A free one-day WorldHost Workshop in Ashcroft will give participants, and the businesses they work for, valuable skills for providing excellent customer service.
The workshop is being hosted by the Gold Country Communities Society (GCCS), and sponsored by Community Futures Sun Country (CFSC), which is paying the $85 fee for every attendee. “It can be very challenging for some businesses to pay the fee, especially if they’re sending more than one participant,” says CFSC General Manager Deb Arnott.
Terri Hadwin, the Chief Operating Officer of GCCS, says it’s the first time that the WorldHost Workshop has been held in this area. “It’s typically held up north or down on the coast. We’re really happy to be able to offer it in our little area.”
The workshop—previously called SuperHost—started in 1986 as a way of training frontline workers with new customer service techniques prior to the start of Expo ’86. It’s geared more towards staff than business owners, and teaches practical skills and techniques to make customers feel welcome, and more inclined to come back.
“It will help people be better ambassadors for the area,” says Hadwin. “It will focus on what’s great about our region, and make people more aware of the cool and awesome things we have to offer. It’s the best way to advocate for our area.”
Arnott says there has been a lot of discussion about providing this sort of training for frontline employees, but notes that they need to get an idea as to whether this is what area businesses want and need. “I really hope we get a great response from the Gold Country area.”
Hadwin says that everyone completing the workshop will receive their WorldHost certification, which could be a perk for their resumé. “It shows an interest,” she says. She adds that anyone interested in pursuing the WorldHost program could continue with online training to advance further.
The workshop takes place on Saturday, March 19 in Ashcroft from 9:00am to 5:00pm. Lunch will be provided. Spaces are limited, so anyone interested in taking part should register soon by calling Hadwin at (250) 457-6606, or e-mailing her at goldcountry@telus.net.