Often times, early work experiences develop lasting skills. Growing up, I worked a variety of jobs. Most were service industry jobs, specifically food service. Beginning as a kitchen aide in a small, private senior home, I learned the importance of planning. The head dietitian scheduled the meals two weeks in advance. Simple desserts such as jello, junkets, or pudding were prepared in bulk, enough to fill one week of meals. It was a rather relaxed atmosphere as long as you arrived when scheduled and completed the planned tasks on time.

From the kitchen, I moved to a Hostess position in a local 24 hour restaurant. This was a more challenging position that included stringent corporate rules. Here I learned to operate a cash register, time clock, adding machine, and multi-line telephones. Being courteous and friendly in every situation, even when a customer blamed you for something, was essential. Learning the importance of planning from my previous job assisted in my progression. As time went on, I moved to the lead position. This position involved directing employees, maintaining the necessary equipment, and overseeing three dining rooms. Courtesy and organization were two of the most important skills of this job. Being in the lead position required extensive knowledge of the business machines, including how to operate them without power. Loading the epson receipt printer and operating the cash register were complicated tasks without power. With the lead Hostess position, I developed organizational skills and decisiveness.

After three years as lead Hostess, I moved on to restaurant management in a new establishment. Beginning with managing the wait staff and later dining rooms. With these positions came education and experience in payroll, scheduling, purchasing, and health regulations.

In summary, being in a business partnership for more than twenty years now, I can honestly say those early skills helped to shape my working career and my success.