Texas Border Business
McAllen, TX (May 28, 2015) – A new partnership between the City of McAllen, McAllen Chamber of Commerce, McAllen EDC and South Texas College Continuing Education aims to create the most skilled frontline employees in McAllen’s hospitality industry by hosting a Customer Service Seminar on Friday, June, 12, 2015, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the McAllen Convention Center. A registration fee of $20 is required.
After a survey was coordinated by Workforce Solutions, it was determined that two of the most critical challenges that employers face with their existing workforce were customer service and communication skills. The partnership was created in response to this need, with a plan to target specific segments of the hospitality industry.
This first Hospitality Customer Service Seminar is tailored for restaurant and hotel hospitality employees, teaching techniques and skills to make them the most qualified employees in their field. Participants who complete the seminar will earn a Customer Service Certificate endorsed by all partners involved.
“Hospitality training is the perfect tool for keeping McAllen friendly,” said Nancy S. Millar, vice president and director of the McAllen Convention & Visitors’ Bureau. “Tourism is so important to our city economically that the more comfortable we can make visitors, the better for us all. We all benefit from the jobs, extra stores and restaurants, and spending that visitors bring to our economy.”
Sixty participants will have the opportunity to receive training from Dr. Edward Dramberger, an international speaker and expert in hospitality & tourism sales & marketing. In addition to his 30 year proven track record in the industry, Dr. Dramberger has executed sales & marketing seminars to tourism organizations & destinations throughout the world.
“Dr. Dramberger will actually be considered one of instructors,” explained Juan Carlos Aguirre, associate dean of Continuing, Professional and Workforce Education at South Texas College. “Our vision is that every level of employee who provides customer service will be certified and have the proper knowledge to ensure the best customer service possible. We all hope to improve and change the workforce culture for the better in our region.”
“Our focus is to continue bringing manufacturing companies and customer service call centers to McAllen,” stated Janie Cavazos, vice president of US Business Recruitment at McAllen Economic Development Corporation. “The call center industry alone employs over 6000. Having good customer services skills is vital in any industry sector and definitely helpful to our recruitment efforts.”
“We are excited to collaborate with our community partners on offering this unique educational opportunity,” said City of McAllen Mayor Jim Darling. “McAllen hospitality and retail sectors are vital economic drivers that generate jobs and enhance the quality of life of McAllen visitors and residents.”
For more information regarding the Hospitality Customer Service Seminar and to register, please call 956-872-3585.
