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Customer Service Training Designed Specifically for the Travel & Tourism Industry

SLO CAL Welcome is a free online training program provided by Visit SLO CAL, designed for anyone working in the travel and tourism industry in San Luis Obispo County.

The new and improved program covers everything you need to feel confident and capable when helping visitors in SLO CAL. You’ll gain practical tips on communication, problem-solving and creating positive guest experiences—whether you're working at a hotel, restaurant, winery or welcome center.

SLO CAL Welcome FAQ

Is the program open to anyone, even those outside the hospitality industry?

Yes! Although the content caters towards people in the hospitality industry, we welcome anyone interested in improving their customer service and general SLO CAL knowledge to take the course!

How long is the course?

The self-paced course takes approximately 2 hours to finish. Users can save their progress anytime and return to it later without losing their progress.

Can I take the course on my mobile device?

Yes! The program works on both mobile and desktop devices.

What does the program include?

The program includes lessons on customer service, DEI, the basics of the wine industry, sustainability in SLO CAL and in-depth lessons on each community within SLO CAL.

What will I receive after completing the program?

You’ll receive a digital completion certificate and become a certified expert on all things SLO CAL!

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SLO CAL Welcome Partner Commitment Program

The SLO CAL Welcome Partner Commitment Program offers a simple way for hospitality businesses to incorporate the SLO CAL Welcome online training into their onboarding and staff development. It also establishes a system for handing out recognition pins to staff who complete certification, promoting pride in achievement and maintaining guest service consistency across the region.

Why Join?

Boost staff confidence & guest satisfaction
Align your team with SLO CAL’s hospitality excellence
Recognition as a SLO CAL Welcome Expert in the community

Step 1: Enroll Your Business

Step 2: Enroll Your Staff

Share the training link with your staff: welcome.slocal.com/courses/slo-cal-welcome
Staff complete the 2-hour online training at their own pace
Staff notify you when they have completed the training

Step 3: Celebrate with Pins

After you’ve signed up, Visit SLO CAL will deliver “Welcome Expert” pins to your business based on team size. It will be your responsibility to distribute pins as employees complete the training.

Step 4: Show Your Commitment to Customer Service Excellence

Staff proudly display pins on their uniform at work
Display the digital “SLO CAL Welcome Partner” badge on your website and guest materials (the badge will be emailed to you after you sign up)
Be acknowledged as a SLO CAL Welcome Experts in Service on your slocal.com business listing

Questions?

SLO CAL Welcome was funded by Visit SLO CAL and developed in collaboration with lodging investors, destination partners and stakeholders across SLO CAL, most notably Gala Pride & Diversity Center and R.A.C.E. Matters SLO for the Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) modules.