Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Interests
Timeline
Generic

Kara Woods

Grand Junction

Summary

Proven to excel in fast-paced environments, I leveraged strong teamwork and multitasking skills at Hotel Emma to enhance service efficiency and guest satisfaction. My adeptness in cash handling and customer service, coupled with a track record of upselling, significantly boosted revenues. I'm recognized for fostering positive guest experiences and maintaining high standards of hospitality service and sales.

Overview

14
14
years of professional experience

Work History

Banquet Server/Cocktail Bartender

Oak View Group
01.2025 - Current
  • Served appetizers, delivered entrees, and refilled beverages for banquet guests.
  • Managed multiple tasks simultaneously while maintaining composure under pressure in fast-paced banquet environments.
  • Set up banquet tables and chairs based on event requirements.
  • Demonstrated exceptional teamwork by collaborating with fellow servers to maintain a smooth flow of service during large-scale events.
  • Completed post-event tasks such as cleaning, breakdown, and inventory management to prepare for future banquets efficiently.
  • Adhered to all health and safety regulations while serving food and beverages.
  • Provided friendly, courteous service to create memorable moments for guests.
  • Carried out professional service, retaining polite and friendly approach at all times.
  • Maintained a clean and organized dining area for optimal guest comfort and enjoyment.

Bartender

The Palace Men's Club
01.2018 - 11.2024
  • Served high customer volumes during special events, nights, and weekends.
  • Managed cash handling duties responsibly, ensuring accurate accounting at the end of each shift.
  • Performed opening and closing duties, printing sales reports, setting up for incoming shift, preparing cash drawers, and taking inventory.
  • Efficiently opened or closed the bar according to established procedures, ensuring preparedness for each shift.
  • Contributed to a positive work environment through effective teamwork and communication with colleagues.
  • Developed loyal clientele by consistently delivering outstanding service and engaging in friendly conversation.
  • Enhanced overall guest experience by promptly addressing concerns and resolving issues professionally.
  • Upsold menu items to customers, driving up per sale revenues and maximizing profits.

Cocktail Bartender

Hotel Emma
03.2018 - 01.2019
  • Improved speed of service by mastering multitasking skills during high-volume periods without sacrificing quality or presentation.
  • Trained new staff members on proper pouring techniques, cocktail recipes, and customer service best practices, ensuring consistency in quality across the team.
  • Enhanced bar efficiency by maintaining a clean, organized, and well-stocked workspace.
  • Collaborated with other bartenders to create a cohesive team environment and streamline operations for peak hours.
  • Contributed to an inviting atmosphere by engaging with patrons in conversation while expertly mixing their desired beverages.
  • Implemented successful upselling techniques to increase overall revenue for the establishment.

Barista

Panera Bread
03.2017 - 03.2018
  • Maintained a clean and organized workspace for optimal productivity and safety.
  • Promoted a welcoming atmosphere by greeting customers with a friendly demeanor and promptly addressing their needs.
  • Pleasantly interacted with customers during hectic periods to promote fun, positive environment.
  • Contributed to a positive team environment through effective communication and collaboration with colleagues.
  • Managed time effectively to balance both front-of-house tasks and back-of-house responsibilities during busy periods.
  • Handled customer complaints professionally, resolving issues promptly to ensure satisfaction and foster loyalty.
  • Listened carefully to customer requests and created personalized, delicious beverages, which improved sales.

Personal Assistant

Interim Home Health
01.2013 - 02.2017
  • Maintained appropriate filing of personal and professional documentation.
  • Oversaw personal and professional calendars and coordinated appointments for future events.
  • Improved time management of the executive through effective prioritization and organization of tasks.
  • Aided executive in personal tasks such as scheduling appointments or running errands when needed.
  • Served as first point of contact for incoming visitors or phone calls, ensuring prompt responses or directing inquiries appropriately.
  • Kept detailed track of household and maintenance inventory and schedules.
  • Contributed to a positive work environment through professional demeanor and strong interpersonal skills.

Personal Trainer

Gold's Gym
01.2011 - 01.2013
  • Educated clients on proper exercise techniques, reducing risk of injury during workouts.
  • Motivated clients to stay on track with fitness goals with positive and friendly approach.
  • Trained clients during strength training, cardio vascular exercise, and stretching.
  • Assisted clients with personal fitness goals through realistic objectives.
  • Boosted personal training revenue by promoting additional services to existing clients.
  • Organized fun and engaging gym challenges to foster camaraderie among members and promote healthy competition.
  • Increased overall gym revenue through effective upselling of personal training packages and nutritional supplements.

Education

No Degree - Cosmetology

Intellitec College
Grand Junction, CO
05-2026

High School Diploma -

East Central High School
San Antonio
05-2009

Skills

  • Strong teamwork
  • Time management
  • Customer service
  • Punctual and reliable
  • Customer service focus
  • Adaptive problem solving
  • Clear communication
  • Hospitality service expertise
  • Service prioritization
  • Cash handling
  • Station setup and restocking
  • Sales techniques
  • Attention to detail
  • Multitasking and organization
  • Positive attitude
  • Problem-solving

Interests

  • Music
  • Fashion
  • Passionate about balancing physical health with mental and emotional wellness
  • Regularly practice mindfulness and meditation for overall wellness

Timeline

Banquet Server/Cocktail Bartender

Oak View Group
01.2025 - Current

Cocktail Bartender

Hotel Emma
03.2018 - 01.2019

Bartender

The Palace Men's Club
01.2018 - 11.2024

Barista

Panera Bread
03.2017 - 03.2018

Personal Assistant

Interim Home Health
01.2013 - 02.2017

Personal Trainer

Gold's Gym
01.2011 - 01.2013

No Degree - Cosmetology

Intellitec College

High School Diploma -

East Central High School
Kara Woods