CaddyShack Bar & Restaurant
During the summers of my Freshman and Sophomore years in college I worked at a bar and restaurant in my hometown. I began hosting, greeting customers, escorting them to their tables, and I was involved with the organization of over 70 tables in the dining and patio areas. Shortly after I began at the restaurant the manager felt that my skills could be used elsewhere so I was moved into a food running position so that I had more chances to interact with the customers and so that I could familiarize myself with the menu as I was being groomed for a serving position. The next summer I was promoted to waiter. As a waiter I used my customer service skills to serve beverages and food to patrons. I averaged over $1000 in sales during the summer.
I learned so much over that summer working, not only learning things about the restaurant industry but I also learned valuable business skills. I was able to be able to enhance my on the go problem solving skills. Being a server you are constantly on the move and constantly thinking about your next step and if you encounter a problem during your shift you have to be able to deal with it quickly, concisely, and be able to stay focused so that the customer does not even know there was a problem. This is a big skill that translates to the business world. Working in the restaurant industry also helped me sharpen my people to people communication skills. I know feel more comfortable walking up to someone that I do not know and starting a conversation with them. I feel like I am also able to hold conversations better because of working in a restaurant. This translates directly to the business world because there are many occasions where you will have to conduct business with people you have just met.