People 1st and AA to offer hotel training scheme

The AA has teamed up with People 1st Training Company to offer hoteliers a chance to improve their AA rating.

Under the scheme, hoteliers will have the chance to participate in WorldHost customer service training programmes by AA instructors who will be versed in the ‘Principles of Customer Service’ programme offered by WorldHost.

It will then be offered to AA Hotel Services members that have identified customer service as a key factor in improving their rating, a part of the AA’s already extensive range of consultancy and training.

Simon Numphud, AA hotel services manager, said that customer service is one of the key factors considered by the AA when awarding star ratings. He said:“We feel that it is important to offer businesses support in this area where they could deliver improvements.

“In a difficult economic climate, businesses are having to compete even harder for customers’ attention and outstanding service can really set you apart. WorldHost customer service training is a proven solution and we are looking forward to offering its services to our members.”

The summer games’ legacy in the hospitality industry was something which Sharon Glancy, managing director of the People 1st Training Company, thought showed the way for the future.

“Last summer’s Olympics demonstrated what a fantastic impact offering a warm welcome can have on visitors – we want to build on this momentum to help businesses reap the benefits of providing a great service.

“We’re delighted that the AA has chosen WorldHost as its customer service training partner. Its licensed trainers will be able to help members who want to boost their welcome and rating deliver real improvements.”

If hotels train over 50 per cent of their front-line staff using the WorldHost programme, they can then apply to become a WorldHost recognised business. This will allow them to display the WorldHost logo in their business and on their website, signalling their commitment to their customers.