Kara Blokland
Guelph,ON
Summary
Knowledgeable and dedicated customer service professional with extensive expertise in the Equine Industry. Solid team player with an outgoing, positive demeanor and proven skills in establishing strong rapport with clients. Motivated to maintain customer satisfaction and contribute to company success. Hardworking and detail-oriented with a passion for developing relationships, cultivating partnerships, and growing businesses.
Overview
2
2
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Retail Customer Service Representative
University Square Bakery & Deli
03.2022 - Current
- Deliver exceptional customer service by providing extensive knowledge of products and creating a welcoming, positive experience for each customer.
- Process customer orders in-person and over the phone, prepar merchandise for sale, and complete transactions efficiently using point-of-sale systems.
- Maintain a clean and organized store environment for optimal shopping experience.
- Collaborate with team members for efficient workflow and excellent guest experiences.
- Cultivate warm relationships with customers.
- Assist in training new hires, providing guidance on the store's standards and best practices.
- Skilled at maintaining professionalism when working with concerned customers.
Education
Bachelor of Bio-Resource Management - Major in Equine Management
University of Guelph
Guelph, ON04.2024
Skills
- Equine Industry Knowledge
- Customer Service
- Excellent Verbal and Written Communication
- Proficient at Word, Outlook, Excel, Zoom, Teams
- Problem Solving
- Multitasking and Organization
- Attention to Detail
- Team Collaboration
Relevant University Coursework
- Canadian Business Management
- Corporate Social Responsibility
- Advanced Marketing
- Foundations of Leadership
- Financial Accounting & Management Accounting
- Advanced Equine Nutrition
- Equine Industry Trends & Issues
- Agricultural Animal Physiology
Team Collaboration
During each of my undergraduate years, I took initiative for over 10 major group projects to map out timelines, checked in with group members to see where people needed support, took on extra tasks when group members were unable to meet deadlines, and edited group work to create a cohesive result. My team collaboration skills helped to elevate my groups' learning experience and to attain a higher-level end product.
Horse Experience
- Over 10 years of hands-on experience working with and riding horses.
- Gained extensive knowledge about the biology, physiology, and behaviour of horses along with the economic and managerial aspects of the Equine Industry through my undergraduate degree at the University of Guelph.
- Passionate interest in continuing to learn more about horses and other agricultural animals.
- Purchased my first horse, Madeline, in 2022, with whom I enjoy showjumping, dressage, and natural horsemanship.
Certification
- Food Handler Certification Course – 2022
- Fire & Emergency-Preparedness Certification Course, Equine Guelph, University of Guelph – 2020
Timeline
Retail Customer Service Representative
University Square Bakery & Deli
03.2022 - Current
Bachelor of Bio-Resource Management - Major in Equine Management
University of Guelph
- Food Handler Certification Course – 2022
- Fire & Emergency-Preparedness Certification Course, Equine Guelph, University of Guelph – 2020
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