Businesses are being challenged to help Moray attain an international customer service award by taking part in the launch of new a training programme.
The first in a series of training sessions to be rolled out across the region by the Moray Economic Partnership was held at the Drouthy Cobbler in Elgin at the weekend.
The partnership is targeting businesses in tourism, retail and customer service in their pursuit of WorldHost Recognised Destination status.
The status is awarded to areas where 25% of businesses have put 50% or more of their staff through at least one WorldHost training programme.
The first course, run by Joe Pinkerton, of the Highland Retail Academy, focused on getting staff to think about their own experiences of good and bad service, understand why their role has such an impact on customers, and learn vital communication skills.
Moray-based Saltaire Security took part in the training course, and company director, Steve Robertson, currently has 10 members of his security staff on the course.
Mr Robertson said: “It was really good. Everybody really enjoyed it and it was quite interesting because they taught the training from a different angle.
“Customer care is a major part of our work, especially in event security when we are dealing with large numbers of people, so I’m always keen on learning new skills and techniques to put our company a step ahead.
“This certificate demonstrates to those event organisers, current customers and future customers that we take customer care seriously, and it will be a useful addition to our collection.”
Chairwoman of the tourism and culture strand on the Moray Economic Partnership, Margery McLennan, said: “I would really encourage local businesses to take advantage of the opportunity and help put Moray on the WorldHost map, as well as providing a boost to their own businesses.”