I recently blogged about our new program with Rosetta Stone that will allow us to train our people in more languages. And in the past I've blogged about our Sed de Saber - "Thirst for Knowledge" - program that has been so successful in teaching English to our Spanish-speaking associates.
Our customers and associates speak countless different languages, and we love the fact that we are able to help our associates communicate better with our guests, with each other, as well, and in their personal lives.
That's why we support the bipartisan bill now in the U.S. Congress called "Strengthening Communities through Education and Integration Act of 2008." This bill, sponsored by Rep. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-Florida), Rep. Mike Honda (D-California), Rep. Ruben Hinojosa (D-Texas) and Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton (D-New York), encourages employers to invest in language and other training for their employees by offering them a tax credit.
We've always been committed to training at Marriott, and now this legislation will help companies teach more language skills to their associates. Making language programs more affordable for employers will help encourage them to offer such training to their employees.
So, Marriott supports this bill because it broadens the base of companies that are investing in the growth and education of their employees. Our associates are Marriott's greatest asset. We're constantly looking for ways to help them grow by providing new opportunities - something that is deeply embedded in our company culture.
I'm Bill Marriott, and thanks for helping me keep Marriott on the move.
Hello Mr. Marriott,
I'am in agreement with your support of the bipartisan bill. On another note I would like to acknowledge and thank three of your employees who were very gracious and professional in assisting me with my concerns. The employees are Connie *****, Ann ******* and Clayton ********. What a great staff you have and as a customer how grateful we are to be connected with such a great organization as yours.
Thank you,
Sinerely,
Ray L. Valdez
Posted by: Ray L. Valdez | 08/07/2008 at 02:12 PM
Hi Mr. Marriott,
It is nice to see the movement Marriott is making to ensure all of their associates have the skills needed to function in all new settings. I strongly believe that every individual needs to be able to communicate in an effective manner, this builds self worth and confidence. I have spent the past 30 years working with people with differing abilities (special education) and feel we should push education to be more FUNCTIONAL focusing on or built around the individuals strengths and needs. As you are aware not everyone is going to be a CEO but they can be a valuable asset to the work place, their community and to the world. Businesses should receive a tax credit for making this resource an option for their staff. As an parent, educator, and golf coach I find that I have so many talents that would have gone untapped if I had not wanted to build my life by being surround by people. The most memorable experiences and best education have come from the children and families I have worked with. In your company I am sure you have some very talented associates from all over the world that could be your teacher of their language, and what a nice move up the ladder building off of their abilities to communicate with others...you do not always need a degree just the passion and the desire to help others.
Thank you for building such wonder homes for our family as we travel. If you would like my help just let me know. peace be with you this day and always Debbie
Posted by: deborah Ahrns | 08/05/2008 at 02:27 AM