Allison Behne
"It's about attitude, relationships, service, atmosphere, and respect." That is what Amanda told us when we asked how she had trained for her position as a bartender and server at the Hyatt Regency in Schaumberg, Illinois. "I love my job. You have to want to do it, and I do. I wait on people the way I want to be waited on."
We stayed at the Hyatt three nights when we were in Schaumberg for our Daily 5/CAFE workshops, and the service we received from Amanda when we went to the hotel restaurant the first night made us return each night afterward. She was friendly, quickly learning and calling us by name. Knowledgeable, sharing what she knew of the menu. Attentive, knowing almost before we did when we needed something. Humorous, sharing jokes of her own and laughing at ours. And energetic as she served those around her with a contagious smile and kind spirit. We enjoyed getting to know her, and truly believe the feeling was mutual . . . because that is how she made us feel.
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There are many, many restaurants in Schaumburg and the surrounding area, yet Amanda made us want to return to hers. Why? She pegged it in our conversation. It is about attitude, relationships, service, atmosphere, and respect. We think Amanda is on to something, and if we follow her advice in the classroom, our students will want to return each day too.
- Attitude—Be positive in our words and body language.
- Relationships—Get to know our students as individuals. What are their interests outside of school? Let them know you care.
- Service—Make eye contact, at their level, when talking with students. Offer kind gestures when opportunities present themselves.
- Atmosphere—Create an environment that is inviting, safe, and fun.
- Respect—Treat our students as we would want to be treated.
Thanks, Amanda, for the great conversation, service, and experience to learn from.
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