Meet Kaleena: Olive Garden's December Employee of the Month

By Kaleena

Something so wonderful and unexpected happened. I felt like it was a dream. One night, after the hub-bub and hectic holidays were finally behind us (and with Mother's Day looming on the horizon), I received a letter from my superiors.

"Here Kaleena, I keep forgetting to give you this." said Pam Anderson (my supervisor and yes that is her real name).

"Oh yeah, I always see it on the desk but just keep forgetting, too," chimed in Patti (the wait-staff supervisor).


I opened the envelope apprehensively, expecting a warning on too many write ups, but instead it was a letter from the big-cheese himself: the Regional Manager. I read in awe as it told me of the greatest accomplishment a hostess at The Olive Garden could hope for - I was selected December's Employee of the Month!

Both of my co-hostesses congratulated me and I quickly tucked the letter away, brushing it off as "ah, no big deal." However, if they could see my insides they would have known the deception that lie deep within. I was so elated. I couldn't believe the powers that be at this particular fourth rate "Italian" restaurant had selected me as their stand-out. I had barely worked there 3 months in December which just proves that hard work and outstanding seating can really get you somewhere.

I perhaps should explain my position. I am a hostess. I am the first person seen as the guest enters and the last one as they leave. Like the newest member to the family likes to say: "It's all about the WOW factor."

I used to cringe and vomit a little in my mouth every time she would say these words. A couple of time I had to stop myself from instinctually slapping her across the face - it's just unprofessional. Now, I'm thinking she may have something in that. I do strive to be the loudest "Hi! How are you?" as well as "Have a good night!" I guess the fake smiles and many times I've had to grit my teeth to keep from yelling at parents to keep their kids under control have really paid off!

I won't drag this out any more, I just wanted to share my happiness with all you that are near and dear to me. As well as those of you who don't know me so perhaps I may pass on a bit of my enthusiasm to you for your dead-end, soul-sucking jobs. You, any of you, can someday become your place of employment's Employee of the Month.

I will add, if your place of employment doesn't offer this program, maybe suggest it to keep you focused and on top of your game!