But there’s much more to this cyber business card than a name and phone number.

Instructors are showcased in profiles that highlight their qualifications, the levels and ages taught, and the languages they speak. Instructors also write a bio statement about who they are and their approach to teaching.

After settling on an instructor, students will find out from instructors how to go about arranging for lessons.

Instructors sign up for a membership to establish a profile. They can choose from Standard and Premium memberships.

Making it an even better deal: Instructors who are the first to sign up from their mountain get a free 12-month Premium membership.

Ski Pro Connect connects instructors and students as they’ve never been connected before. It all adds up to superior customer service – and that’s one of the core missions of Ski Pro Connect.

So for instance, a Japanese student will find a Japanese instructor, or an instructor who speaks Japanese. Students no longer have to accept any instructor who happens to be free – the one-size-fits all approach.

“Students can get to know an instructor halfway around the world before signing on with him. For example, a beginner level skier in Chicago can find the perfect instructor in Japan,” Gagnon says. “It’s the ‘no surprises’ idea. Students and instructors alike have the advantage of getting to know each other.”

The site also is a useful resource for travel agents who want to save clients time and find an instructor referral.

“We take skiing seriously, and we saw a real need for a directory that draws together ski instructors worldwide,” said Gagnon. “With Ski Pro Connect, students can search for instructors all over the globe. By linking up with the right instructor, they have a resource that can help them research -- everything from the mountain and equipment to restaurants and excursions.”

All these features mean more time for skiing. “And that’s a good thing,” says Gagnon.

“We absolutely love to ski, and we know students would rather spend their time and energy on the slopes,” says Gagnon.

“Ski Pro Connect frees them to do just that. That’s our mission.”

About Ski Pro Connect

Ski Pro Connect launched in November 2008 as a worldwide directory of ski and snowboard instructors. It was founded by veteran Canadian ski instructor Robert Gagnon and Australian businessman Paul Hemmings. Ski Pro Connect memberships for instructors start at $45 (US).

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