I’ve read the testimonials that clients have written about you on www.patcarlisle.com and see that you are actively involved in WorkNet Pinellas and the Community Associations Institute. Education is an ongoing interest of yours. What’s the connection between your chosen profession and education?

WorkNet was a client of mine. They invited me to sit on their Board. Through that connection, I was invited to a Pinellas Education Fund luncheon. Senator Don Gatez was the speaker. He took Okaloosa County’s education program and really transformed it. By the time he was finished, the county had the best FCAT scores. The speech was motivational and inspirational. I was motivated to get involved. In past month, I was asked to be chairman of a youth program for WorkNet Pinellas. I try to stay involved in the community. It’s key to keep in touch. My approach is educational. My best client is an educated client. I want them to know about their potential liability as well as their coverage. They need to be well-informed. In the final analysis, I’ve been successful when I’ve become a real partner with my client. My client’s success is also my success. The best way to accomplish that is through education and information.

What’s your business philosophy?

I think it’s the same as for most successful people. I try to follow the The Golden Rule-treat people the way you would want to be treated. We do it to this day. When you call our office, no one screens the call. When you ask for Pat, I answer the phone call. That’s the way I want it. I want to be available. My phone number is listed and my cell phone number is on my business card. When a potential client asks, “Why choose Pat Carlisle?” I give them very specific answers. I develop relationships with my clients. I see my clients face-to-face three times a year at a minimum. I personally get involved with their business and take personal responsibility for their insurance needs. I don’t believe in delegating my clients to others. This is personal for me. When a business hires Pat Carlisle, they get Pat Carlisle and his enthusiasm and passion for doing it right.

You’re a recognized expert in the specialized field of manufactured housing. What the one piece of advice you’d offer to a manufactured housing board?

It’s important to make sure you pick the agent that’s best qualified to handle your business. You have to interview agents, ask them important questions. For example, ask them, “How long have you been in this business? How many policies of this type do you write? Do you handle many clients? Can you provide referrals? What are your professional credentials? Once you’ve chosen the agent, give that agent free rein to pursue the best for you. Shop for an agent, don’t shop for a policy.

How did CCF&N form?

About 4 years ago John Fields and I realized we’d done a great job servicing our clients but hadn’t spent much time planning for the future of the agency when we were no longer involved. We started thinking about how our business would continue. We needed partners who could carry on our tradition. We didn’t want to be involved with the publicly traded firms, the large firms. We wanted to work with someone we liked and respected. I knew John Connelly for more than 20 years and had a great deal of respect for him, professionally and personally. After a short time, it became clear that this was the right direction. The synergy has been great.

What are your business goals for the future?

I feel like I’m in the best place I’ve been in professionally in a long time. Finally, I get to concentrate on the aspects of my work that I like to do best which is taking care of my clients. At CCF&N, I don’t have to worry about the administrative aspects of running the agency, I’m able to concentrate on my passion, serving my clients. I’m a people person and want to continue working closely with my clients as a trusted partner.

How would you like to be remembered?

I hope people remember me as honest, professional, and caring.