Tessa Mickelson
Raton,NM
Summary
Dynamic server and team leader with over 10 years in fine dining. Expertise in upscale dining, wine pairings, and customer satisfaction. Proven ability to train staff and manage high-volume service while maintaining attention to detail.
Overview
15
15
years of professional experience
Work History
Fine Dining Server
Vermejo Park Ranch
Raton, NM
06.2025 - Current
- Provided exceptional customer service to enhance guest dining experiences.
- Assisted in menu presentations, effectively communicating daily specials and promotions.
- Maintained cleanliness and organization of dining area to ensure high standards.
- Collaborated with kitchen staff to coordinate timely food service and presentation.
- Enhanced customer satisfaction by providing exceptional fine dining service and anticipating guests needs.
- Showcased extensive knowledge of menu items, offering adept recommendations to suit individual preferences.
- Suggested wine pairings to go with specific menu items.
Server
Outback Steakhouse
Rapid City, SD
03.2024 - 03.2025
- Demonstrated strong multitasking skills by managing multiple tables simultaneously without compromising service quality.
- Worked with POS system to place orders, manage bills, and handle complimentary items.
- Collaborated with team members during busy shifts for efficient workflow and excellent guest experiences.
- Performed opening and closing duties, ensuring the dining area was prepared for seamless service transitions.
- Provided attentive service during high-volume periods without sacrificing attention to detail or guest rapport.
- Bussed and reset tables to keep dining room and work areas clean.
Hearing Aid Assistant
Rapid City Hearing Aid Center
Rapid City, SD
09.2019 - 03.2021
- Assisted in scheduling patient appointments and managing daily office operations.
- Maintained accurate patient records using electronic health record systems.
- Supported audiologists by preparing equipment and ensuring readiness for patient consultations.
- Educated patients on hearing aid usage and maintenance procedures to enhance user experience.
Fine Dining Server, Assistant Manager, Shift Lead
Stonewalls
Rapid City, SD
06.2013 - 12.2019
- Provided exceptional customer service in fast-paced fine dining environment.
- Developed comprehensive knowledge of menu items, wine pairings, and daily specials.
- Resolved customer complaints promptly, ensuring a positive dining experience for patrons.
- Assisted in managing reservations and coordinating large group events efficiently.
- Trained new servers on fine dining etiquette and company standards, improving overall team performance.
- Learned and utilized extensive bar and wine knowledge to enhance guest dining experiences.
- Continuously updated knowledge on wine pairings, enabling expert recommendations for diverse clientele.
- Collaborated with kitchen staff for seamless communication and accurate preparation of customized orders.
- Collaborated with culinary team to design special menus for holidays and events, enhancing guest dining experience.
- Personalized service for regular guests by remembering their preferences and special occasions, fostering loyal customer base.
- Mentored new servers on service standards and restaurant protocols.
- Managed guest reservations and seating arrangements to optimize dining flow and minimize wait times.
Server, Shift Lead, Trainer
Independent Ale House
Rapid City, SD
11.2011 - 08.2013
- Delivered exceptional customer service in fast-paced environment, ensuring guest satisfaction and repeat business.
- Managed multiple tables efficiently while maintaining attention to detail in orders and service.
- Cultivated warm relationships with regular customers.
- Assisted in training new hires, providing guidance on restaurant standards and best practices.
- Developed strong rapport with regular customers through genuine hospitality efforts leading to repeat business.
- Increased sales significantly by upselling higher-end products to customers.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Political Science And Government
Black Hills State University
Spearfish, SDSkills
- POS system operations
- Strong communication skills
- Detail-oriented
- Exceptional customer service
- Advanced wine and craft beer knowledge
- Bottle service
- Upscale dining expertise
- Team leadership
Timeline
Fine Dining Server
Vermejo Park Ranch
06.2025 - Current
Server
Outback Steakhouse
03.2024 - 03.2025
Hearing Aid Assistant
Rapid City Hearing Aid Center
09.2019 - 03.2021
Fine Dining Server, Assistant Manager, Shift Lead
Stonewalls
06.2013 - 12.2019
Server, Shift Lead, Trainer
Independent Ale House
11.2011 - 08.2013
Bachelor of Science - Political Science And Government
Black Hills State University