Kirsty Lavalette in front of shelf full of holiday brochures

Kirsty Lavalette

Categories: Modern Apprenticeship, case studies, development, careers, employment

Have you visited the Thomson Travel Shop in Livingston and heard the phrase:

"Are you looking for holiday inspiration?"

Chances are, you've been greeted by Kirsty Lavalette.

Kirsty always wanted to work in the tourism industry.  When she applied as a part-time travel adviser with TUI her manager quickly spotted her potential and recommended she apply for a Modern Apprenticeship.  Kirsty was accepted and began her apprenticeship in May 2008.

Kirsty was always enthusiastic and keen to learn, and was frequently Top Seller for the month.  She completed her Modern Apprenticeship in July 2009, with the remarkable achievement of Top Seller for the year.

Since starting with TUI, Kirsty's customer service skills have improved greatly, and she has gained deeper understanding of customer needs.

Kirsty said:

"Thanks to the apprenticeship and my new found confidence, skills and knowledge, I have managed to tackle issues in my workplace - including challenging sales and customer service matters - which I would have found impossible before I started this job."

For Kirsty, the most important part of the job is providing first class customer service and fulfilling her customers' holiday dreams.   She strives to make customers feel special from the moment they walk through the door.

Carolyn Murray, Accredited Programmes Assessment Consultant of TUI UK & Ireland said:

"Kirsty is a great asset. She is a hard-working, conscientious young lady who is totally committed to customer service. She genuinely makes customers' dreams come true and is definitely a TUI manager of the future."

 

During the apprenticeship Kirsty's performance went from strength to strength.

Kirsty Lavalette