Hello! I'm Blake Steffens, a dedicated and versatile professional from Kirkland, Washington, currently pursuing my BA in Sociology at Washington State University in Pullman, WA., placing a keen focus on modern methods to enhance general business operations; management (statistical analysis/decision-making), marketing (campaigns/product lifecycles), information systems (data collection/analysis), accounting (bookkeeping/document prep.), and sales. Outside of utilizing these concepts in the classroom, I have also embraced diverse roles that span the service industry, which allowed me to gain a specialized insight into the innerworkings and associated costs of operating a brick-and-mortar business today. Professional Journey:My career began at the age of sixteen at the Woodmark Hotel's Beach Café, where I immersed myself in various front-of-house roles. Starting as a server assistant, I quickly adapted to the dynamics of the restaurant industry, learning the intricacies of hosting, room service, bar-backing, and serving. This experience honed my ability to step into any role as needed, and provide reliable support and ensure seamless service, no matter the circumstance.Following my tenure at the Woodmark Hotel, I joined Yarrow Bay Marina as a Fuel Dock Attendant. Here, I facilitated boat rental reservations and assisted customers with fueling, thriving in a high-pressure environment that emphasized timeliness and demanded 40+ hours per week due to our small staff size. Calm demeanors and efficiency in customer interactions were mandatory during peak periods.In the summer of 2022, I put my people skills to the test in the fitness industry, serving as a Sales Associate at LA Fitness- a role that pushed me to take costumer interactions to the next level. Directional conversations with costumers, with set goals in mind, both in-person and over the phone were essential to closing each sale.Most recently, before returning to WSU in fall 2023, I enjoyed a five-month stint as a Server at Hops n Drops, where it was necessary to take my customer service toolkit to another level. High level costumer service skills and on-your-feet decision making were non-negotiable in this fast-paced environment. Skills and Aspirations:Apart from my professional life, I am very interested in economics, business, technology, and philosophy. One day, I aspire to put my interest in these fields to practical use, while helping others in the process. Until then, I plan to translate my interest of these topics into being an employee who exceeds the bounds of a job description.
