Disney World’s new cast members start at Disney University with Traditions, a five-part program on company history, guest service and values. On day one, they open a red box of Mickey ears, observe Magic Kingdom workers and receive name tags from Mickey Mouse.
The course introduces Disney’s Five Keys—safety, courtesy, inclusion, show and efficiency—and encourages staff to resolve guest problems without always consulting a manager. Cast members then receive role-specific training, including further instruction at their work sites.
Park officials say they plan to create 5,000 additional jobs as Disney World expands over the next five years. Disney said its Experiences division, which includes theme parks and cruises, recorded third-quarter revenue of $9.97 billion, up 10% year over year; domestic park attendance rose 3% and per-capita spending rose 4%.
