80 public officers receive training for customer service

The Office of the Deputy Governor announced on September 6 that 80 public officers have completed a Customer Service Training course facilitated by the Virgin Islands Public Service Learning Institute (VIPSLI).

The training offered detailed instruction for front-facing public officers, covering topics such as Building Customer Relationships, Service Standards and Behaviors, and Handling Difficult Customers.

Director of Customer Service and course facilitator Kedimone Rubaine stated, “As we continue to focus on improving Customer Service across the Public Service, we recognize the importance of education in this process. By providing public officers with the right tools for their roles, we are preparing and equipping them to be exceptional examples of customer service excellence.”

Enhancing Customer Service is one of four priority areas within the Public Service Transformation Programme. The Deputy Governor has reportedly developed strategic plans for increased efforts toward transforming Customer Service this year. This includes improvements in communication, technology, and the development and implementation of various Customer Service Tools.

During the training, attendees engaged in impromptu skill-building sessions to test their interactive abilities and received tips to advance or maintain excellence in customer interactions.

Under the leadership of newly appointed Director Dr Connie George, the VIPSLI is working towards establishing a regionally certified customer service training program for the Public Service.

The VIPSLI plays a crucial role in training and developing both new and existing public officers, ensuring they have the skills needed to perform their duties effectively.

Earlier this year, the Deputy Governor noted that public officers are receiving essential skills and training from the VIPSLI, an initiative launched in 2023. Civil servants are now required to complete a minimum of 60 learning hours annually. Since its inception, around 600 public officers have received training through the institute.

The Deputy Governor’s team aims to make the BVI public service one of the top five in the world. The VIPSLI continues to promote and deliver intensive customer service training to foster a culture of excellence within the Public Service.