Taking Time to Listen

Taking Time

to Listen

Gary Hooks

Ambassador, NDD

Originally from Jacksonville, Florida, Gary had moved to Newark and was working at McDonald’s when he was invited to apply at Newark Downtown District. “Mr. McMillan offered me a job,” Gary remembers. (That would be CEO Anthony McMillan.) Gary has been an ambassador for 17 years.

In his day-to-day duties, Gary operates as a Detail Specialist and Cleaner. As part of his job, he keeps a careful watch over how the work is being done, observes any issues that may need attention to keep Newark clean and hospitable, and he reports information back to the office manager.

“Newark is growing and changing; it’s a good place to learn and a good place to grow.”

Circulating through Newark on a daily basis, he encounters many different personalities or conflicts, both among the public and on staff. He has become skilled at listening and solving problems. His kind, understanding nature allows him to be patient. He keeps in mind that sometimes people are going through difficult things at home or on the job, and will take the extra time to work through that with them, talking it out privately and professionally. That kind of sensitivity and care are a valuable asset to the NDD.

And he is appreciated for it by his co-workers and the community. He proudly admits that a highlight of his work is that people, including the public, consistently praise him and thank him for doing such an outstanding job.

Favorite place to spend free time:

Kite + Key, Rutgers Tech Store