East Gippsland Shire Council went live last week with a free, self-paced online Customer Experience Program to help local businesses enhance their customer service and operational practices.

Developed with flexibility in mind, the online training program empowers business owners and staff to improve customer interactions, strengthen brand consistency, and drive long-term success – all at their own pace. It’s designed to be practical, relevant, and immediately applicable, helping businesses and their staff boost customer loyalty and create meaningful connections.

Funded by Emergency Recovery Victoria through the Business and Economic Recovery and Resilience Grant Program, the series of videos is facilitated by industry expert Ange O’Connell and delivered through five modules:

• Introduction to the Customer Experience Program

• Creating a customer-first culture

• Understanding the customer journey

• Communication skills for customer service champions

• Managing difficult customer interactions

Participants can choose to complete the full series or focus on specific modules based on their individual needs.

Accessing the training is easy, simply visit the Customer Experience Program page on Council's website, and sign up through the Business Training Portal. You will then receive an email with the direct link to the portal and the password to access the content.  

In conjunction with rolling out the program, Council’s Business Concierge is hitting the road with a Business Support Roadshow, visiting towns across the region in the coming weeks. View dates and locations here: Business Concierge Service.

The Business Concierge is available to support anyone looking to start, grow, or navigate the complexities of running a business. Services include:

• Guidance on applying for permits

• Connecting you with the right government agencies

• Finding suitable training opportunities

• Identifying commercial land or properties

• Introducing you to local business associations and networks

To connect with the Business Concierge:
Call (03) 5153 9500 and ask for the Business Concierge
Email: Economic.Development@egipps.vic.gov.au

This initiative is more than just training; it's an investment in East Gippsland’s future. By empowering local businesses and their teams with practical customer service skills, the region is building a stronger, more resilient economy. With better service comes stronger customer loyalty, repeat visitation, and a reputation for excellence that benefits the entire community. Now is the perfect time for businesses to take advantage of this free opportunity and help shape East Gippsland as a destination known for quality, care, and connection.

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