Skip to main content
EN
A couple enjoys waterfront dining

Learn, laugh and level up.

Hospitality Success Starts Here

Master the art of customer service with Guests First, a one-of-a-kind training program named one of Harvard’s Bright Ideas in government. Whether you want to grow your business or take your career to the next level, you'll gain a competitive edge with Guests First. Best of all, it's free and offered through the Lee County Visitor & Convention Bureau.

Crystal Wanke, hospitality training specialist for the Guest First Customer Service Training Program

Crystal Wanke, CGSP, Guests First Hospitality Training Specialist

Join Crystal at these fun and inspiring classes to gain a fresh perspective, learn helpful skills and network with others in the hospitality community. Both in-person and virtual classes are available. Learn more about each class, then check out the current schedule and register.

Guest First trainees receive their certificates


Become a Certified Guest Service Professional

Recognized worldwide, the American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute's (AHLEI) Certified Guest Service Professional (CGSP) designation is the acknowledgment of award-winning guest service for employees in the hospitality industry. By taking the Guests First classes and passing AHLAEI's CGSP proctored exam, you'll receive a certificate and a CGSP gold lapel pin and you can add the CGSP designation to your title and resume.

Requirements:

  • Complete 6 classes (all except “Bridging Generations" and “Make the Training Stick”)
  • Managers and supervisors must also complete “Make the Training Stick”
  • Pass exam (cost is $35). AHLEI offers one retake for a nominal fee.

8 Training Modules offered through the Guests First program

The Secrets of Hospitality Success

Eight inspiring classes await with surprising insights and practical tips. From an enlightening look at non-verbal communication to defusing conflicts, elevating self-awareness and much more, you'll gain invaluable knowledge to advance your hospitality business or career.

Guests First Training Testimonials

Hear What Participants Say

"Most valuable is looking at the guest experience from the guests' lens. Being able to add the "yes we can" attitude is priceless."

Sean Niesel

Shalimar Beach Resort

"The virtual classes were a great option to be able to easily join and complete, then get back to work. Well organized and very interactive."

Dayla Rumpf

Fort Myers Beach Chamber of Commerce

"The most valuable part of this training for me was getting to discuss and collaborate with other hospitality professionals."

Mayden Almar

Sugarshack Downtown

"Crystal's energy creates a great structure for learning material that is useful for refreshing our managerial styles."

Sarah Bennett

Dixie Fish Company

"The most valuable part of this training was learning how to handle difficult situations. It provides all the tools needed to survive working with guests and visitors."

Zuliano Salerno

Lee County Parks and Rec

A man reels in a fish from a boat

Hook More Customers and Career Opportunities

Whether you want to grow your business or advance your career, Guests First training is invaluable. If you have questions or want more information, please reach out.

  • Call us at 239-338-3500
  • Email us and/or ask to be added to our email list for the latest updates at guestsfirst@leegov.com