Harri Featured Member: Akina Nolan

AKINA NOLAN Hostess

"It is very important to market your personal brand, because you have to be memorable in hospitality."

Akina got her start in retail/sales, behind the cash register at mainstream retailers, Aeropostale and Hollister Co. Now she works part-time as a hostess, while attending classes at St. John's University and dancing classic ballet at Broadway Dance Center.

Ever since Akina was young, she would eat out with her family. She grew to have great appreciation for the service and hospitality industry, and had wanted to be a part of the restaurant business too. She advises those who want to work in the field to be patient and composed even in stressful situations. In addition, she believes that it is important for one to stand out by being marketable and personable.

With her knowledge of both the retail and hospitality sectors, Akina aspires to be a businesswoman. She dreams of traveling the world and working in International Marketing.

Learn more about Akina's career by viewing her Harri profile here.

Harri Featured Member: Shavone Thomas

SHAVONE THOMAS Server

"I try to customize each guest's experience. I make sure to interact with them and share a little bit of my personality."

Shavone, a college student studying Nursing and Physical Therapy, has been working in the customer service industry for the last four years. She describes herself as dependable, meticulous and pleasant, which are qualities that any server should have. The most recent position she held was as hostess at The Knickerbocker Hotel in Times Square.

At first, she did not have the intention of working in the restaurant and hospitality sector, but she liked that such positions enabled her to showcase her bright personality. Not only that, she loves to meet, socialize and help people. Shavone is extremely qualified with various roles under her resume. She is familiar with OpenTable, POS systems, is TIPS certified and much more.

Shavone believes that she has succeeded in many of her previous jobs because she is a fast learner and takes great pride in her work. In addition, her smiley and joyous attitude is a great asset to any team. Learn more about her career by viewing her Harri profile here.

Harri Featured Member: Alexandra Groot

ALEXANDRA GROOT Hostess

"I love working with people all over the world."

Alexandra recently made the move from New York City from Chicago to further her studies in Microbiology at NYU. While studying, she looks for part-time hostess work. She enjoys working in the restaurant industry because of its flexible schedules and being able to work with people from all different backgrounds.

She has two years of experience in the restaurant industry, previously working as hostess at Morton's The Steakhouse and Siena Tavern. From those positions, she has demonstrated comfort in handling fast-paced environments and high volumes of guests. Alexandra is also knowledgable with fine dining and OpenTable.

During her spare time, Alexandra's interests include playing soccer, blogging and social media. She co-runs a cocktail blog with her roommate.