Boosting Morale During a Tough Time - Annie Olson & Iris Pahlberg Peterson
After what feels like the longest year of our lives, we are tired. But… Here Comes the Sun! Despite the challenges of the past year, a silver lining is the resilience and creativity of our staff. This session capitalizes on strategies to keep morale high using tools we already have.
Annie Olson, Director of Customer Service and Iris Pahlberg Peterson, Customer Service Supervisor, have created and facilitated numerous training programs tailored specifically for those who work in the field of recreation. Training topics have included fundamental customer service, cultural competency and diversity and positive energy in the workplace. Annie Olson has a bachelor's degree in Speech Communications and a Professional Certificate in Training from the University of Minnesota. Annie is a board member of the Minnesota Recreation and Park Association and a participating member of the National Recreation and Park Association, having earned a designation as a Certified Park and Recreation Professional. She has worked for the Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board for 20 years, primarily in the Recreation and Administration Divisions. Iris Pahlberg Peterson has a bachelor’s degree in World Language and Education and is a former high school educator and is a member of the National Recreation and Park Association, having earned a designation as a Certified Park and Recreation Professional. Iris has a diverse professional background, including work in public education, private sector, and 13 years at the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board. She has also conducted outreach and delivered presentations to community groups, corporations, and agencies regarding park programs, facilities and services. Together, Annie and Iris have trained thousands of recreation professionals on subjects related to Customer Service over the past decade. Annie and Iris’s most popular training program entitled “Customer Service Boot Camp: Back to the Basics” has been featured and well received at the numerous regional, national and international professional conferences since 2013.