Often times I hesitate to answer when I tell people I’m a server at an Outback Steakhouse. Obviously, it’s not something I want to be doing my whole life but as a full-time college student, it pays the bills for now… Barely. The truth of the matter is that working as a server has taught me some of the most valuable lessons thats can be applied to any scenario or job especially those that go hand and hand with sales. Working at Outback as exponentially improved my time management, public speaking and even my communication skills with customers and co-workers. Working in the restaurant industry is one thing I believe everyone should have to do for some period of time in their life because the benefits you can acquire through this industry can be translated in various career fields. I was also able to consistently maintain high quality customer service to over 24 customers in a face-paced environment all at once. One last thing I’ve learned while being a server is that I was able to calculate and distribute tips to associates based on their performance and helpfulness towards me throughout our shifts, the better they did, the more I compensated their work effort.
Aside from Outback, I’m also a brand ambassador and sales and marketing intern for SIDELINES Sportswear in Frazier, PA. Although this was a small business operation it gave me true insight on what it takes to run a small business. From the daily pros and cons that occur throughout the day, to managing client information and using leads to close deals with potential clients. This internship also increased my experience in Customer and Human Relations through daily e-mails and phone calls based of gathered leads. While working in their office, I was responsible for over $1,300 in sales in my first month alone. Now as a brand ambassador, I more or less represent the company in the field and look for potential clients that I can refer to SIDELINES Sportswear and gain commission from it. Most importantly, during my time at SIDELINES Sportswear I gained hands on experience using Microsoft Word, Excel, Powerpoint, Outlook and Quikbooks which I know will benefit me immensely as I search for a career after college.
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