Beyond Borders: How International Staff Elevate U.S. Attractions

Overview:

In the latest episode of Live with Sondra, Gatemaster Technology’s CEO, Sondra Shannon,  hosted Renee Clarke, Senior Account Manager for Host Relations at Greenheart Exchange.  The session delved into the transformative impact of international staffing programs on the  U.S. attractions industry.

5 Insights from This Live
  •  Cultural Exchange as a Foundation
    The J1 program, overseen by the Department of State, emphasizes cultural exchange with a work component. It’s a public-private partnership designed to foster People-to-People diplomacy while addressing seasonal workforce needs in the attractions industry.
  • Addressing Challenges Effectively
    Key challenges for attractions integrating international staff include providing adequate housing and transportation. Proactive planning and partnerships with local communities are essential to ensure a safe and welcoming environment for these workers.
  • Grassroots Involvement
    Local outreach, such as Congressional visits and cultural exchange events, plays a crucial role in building relationships with lawmakers and demonstrating the tangible benefits of international programs.
  • Global Impact of Cultural Exchange Programs
    Programs like the J1 Summer Work Travel involve around 96,000 participants annually, demonstrating their large-scale impact on cultural and professional exchanges.
  • Accessible Advocacy
    Organizations like IAA simplify the process of advocacy, from arranging meetings with legislators to training participants, making it easier for new advocates to contribute meaningfully.
5 Notable Quotes:
  • “Without the support of international staff, some parks would have to close early or shut down rides, which no one wants to see.”
    — Renee Clarke
  • “The key is showing up… IAA made it quite easy for us to get the appointments and to be partnered with people who could teach us.”
    — Sondra Shannon
  • “We call our employers our host organizations because they’re not just giving them a job; they’re doing so much more—looking out for these different attributes and providing cultural experiences which is so key.”
    – Renee Clarke
  • “You can say that you’re a global company, but when you’re walking the walk by hosting international students, volunteering together, and engaging in cultural exchange, that’s really living out your mission.”
    – Renee Clarke
  • “We’re creating a peaceful world when we allow these kinds of exchanges, and it’s a beautiful thing that needs to happen and needs to be advocated for.”
    – Sondra Shannon
Greenheart Exchange’s Approach

Greenheart Exchange ensures a holistic approach to supporting international staff. From housing and transportation to cultural engagement, their programs prioritize participant well-being and community integration. Their mentorship initiatives and volunteerism opportunities further enrich the cultural exchange experience.

Renee’s Preferences and Technology

Renee praised tools that facilitate communication and cultural engagement. She highlighted the importance of using technology like Gatemaster’s solutions to streamline guest services, making operations more efficient and enhancing the visitor experience.

Sondra’s Perspective

Sondra emphasized the critical role of leadership in advocacy and community engagement. She shared her excitement about how international staff enrich the attractions industry, both operationally and culturally.

Improving Guest Experience

International staff with identifiable name tags become natural conversation starters,  creating unique moments for guests. These interactions not only improve the guest experience but also leave lasting impressions that elevate the reputation of attractions as global cultural hubs.

Creating Memories and Guest-Centric Culture

The live session highlighted how cultural exchange programs foster a guest-centric culture.  Through personal stories and industry examples, Renee and Sondra showcased the joy and memories created when international staff bring their unique perspectives to U.S.  attractions.

Gatemaster’s Guests’ Appreciation and Value

Gatemaster Technology remains committed to empowering attractions to provide seamless guest experiences. This session underscored the company’s dedication to integrating technology and fostering cultural exchange to create memorable moments for visitors.

Connecting with the Speakers

Want to dive deeper into the discussion or connect with the speakers? Reach out on LinkedIn!

This insightful session is a must-watch for industry professionals eager to enhance their operations through cultural exchange and advocacy. Stay tuned for more enriching conversations from Live with Sondra!