Marie Valere's Eventful Few Months

As a guest service agent at the Hilton Garden Inn New York Times Square South, Marie Valere never has a dull moment, checking guests in and out, answering guest questions about hotel services, the local neighborhood, transportation and a myriad of other issues. It’s clear why General Manager David Ruas calls the front desk “the heart of the house.”

The past few months have been especially eventful. Marie celebrated her fifth service anniversary at the hotel and was recognized for enrolling the highest number of guests in the Hilton Honors frequent guest program during November. Marie was awarded Hilton Honors points and Starbucks and Amazon gift cards. She has won the award three months in a row.

“Marie is such a welcoming presence at the front desk and so genuine, it’s no wonder that, once guests see all the advantages that come with Hilton Honors membership, they are ready to sign up,” David said.

He praises Marie further for her work ethic, noting that she is very loyal and continued to work through the pandemic. She grew up in Haiti and is active in her church.

Like Hilton, Marriott International (with Marriott Bonvoy), IHG Hotels & Resorts (with IHG Rewards) and other hotel companies heavily promote their frequent guest programs. Consumers, who are on the lookout for more points leading to complimentary stays and other perks are more likely to book hotels when they are members of the frequent guest program.

For her part, Marie—ever modest—acknowledges the job David and the team do in keeping the hotel running smoothly. They make her job easy, she says.