Labor Day is coming up, and I wanted to take the opportunity to talk about the Cast Members who work so hard to make our vacations magical and memorable. I'm sure everyone who has ever vacationed at Walt Disney World, Disneyland, or other Disney resorts, will have at least one positive experience with a Cast Member. I think it's imperative that we as guests acknowledge the work they put in for us. So, with that in mind, here are three simple ways to be kind to the Cast Members on Labor Day, and every day!
1. Greet Them: Say hello to the Cast Member manning the ticket gates, to the ones waving as you enter the park, to the ones taking your order at counter service restaurants, or standing at the Fastpass+ touch points. Think about how often these hard working Cast Members get complained at, or have to answer the same question over and over again. It’s totally fine if you have the same question, but do start your interaction by treating the Cast Member like a real person, not a magic-making-machine.
2. Don’t Yell: So your MagicBand isn’t working or your food order came out wrong. Those are bummers. But they can be fixed. However, you’ll get the issue resolved a heck of a lot faster if you don’t resort to yelling. I’ve never had an issue that couldn’t be resolved by simply bringing up the issue to a Cast Member. Simply speak in a level-headed way and explain the situation you’re in, and together you and the Cast Member will find a solution. Remember, the Cast Members want everything to go smoothly, and they want any issue to get fixed just as quickly as you do.
3. Give Praise: As with anything, some Cast Members are better than others. When you encounter a phenomenal one, make sure to tell them! A simple “thanks for being amazing,” or “you just made my day magical,” will certainly stick with him/her. Everyone loves to hear that they’re doing a good job, and spreading joy will lift your spirits too. Better yet, if a Cast Member truly goes above and beyond for you, leave a note with a manager or Guest Relations. That way, you can let the Cast Member and his/her boss know what a magical experience you had. Guest Relations, restaurant check in counters etc will have pre-fabricated notes that you just fill in with your specifics. However you leave them, these notes do not go unnoticed by the higher ups!
Cast Members in the Disney resorts are truly fantastic, and I think they don't get enough credit. Keep these easy tips in mind on your next vacation.
How do you like to thank Cast Members? Do you have any magical experiences to share? I'd really like to hear them! Let's spread some Cast Member love!