James Amps Named Courtyard Marriott, Houma, Louisiana “NFL Guest of The Year”
In sports and even in our lives, the “message to action” is the ultimate slogan that inspires people to face obstacles, achieve the unthinkable and do wonders in ways that inspire generations.
This National Football League season in 2018 was special in many ways. The New England Patriots won their sixth Superbowl, Patrick Mahomes of the Kansas City Chiefs became the NFL’s Most Valuable Player and Julian Edelman won the Superbowl MVP.
As the season ended there was still hardware to be handed out by the Courtyard Marriott, in Houma, Louisiana which is the official hotel of the NFL. The internationally renowned Speaker and Best-Selling Author, James Amps, III has been named the Courtyard Marriott, Houma NFL Guest of the Year. It is a historic moment as James’ “message to action” has inspired corporate and organizational employees to gain a greater sense of accountability.
In February, James Amps was invited by Courtyard Marriott, Houma for an inspirational speech for the hotel’s staff. His message focused on accountability and sustainability in the hospitality industry.
James, in his talk, pointed out that the hospitality industry is a challenging sector for the employees and is often not considered as a first career choice due to the demanding nature of the job. But, James emphasized, it is a well-respected industry and is valued by the customers across the globe. He stressed the most crucial step to be successful in this industry is to understand the difference between simply working a job and the importance of offering world-class customer service.
James highlighted the significance of teamwork and cooperation in the workplace. He pointed out that when employees take care of each other and work as a team, it results in exceptional service for the customers. The collaboration and cohesion among the employees translate into world-class service for the clients.
Highlighting the importance of extraordinary service offered by world-class hotels such as Courtyard Marriott, James said, “When I walk into this hotel in Houma, and I hear Autumn, the front desk clerk, say, ‘Good Morning Mr. Amps,’ it profoundly influences why I continue to choose this hotel.” He continued by saying, “Everyone knows Autumn because of her exceptional attitude and bright smile.”
We just need to learn from our challenges and remember it is these difficulties that make us stronger,” James told the staff. “Everyone is unique in his/her own way, and most of you have grown up in different environments. It is those different environments that bring us closer together because it helps each of you build relationships outside of your comfort zone.”
Marissa Moreno, the General Manager of the hotel, sets the tone for her employees and feels proud of the work they perform. It is said that excellent customer service comes from great leaders, and Marissa, indeed, is a fantastic leader. James added that the staff at the hotel really care about their jobs. From the front desk personnel to housekeeping and sales, it is the hard work and excellent manners of the employees that make the hotel clients feel welcome, comfortable, and like part of the family. James concluded his talk with his personal motto “If you want something you’ve never had, do something you’ve never done.”
Katie Fucci, the Front Office Manager said, “James’s speech touched many vital areas correlated to personal and professional life, including individual conduct, difficulties faced by the staff, accountability in the workplace, and the pursuit of progress. He spoke with humor, wisdom, compassion, and integrity. I really appreciated that he mentioned our staff’s attention to detail, and how any staff member with whom he came in contact would always say something nice.”
James said Katie’s leadership is essential to the hotel because her employees are the first people clients see when they come through the doors of the hotel. James constantly praises Katie’s leadership and consistently comments on the professionalism of the employees at the front desk.
The General Manager, Marissa Moreno, said, “When you walk out of the room after listening to James, you feel empowered. He told us we all have obstacles in life. It is ultimately our attitude that determines whether those obstacles block our path to success or strengthen us on our journey of life.” Marissa added, “His words about working on ourselves daily and always trying to improve our God-given talents inspired us. Each of us is unique, and we can use our talents and abilities to make Courtyard Marriot an exceptional hotel. It all ties in well with our campaign: ‘Exceptional Services Brings the Best Results.”
The Courtyard Marriott in Houma, Louisiana is owned by Castleblack and operated by Island Hospitality — www.islandhospitality.com
James Amps is an international speaker/consultant concentrating on personal accountability and the challenges of life. He is the author of the Business Bestseller — Speaking To Excel, and is based out of Pembroke Pines, Florida. www.jamesamps.com
