We are quickly approaching the August 24 launch date of the Greater Lansing Tourism Ambassadors Program, a certification program presented by the Greater Lansing Convention & Visitors Bureau (GLCVB). The program serves to increase tourism by inspiring front-line employees and volunteers to work together to turn every first impression by a visitor into a positive experience.
The premise is simple. If front-line employees provide quality service to visitors (convention attendees, leisure and business travelers, etc.), the visitor is more likely to have a positive experience. Visitors who have positive experiences are more likely to return at some point in the future. And, they share their perceptions with their friends. Everyone benefits – visitors, local employees, and the local and regional economies.
To become a certified ambassador, candidates will pre-read the course curriculum, participate in a four-hour course and pass an open book exam. During the course they will learn about our region’s assets, attractions, culture and history and how to answer a visitor’s questions. Successful candidates will receive the designation of Certified Tourism Ambassador TM (e.g. Julie Smith, CTA) and will renew their certification on an annual basis to maintain their knowledge and skill base.
The GLCVB partnered with Mickey Schaefer and Associates, LLC to present this nationwide certification program that is rapidly being adopted by CVBs across the country. The program has been adopted in 12 other destinations throughout the nation with many more to follow.
Please email Julie Pingston at
jpingston@lansing.org if you would like further details about participating in the Greater Lansing Tourism Ambassadors Program and becoming one of the region’s CTAs and helping to create a great first impression for our region.