Manic Monday | Is there someone you should invite to play?

These are busy days for our tourism stakeholders but If you have found the time to catch some of the Summer Olympics you may have had the opportunity to see what has quickly become my favorite commercial of the games. It is not one of the dramatic advertisements featuring Team Canada athletes or some of the incredible scenery from Rio but rather a small group of boys picking participants for their baseball team.

I don't know about you, but I have definitely stood there waiting to have my name chosen to join a team and unless you are a naturally gifted young athlete this can be one of life's most difficult early experiences.

The ad portrays a young boy, seemingly a new Canadian, watching from the sidelines as the team selection process unfolds. Ultimately he is invited to join much to the disdain of some of the other players. After knocking the ball out of the park his teammate queries him "you said you didn't play baseball ?"  to which his one word answer is "Cricket”, followed by a broad smile and the caption  "We all play for Canada"

As a country, a province, region or community we all have so much to contribute and as we work to understand the breadth and depth of our fellow Canadians be they First Nations, Multi Generational or New immigrant we open ourselves up to incredible learning, understanding, respect, and admiration.

TOTA is about to have it's 25th Golf Tournament...Is there someone you should invite to play?

Glenn Mandziuk, TOTA President & CEO

Manic Monday | Best Kept Secrets...

"Best kept secret",  what is wrong with that statement? Well, in my opinion just about everything.

There has long been some kind of bizarre cache around the idea of an area, activity, event or other tourism product being a wonderful secret;  hidden treasure; uncharted territory. But those secrets are deadly to operators working hard to develop a livelihood in the tourism industry.

While marketing and advertising may be a far too costly an endeavor for many small businesses there are many ways in this current world of social media to ensure you are not hiding from your potential consumers.

Route97.net, our new website, is working hard to tell the story of our region from one end to the other supported by ongoing social media activities linked through Facebook, Twitter, Google Plus and Instagram.

There are a number of ways to engage with Route97.net at variable costs and some opportunities are provided complimentary. The newly launched Events Page on Route97 provides stakeholders with an easy to upload template where you can promote festivals and special events taking place in your community or at your business and it is available at no cost. There are also a wide variety of advertising opportunities designed to meet most budgets.

Best Kept Secret or Best Known in the Region.....the choice is yours...

Glenn Mandziuk, TOTA President & CEO

Manic Monday | In search of 1600 great employees... really

Don't pick a great job with vacation time; pick a career that doesn't need escaping from"... author unknown

I recently read this quote and immediately felt the correlation to the world of Tourism and Hospitality!

The Tourism Industry is rich with diverse career opportunities that truly do offer something that can make you want to get up and get going every day.   Whether seeking a challenging role, a role for those just starting out or one for those winding down their work life, tourism does not discriminate.

This is an industry that can allow its employees to follow a passion, connect with the outdoors, engage with fascinating people or even provide an outlet to bring the stories of our country and our region to life. Careers in tourism can provide incredible opportunities to get out from behind a desk or out of an office and really connect with the world around you.

But we are facing some huge challenges. As an industry and a region labour market studies are indicating that by 2020 we will have a shortage of over 1,600 workers to fill these roles and that estimate may well be on the low side.

TOTA and go2HR are working hard to make sure that businesses in our region continue to be able to grow, expand and have access to a great pool of talented and capable people and to that end we have just taken the first steps to develop strategies to combat these future shortages.

Last Wednesday TOTA hosted the first Regional HR Advisory Committee meeting in Kelowna where the energy and enthusiasm in the room was palpable. The Regional HR Advisory Committee is designed to engage industry in contributing ideas towards the development and execution of the labour market strategy in the Thompson Okanagan region, and the development of innovative, targeted, regionally-focused initiatives to address specific labour market needs and challenges.

Like any resource, work needs to be done to manage and utilize our region’s labour market in a sustainable and effective way.

Stay tuned for more details and strategies that come out of future meetings!

Glenn Mandziuk, TOTA President & CEO

Manic Monday | ”What’s an instameet?” I asked

8 social media gatherings celebrating #ExploreBCDay in the Thompson Okanagan 

I overheard a statistic the other day; over 300 million people use instagram daily. I am not one of them…. Although I may not have instagram, it doesn't mean that I am not a believer in the platform. I think that in terms of tourism marketing there is no better platform to visually showcase a region or experience. It allows even the most artistically challenged to express themselves through images and video and connect with others who share their interests. So, when I first heard about the concept of Instameets I was very intrigued to see this online community who hide behind their usernames and smartphone screens  actually get together in the real world and well...instameet each other.

Let me backtrack a bit. An Instameet is: where a group of photographers and Instagrammers come together, at a pre-determined time and place, to take photos of an area or product of shared interest and post them to Instagram using a certain hashtag.

The hashtag being used this weekend at various 8 events across the province is #exploreBCday in celebration of BC Day!

Great photos will taken across the whole region!

We have seen incredible responsiveness by Destination Marketing Organizations (DMOs) across the Thompson Okanagan eager to host a Destination British Columbia Instameet event. There are 14 (and counting) organizations hosting instameets on Aug. 1st! The following is a list of the communities / destinations will be hosting instameets and the hashtag each will be using in addition to #exploreBCday

Kamloops-- #exploreKamloops
Penticton--#visitPenticton
Armstrong-- #exploreArmstrong
Vernon-- #exploreVernon
Shuswap-- #exploreShuswap
Kelowna-- #exploreKelowna
West Kelowna-- #visitWestside
Wells Gray-- #WellsGray
Merritt - #ExploreMerritt
Manning Provincial Park - #ManningPark
Peachland - #FeelinPeachy
Sun Peaks– #SunPeaks360
Vernon Predator Ridge - #predatorridge
Big White - #SummerBigWhite

I find this very encouraging. It is great to see so many destinations investing time into social media promotions. Another benefit is that some of the photographers  attending these instameets will become valuable destination advocates for years to come. Plus, what a great way to celebrate this beautiful province on BC Day!

As for me, well, you don't need to be an avid “instagrammer” to take and appreciate beautiful images of the Thompson Okanagan… who knows, maybe I will join the 300 million and get an instagram account. How does “@Manic_Mandziuk” sound?

What are you doing on BC Day?

I encourage and challenge you to get involved by:

1. By going and meeting the passionate photographers in your community

2. If you can't attend, be sure to get involved by posting your favorite BC Day pic using the hashtag #exploreBCDay

3. Follow along by searching the #exploreBCday hashtag!

Glenn Mandziuk, TOTA President & CEO

Manic Monday | Christmas comes early... and it's a good thing!

You might think this is a reference to the rather chilly start to our summer season but that is not what this musing is about. Nor is it a comment on the many unique marketing initiatives that take place around the concept of Christmas in July, something we are all feeling a bit of at the moment.

Christmas comes early to the Thompson Okanagan is the launch of our second Remarkable Experiences program commencing Fall 2016. This years focus is on working with Stakeholders that have winter products (non ski).

Destination BC, together with TOTA, will be looking for up to 25 stakeholders interested in analyzing and potential developing or reinventing their winter product offering, and assisting in building their winter business through online and social media tools.  Tools that will help make it easier for visitors to research, book, and ultimately broadcast to their social network about their remarkable experience at your remarkable experience.

This program successfully launched last year as a pilot with 10 of our Rail Trail operators and was extremely well received. Their input and feedback has been captured and adapted into this years program creating an even more rich hands on learning experience that will positively impact your results.

Interested in building winter business?... Join Destination BC and TOTA on this journey of discovery and help create a diverse, robust and healthy tourism economy for the region that extends well beyond our traditional seasons.

For more information or to learn how to sign up for this program email us at experiences@totabc.com.

Glenn Mandziuk, TOTA President & CEO

Manic Monday | Okanagan Fruit takes Flight...

I remember many times sitting in Canadian Airports seeing passengers carrying packages with their coveted Live Atlantic Lobsters. These lobsters, purchased at the airport brought an authentic and very tasty piece of Atlantic Canada to doorsteps throughout the country.

As of last week, thanks to some hard work by a number of people at YLW our Fresh Okanagan Fruit has also taken to the air.

In a new program, passengers departing YLW can purchase fresh in-season fruit in a variety of package sizes bringing them right onto the aircraft when traveling domestically.   Containers have been designed to ensure  fruit won't get damaged and conveniently fit under the seat or in the overhead compartment. There is even a snack size (if you aren't in the mood for sharing) that has a place to put the fruit pits. Clever thinking!

Flying fish, flying fruit....and of course there is the flying wine also available inside security at YLW...makes me wonder what might be next?

Glenn Mandziuk, TOTA President & CEO

Manic Monday | Who says we don't have an incredible story?

We marked Canada's 149th birthday last Friday and today our neighbors to the south celebrate 240 years of Independence. Many consider our countries as young; our history and culture limited; our story lacking in comparison to our European counterparts. Sadly those critics are terribly inaccurate.

Recently, I attended a meeting where the  El Camino de Santigo trail in Spain was sited as one of the world’s top pilgrimages. This trek which has been traveled for well over 1,000 years is truly remarkable, yet we were all reminded that many of the trails in the Thompson Okanagan date back over 10,000 years from usage from our First Nations.

Incredible history and culture over centuries is literally in our backyard.  Told through the stories of our Interior First Nations people and weaved from a respect of the creator, the land and the legends of the wildlife, theirs is a unique and vibrant past that brings important context to a modern world.

Together with Aboriginal Tourism BC, Thompson Okanagan Tourism is embarking on a journey with our First Nations communities to bring forward this rich history and create a foundation of tourism products and experiences that authentically portray their traditional stories and beliefs.
As part of this journey we are pleased to welcome a new member of our combined teams Mr Greg Hopf. Greg joins us in the role of  Aboriginal Tourism Specialist and will be meeting with each of the 32 bands in the region over the coming weeks and months working to assist them in tourism product development and marketing.

We look forward to seeing where the past takes us and to expanding our tourism history into the thousands rather than hundreds of years.

Glenn Mandziuk, TOTA President & CEO

Manic Monday | Did you hear it through the grapevine....really??

The grapevine has long been and excellent source for rumors, gossip and even on occasion for really finding out what is happening. Today however the traditional grapevine has been replaced with a far more acceptable term that is a frequently quoted reference;  "Word of Mouth" or "WOM Advertising" which by and large is a modern day version of the good ole grapevine.

While few would dispute that "WOM"  is an excellent source for expanding interest in tourism businesses or products, I think most would also agree that it should not be the only source that is relied upon to get messages into the marketplace.

This is particularly true as it relates to the numerous Festivals and Special Events that take place throughout the year and around the region.  I have often learned of an amazing event after it has ended or worse, after it has been cancelled due to a lack of participation or advance ticket sales. I don't think I am wrong in believing that many of these events could have been sold out had more guests to the region been aware that they were happening.

Until now there has been no single online location that could collect the many events that you might just have been missing out on.  With the launch of the Route 97 digital marketing campaign and our new Festival and Events Page - http://route97.net/events/ - you and your potential guests can find out about what is happening, where and when.

Now there is a catch. It is up to all of our stakeholders to make sure this page is populated with all of those iconic events that are taking place, unless of course you would rather keep them a secret. Perhaps you don't want Manic Mandziuk in attendance....??

My goal this summer is to partake in at least 15 events that I have not attended before and with your help in uploading these great upcoming activities I think I can do it!

Glenn Mandziuk, TOTA President & CEO

Manic Monday | Curiouser and Curiouser

“Curiouser and curiouser” are words that for many bring back images from Alice in Wonderland and date back to the original book which was published in 1865! Interestingly, Alice was on a bit of a road trip herself when she hoped down the rabbit hole and found the world of Wonderland.  Well we know, that for those who are ready we have a bit of a wild and wonderful road trip in store for our visitors as they explore Route 97.

The proper word of course is “curious”,  which has a number meanings some of which are quite unexpected, many of them suggesting that one’s interest or attention to something may be inexplicable or highly unusual, prying or even somewhat meddlesome.

That is not exactly what our team at TOTA is hoping to spark in our guests as we launch our new marketing program this week. With the unveiling of our new Route 97 Experiences Guide, website and social media program and with the support of our partners at North Central Washington Economic Development District, Destination BC and industry stakeholders we definitely do want to spark that truly curious person in all of us. The one that desires to learn more, see more, know more and enjoy more. Check out the new site at www.route97.net.

Our challenge to our guests is to Live Curious – Drive Curious – Be Curious. Step out of the confines of the regular and expected to find more than you could have imagined, change in ways you never expected and do things that bring out the best in you, the daring in you and the joy in you. Shake off the work world, leave the stress of the city behind, take yourself back to a simpler time and just drive that highway.

As you explore the many options along the incredible Route 97 that extends from Weed California to the Gold Rush Trail you may just even run into the White Rabbit (at Three Blind Mice Trail) or imagine find yourself a bit of a Mad Hatter after a few locally distilled beverages but we assure you  this is one looking glass you won’t want to put down.

For more on Route 97 and how to get your business on line and out in front of visitors and potential guests contact Meaghan Racine at marketing@totabc.com

Glenn Mandziuk, TOTA President & CEO

Manic Monday | Rail Tails…

Over history people of all ages have been fascinated with the Railway.  Massive machines travelling at high speed along thin metals rails, the concept seemingly impossible, and yet each small town along the route bore witness to its reality.

Being in the presence of a train was and still is almost magical, they have a mythical quality akin to something almost unworldly, like the concept of dragons or dinosaurs. The rail lines themselves provided their own unique fascination. The “tracks” that passed through each town were a constant reminder of the worlds that lay just beyond and the promise of things and people to come - this incredible, almost implausible, transportation system that built our regions, our provinces and a nation.  It is therefore not surprising that there is a sense of melancholy as train routes over time have been replaced by other less costly and more efficient modes of transportation.

Today in many locations, and specifically within the Thompson Okanagan, these former rail lines have been and are being reinvented through the Rails to Trails initiatives. Hundreds of miles of rail line reborn as trails for outdoor enthusiasts.  Fortunately, the rail lines for the most part were built with less than a 3% grade in order for the trains of the day to be able to navigate the routes thus providing us trails that are quite accessible for many ages and abilities. These trails not only provide our communities with healthy outdoor recreational options but create the strong potential for increased domestic and international tourism visitors.

To that end, TOTA with the support of Destination BC brought together hundred of industry stakeholders and community leaders over the course of the past several months to complete a Rail Trail Tourism Strategy that we believe will assist in ensuring these Rail Trails are not only established, but that there is a plan in place for their longer term development and ongoing maintenance allowing for future generations to enjoy the trails as well as the stories and history of these great routes.

Over history the railway brought economic development and financial benefits to communities throughout our region. Today, thanks again to the railway lines this same potential is being realized as businesses along these former rail corridors are developing or redeveloping themselves to provide services to the growing number of visitors to these trails. One initiative that TOTA also worked closely on this past winter with Destination BC was the implementation of the Remarkable Experiences Business Development pilot.  The program brought together 10 operators of various sizes and types from Christina Lake to Summerland that all play a role in the Kettle Valley Rail Trail experience .  Through workshops and training this business operators saw the potential for their products and services, expanded their reach online, and realized that they were better and stronger working together as collaborators than as competitors (view video).

The Rail Trails of the Thompson Okanagan have significant potential for our future economic vitality ... lets all get on board!

Glenn Mandziuk, TOTA President & CEO

Manic Monday | The Golden Triangle no more...our Platinum Box is a reality

Many of you know that over the past two years TOTA has spoken often of the growing reality that the Thompson Okanagan region is a key area driving tourism into the province of British Columbia.  We have, in our conversations and presentations, suggested that the time has come to shift the mindset and the marketing messages away from the historical  "Golden Triangle" locations of Vancouver, Victoria and Whistler and expand to a four legged stool which we like to refer to as the "Platinum Box"; inclusive of the Thompson Okanagan.

Generating nearly $1.75 billion in direct economic benefit and hosting 3.5 million visitors annually, the communities of the Thompson Okanagan are no longer just a series of locations for summer sun and fun activities playing host to our lower mainland neighbors and friends from Alberta. It is quickly finding recognition as an excellent alternative for our international guests to explore; an exceptional area for meetings and conferences that can help drive attendance; and a region that offers guests the opportunity for a wide variety of  Remarkable Experiences.

Over the past 12 months alone we have seen such significant events as Go Media, Canada's West Marketplace, and TIABC, BC Hotel Association, and The Institute of Planners conferences and quite frankly the list goes on and the bookings continue to grow.

In recent months the region has received recognition in articles in Wine Spectator, Huffington Post, USA Today and other well respected publications which have ranked the region among the top 10 places in the world to visit. This past month "CBS this morning" included the region as one of 6 hidden gems to explore when traveling in the US and Canada this year. 

The platinum box moniker's time has come and all of us that work and serve this great tourism industry across the region should be very proud!

Glenn Mandziuk, TOTA President & CEO

Manic Monday | Our Tourism Industry is about to be in very good hands......

This past week our TOTA team had the opportunity to review resumes and conduct interviews with several candidates looking to work with us as we develop regional online tourism content and embark on implementing a comprehensive strategy, in alignment with Destination British Columbia and Destination Canada, to significantly increase the presence of Thompson Okanagan's tourism products in numerous social media channels.

Eligible candidates were required to be between the ages of 20 and 30 as the positions are, in part, funded through a Federal Grant which has specific criteria and guidelines.

Without question the individuals that came forward to apply for these positions left our entire team enlightened, ignited, and most definitely inspired.  Shortlisting resumes proved to extremely challenging as candidate after candidate brought incredible knowledge, education and unique experience to the table and when our final  selection was complete those individuals that were interviewed did not disappoint. Had we had the ability to hire every one that we met with, we most assuredly would have.

Over our recent history, the young men and women entering the work force have frequently been painted with a broad and negative brush. Criticized for their  inexperience, laziness, lack luster approach, showing less commitment than ourselves, insensitive, disengaged ...and the list goes on. Nothing in our most recent experience could be further from the truth.

Bright minds, full of unique perspectives, extremely capable, worldly, inquisitive, strategic, and ready to take on the next opportunity were the traits that best describes those interviewed. If the group of millennials that we have met with this past week represent even a  small portion of the new workforce we are in for something amazing and the tourism industry is poised to be a benefactor.

Glenn Mandziuk, TOTA President & CEO

Manic Monday | It's like a bell rang.....

The change is palpable; you can feel it, see it, almost taste it everywhere you travel in the region at the moment. Lawns are brilliant green and trimmed to perfection; store fronts and attractions are painted and sparkling; the trappings of winter have faded away and the anticipation of the arrival of our summer guests has begun. The May long weekend has for decades marked the unofficial start of the summer season in the Thompson Okanagan and this year is no exception.

This past week as we continued our regional 2016 Roadshows entitled "Driving Tourism Together" with presentations in West Kelowna, Kelowna, Clearwater, Kamloops and Merritt it was evident that every corner of our region poised and ready for a record breaking 6 months.  We have one more presentation confirmed for Vernon on May 31st and are waiting to confirm a date in Salmon Arm.  Here is a short video clip of our Roadshows this past week and I want to thank all of the communities that have hosted us and stakeholders that have taken the time to meet with us.

After traveling and participating in the Roadshow presentations with members of our TOTA team I could not help be struck of how truly proud I am of the entire team at TOTA – the enthusiasm, commitment, and savvy knowledge they bring each and every day to our Association and industry is very inspiring.  Within our presentation that feature highlights of the importance of collaboration and partnerships; the need to push forward focusing clearly on specific goals for the future and understanding where we can be as a region by 2022 if we continue to employ a few basic principles:

• Think Strategically

  • We will measure all of our activities against the goals presented in the Thompson Okanagan 10-Year Regional Tourism Strategy. By continuing to align our actions against the expressed outcomes of the strategy we believe we can realize a strong, vibrant and sustainable tourism industry.

• Communicate and Inform

  • We will connect with our stakeholders through all of our various mediums.  It is critical to make sure you have the information you need to move your business forward - stay informed by connecting with your tourism partners including Destination Canada, Destination British Columbia, your local DMO, Sector Alliances and of course the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association.

• Lead by Example

  • We will employ best practices, strive to create remarkable experiences, engage your staff and ensure they understand their important part in the visitor experiences and let us know your successes so that we can all celebrate our exceptional stakeholders.

• Leave no one behind

  • We are all better together no matter the size or scope of your tourism offering. If we have unquestionable service delivery at every touch point in the guest experience we will be the destination of choice for our visitors for years and decades to come.

Here is to an outstanding year ahead as we all work together for our collective successes!

Glenn Mandziuk, TOTA President & CEO

Manic Monday | How much of our region have you taken the time to explore?

From Osoyoos to Valemount; Christina Lake to Princeton and the more than 71,600 square kilometres in between; many of you have heard me say on more than one occasion that our region is the size of Ireland. Not only is this a true statement but the diversity of the geography and the product offering is far more than many countries around the world can boast.

During the month of May, the TOTA team is traveling around this immense region bringing our annual Roadshow this year themed "Driving Tourism Together Tour" to many of our communities and stakeholders.  Already, the TOTA team has had the pleasure to present in Grand Forks, Keremeos, and Penticton to rooms filled with industry stakeholders with a passion of selling our region and offering quality experiences.  See a video that captures highlights from our first three stops.

In the process of our trip across the region we also have had the opportunity to experience first hand a small sampling of the amazing touring product that lies within our regional boundaries.  From the Wooden Spoon in Grand Forks to the Wood Fire Pizza Truck in Penticton to the Caves at Seven Stones Winery near Keremeos each experience is distinctly different and definitely remarkable.

We hope you will take the opportunity to join us as we continue our Road Show presentations over the next few weeks for an update on work the TOTA has accomplished with the support of Destination British Columbia, Destination Canada, and industry stakeholders in 2015/16 and our plans for 2016/17.  Our partners, Telus, go2HR, and Green Step, will also be with us in a few locations to provide very informative and enlightening resources to assist you and your business to prosper.

We know along the way we are going to be experiencing a wealth of tourism treasures, some more well known than others,  we hope that you too will be inspired to take time to explore all this great region has to offer.

Check our schedule and dates and if you have something you think we should not miss be sure to tweet or facebook us.

Let's work together to drive tourism and bring the region to new heights in 2016 and beyond!

A Few Highlights This Weeks News Centre

I must pause this week to recognize with great sadness the wildfires that are ripping through Northern BC and Alberta and in particular the city of Fort McMurray. We in the Thompson Okanagan are not strangers to the devastation of such events. While there is a sense of sheer helplessness we also recognize the tremendous need in these areas for for support from friends, neighbors and strangers both near and far. We have lived through the fear and anxiety of this unpredictable turn of nature and we know what it means to feel the compassion and assistance from other Canadians.

There are many relief efforts underway and we encourage you to do what you are able to provide assistance either through donations of food, clothing, supplies or cash donations via the online sites that can be accessed through CBC.

No donation is too small and every act of generosity helps mend broken spirits and build strength for what will surely be a very long road to recovery ahead.

Glenn Mandziuk, TOTA President & CEO

Manic Monday | No Question...the world is coming ...are we ready?

This past week Rendezvous Canada took place in Montreal, Quebec.

Rendezvous is the largest International Travel Trade Show hosted in Canada bringing buyers from all over the world seeking Canadian Travel Experiences to sell to their consumers. The format is speed meetings during the day followed by social gatherings in the evenings and business happens. I referenced back to last week's Manic Monday and the importance of meeting people face to face - it is never more apparent then in this type of environment.

People from all corners of the world coming to our doorstep to meet us. They come to help understand who and what we are as a culture and a people, what our tourism products are like, determine who these might appeal to and why their customers should choose Canada for their next adventure.

What struck us most this year was the volume of new markets represented their level of interest in Canada, British Columbia and YES the Thompson Okanagan. They are hungry for our information, they know we are here and they are ready to come.

Even those that spoke broken or little English were able to provide information on tours they have or are developing within our region and Receptive Operators are seeing marked increases in requests for information from operators that were previously content to drive through barely stopping for lunch.

Between Howard Grieve our Trade and Media Specialist and myself, we had formal appointments with over 185 buyers from around the world and talked with more during the social events and the one thing we know for sure is they are coming.....so are we ready?

Glenn Mandziuk, TOTA President & CEO

Manic Monday - April 25, 2016

"Prince", "The Artist" and/or "The Artist formerly known as Prince" lived by many names but at birth his name was Prince Rogers Nelson and this past week we lost this remarkable artist at the far too young age of 57. Prince wrote over 155 songs from Purple Rain to Nothing Compares 2 U but among the many hit songs he wrote was none other than Manic Monday and for this reason we did not want to let his passing go without comment.

And on that note we bring you this weeks Manic Monday....

As I embark on a series of meetings over the next few days in Montreal at Rendevouz Canada, I can not help but recognize the fact that there is no better way to connect and learn than through face to face / in person exchanges. Despite the reality of today’s world where almost everything you need to know is literally a mouse click away, studies actually indicate that when we come together, whether it be in meetings, conferences or summits, our ability to absorb the information presented in a more meaningful way is greatly heightened.  There are a wide variety of reasons that have been identified as to why this improved learning occurs but among the following have been noted as the top five:

• Increased engagement in messaging

• Enhanced ability for clarifying information

• Improved participation through interaction

• Greater efficiency in delivery of subject matter

• Learning through body language and message delivery

So while we may be able to find much of what we need to know online there is no substitute for the benefits derived from actually attending events.

This spring there are two great opportunities to get engaged in your industry through conferences that are coming to the Thompson Okanagan for the first time.

May 7th – 9th the BC Hotel Association Summit (BCHS) will be held in Kelowna and May 24-26 the Tourism Industry Association of BC (TIABC) will be holding their conference at Sun Peaks. We encourage all of our stakeholders to look at these two outstanding opportunities to meet with industry colleagues, understand the key issues facing the tourism industry and learn from an excellent line up of guest speakers.

Glenn Mandziuk, TOTA President & CEO

Manic Monday - April 18, 2016

CONTENT - Is it a new thing or one that has really just come of age for the Tourism industry?

In January 1996, Bill Gates wrote an essay entitled “Content is King” published on the Microsoft website. He began by saying:

“Content is where I expect much of the real money will be made on the Internet, just as it was in broadcasting.” He goes on in his essay to say “One of the exciting things about the Internet is that anyone with a PC and a modem can publish whatever content they can create.”

Today, 20 years later, we know how accurate his words truly were with the Internet being driven by social networks comprised of user generated content and search engines like Google providing platforms where audiences, ever hungry for more and more content, can easily explore and discover.

But what makes for good, even great content? What raises the bar and actually drives audiences to want to become engaged? Can interesting, authentic content be created by industry or does it all have to come from our guests experiences?

You will be hearing a lot from TOTA in the weeks and months to come on how our industry can take an active role in producing and promoting interesting and unique tourism content that can build audiences and elevate our regional story.

This spring and summer our team will be visiting the communities around the region working with stakeholders to uncover stories of the history and culture that has shaped the area. We will also be looking to find those unique characters and individuals working in the tourism industry that truly bring it to life through their passion for delivering guest service and enhancing enjoyment for our visitors.

Do you have that perfect piece of content or character...let us know at info@totabc.com.

Glenn Mandziuk, TOTA President & CEO

Manic Monday - April 11, 2016

There is in fact a Science of Generosity which, among other things, has found that we reach an age quite early in life when we actually get far more pleasure from giving than receiving.  Sir Winston Churchill stated it best, "We make a living by what we get....We make a life by what we give."  Those of us in tourism understand the pleasure of giving through the services we offer our visitors daily and the satisfaction that is derived from our efforts.

However, it is not only our guests that need the benefit of our service and our generosity.  The Hospitality and Tourism industry is a vast labour force with the large majority of the jobs being in non-managerial, part-time, hourly positions which provide limited health and medical benefits. Unfortunately this means that many of our colleagues find themselves without the necessary resources to deal with the unexpected financial burden arising out of the unforeseen circumstances of medical issues or injuries.

The BC Hospitality Foundation (BCHF) was created by members within the hospitality community who recognized the magnitude of this need. Originally founded in the Lower Mainland, the BCHF now has chapters on Vancouver Island and in the Thompson Okanagan and gives out in excess of $80,000 to $85,000 annually. Funds raised come primarily from activities the industry itself plans, organizes and hosts as well as two or three anchor events coordinated by the Foundation each year.

And the giving does not stop there as the BCHF is also committed to the future of our potential industry employees awarding scholarships annually to students enrolled in hospitality, culinary, sommelier and beverage programs within the province of BC.

To learn more about how you or your business can help raise funds for the BCHF or participate in one of their annual events go to bchospitalityfoundation.com. Of equal importance, if you or someone you know is aware of an industry employee whose journey may be made slightly easier with assistance from this program, contact Alan Sacks (asacks@bchospitalityfoundation.com) who can guide you through the the process of making the application for funds.

If the Science of Generosity is true, this program provides an incredible vehicle for all of our industry to stay connected and appreciate the benefits of giving.

Glenn Mandziuk, TOTA President & CEO

Manic Monday - April 4, 2016

What is it to be Remarkable?  The dictionary has a fairly simple definition – “to be worthy of being or likely to be noticed especially as being uncommon or extraordinary”.  Over time the concept of remarkable has become synonymous with words such as exceptional, brilliant, amazing, astounding, sensational, unbelievable and other similar words characterizing something that is almost larger than life and seemingly quite unattainable.

But what if we challenged these definitions to suggest that “remarkable” happens, or could happen, every day and that all of us that work in tourism have the ability to create experiences that are remarkable, often by making only small changes to things we are already doing.

Over the past several months Destination BC, together with TOTA and the four other regional DMO’s, have piloted a program aptly named “Remarkable Experiences”.  Ten tourism stakeholders in each region had the opportunity through workshops and one on one coaching sessions to challenge themselves in exactly this way. Each were encouraged to rethink the way they looked at their own tourism product and analyzed the various ways in which their customers interacted with them. They looked at everything from how guests access and research their business prior to booking; initial contact through to and including the booking process; the actual experience from arrival to departure; and any post communications. They also went on to analyze and evaluate their businesses’ social media and web presence and found ways to make it easier for their guests to be part of their social media marketing initiatives.

What became clear as we went through the process is that remarkable is attainable to anyone who wants to put in the effort and it not only makes the experience better for our guests but it makes the delivery of the experience much more rewarding to the operator.

So now the challenge is over to you. There will be another Remarkable Experiences program offered in the fall of 2016 which we encourage you to watch for and participate in however with the busiest season about to arrive, what can you do NOW to be remarkable?

Remember, remarkable does not have to be costly, it can range from the unexpected delivery of Ridel wine glasses to the door of your Yurt, the unlikely installation of a Tesla charging station in one of the region’s oldest gas pumps, a banjo player that can sing you a song in your language of choice or the possibility of an old Rail Car Caboose transformed into overnight accommodation (still under discussion).

And don’t keep your remarkable initiatives quiet….post your experiences on our TOTA news centre and send them to us at info@totabc.com so we help potential visitors hear about them through our social media channels and those of Destination BC.

Glenn Mandziuk, TOTA President & CEO

Manic Monday - March 21, 2016

Do you remember your first job?

Do you remember that moment when the call came in and the voice on the other end of the phone said “you can start this Saturday”? It might have been a paper route, delivering pizza, washing dishes at a diner or loading shelves at the local grocery store.   For many of us that phone call came when we were young, the job was basic and the pay definitely meager. Yet despite the simplicity of the position there is relatively little in our working lives since that can compare with the anticipation and excitement of our “first job”. Money in our jeans, freedom and independence, a sense of purpose and an escape from the parents…we were on our way!  How soon we would find out that it wasn’t all as simple as first thought and eventually we would come to appreciate the words “learning what you want to do in life often comes from doing things you don’t want to do”.

Nevertheless, like many young Canadians, my first job was in the tourism industry and mine did not really bring independence from the family but rather tied us even closer together. My foray into the industry was less by choice than by necessity as my parents first purchased a motel in Manitoba and later moved us BC where again they bought and ran a motel. It was there that I learned the magnitude of work that goes into a relatively small accommodation operation and it was also there that I came to understand and respect the world of tourism and hospitality.

In the Federal Government's Tourism Strategy released in 2010; it notes that 98% of the Tourism Industry in Canada is comprised of small and medium sized businesses employing just under 600,000 and accounting for more than 9% of the country’s overall employment. My family definitely contributed to those figures and in the Thompson Okanagan we know this all too well how important the industry is as an employer with our regional Tourism Industry employing more than 15,000 full time equivalents and growing rapidly.

Our regional work force is diverse and complex with a mixture of long term career professionals, young first time employees, individuals re-entering the work force after an extended period and healthy active seniors who are ready, willing and extremely capable.

As we head into the busy hiring season, take a moment to reflect on just how important having a job is to our wide cross section of employees, how working changes their lives and their sense of purpose and value in the community. No matter what the position each person is integral to the overall success of our businesses, our tourism products and the experiences of our guests.  What can we as employers do to better welcome employees into our industry, equip them with the tools they need, assist them in recognizing their individual significance and try to ensure that they truly appreciate their role in the big picture of Tourism.

The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) together with Destination BC (DBC) and go2HR are working in partnership to assist tourism employers and potential employees in the Thompson Okanagan by providing opportunities for training, education, job fairs and online recruitment.  Our Breaking News release last week announced the appointment of Ginger Brunner as an HR specialist and resource who will be based in the TOTA office.  Ginger will be working as part of a new initiative between our three organizations and is there to assist you in connecting with the valuable assets of go2HR. While Ginger will be working hard to connect with our communities, we encourage you to visit their website, post your employment opportunities and contact her directly to explore training and best practice resources.

You could be the Tourism Employer of Choice in our region and better yet we could collectively aspire to be the Regional Tourism Employers of Choice. Lofty goals but ones that could be attained through a collective effort to make the employees experience welcoming and memorable. Work experiences that when they reflect back on their “first job”, their “re-entry into the work place” or when explaining their “role in tourism” to their grandchildren they can do so with enthusiasm and pride.

Glenn Mandziuk, TOTA President & CEO