PEOPLE working in the tourism, hospitality and retail industries discovered how their businesses could benefit in the lead-up to the 2012 Olympic Games.

The vital message from the Welcoming Our World (WOW) conference was that investing in skills could improve business.

The free event at the Heights Hotel on Portland was designed for those who believe in a warm customer welcome and lasting impressions before, during and after the Games.

They heard how free management and customer care related training courses were now being offered.

The courses include managing people and services, welcoming international visitors, food, and tips to boost custom.

The Dorset New Forest Tourism Partnership, the Retail SkillShop, Learning and Skills Council, European Social Fund and Team Dorset 2012 are involved in the project.

Dorset Echo managing director and chairman of the 2012 Communications Sub-Group Paul Kinvig was guest speaker at the conference.

He said: "The point is that businesses don't have to wait until 2012 to reap the benefits of the training courses.

"We have four seasons between now and then plus two test events that will attract more people than the Games themselves.

"People may think it is 'time poor' to send their staff away on courses but the benefits of improving skill levels are huge."