and addressing client needs, resolving issues promptly, and building strong relationships. A vital link between clients and the organization, ensuring the delivery of exceptional services. Committed to contributing to the overall success of the organization and ensuring long-term client satisfaction.

Overview

11
11
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Independent Contractor

Maplebear Inc., D/b/a Instacart
09.2024 - Current
  • Utilizes Instacart's mobile application to fulfill orders, recommend substitutions, and communicate with online customers
  • Delivers outstanding service to customers to maintain and extend relationships for future business opportunities
  • Collaborates with customers to fulfill order specifications and exceed service expectations
  • Delivers friendly and customer centric support throughout the shopping, purchasing, and delivery process
  • Provides prompt and accurate service to ensure customer satisfaction within tight timeframes
  • Achieves deadlines and quality objectives for accuracy and timeliness consistently
  • Shops at designated stores, verifies replacement items, selects fresh produce and meat, and delivers groceries punctually to specified locations
  • Fosters positive rapport with retail staff through professionalism and friendliness

Client Services Specialist

Focus Data Solutions
03.2022 - 11.2023
  • Helped large volume of clients every day with a positive attitude and focused on customer satisfaction
  • Utilized active listening skills to identify client needs and provided appropriate solutions.
  • Delivered high level of customer service by being proactive in telephone communication with clients to increase customer satisfaction, loyalty and retention.
  • Documented daily Help Desk service requests promptly and reviewed client's priority issues and updated status
  • Collaborated with cross-functional teams to develop tailored solutions that met specific client needs.
  • Maintained accurate record-keeping with proactive attention to client information updates
  • Improved overall response times by refining support ticketing system workflows leading to higher levels of customer satisfaction.
  • Designed practical informational resources guide on best practices and tips on how to improve customer service skills
  • Developed and implemented Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for applying workflow processes
  • Co-facilitated quarterly client management customer service Lunch n' Learn presentations on-an-as needed basis
  • Maintained accurate records of all client interactions, ensuring timely follow-ups and consistent communication
  • Developed and implemented client service procedures to apply best practices and established quality standards.
  • Forged and implemented customer satisfaction surveys to measure client service quality by 10%
  • Investigated and resolved client inquiries and complaints quickly.
  • Followed-up and followed through with clients on resolved issues to maintain high standards of client service

Customer Service Associate

Giant of Maryland, LLC
10.2020 - 02.2022
  • Provided courteous customer-facing experience with prompt, friendly, helpful, and efficient service for large volume of customers in fast-paced retail environment
  • Managed transactions with customers using cash register, scanned goods and ensured pricing was accurate
  • Collected payments whether in cash, check or credit/ATM card
  • Actively listened to customers, handled concerns quickly and escalated major issues to supervisor
  • Offered advice and assistance to customers, paying attention to special needs or wants
  • Provided training and support to new associates to help provide high-quality customer service
  • Known for dependability, prompt, and reliable attendance

Host

URBN · Urban Outfitters, Inc. D/b/a Terrain Cafe
10.2018 - 07.2019
  • Welcomed customers warmly upon arrival and provided friendly and warm presence throughout dining experience
  • Took reservations and to-go orders by phone, answered customer questions, and informed of accurate wait times
  • Answered customer questions about hours, seating, and menu information
  • Supported six (6) servers, three (3) food runners, and bussers with keeping dining area ready for every guest
  • Monitored seating area and checked restrooms regularly to keep spotless
  • Worked with front of house staff to move tables and adjust seating to accommodate groups with special requests
  • Accommodated special seating requests for customers to enhance satisfaction
  • Completed daily side work and opening and closing duties without fail

Salon Coordinator

Coifs Salon, LLC
09.2015 - 08.2018
  • Greeted patrons upon arrival at salon, offering prompt, courteous service
  • Managed salon's master calendar to organize customer appointments, employee schedules and special events
  • Scheduled appointments by phone, email and in person and recommended additional services
  • Maintained client waiting area, ensuring that it was always kept clean
  • Upsold salon products and services to customers through effective communication and successful marketing methods
  • Worked to continuously increase salon business through effective sales, service, and operations policies
  • Promoted business through marketing initiatives and use of social media
  • Provided staff coaching, mentoring, and consultation to enhance performance and professional development

Office Manager

amfAR, The Foundation for AIDS Research
06.2013 - 07.2015
  • Administered business services for the Public Policy Office by organizing office procedures with corporate resource offices and cultivated relationships with vendors
  • Supported department heads in accomplishing their goals through diligent administrative assistance such as report generation and data entry
  • Achieved organizational efficiency that nurtured positive, inclusive work environment. Had natural flexibility in handling day-to-day routines as well as surprises
  • Handled mailroom procedures, purchased office supplies, processed travel/payment requests for billing, consultant invoices, credit card reconciliation, and expense report
  • Monitored and controlled activities related to the safety/security and maintenance of the facilities, office equipment, records, files, and systems
  • Contributed to workplace safety by ensuring compliance with established emergency protocols and conducting regular equipment inspections
  • Implemented and enforced office policies that aligned with company values and regulatory requirements, maintaining compliance
  • Managed vendor relationships, negotiating contracts for cost savings while maintaining high-quality services
  • Oversaw facility maintenance requests, coordinating with building management to address repairs or improvements efficiently
  • Reduced overhead costs significantly through negotiation of vendor contracts for office supplies and services.
  • Enhanced office operational efficiency by streamlining filing systems, resulting in easier access to critical documents.
  • Assisted HR with the onboarding process for new hires, including conducting orientation sessions and completing necessary paperwork
  • Handled sensitive employee and client information with utmost confidentiality, maintaining trust and integrity
  • Liaised with IT department to upgrade office technology, enhancing overall efficiency and data security.
  • Developed comprehensive policy manuals outlining procedures and guidelines, contributing to a well-organized workplace culture
  • Guided variety of event logistical duties for Capitol Hill bi-annual Policy Conference. Worked with arranged budgets and provided periodic progress reports to senior staff for each event
  • Coordinated staff celebrations (birthday, team building, holiday, and farewell)


Education

Associate in Arts - Business Administration

Strayer University
Washington, DC

Undergraduate Certificate - Management

Strayer University
Washington, DC

Skills

  • Client Relations
  • Office Management
  • Project Management
  • Effective Listening
  • Billing & Invoicing/Income/Contracts
  • Delegating Tasks
  • Empathy & Offering Help or Advice
  • Credit Card Reconciliation
  • Effective Communication
  • Influencing & Negotiation
  • Customer Relations & Service
  • Internal/External Relations
  • Knowledge of Best Practices
  • Expense & Reimbursement Reports
  • Managing Multiple Priorities
  • Oral & Written Communication
  • Facilities & Building Relations
  • Meetings, Events & Logistics
  • People-First Attitude
  • Front Desk Reception

Certification

Certified Client Service Specialist, CCSS

CCPC Global

The Canadian Council of Professional Certification

11/22 - 11/25

Timeline

Independent Contractor

Maplebear Inc., D/b/a Instacart
09.2024 - Current

Client Services Specialist

Focus Data Solutions
03.2022 - 11.2023

Customer Service Associate

Giant of Maryland, LLC
10.2020 - 02.2022

Host

URBN · Urban Outfitters, Inc. D/b/a Terrain Cafe
10.2018 - 07.2019

Salon Coordinator

Coifs Salon, LLC
09.2015 - 08.2018

Office Manager

amfAR, The Foundation for AIDS Research
06.2013 - 07.2015

Associate in Arts - Business Administration

Strayer University

Undergraduate Certificate - Management

Strayer University
Paula Brooks