Alexis Collins, SRJC student who works as a server at Ihop on weekends.

Greeting diners with a smile

Having a buttery stack of pancakes for breakfast is a real treat, but it's extra special if you're greeted by friendly IHOP hostess Alexis Collins.

Her attentiveness makes customers feel at home, and that's why Collins has been chosen as Service Person of the Week.

"I love working with the public," said Collins, who started working at the Petaluma IHOP in Nov. 2012. "The customers are such characters here. Meeting all of them has been one of the best things ever about my job."

Collins admits that when she was job hunting, she wasn't sure if IHOP would be a good fit. After a little persuading from another IHOP waitress, Collins decided to give it a try. She instantly knew she had made the right choice.

"I've made so many good friends here," said Collins, a resident of Cotati. "I love doing hostessing. Working with the public and greeting people is enjoyable to me."

"Alexis is a charming young lady who makes us feel at home with a beautiful smile every time we come," said IHOP customers William and Ines Stark. "She is very warm and attentive."

Collins does all she can to make guests feel welcome and treat customers the best she knows how.

"I just want to make sure people have an enjoyable experience," said Collins. "That's what customer service is all about."

Collins is the third of five people chosen as Service Person of the Week. Namiko Morales, a barista at Acre Coffee, and LeRoy Hairston, a server at Hallie's Diner, were previous winners.

A total of five nominees will be chosen at Service Person of the Week. Then, beginning Feb. 27, readers will vote on which one should be crowned Service Person of the Year.

The winner will be honored in the Argus-Courier and at the 2014 Petaluma Community Awards of Excellence on March 27.

Service Person of the Week nominations can cover all aspects of the service industry from coffee shops to grocery stores, but should not include business owners, managers, supervisors, directors or those in charge of departments.

Email Service Person of the Week nominations to argus@arguscourier.com or use the coupon on this page to mail nominations to: Service Person of the Year, Petaluma Argus-Courier, P.O. Box 750308, Petaluma 94975 or drop it by the Argus-Courier office at 719C Southpoint Blvd. No phone calls please.

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