Carlisle Inn earns Leadership Team of the Year from state association

WALNUT CREEK − A dedicated staff of committed people has helped the Carlisle Inn Walnut Creek to be recognized by the Ohio Hotel and Lodging Association as the Leadership Team of the Year.

Carlisle Inn team members recognized recently by the Ohio Hotel and Lodging Association are, from left:  DeAnn Harper, Tammi Alexander, Marcie Solovyov, Chris Castelle, Dena Hershberger and Chris Argabrite.
Carlisle Inn team members recognized recently by the Ohio Hotel and Lodging Association are, from left: DeAnn Harper, Tammi Alexander, Marcie Solovyov, Chris Castelle, Dena Hershberger and Chris Argabrite.

The Carlisle Inn achieved high levels of organizational loyalty, with an average tenure approaching two decades for almost 30 percent of its staff. Another five staff members are approaching a decade of service as well, according to human resources manager Shelley Constable of the Dutchman Hospitality Group.

“The team exemplifies a commitment and dedication to supporting the number one goal of providing an outstanding, creative and memorable guest experience,” Constable said. “To accomplish this, the team is always thinking outside the box on how to provide a memorable stay for those visiting for celebration, recognition or even one last opportunity for memories with loved ones.”

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As a lifting example, she noted an experience in which the team provided for a gentleman who was diagnosed with a terminal brain condition.

Guests who have stayed at the Inn on multiple occasions were visiting to say goodbye, as the gentlemen had not much time left in this world, she said.

When the Carlisle Inn Walnut Creek team learned of the purpose for the visit, they sprang into action. With the assistance of the staff at Der Dutchman, they arranged an extended buggy ride and a private dinner, provided flowers, dinner, dessert and left a lovely gift basket with several local treats, including sparkling cider and glasses.

Flexible and able to adapt

The Carlisle Inn Walnut Creek team has proven its flexibility and adaptability to overcome challenges. When things do not go as planned, they prioritize the needs of guests to ensure peace and comfort.

The team is always considerate to revising daily operating procedures so that it can better service customers with efficiency and prioritization, Constable added. They are always adaptable in haste or when presented with challenges that must be overcome so to get back to business.

"A collaborative leadership is part of the Carlisle Inn Walnut Creek's success," she said. "They work together to ensure the team can consistently deliver the best experience, be the best hosts and therefore make it the number one destination within Ohio's Amish Country."

Constable noted the team is engaging and open to feedback. Each and every member is open to hearing from guests. Often accolades and praise, but sometimes concerns. The team listens intentionally so that feedback can be shared collectively to mitigate future concerns, she said.

Committed ownership

The Carlisle Inn Walnut Creek is blessed with conscientious ownership. Each team member, especially supervisors, treat the building and its assets as if it were personal property because it is personal to them, and they are invested in the success.

The team exhibits dependability, showing up to do the work that many don't like, and doing it with enthusiasm. This team brings a new level of excitement with them each day. Although many tasks become repetitive; there is always excitement to be at work, working together and engaging with the guests they love to serve.

This article originally appeared on The Daily Record: Carlisle Inn leadership recognized by Ohio lodging association

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