There are lots of training programmes now in place all over Britain to improve the welcome we give.
Below is a list of the main training providers for the transport, tourism and hospitality industry, depending on where you are in the UK.
UK Wide
WorldHost
People 1st, the sector skills council for hospitality, passenger transport, travel and tourism, has launched an ambitious campaign to train 200,000 front-line staff through the WorldHost customer service training programme.
WorldHost is the only customer service programme to have been used at a recent world-class event on the scale of the summer Olympics. It was used to train 39,000 tourism staff and volunteers in the lead-up to the successful 2010 Vancouver Olympic and Paralympic Games, and has now been adapted for the UK market.
Endorsed by VisitEngland, VisitScotland, Visit Wales and the Northern Ireland Tourist Board, the programme has also been awarded the London 2012 Inspire mark, which recognises the programme’s objective in supporting the legacy themes of the Games. Furthermore, WorldHost training will be offered to tens of thousands of employees and contractors’ staff who will be working at the Olympic and Paralympic venues.
In addition to the one-day Principles of Customer Service course, WorldHost training includes additional half-day learning modules on serving customers with disabilities, service across cultures and the ambassador workshop, particularly aimed at volunteers assisting visitors to our country.
A new one-day programme - ‘Principles of Hosting 2012’ is also available, which provides participants with hosting skills required to make a difference and achieve their ‘personal best’ at the London 2012 Games. Using the LOCOG ‘Hosting Actions,’ Principles of Hosting 2012 participants will be able to explain their important role in creating a magical experience and lasting memories for all visitors, spectators and athletes to the Games. This is available to companies who want to embed Olympic values and hosting behaviours within their teams, whether involved in the Games or not.
For more details, visit www.worldhost.uk.com
People 1st Training Company
In addition to WorldHost, the People 1st Training Company offers two customer service training programmes focused on helping experienced and established hospitality teams improve their return through service techniques. For more details, visit: www.people1sttraining.co.uk/programmes/customer-service
UKSP
UKSP, developed by People 1st, is the leading information site for careers, jobs, training and qualifications in hospitality, leisure, travel and tourism. With dedicated areas for individuals, employers and training providers, the site contains a wealth of information on the best training and qualifications for individuals and businesses. All programmes listed on the site have been highlighted as ‘fit for purpose’ by businesses during People 1st’s two-year review of qualifications for the sector. Registration is free – visit www.uksp.co.uk for more details