Shawna Whetzel
Ocala,FL
Summary
Dynamic restaurant server with a proven track record at Red Lobster, excelling in customer satisfaction and upselling menu items. Recognized for enhancing guest experiences through attentive service and effective communication. Skilled in cash handling and maintaining cleanliness, contributing to a seamless dining environment and fostering long-term customer loyalty.
Warm friendly approach with hands-on experience in Service and talent for navigating challenges. Brings strong problem-solving skills and proactive approach to new tasks. Known for adaptability, creativity, and results-oriented mindset. Committed to making meaningful contributions and advancing organizational goals.
Overview
5
5
years of professional experience
Work History
Restaurant Server
Red Lobster
08.2020 - 12.2025
- Adapted quickly to high-pressure environments, supporting team during peak service hours.
- Contributed to team success by assisting fellow servers during peak hours, ensuring smooth operations.
- Greeted new customers, discussed specials, and took drink orders.
- Boosted overall sales by confidently recommending daily specials and upselling menu items.
- Handled customer complaints professionally, resolving issues promptly to maintain positive relationships.
- Bussed and reset tables to keep dining room and work areas clean.
- Kept server areas clean and stocked to increase efficiency while working tables.
- Worked with POS system to place orders, manage bills, and handle complimentary items.
- Managed cash transactions accurately with attention to detail, minimizing discrepancies in daily reports.
- Trained new hires on restaurant policies, procedures, and exceptional customer service standards.
- Used communication and problem-solving skills to resolve customer complaints and promote long-term loyalty.
- Elevated the guest experience by anticipating their needs proactively throughout their visit.
- Established rapport with regular customers, fostering loyalty through exceptional service.
- Promoted a safe working environment by adhering to food safety standards and best practices.
- Demonstrated knowledge of menu offerings, including ingredients and preparation methods to address customer inquiries effectively.
- Increased table turnover rate by efficiently managing orders and ensuring timely delivery of meals.
- Stayed up-to-date on menu changes to help customers make food choices.
- Served food and beverages promptly with focused attention to customer needs.
- Set positive tone for entire dining experience as first point of contact for incoming guests.
- Increased sales significantly by upselling higher-end products to customers.
- Provided attentive service to guests, ensuring satisfaction and prompt response to needs.
Restaurant Server
Longhorn Steakhouse
12.2024 - 05.2025
- Provided attentive service to guests, ensuring satisfaction and prompt response to needs.
- Learned menu offerings and ingredients, assisting customers with informed recommendations.
- Maintained cleanliness of dining area, enhancing guest experience through attention to detail.
- Collaborated with kitchen staff to coordinate timely food delivery and special requests.
- Processed transactions accurately using point-of-sale systems, managing cash handling efficiently.
Education
High School Diploma -
Lake Washington High School
Kirkland, WAMassage Certification -
La James
Mason City, IAReal Estate License -
Aceable Agent
Florida Skills
- Customer satisfaction
- Order taking
- Organization
- Guest service
- Cleanliness
Accomplishments
- Used Microsoft Excel to develop inventory tracking spreadsheets.
- Supervised team of 8-12 staff members.
- Achieved set sales goals by completing section turnover with accuracy and efficiency.
- Current Florida food handlers card
- Current Florida alcohol service card
Languages
English
Interests
- I enjoy sketching and drawing, which helps improve my creativity and attention to detail
- Baking
- Learning new cooking techniques and expanding my culinary skills
- I participate in low-impact exercises to strengthen core muscles
- Gym Workouts
- Documenting and sharing travel experiences
- Exploring famous landmarks, historical sites, and cultural attractions in a new destination
- Fundraising Events
- Community Cleanup
Timeline
Restaurant Server
Longhorn Steakhouse
12.2024 - 05.2025
Restaurant Server
Red Lobster
08.2020 - 12.2025
High School Diploma -
Lake Washington High School
Massage Certification -
La James
Real Estate License -
Aceable Agent
Hospitality Award at Best Western 2023
This Award was given for outstanding guest service and excellence in cleanliness and food prep as a breakfast host we are a diamond hotel.