John Stelzer
Sedona,AZ
Summary
Safety-conscious professional adept at team collaboration and delivering high-quality tours. Committed to fostering positive guest experiences while adhering to safety protocols and enhancing operational efficiency.
Overview
22
22
years of professional experience
Work History
Tour Guide
Safari Jeep Tours
2023.03 - 2026.02
- Conducted informative tours, sharing knowledge on geology, history, restaurants, local wildlife and ecosystems with diverse groups.
- Provided exceptional customer service, addressing inquiries and resolving issues promptly during tours.
- Trained new guides on operational procedures and best practices for delivering high-quality tours.
- Built personal relationships with guests to promote positive experiences.
- Facilitated memorable experiences for diverse groups by tailoring presentations to cater to different age groups, cultural backgrounds, and language abilities.
- Ensured timely departures and arrivals by strictly adhering to schedules while remaining flexible enough to accommodate unforeseen circumstances or special requests from guests.
- Increased customer satisfaction through attentive listening and personalized tour adjustments based on group interests.
- Received numerous positive reviews from clients, reflecting strong communication skills and in-depth knowledge of tour subjects.
- Improved group safety by vigilantly monitoring tour participants and implementing strict adherence to safety guidelines.
- Stayed current on area history, culture, events, attractions by attending workshops, lectures, conferences regularly updating tour information accordingly.
- Participated in continuing education opportunities to stay current on industry trends and best practices.
- Boosted online reviews and ratings by consistently delivering exceptional tour experiences.
- Developed engaging narratives to enhance visitor experiences and promote appreciation for nature.
- Ensured safety protocols were followed while navigating various terrains during off-road adventures.
- Collaborated with team members to coordinate logistics and streamline tour operations effectively.
Tour Guide
Earth Wisdom Tours
2010.09 - 2011.10
- Conducted informative tours, sharing knowledge on local wildlife and ecosystems with diverse groups.
- Implemented feedback mechanisms to continuously improve tour content and guest satisfaction ratings.
- Assisted in marketing efforts by promoting tours through social media platforms and local partnerships.
- Worked collaboratively with team members to develop innovative strategies for improving overall tour quality and visitor satisfaction.
- Elevated tour group satisfaction, tailoring each tour to meet diverse interests and accessibility needs.
- Fostered culture of learning and curiosity among tour guides and guests alike, contributing to memorable and educational experience.
- Conducted thorough research on cultural landmarks to ensure accuracy and depth in storytelling.
- Ensured safety and comfort for all participants, promptly addressing any concerns or emergencies that arose.
- Enhanced visitor engagement by delivering captivating and informative tours of historical sites.
- Maintained up-to-date knowledge of local events and attractions, recommending must-see sights to tour participants.
- Adapted tours to accommodate varying physical abilities, ensuring inclusive and enjoyable experience for all guests.
- Demonstrated superior professionalism while interacting with customers and vendors.
- Inspected tour sites for potential hazards and arranged for repairs when needed.
- Checked tour vehicles for cleanliness, safety and functionality.
- Developed engaging narratives to enhance visitor experiences and promote appreciation for nature.
Freelance Photographer
Self-employeed
2006.09 - 2009.12
- Captured high-quality images for diverse clients, ensuring alignment with their vision and preferences.
- Managed client consultations to understand requirements and deliver tailored photography services.
- Developed marketing materials showcasing portfolio to attract new clients and increase visibility.
- Coordinated logistics for on-location shoots, optimizing workflow and resource allocation.
- Cultivated strong client relationships through effective communication and exceptional service delivery.
- Delivered high-quality images under tight deadlines, demonstrating strong time management skills.
- Took photos from different angles and perspectives to capture perfect images.
- Planned and prepared for on-location and studio shoots.
- Developed strong relationships with clients through clear communication and professionalism.
- Captured stunning images by utilizing various lighting techniques and creative compositions.
- Photographed high-quality images for various print and digital projects.
- Scheduled and booked locations for photo shoots, working collaboratively with clients and contacts.
- Provided exceptional customer service throughout the entire process from initial consultation to delivery of final products.
- Collaborated with clients to understand their vision, ensuring the final product met or exceeded expectations.
- Utilized natural and artificial lighting to capture desired images and maintain quality.
- Managed multiple projects simultaneously by prioritizing deadlines and maintaining excellent organization.
- Offered image proofs to help clients choose best photos from shoot.
- Cultivated diverse portfolio that showcased versatility across various photography genres, attracting broader client base.
FreelancePhotographer
Self Employed Services
2004.01 - 2006.08
- Self-motivated, with a strong sense of personal responsibility.
- Worked effectively in fast-paced environments.
- Skilled at working independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
- Proven ability to learn quickly and adapt to new situations.
- Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
- Demonstrated respect, friendliness, and willingness to help wherever needed.
- Managed time efficiently in order to complete all tasks within deadlines.
- Paid attention to detail while completing assignments.
- Learned and adapted quickly to new technology and software applications.
- Developed and maintained courteous and effective working relationships.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Photography
The Ohio State University
Columbus, Ohio, OH01.2001
Bachelor of Arts - Visual Communications
Bowling Green State University
Bowling Green, Ohio, OH01.1991
Associate of Applied Science - Law Enforcement
Owens Technical College
Perrysburg, OH09.1983
Skills
- Exceptional communication
- Safety consciousness
- Guest relations
- Arts and culture
Timeline
Tour Guide
Safari Jeep Tours
2023.03 - 2026.02
Tour Guide
Earth Wisdom Tours
2010.09 - 2011.10
Freelance Photographer
Self-employeed
2006.09 - 2009.12
FreelancePhotographer
Self Employed Services
2004.01 - 2006.08
Bachelor of Arts - Photography
The Ohio State University
Bachelor of Arts - Visual Communications
Bowling Green State University
Associate of Applied Science - Law Enforcement
Owens Technical College