Finding the right mentor

I think it’s safe to say most people have been mentored in one way or another throughout their career, whether formally or informally. A mentor is an experienced person who supports and guides a protege/mentee and empowers them to reach their goals. My career started in clerical roles until I landed a position as anContinue reading “Finding the right mentor”

Small business litmus test

Good ideas are a dime a dozen, but great ideas? They’re gold. If you’re an entrepreneur thinking about starting a small business, you’re in good company. Madeinca.ca claim that nearly 98% of business in Canada are small businesses. However, according to Made in CA, who focus on small business in Canada, “About 50% of smallContinue reading “Small business litmus test”

Starting a business? Major move!

Almost a year ago, I took the first step into a new business venture. Working with my business partner, we bounced around ideas that eventually evolved into what we hope will be a new and exciting product in the market. The creative process was a fun one. Once we had a concept for a productContinue reading “Starting a business? Major move!”

Positioning statement – part of the brand puzzle

Building a brand takes time and planning. After all, you want to build a brand your customers will rally around. When you build a strong brand, they’ll understand who you are, what you offer and why they should do business with you. And, better yet, they’ll talk about you in the best possible way. BeforeContinue reading “Positioning statement – part of the brand puzzle”

Focus on literacy

In today’s digital age, you’ll find a variety of tools to enhance literacy skills, making reading and writing more accessible and engaging for learners of all ages. Let’s look at a few.  Educational apps like Duolingo ABC and Endless Alphabet are designed specifically for young learners. They use interactive games and activities to teach phonics, vocabulary, and reading skills.Continue reading “Focus on literacy”

Words that stump

Even though we’re texting and emailing more than handwriting, there’s still a need for clarity in our writing and good grammar! In my small business, I often catch myself – not always at first glance – leaving out letters in common words like the “r” in “your,” or changing “out” to “our”. We make theseContinue reading “Words that stump”

Say it simply

You have an exciting opportunity to build a strong and meaningful brand by being consistent in everything you do. Your brand is an important asset. It’s a perception in the minds of consumers and represents what they know and how they feel about you and your business. Your brand offers a compelling promise to yourContinue reading “Say it simply”

Honesty, an important value

I’m struggling with what to do with pieces of furniture that I no longer need or have room for. You might say, “That’s easy, give them away.” In reality it’s not that easy. Many of the pieces have sentimental value. It seems wrong to get rid of them. Am I being honest with myself? IsContinue reading “Honesty, an important value”

Stay positive

Warning. This little rant may include food for thought. I’ve written about the importance of customer service and keeping in touch with your customers in previous blogs. It’s a big important part of your brand. As a small business owner, I’ve experienced a few customer service disappointments this past week that are really getting meContinue reading “Stay positive”

The making of great speeches

Last week, I found myself immersed in watching the Democratic National Convention (DNC) on CNN. I’ve always been amazed by the grandeur of US events. The DNC didn’t let me down. The speeches were filled with passion and persuasiveness. Each was a solid example of a great speech. As I watched, here’s what I saw.Continue reading “The making of great speeches”