Assessment Concierge: Updated Edition

When you hear the word concierge, you probably think of a hotel staff member arranging dinner reservations, booking tickets, or recommending the best local coffee shop. Their job is to anticipate needs, make guests feel welcome, and ensure every detail is handled smoothly.

Now imagine applying that same mindset to your accreditation assessments.

An Assessment Concierge is an agency staff member dedicated to making assessors feel welcome, informed, and supported before, during, and after the assessment. It’s a role that blends logistics with hospitality—because a smooth, positive experience for your assessors can make the whole process easier for everyone.

Key Responsibilities

1. Make First Contact Early
   • As soon as assessors are confirmed, send a warm introductory email. Include your contact information, the assessment dates, and let them know you’re there to assist with anything they need.
2. Plan Travel Like a Pro
   • Confirm arrival and departure times.
   • Ask about preferences, special needs, or allergies.
   • Book hotel reservations and ensure parking is arranged at both the hotel and your agency. Cover parking fees up front so they aren’t passed on to the assessor.
3. Transportation Assistance
   • Offer to pick up assessors from the hotel each day and drive them to your agency.
   • This not only reduces navigation stress but also provides a daily touchpoint.
4. Handle Access & Security
   • Coordinate facility entry—escorted or unescorted—according to your agency’s protocols.
   • Arrange for any required badges, visitor passes, or temporary IDs before their arrival.
5. Prepare a Comfortable Workspace
   • Ensure assessors have a quiet, organized space with the tech they need—computers, network access, printers, and chargers.
   • Add thoughtful touches: bottled water, light snacks, pens, sticky notes, and a local area guide.
6. Availability & Support
   • Remain available for any needs or questions during the assessment.
   • Share your contact information so assessors can reach you quickly.
7. Dining Suggestions
   • Provide recommendations for local dining or coffee spots—maybe even pre-arrange lunch delivery on the busiest day.
   • If schedules allow, invite assessors to a meal outside the agency for a relaxed conversation.
   • If hosting a meal, avoid paying assessors per diem for that meal to prevent any ethical conflicts.
8. Additional Hospitality Touches
   • Greet assessors each morning and check in on how the day is going.
   • Follow up after the assessment with handwritten thank-you notes mailed to each assessor.

Why This Matters

An accreditation assessment isn’t just about compliance—it’s about relationships. The way assessors are treated can set the tone for the entire process. When you adopt a concierge mindset, you’re not just checking boxes—you’re creating an environment where assessors can focus on their work, feel valued, and leave with a positive impression of your agency.

Who do you know that could benefit from these accreditation-friendly tips and resources? Consider sharing this link with a colleague so they can sign up:https://www.accreditationacademy.net/signup 

Areaka P. Jewell

Accreditation Academy

areaka@accreditationacademy.net

(305) 360-1075