In 2024, a fast-food chain named Arby’s finished construction. I had used online job boards and applied to over 200 jobs, all with little success, but I never let that bring me down. I know hard work always wins and will back that up. So realizing the pattern, I switched my strategy. Instead of doing what everyone else is doing, I went to the store every day and asked for a manager, until I got across an amazing general manager. I applied that day and scheduled an interview in just three days, resulting in my being hired as a Team Member.
My reasoning behind this was to prove to myself I could achieve what others wouldn’t dream of and acquire a Shift Manager position. But I knew I would have to stand out. Since I had no experience in the fast-food industry (besides my culinary experience from High School) I knew it would be difficult. I started in Drive-Through; eventually, I learned the POS system, how to advertise to customers, how to upsell, and how to use specific wording to raise my chances of making a sale. I learned how to work with a team in a fast-paced environment.
Eventually, we started getting understaffed, but instead of losing hope where others would, I saw the opportunity and took it. As most of our staff quit, leaving just a few people, and seeing my competition, I decided I would work the hardest I ever had. I learned over seven working team positions in a few months, from things like working the fry station to making sandwiches, to stocking the inventory and freezer. I also learned how to organize items and how to track them using company software. I did the jobs no one wanted to do. I came in on days no one else wanted to. I showed up, put in the effort, and it paid off, eventually leading me to a Shift Manager position.
I went into training at a different location, making up to an hour drive. This taught me time management and how to schedule things, a skill I heavily rely on. I have been on time 99% of the time, aside from emergencies, in which I gave my employers a notice ASAP. I started networking with other shift managers, learning from their mistakes, learning their techniques, and how to succeed. After my training, I came back with skills in accounting, managing money, a better understanding of company and file structures, how to delegate tasks in a fast-paced environment, how to scout out good employees for hire, and an understanding of my duties and responsibilities.
As Shift Manager, I managed daily shift operations and led a team of up to 15 crew members in a fast-paced environment, focusing on operational excellence, team development, and customer satisfaction.
- Team Leadership & Supervision: Directed and coached diverse teams, delegating tasks to ensure efficient workflow and consistently meeting performance goals.
- Employee Training & Development: Onboarded and trained new staff on point-of-sale systems, food safety protocols, and customer service standards, enhancing team capabilities and speed.
- Operational Management: Executed opening and closing procedures, including facility security, equipment checks, and ensuring compliance with all health and company regulations.
- Financial Acumen: Entrusted with daily cash management, including reconciling registers, preparing bank deposits, and maintaining precise financial records.
- Inventory & Cost Control: Monitored inventory levels, managed stock orders, and implemented strategies to minimize food waste, directly contributing to cost reduction.
- Customer Relations & Conflict Resolution: Addressed and resolved customer inquiries and complaints with professionalism, successfully de-escalating situations to ensure a positive guest experience.
- Problem Solving: Demonstrated strong decision-making by effectively resolving unexpected operational challenges, such as staff shortages or equipment issues, to maintain service continuity.