Businesses of all sizes can now download a free online guide focusing on how they can capitalise on the Games and other events, including the Ryder Cup and Scottish Homecoming. In addition, businesses with up to 250 staff will be able to claim free passes for the WorldHost Insights customer service e-learning programme.

The guide, called ‘Ahead of the Games,’ contains practical hints and tips for businesses in the vicinity of the events, as well as links to additional resources that will help them maximise the opportunities on offer throughout 2014.

Topics covered include employee engagement, skills and training and maximising your business’ presence online. It also includes lessons learnt from the London 2012 Olympic Games and Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympics.

The WorldHost Insights programme gives staff a one-and-a-half hour introduction into how to connect with customers, communicate effectively with disabled customers and those from other cultures and go the extra mile.

The programme is designed to help staff who have never been trained in customer service and those who want to refresh their skills. Participants receive an official WorldHost certificate after completing the programme.

David Allen, director of Scotland for People 1st, commented: “This is going to be a pivotal year for the Scottish visitor economy and it’s important that businesses don’t miss out on the opportunities provided by increased visitor numbers and media attention.

“Figures released by the Office of National Statistic last week revealed that, following the success of the 2012 Olympics, London attracted more visitors than any other city destination in the world during Summer 2013. We want Scotland to experience similar success and our Ahead of the Games guide gives businesses practical tips to capitalise not only on the Commonwealth Games, but on other events taking place across the nation for Scottish Homecoming.”

The full report ‘Ahead of the Games 2014’ can be downloaded at www.people1st.co.uk/scotland  
Businesses can register to use the WorldHost Insights programme at http://sme.worldhost.co.uk/.