MBiz

"Ask us and we'll tell you that experienced workers are dynamic and active, and highly adept at performing a variety of tourism jobs." Experience Key to Tourism Success By Iris Chrol T he word is out. Call us boomers, zoomers and everything in between, but workers aged 45 and over are great ambassadors for Manitoba tourism as more of today's companies choose to hire experience. Ask us and we'll tell you that experienced workers are dynamic and active, and highly adept at performing a variety of tourism jobs. "ThirdQuarter candidates bring with them many transferable skills. Often having held full-time positions in the service industry at one time, they aren't entirely ready to be without that interaction," explains Tim Jones, ThirdQuarter CEO.  One of Canada's fastest-growing industries, tourism encompasses a full range of employment opportunities: Retail, food and beverage, accommodation, transportation and travel, recreation and entertainment. Fortunately, Manitoba's tourism-industry partners are catching on to the benefits of utilizing the many talents of zoomers. At Winnipeg James Armstrong Richardson International Airport, Goldwing Ambassadors provide assistance to passengers and other airport visitors. Goldwings are easy to spot with their gold jackets.  "Our diplomats of goodwill ensure visitors at the airport have a pleasant experience," says Breanne Talbot, Winnipeg Airports Authority manager of communications and public affairs.   The volunteer program began in 1997 with 20 ambassadors and has grown to a pool of more than 122, who speak a total of 19 different languages. During that time, Goldwings have contributed more than 180,950 combined hours.  There are almost 200 museums in Manitoba, employing hundreds of people full time, part time and seasonally. They also have the support of thousands of local volunteers who are in this age demographic. Museums are found in every region of the province and they house wide-ranging collections that benefit from the vast experiences and interests of the boomer population. Hotel general managers and directors of housekeeping are needed to ensure that accommodation properties run smoothly, generate profit, and deliver high-quality guest experiences. Seasoned workers understand the need to provide the keen attention to detail that guests demand and deserve. In addition, they are great leaders, excelling at motivating and inspiring younger employees to create a superior service culture. "Flexibility in scheduling on the part of the employer is key for this demographic," explains Jones. "Some people like the option of working only three or four days a week, or being able to work fewer hours."  This flexibility complements the cyclical schedule of tourismbased businesses as well. "Manitoba is on a roll, with new assets coming to market and significant investments being made in Winnipeg and throughout the province that are further positioning Manitoba as a unique destination of choice," says Colin Ferguson, president, Travel Manitoba. Travel isn't exclusive to one demographic group and the tourism and hospitality industries provide the ideal opportunity to build a multigenerational workforce. As an equal-opportunity employer, Avis Budget Group is proud to provide an inclusive workplace that embraces and celebrates demographic, cultural and lifestyle differences. "Attention to diversity helps us make sure that we as a company are drawing fully on our creative and intellectual resources," explains Darlene Hill, director of Equal Employment Opportunity.  "This important focus empowers us to tap into new markets, enhance our work environment, and better serve our customers." MBiz November 2013 11

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