Sometimes the bravest decision is choosing yourself after years of choosing everyone else. It's never too late to build a life that belongs fully to you.
Michelle Nierling · In Her Own Words
Her Story
About Michelle
With 15 years of experience in the hospitality industry, I have dedicated my career to helping people and ensuring exceptional customer service. I currently serve as the Culinary and Dining Administrator, a position I've held for 5 years and actually created myself by writing a proposal to transform what was previously just an entry-level role into a more detailed position focused on making sure our operations flow smoothly. In this role, I manage all large group reservations for parties of 11 or more, assist with payroll and menu design, and support our chefs in whatever they need to have a successful season. What I'm most proud of professionally is creating this dining administrator position and the impact it has had on our operations. I work really well under pressure, and it always gives me a sense of pride when I can turn somebody who's frustrated into a more happy mood. My approach is grounded in leadership over management, strong communication, trust, and respecting that everybody has their own opinions without getting hostile or argumentative. I believe people's opinions help businesses succeed.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Michelle
01What do you attribute your success to?
I would say making sure things run smoothly is key to my success. I work really well under pressure, and it always gives me a sense of pride when I can turn somebody who's frustrated into a more happy mood. That ability to stay calm under pressure and help people, even in challenging situations, is what I attribute my success to.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I ever received was simply to keep going. It's straightforward but powerful advice that has stuck with me throughout my career. I almost got that tattooed once because it means so much to me - just keep on moving, keep on keeping on, no matter what challenges come your way.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would give the same advice that has guided me: keep going. Whatever you're facing, just keep moving forward. Don't give up, even when things get challenging in this industry.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Because we operate seasonally, for the most part, I would say one of the biggest challenges is retention. It's difficult to keep staff when the work is seasonal rather than year-round. However, I will say that it's definitely gotten better in the last couple years, so we're seeing some improvement in that area.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Leadership over management is huge for me - I believe in leading people rather than just managing them. Communication is essential, as is trust. I also believe that everybody has their own opinions, and they're entitled to those opinions, so there's no need to argue or get hostile when people disagree. I genuinely feel that people's opinions help businesses succeed, and respecting different perspectives is crucial to both my work and personal life.
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