Ken Gustafson
Customer Service Representative
Americus,GA
Summary
Dynamic newspaper reporter with a proven track record at Americus Times Recorder, adept at cultivating sources and crafting compelling narratives. Skilled in news writing and fact-checking, I excel in delivering accurate, engaging content while fostering strong relationships through active listening and empathy. Committed to enhancing reader engagement and satisfaction.
Overview
19
19
years of professional experience
Work History
Newspaper Reporter
Americus Times Recorder
01.2018 - 08.2024
- Cultivated a diverse network of contacts for access to unique story leads and perspectives.
- Developed engaging headlines that captured reader attention without resorting to sensationalism or clickbait tactics.
- Developed strong relationships with sources, resulting in reliable and accurate information for articles.
- Demonstrated versatility in writing style, adapting to various beats including politics, business, sports, and entertainment.
Customer Service Representative
Kroger
08.2017 - 01.2018
- Resolved customer complaints with empathy, resulting in increased loyalty and repeat business.
- Managed high-stress situations effectively, maintaining professionalism under pressure while resolving disputes or conflicts.
- Enhanced customer satisfaction by promptly addressing concerns and providing accurate information.
- Responded to customer requests for products, services, and company information.
- Developed strong product knowledge to provide informed recommendations based on individual customer needs.
- Developed rapport with customers through active listening skills, leading to higher retention rates and positive feedback from clients.
Customer Service Associate
K&GMen’s Fashion Store
12.2005 - 09.2010
- Handled customer complaints professionally, resulting in satisfactory outcomes and positive feedback.
- Maintained a high level of product knowledge, providing accurate information to customers.
- Actively listened to customers, handled concerns quickly and escalated major issues to supervisor.
- Enhanced customer satisfaction by effectively addressing inquiries and resolving issues.
- Helped large volume of customers every day with positive attitude and focus on customer satisfaction.
- Managed high call volume with exceptional time management skills, minimizing wait times for customers.
- Answered customer telephone calls promptly to avoid on-hold wait times.
- Handled billing and payment issues by following guidelines and resolving disputes.
- Achieved consistently high levels of customer satisfaction by prioritizing empathy, patience, and effective problem-solving skills during interactions.
- Developed strong relationships with clients through attentive listening and empathetic understanding of their needs.
Education
Bachelor of Science - History
Bryan College
Dayton, TN05.1994
Skills
News writing
Feature writing
Layout design
Breaking news coverage
Fact-checking
Accomplishments
Voted third place by the Georgia Press Association Special Preview category
Timeline
Newspaper Reporter
Americus Times Recorder
01.2018 - 08.2024
Customer Service Representative
Kroger
08.2017 - 01.2018
Customer Service Associate
K&GMen’s Fashion Store
12.2005 - 09.2010
Bachelor of Science - History
Bryan College