The Dorchester’s Post

A couple of GREAT definitions of AN EXPERIENCE: I recently got my new issue of SEAT Magazine, published by President Amanda Verhoff and the team at ALSD, an Association that collectively is focused, among other things, on ELEVATING THE EXPERIENCE at our favorite sports and entertainment venues. In this issue, beside enjoying the stories and photos of winners in the different “Best of” categories associated with the stadiums and arenas, what caught my eye were answers in the Q&A section from a couple of long-term veterans of the industry. I thought the quotes well-worth sharing as applicable and a useful reminder to any who host visitors to their 'house of business' and strive to standout from other (competitors) with a similar offering: Q – How do you define an Experience? A - Annemarie (Anne) Hastings – a 20-yr veteran w/ the San Francisco Giants: “An Experience evokes a feeling that makes you want to share it with others. (...)It leaves an impression... creates a memory. And stays with you long after a greeter calls you by name.. (…...)..... A - Jeff Morander long-time executive in the NHL: An experience is an encounter with an event where you not only observe, but also feel the event. My takeaway: It's all about FEELINGS wo-o-o Feelings,........... (but, no, not the 70's hit song by Morris Albert). Rather it's about making that game/appointment/visit/trip/stay/flight an experience that will remain a special memory for them, and about which they will 1) want to tell their friends, and 2) return again). It involves connecting with Guest on an EMOTIONAL level far beyond and much deeper than merely at a rational, transactional level. THAT is an ELEVATED EXPERIENCE. THAT is HOSPITALITY …...... Succintly put, Annamarie and Jeff. Well said. #hospitality

Throughly enjoyed this insightful session!

Is your business worth shouting about?

Last week we shared thoughts from our High Flyer Chris this week we touched base with Jo our Pride Awards winner on why she thinks she stood out and what it takes to succeed at Carpetright. Our Pride Award winner Jo Marriott said: When you work with a great team of people who want to deliver the best results, you feel compelled to do your very best to support them. I truly believe that if people ask for help you must step up and do the right thing, after all it’s really not hard, especially when you like people. Over the past couple of years InHome@Carpetright has been through an immense transformation, which has been exciting and challenging all at the same time and it’s been fabulous to have been part of this. I never dreamt I would win this, as there were so many worthy pride winners and am just so grateful to feel valued by others. I have been very fortunate to work for a leader who has wanted me to use my operational skills and push me to explore new ways of working and then allow me to put them into practice. I feel more alive in the past 2 and half years than I have for a long time. Having the right leadership makes all the difference it’s energising when you are recognised for who you are and what you have to offer. Recognition helps you grow that’s for sure. People make all the difference, be one of those wants to make a difference and not be frightened to step outside of your comfort zone. Be resilient and open to change and development. Enjoy your job and allow that to show, as working alongside enthusiastic people just sets you up for success. #recognition  #awards  #celebratingsuccess  #winners  #achievements

collaboration , respect and professionalism is what works

Alright, let’s get real for a second. By now, you’ve seen some of my initial “travel with me” adventures in NYC. Maybe you’ve caught some FOMO. Maybe you’ve thought, “That sounds fun, but...” Well, consider this your sign to stop scrolling and start saying YES. Here’s the deal: I’m about to kick off my Charlotte experience—deep dives into life and business, breakthroughs, amazing food, and some of the best the city has to offer. And I’ve got even more trips lined up: - NYC this fall (you know, when the air is crisp and Broadway is exploding with new shows) - Dallas for the Red River Shootout (Oct 12, y’all know what’s up) - Cleveland for the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame (channel your inner rock god/goddess) - Las Vegas to see THE EAGLES at The Sphere (I mean, come on, it’s The Sphere!) - And let’s not forget Miami, Chicago, Seattle, Atlanta… adventure awaits. This isn’t just sightseeing. We’re talking life-changing work—clarity on your next big move, breakthroughs that actually stick, and strategy sessions that’ll make your career and life hum. So what are you waiting for? Drop the word “adventure” in the comments or DM me if you’re ready to make big things happen while eating world-class pizza, hitting up Broadway, or rocking out in Cleveland. Because the only thing standing between you and your next big leap is YOU. Let’s do this. #TravelWithMe #NYCInTheFall #RedRiverShootout #BroadwayBound #BreakthroughMoments #JohnAlanTurner

Relaxed but Restless On this leg of our holiday, Helen Langhammer and I are visiting friends in Cambridge. Our friends David and Quim took us punting down the river. The two of them did all the heavy work of punting while we sat and sipped champagne, and really, who can complain at such hospitality? 😉 I'm now itching to get back to work. I've had so many ideas for designing some new team assessments and I'm restless to get started. 💪 #leadershipdevelopment #teamdynamics #workstyles

Manchester United CEO Omar Berrada Berrada quoted today in the times "If you’re going to recruit well, recruit the recruiters well". “Getting the right player with the right character for the right price and getting the right principles back in <Manchester> United." He emphasises 'character', 'values and value’. Like most things it comes from the top, the leadership. Having the right 'values' and value and ensuring the people you are working with internally and externally share those 'values and value’. So, "If you’re going to recruit well, recruit the recruiters well" and get someone with the same 'values and value’ after all they are a custodian of your brand. This applies to all business sectors including SaaS world.

I'm often asked what I love about putting on events. Well, let me share a post from the first Awards that I ran back in 2018. It's a great example of how attendees feel after in-person events. But when you put on great events, people go away feeling inspired. I love looking around the room and seeing people's reactions - the joy, the tears, the emotion of being immersed in something truly special. It's about showcasing stories and hearing people talk about them for years to come. Putting on events can be challenging, but the reward of seeing attendees leave with a sense of inspiration is truly priceless. #eventplanning #inspiration #awards #success

Are you attending #TheLodgingConference in Phoenix here in a couple of weeks? Do you want to learn more about new markets and new development opportunities? If so, let’s set up some time to connect and discuss all that’s new and exciting Marriott International. See you there!!! #Marriott #Development