Isabel Garza Moves to the 2017 Arthur Murray All Star Championships
Name: Isabel Garza
Studio: Glenview
Began with Arthur Murray: June 2007
Furthest point in All Stars Before Now: Semi-Finals
Position: Administrative Assistant
What is the AM All Star Competition?
The Arthur Murray All Stars is a skills competition for every level of professional within each location around the world. The goal is to grow, develop, and reveal the professionals that demonstrate the best customer service, communication, problem solving, critical thinking, and teamwork skills. The competition begins in each studio and winners advance to small region, or District, competitions. From there the District winners advance to the large region, or Area, competition. Finally, the Area winners advance to the World Championships in Las Vegas where each Area team tests and one team is pronounced the winner.
More importantly, the real winners are the students of the Arthur Murray Dance Studios as these tests, and accompanying training, help to deliver better communication, teamwork, problem solving, and confidence from every member of the staff.
AML: First off, congratulations on moving on to the finals in Las Vegas. How did you react when the announcement was made?
IG: I jumped out of my seat. It was a very happy and proud moment for me.
AML: How did you feel going into the Semi-Finals?
IG: I felt nervous, but confident, and took it all as a learning experience that would only make me better at my job.
AML: What kind of last minute did you do prepare? Was there a pep talk? Did you do yoga in the hallway? Give us the scoop!
IG: I called my husband on the way to the hotel. I was freaking out. He encouraged me and said just what I needed to hear to give me that little extra push I needed.
AML: How has this process made you a better professional?
IG: It has given me a new perspective. The training and preparation has given me new communication tools to use when interacting with new and current students in the studio.
AML: What's your All Star backstory?
IG: In the 10 years I have been in the company I have participated 4 times. Each of the times I have learned something new and helpful that I have put into use over the years. This is my first time representing my area, so I am very honored.
AML: What will it mean to you if your team wins it all this year?
IG: It would mean all of our hard work and hours of studying and preparing have paid off. Representing Area 4 and getting the first place title would be a great achievement.
AML: Who are some people who helped you get to this point?
IG: Big shout out to Chia Ling and Bryan Stewart for spending their precious time helping us get ready.
AML: Last question: what does this mean to you? What makes it special?
IG: Personally, it would mean that I'm the best administrative assistant within Arthur Murray. It gives me pride to work for a company that invests in their people.
It is a big deal when you are representing not only your studio, but your whole area. This whole process has increased my excitement and desire to continue to be the best that I can be at my job while offering the best customer service and dance experience to all.
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