Rachel DuFour
Pawcatuck,CT
Summary
Strong leader and problem-solver dedicated to streamlining operations to promote organizational efficiency. Uses independent decision-making skills and sound judgment to positively impact company success.
Overview
18
18
years of professional experience
Work History
Small Business Owner
Self-employed
10.2012 - Current
- Scheduled employees for shifts, taking into account customer traffic and employee strengths.
- Established a loyal customer base by providing personalized attention, addressing concerns promptly, and exceeding expectations.
- Interacted well with customers to build connections and nurture relationships.
- Developed strategic partnerships with suppliers, negotiating favorable terms to control costs and improve product offerings.
- Participated in business events, conferences and trade shows to promote products and network with business owners and prospective clients.
- Built relationships with vendors, consignors, advertisers and clients.
- Fostered a positive work environment that motivated employees towards achieving their potential while contributing significantly towards overall company success.
- Handled problematic customers and clients to assist lower-level employees and maintain excellent customer service.
- Devised processes to boost long-term business success and increase profit levels.
- Maintained compliance with industry regulations through regular audits and updates of policies or procedures as needed.
- Negotiated price and service with customers and vendors to decrease expenses and increase profit.
- Participated actively in local community events or organizations as a way to give back while expanding brand visibility and credibility.
- Created exciting merchandise and window displays to catch attention of store customers.
- Managed 3,000 consignors accounts including finances and inventory.
- Introduced technology solutions for improved communication among team members leading to better collaboration on projects.
- Achieved consistent growth with careful planning and execution of business development initiatives.
- Managed daily operations for a successful small business, ensuring efficient processes and quality services.
- Advertised products and services online, social media and through traditional campaigns to target ideal consumers.
Waitstaff
The Shack Restaurants
09.2009 - 10.2012
- Resolved customer complaints professionally and effectively, maintaining strong relationships with clientele.
- Enhanced customer satisfaction by implementing efficient waitstaff scheduling and task delegation.
- Informed customers about daily and seasonal specials.
- Collaborated with kitchen staff to ensure timely delivery of orders, resulting in positive feedback from guests.
- Maintained customer satisfaction with timely table check-ins to assess food and beverage needs.
- Helped customers with dietary restrictions, allergies and intolerances obtain safe, delicious food by working closely with kitchen staff on alternatives.
- Maintained thorough menu knowledge to sufficiently answer questions regarding menu item sourcing, ingredients and cooking methods.
- Trained new servers on restaurant policies and procedures.
- Effectively communicated dietary restrictions and allergies to kitchen staff, ensuring accurate meal preparation for guests.
- Processed cash and credit card transactions accurately, maintaining accountability for all sales revenue generated during shifts.
- Maintained clean and organized dining areas for optimal guest experience.
- Supported fellow waitstaff through teamwork during busy times, sharing responsibilities as needed.
- Upsold appetizers, drinks and desserts to increase restaurant profits.
- Contributed positively to overall workplace culture through proactive communication, problem-solving, and commitment to continuous improvement.
- Maintained professional demeanor under pressure while managing challenging situations involving dissatisfied customers.
- Promoted restaurant specials and upsold menu items, increasing overall sales revenue.
Group Home Staff Member
Lighthouse Education Center
01.2006 - 01.2011
- Coordinated recreational activities for diverse groups of residents, promoting social interaction and mental stimulation.
- Contributed to the hiring process for new staff members by assisting in interviews and providing feedback on candidate qualifications based on experience in the field.
- Assisted in conflict resolution among residents by mediating disputes and promoting effective communication strategies.
- Coordinated community resources and secured referrals.
- Participated in ongoing professional development opportunities to stay informed on best practices within the industry and continually improve service provision methods.
- Conducted thorough facility inspections to ensure compliance with state regulations and maintain a clean, hazard-free environment for residents and staff alike.
- Assisted individuals with addressing disabilities and developing career plans.
- Managed medication administration for multiple residents, ensuring timely distribution according to prescribed dosages while maintaining accurate records of usage and refills needed.
- Transported clients to appointments, shopping venues and entertainment events according to determined schedule.
- Provided crisis intervention when necessary to maintain the safety of all group home occupants.
- Enhanced residents'' well-being by developing and implementing individualized care plans.
Support Worker
JJMA LLC
01.2007 - 03.2010
- Facilitated community integration for client by organizing social outings, recreational activities, and educational opportunities.
- Assisted client in developing and setting realistic goals to promote positive change.
- Mentored new support workers by providing guidance, sharing best practices, and modeling effective client-centered care techniques.
- Promoted independence among clients through skill-building exercises and goal-setting initiatives.
- Provided crisis intervention services when necessary, effectively de-escalating challenging situations while maintaining client safety.
- Promoted community integration by providing extensive physical, emotional and social support.
- Adapted quickly to changing work environments while maintaining high levels of productivity and professionalism under pressure.
- Conducted home visits to assess clients' home environment and provide support.
- Transported clients to appointments, shopping venues and entertainment events according to determined schedule.
- Visited home environments to help clients develop comprehensive life, technical and job skills.
- Assisted clients with daily living needs to maintain self-esteem and general wellness.
- Helped clients manage and reach individual goals, supporting independent progression and social skills.
- Established trusting relationships with clients and their families through empathetic communication and active listening.
- Collaborated with 10-20 other professionals weekly to plan and coordinate care for clients.
- Coordinated appointments for clients with healthcare providers to promote consistent access to essential medical services.
- Educated family members on various aspects of client care to enhance support networks during times of need.
- Kept clients engaged in social networks and communities for personal health and growth.
- Enhanced the quality of care for clients by providing personalized support and assistance with daily living activities.
Education
Associate of Applied Science - General Studies
Three Rivers Community College
Norwich, CT06.2008
Skills
- Inventory Control
- Business Management
- Calendar Management
- Sales Coaching
- Team Leadership
- Budget Management
- Product Promotion
- Staffing and scheduling
- Proficient in Consignpro , Google Docs, and Google Sheets
- Business Development
- Special Promotions Planning
- Quality Assurance
- Advertising Campaign Development
- Inventory Tracking and Management
- Marketing Strategies
Timeline
Small Business Owner
Self-employed
10.2012 - Current
Waitstaff
The Shack Restaurants
09.2009 - 10.2012
Support Worker
JJMA LLC
01.2007 - 03.2010
Group Home Staff Member
Lighthouse Education Center
01.2006 - 01.2011
Associate of Applied Science - General Studies
Three Rivers Community College
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