The Sanibel & Captiva Islands Chamber of Commerce held its monthly business lunch Tuesday, Aug. 9th at The Captiva Island Yacht Club. Members heard from guest speaker Christine Davlin from the Lee County Visitor & Convention Bureau.
Davlin educated members on the VCB’s Guests First Customer Service Training Program. It consists of seven sessions, each lasting 2.5 hours, aimed at polishing customer service skills for those from the front-line to management professionals.
The VCB partnered with the American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute to make program participants eligible for the Certified Guest Service Professionals certification exam.
“We have done this program from Boca Grande to Bonita Springs and a big percentage of participants are from Sanibel and Captiva,” said Davlin. “Most businesses focus on the bottom line and marketing, but don’t focus as much on customer service. It’s a mistake.”
Members also heard an update on the Now or Neverglades Declaration from Island Inn General Manager Chris Davison and Capt. Daniel Andrews of Captains for Clean Water. The Chamber formed a three-part call to action, which culminated into a well-attended declaration signing rally on Aug. 4.
“It’s best to stay aware and educate yourself on this issue,” said Davison, a Chamber Board Member. “Together, we can help create real progress.”