TUPELO – The Tupelo Convention and Visitors Bureau is accepting applications for its second annual tourism leadership program.

The six-month program teaches participants about customer service, social media, public relations and Tupelo’s tourism attractions. The program is free and is open to people working in Tupelo’s hospitality industry, such has hotels, restaurants, attractions or retailers.

“It’s important for Tupelo’s success as a tourism destination that the entire industry is on the same page about what we have to offer,” said Neal McCoy, executive director of the Tupelo CVB. “I feel like this program will affect those taking the course and it will have a trickle down effect to other industry employees.”

The deadline to apply is Oct. 15. The Tupelo CVB has various speakers throughout the program. The monthly meetings are from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Applicants will be notified on Nov. 12 if they have been accepted to participate in the program.

To apply, contact the Tupelo CVB at (662) 841-6521 or download the application at www.tupelo.net.

Schedule

Dec.12 – Program introduction/the history of Tupelo

Jan. 9 – The roles of CVBs and familiarization tour

Feb. 13 – Customer service training

March 13 – The power of social media

April 10 – Public relations/media round table

May 7 – National Tourism/Travel Rally Day and program graduation

carlie.wells@journalinc.com