Training to keep hospitality simple

Tuesday afternoon, Debbie Disney and Christine Hill with Timberline Hospitalities presented training on how to keep things simple when it comes to hospitality, service and sales.

The duo started things off with having everyone introduce themselves, then got the group up for a bit of exercise. Everyone was asked to see how high they could jump and stick a note to the wall. They were then challenged to put a second note even higher, the point being that everyone can go beyond what they think.

Later in the presentation, attendees were asked to write summaries of their job descriptions and look at how they can incorporate those descriptions along with core values into a mission statement for their business.

Using their own experience of improving hospitality in the hotels they operate, Disney and Hill provided tips such as hiring the best people and training them right, being watchful and willing for opportunities, keeping contact and conversations positive, and celebrating successes.

Along with the tips, the pair showed videos of how an extra degree of effort can make a difference and testimonials from business owners regarding their missions and core values.

Disney and Hill also provided those attending with a “hospitality toolbox” with ideas of how to fix problems with customers, and going beyond just fixing the problem to provide something extra.

In addition to tips for fixing problems, the toolbox also had advice on how to recognize and award employees for the work they do.

The presentation ended with the idea of creating a sales culture through caring about people, creating outstanding experiences, empowering and recognizing employees and measuring results.