A group of ten local businesses and organisations are asking for the public to rate their quality of service as they seek National Service Standards Certification.

According to the Bermuda Tourism Authority, the certification scheme is intended to help ensure a consistently high standard of service, with certified businesses gaining benefits including staff training and leverage for marketing and promotion.

Karla Lacey, BTA’s chief operations officer, said: “After extensive engagement with industry business owners, managers and frontline employees, five service standards relating to customer facing employees at all levels, as well as business activities and facilities, were defined.

“The BTA is now assisting with the implementation of these standards via the programme.”

Among the ten hospitality industry organisations already going through the process are Alexandra Mosher Studios, Bermuda Transit Services, the Bermuda Restaurant Group, Boulevard Cafe, Dolphin Quest, Flanagans Irish Pub and Outback Sports Bar, La Trattoria Sports Bar, Lindos, the Department of Airport Operations and Snorkel Park.

This evaluation process for companies already in the programme will take place this month, including a mystery shopper component.

Christine Mihelcic, general manager at Dolphin Quest, said: “Having already made a commitment to focus on customer service this year, this programme allows us to maximise resources in a targeted manner

“The process of certification seemed like a daunting task to begin with but has been quite manageable. At the end of the day, it creates consistency in service delivery which is good for all of Bermuda.”

Meanwhile other organisations who are interested in earning certification are invited to apply online until March 10 or attend an information session on March 8 or March 10.

For more information, contact nfo@service.bm or call the BTA on 296-9200.