Caroline Fossum
Chicago
Summary
Dynamic professional with a proven track record at Fred Astaire Dance Studios, excelling in client relationships, sales and staff training. Recognized for outstanding customer service and organizational skills, I fostered a welcoming environment that increased student participation and retention. Highly reliable and a strong multitasker, I thrive in fast-paced settings while managing diverse teams. I am eager to learn and grow within the company opportunities provided to me.
Overview
9
9
years of professional experience
Work History
Professional Ballroom Dance Instructor/Director
Fred Astaire Dance Studios
10.2019 - Current
- A high level sales professional earning several top teacher and top sales awards within Wisconsin, Illinois and nationally in the Fred Astaire Company.
- Created and maintained long time clients through personal yet professional relationships and rapport
- Aided the studio owners in administrative tasks such as answering the phone, scheduling clients, taking payments and handling paperwork and spreadsheets to keep the team organized and flowing
- Improved student confidence by teaching foundational dance techniques and fostering supportive learning environments
- Managed the quality of dance within the Chicago West Loop studio by training other instructors in our teaching methods and dance techniques.
- Assisted students in preparing for performances, weddings and competitions, resulting in increased participation both in the studio and at outside events.
Bar Tender
Brothers’ Field
05.2022 - Current
- Developed loyal clientele by consistently delivering outstanding service, remembering the regulars and creating friendly conversation.
- Trained new bartenders on drink preparation, merchandise promotion, garnish preparation, station set up and sanitation protocol.
- Served extremely high customer volumes during special events, nights, and weekends.
- Contributed to a positive work environment through effective teamwork and communication with other employees.
- Managed cash handling duties responsibly.
- Performed set up for incoming shift, preparing cash drawers, and taking inventory.
- Efficiently opened or closed the bar according to Brothers’ Field procedures, ensuring consistency for every shift.
- Reduced wait times for drinks by efficiently managing the bar area and prioritizing orders.
Student Ambassador
Carthage College
08.2016 - 05.2019
- A high level sales professional earning several top teacher and top sales awards within Wisconsin, Illinois and nationally in the Fred Astaire Company.
- Created and maintained long time clients through personal yet professional relationships and rapport
- Aided the studio owners in administrative tasks such as answering the phone, scheduling clients, taking payments and handling paperwork and spreadsheets to keep the team organized and flowing
- Improved student confidence by teaching foundational dance techniques and fostering supportive learning environments
- Managed the quality of dance within the Chicago West Loop studio by training other instructors in our teaching methods and dance techniques.
- Assisted students in preparing for performances, weddings and competitions, resulting in increased participation both in the studio and at outside events.
Education
Bachelors Degree - Theatre Performance & Communications
Carthage College
Kenosha, WI05.2019
Skills
- Highly accomplished sales professional
- Staff management and training
- Strong multitasker
- High level customer service
- Extremely organized
- Highly reliable
- Strong client retention
- Adaptability
- Team player attitude
- Handling difficult customers
- Memory retention
- Professional appearance
Timeline
Bar Tender
Brothers’ Field
05.2022 - Current
Professional Ballroom Dance Instructor/Director
Fred Astaire Dance Studios
10.2019 - Current
Student Ambassador
Carthage College
08.2016 - 05.2019
Bachelors Degree - Theatre Performance & Communications
Carthage College
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