My experience as a waitress is very useful to me as it highlights the importance of effective engagement with customers and observation skills in this role. I am responsible for a section of the restaurant and ensure all tables catered for at every stage of their dining experience. I facilitate a seamless cash flow through producing bills and collecting credit and cash payments for multiple tables, as well as, accumulating a high volume of tips which reflects the quality of my service. I have memorised over 30 menu items and rotating specials and provide customised recommendations and answer customer queries. I also work with the kitchen and management to resolve any customer issues.

Working in the cinema has provided me with a diverse working experience in both as after a short period I was promoted to the supervisory role of 'Training Buddy' where I would oversee the customer assistants that were positioned with me. I was also responsible for training new staff members and the first point of contact regarding customer queries or conflict. I had to convey to new staff the vitality of time management  when positioned on floor as well as cleanliness standards,  as this entailed for performing three screen checks in each viewing across nine screens, hourly toilet checks as well as returning screens to an ‘unused’ state when films are concluded within a limited time period. On concessions I was trained to serve alcohol along with preparing food and coffee orders while upkeeping service standards. I have further developed my communication skills in this occupation through the consistent use of radios to update the team on cleaning progress and customer enquiries, or to get the attention of higher management when required.

Sales assistants in Trespass are expected to know the catalogue of items they have in-store and product details for each to share this knowledge to customers. As an outerwear company these details are essential for sales, for example, explaining the waterproof protection ratings, knowing what type of jacket and rating is suitable for which activities and explaining the attributes of different products and their uses. Dialogue with the customer base is critical in this role.

- The fundamental aspect of service in KFC as a quick-serve restaurant is speed; it is often referred to as fast-food, therefore, customers are dissatisfied when service is deemed too long. My role in KFC was to work as part of a team to achieve goals related to average length of service in Drive-Thru and front counter. Encounters with customers while ordering were also vital as these were used to increase the cost of each sale, which we achieved through asking questions to each customer.

My experience in coffee shop focused on quality of service, as part of a smaller team I had varied responsibilities to ensure this was carried out. I was trained to make coffee to their high standard and form a positive relationship with the regular customers.

I gained skills to perform as a key member of staff in a small team from a young age, this equipped me for my future part-time jobs in hospitality. This establishment was popular with tourists of the island, meaning first impressions were crucial as new customers were frequent. I gained confidence in working with customers in this role and I learned how to facilitate a positive dining experience. Cleanliness was also a top priority in the tearoom and patio area so I ensured all cleaning tasks were completed to a high standard.