The Key to a Professional Business Image

Having a designated business address is an important aspect of starting and growing a successful business. A business address is key to a professional image. It can enhance credibility and help to separate personal and business dealings. It can also be necessary for legal compliance and for receiving mail and packages related to the business. In today’s digital age, a corporeal business address may not be necessary for day-to-day operations. However, it still plays a vital role in building a strong and trustworthy brand. Whether you are starting a new business or looking to expand your current operations, finding the right business address provider can help you achieve your goals and take your business to the next level.

When looking for a business address provider, consider the following factors:

Location:

It is important to look for a provider with a strategic location. Pick an address in a reputable and convenient area. Aim to have it close to your target audience or business partners, as that will not only enhance your image but it will also make you seem reachable upon need.

Mail Receipt:

Make sure the provider offers secure and convenient mail receipt services. Some providers offer Package receipt while others may not. Some providers offer designated mailboxes while others may not. Assess your business needs and find the providers that fit what the business requires.

Professional Image:

Look for a provider that offers a professional and credible business address. For example, having an address in a corporate building vs having an address in a retail store. Only you can determine what works best for your business! Strategize, and choose a provider that can enhance your marketing and advertising expression.

Customer Service:

Choose a provider with responsive and helpful customer service. At times you may need to connect with the provider to ask a question or resolve an issue. It is during these times that you rely on your provider’s approachable customer service.

Cost:

Incorporate the cost of a business address provider in your budget. Review the services offered making sure they meet your business requirements. Shop around for affordable pricing so you do not exceed your budget.

Additional Services:

Look for providers that offer additional services, such as mail forwarding, virtual office services, and meeting room rentals. Even though you may not need all that as you start up your business; however, these are services you may need later on as the business grows.

Reputation:

Research the provider’s reputation. Search for online reviews and speak with other business owners. Your provider’s reputation will become your business reputation; so make an informed decision when choosing a business address provider.

Make it a part of your home business strategy

If you are a home business, consider having a business address. Establishing a professional image, meeting legal requirements, protecting privacy, and managing mail and packages are crucial to operating a business. Separating personal and business finances and improving marketing and advertising efforts is vital for growth. Getting a business address helps to establish credibility, promote privacy, and maintain a clear separation between personal and business dealings.

BizReflections

Grace Nasralla is the founder and senior business blogger at BizReflections. She is a Co-Owner at HUDDLESPACE which provides small business owners with offices for rent. This year (2024), Grace launched a loose leaf tea brand and named it Brew & Scone.

www.bizreflections.ca

January 27, 2023March 30, 2023

The worst nightmare for the business owner

As business owners, we set goals and strive to achieve them on a daily basis. Yet, as we go about doing our work, we realize that some tasks may fail and other tasks may succeed. And even though we are conscious of the undetermined results, we stay focused on the ultimate business objectives to guide us toward success. Overcoming obstacles is a characteristic that every business owner should master. Nevertheless, some obstacles, if not carefully dealt with, may turn into nightmares.

Let’s look at some of the potential worst nightmares for a business owner:

Financial complications

One of the worst nightmares for a business owner is experiencing risky financial problems. And I am talking about financial difficulties that may threaten the survival of a business. These troubles may be a sudden deflation of revenue or going bankrupt. It may also be facing substantial debt or having to lay off employees. Facing situations that require radical decisions that will determine the existence of the business can be a nightmare if not planned for. A part of business planning is incorporating a proactive plan that will assist business owners as they make decisions during these emergency situations.

Losing a major customer

Another nightmare is failing to retain a major customer. And if that was a long-term or high-value customer, it will make the situation an even more devastating blow; as it could potentially lead to significant financial losses. Identifying major customers, and building a retention strategy, will secure long-term relationships and maintain the sustainability of the business.

Legal issues

A small business may be subject to facing a wide range of legal issues, such as lawsuits, regulatory investigations, or maybe some intellectual property disputes. That can be a nightmare for small businesses as court issues are usually time-consuming. These legal issues are also expensive and potentially damaging to the reputation and credibility of any business.

Reputational damage

A small business’ reputation is a valuable asset, and any damage in the standing of a business will affect its credibility and trustworthiness. Once the reputation is harmed, it gives way for the negative press to fuss, customer complaints will skyrocket, and social media will backlash. And that can have serious consequences on the survival of a small business.

Loss of key personnel

Another major nightmare for a business is the sudden loss of a key staff member. Whether it be an important executive, a top salesperson, or a highly skilled worker; that can cause a major setback for a business. These unexpected crucial vacancies can impact the business’s ability to operate effectively and achieve its targets.

Natural disasters or other emergencies

When operating a business, it is crucial to allocate an emergency fund, and ensure that proper insurance is in place to cover natural disasters and other emergencies. Unpredicted crises such as earthquakes, hurricanes, floods, or power outages can disrupt a business’s operations and turn them into a nightmare. These disastrous conditions can cause significant damage to the facilities, equipment, and inventory. And in some cases, it can even result in human loss.

Cyber-attacks or data breaches

A significant nightmare for a business may be caused by a violation of cyber security. Cyber-attacks and data breaches are alarming as they result in the theft or loss of sensitive data. We have all heard of shocking stories of how customer information or proprietary information has gone missing in reputable banks or businesses. Such horrifying experiences can have serious consequences on the credibility or reliability of the business.

BizReflections

www.bizreflections.ca

November 25, 2022March 30, 2023

Google Search Tricks You Never Thought Exist

How often do you use Google search?

Google’s plan for its search feature seems to be geared to continuously increase the number of searches even without any submission by the user. We are at a point now where we ask Google for everything! Want to know the weather? Ask Google. Want to get the location of a business? Ask Google. What to know where a restaurant is? Ask Google.

Google seems to appreciate that people are using their search feature and they are definitely investing in it. Now we can perform searches that are based on keywords and get our results without even having to submit the search. Let’s test that:

Go to Google and type the following search keyword: Weather

Isn’t it helpful to save time and get the result instantly without even submitting the search? Wait, there’s more! Google search has extended its feature ability to do simple calculations.

Let’s try another function. This time let’s try the calculation: 567*44=

Google now instantly gives us the answer, without even submitting the inquiry for any calculation! That means that now Google search can replace our calculator for simple calculations. In fact, now Google has its own calculator under the search term: Calculator Google.

To take that further, Google search now does complex calculations, graph functions, and it solves geometry problems. It converts Fahrenheit to Celsius, currency and weight comparisons, and a lot more.

Google search even compares travel information including price comparison!

Future Features

More Google searches are coming up every year. And there will be new features with artificial intelligence in years to come including a 360-degree shopping experience that is still being worked on.

If you are a fan of Google products like I am, keep looking out for new search features regularly. Google’s latest technology will definitely continue to contribute efficiency to our daily work routine.

BizReflections

www.bizreflections.ca

October 9, 2022March 30, 2023

Entrepreneurs Make Exceptional Hikers

This summer I decided to explore forests and parks in an attempt to increase activity and regain muscle strength. As an entrepreneur, I have learned that once I make a decision, I have to work on an implementation plan. So, in an attempt to understand what hiking is all about, I decided with my girls to go for a walk in Hilton Falls Park. Starting with a bottle of water and an old pair of walking shoes, I walked 2.5 km. That day, I enjoyed my time with my girls, I took some pictures and I went back to where my car was parked, thinking that I have hiked that day. Little did I know that hiking is a sport and one can become a professional hiker!

As I approached my car, I noticed a lady in the car beside mine packing her hiking sticks. She looked like she was performing a cleansing ritual from the sweat of a long hike. As I came closer, I recognized her face and even her name came to mind! I called her name out: “Karen?!”, she looked at me with eyes that were trying to recognize who I am. I mentioned my name, and we immediately started recollecting the time when we were working together at an International non-profit organization, over 20 years ago.

We stood there for almost half an hour chatting and updating each other news. I mentioned to Karen that my plan for the summer is to hike the trails of Halton Hills. She then told me about her hiking journey and how she’s been volunteering with the city as a ranger on the trails. She even volunteered to be my guide in my hiking journey!

What? I questioned if I heard that right! So, I sought clarification, and she confirmed that she would volunteer to be my guide on my hiking trips. That was at the beginning of June 2022. And since then, I have been hiking with Karen at least once a week. That is when I realized that hiking is more than just walking the trails. It is an adventure, it is a commitment, and it requires the qualities that I have acquired as an entrepreneur. I understood then that entrepreneurs make exceptional hikers! And here are four reasons why Entrepreneurs make exceptional hikers:

_{Entrepreneurs are Visionaries}

Entrepreneurs are usually good visionaries. They can see the bigger picture of where they want their business to be within a certain period of time. They willingly work hard to get where they want to be one step at a time. Similarly, hikers can clearly identify what hikes they dream of and plan to hike within a specific time period. Hikers are able to discover their ambitions and they work hard to succeed in achieving their dream hikes one step at a time.

_{Entrepreneurs are Risk Takers}

Being a risk taker is an important quality that helps Entrepreneurs flourish and succeed. In fact, one cannot be an entrepreneur without possessing the ability to take risks. It is that challenge that drives them to accomplish and meet goals. After all, the majority of entrepreneurs have taken the risk of leaving a secure job to start their entrepreneurial journey.

In comparison, hikers take risks during every trip they make. Whether it be inside a forest, every time they hop over slippery rocks and waterfalls, or even as they climb rocky mountains. They are very much aware of the predictable, but, at the same time, they are not afraid to face the unpredictable. After all, isn’t that what risk-taking is all about?

_{Entrepreneurs are Determined}

Entrepreneurs are very determined people. They keep trying despite failure. They are good at picking up the pieces and giving it another attempt, and they keep doing that until they succeed. Entrepreneurs learn from their own mistakes and they keep developing their ways until they achieve their goals. Hikers have different challenges, but it is their determination that allows them to reach their targets. Trust me, walking 8 km was not an easy task for me, and many times during that hike I felt discouraged and unable to continue. It was only through my determination that I was able to achieve hiking that distance. Professional hikers go on 25km and 30km trips and they keep at it until they reach their objective.

_{Entrepreneurs are Persevering}

Perseverance is a quality that refines character. It is a skill that can be acquired through experience (learning) or through an example (other’s influence). It is a quality that determines the success of an entrepreneur. John D Rockefeller, who is a business tycoon, said: “I do not think that there is any other quality so essential to success of any kind as the quality of perseverance.” This quality has the same effect on hikers as they face challenges; whether it be physical challenges (pains and aches) or natural and environmental challenges (slippery rocks, muddy or dry soil,….), it is through perseverance that hikers succeed in achieving their goals and reaching unsurpassed objectives.

Are you an entrepreneur? Then, my recommendation to you is to consider hiking as the activity that will help you build your entrepreneurial character. The qualities that entrepreneurs already have does equip them to become hikers, and hiking will help them polish their abilities to become the entrepreneurs they want to be.

BizReflections

www.bizreflections.ca

July 19, 2022December 28, 2023

Hackers are Real: Are you Cybersecurity Ready?

By Michael Castro

As businesses grow more complex and interconnected, they need a robust cybersecurity posture. This is especially true in the fast-paced, digital world. A secure business can respond quickly to changes and protect its data from unauthorized access. Michael Castro, founder of Canadian-based cybersecurity firm, RiskAware, has led cyber security teams at some of Canada’s largest companies and currently provides Board of Director Security Consulting and virtual CISO services to a variety of organizations.

Here are Michael’s top five tips for business owners and executives to increase their cybersecurity benefits:

Protect Your Business Reputation

Your business has a reputation to protect. You need to make sure that your business is not the target of cybercriminals. Cybercriminals are constantly looking for ways to steal sensitive information and target your company. To protect your business, you need to create a solid cybersecurity plan and implement it. Cybersecurity for business executives should have the ability to determine what their business needs to protect and implement a plan.

Better Website Security

A secure business website does not have a weak link in its cybersecurity chain. You need to make sure that your web server is protected and secure, and you must have an active firewall. A good firewall can protect against hackers, viruses, spyware, and other malicious attacks. A robust cybersecurity plan also needs to include a secure website.

Assists in Remote Working

Cybersecurity can be a challenge for businesses located out of the country. Many companies are based in foreign countries and rely on an international workforce. To maintain a secure working environment, you must have a robust cybersecurity plan in place. Your goal should include remote working policies and procedures. A safe business should also have a policy on how employees will be trained and vetted for access to sensitive information. The cybersecurity business importance, for business executives, is to ensure that their data is secure.

Enhanced Data Management

When you have a strong cybersecurity plan in place, you can ensure that your data is protected. You can also save your business information by implementing an excellent cybersecurity policy. Your business should also have a data handling policy and procedures. These policies will help to improve the organization’s ability to protect its sensitive information from hackers and unauthorized access.

Cybersecurity is a need for business executives who want to protect their company’s data and information. Cybersecurity is an essential aspect of your business, and you need to make sure that it is appropriately managed. To ensure that your cybersecurity plan is effective, you need to ensure that your information is protected from hackers and cybercriminals.

Ensure CEOs/owners understand the risks within their organization

The board of directors has a primary role in developing an organization’s risk management program and must be familiar with its operation and evolution. Risk management is identifying, quantifying, and controlling risks in a project or the entire organization. Projects that do not incorporate risk management are often at a higher risk of unsuccessful.

The Board ensures full awareness and comprehensive understanding of the risks within their organization. The necessary measures – such as policies, procedures, processes, and control mechanisms to address these risks – are in place. This is a crucial responsibility of the Board, and it is an area where many boards fall.

Submitted By:

Michael Castro, founder of Canadian-based cybersecurity firm, RiskAware | info@riskaware.io

June 29, 2022February 1, 2023

Four Steps For Entrepreneurs To Get Out Of Your Own Way!

A fixed mindset holds people back because they believe that their talents and abilities are set in stone, which limits their ability to learn and grow. In order to succeed, entrepreneurs need to overcome their own mindsets. On the other hand, a growth mindset recognizes that skills and talents can be developed through effort, practice, and learning from mistakes. This type of thinking is critical for entrepreneurs who want to achieve high levels of success.

“Be real. There is no bigger magnet to attract your ideal clients than your authentic self. – Puja Misra”

The first biggest barrier to business growth is a lack of confidence.

This can manifest itself in different ways, such as second-guessing yourself, not taking risks, or being too perfectionistic. However, all of these behaviors have one thing in common: they stem from a fear of failing. Instead of seeing failure as a setback, view it as an opportunity to learn and grow. The only way to achieve great things is to embrace failure and adopt a growth mindset.

People with a growth mindset see obstacles as learning opportunities. They are not afraid of failure, because they know that it is only through trial and error that they will find success. They listen to their inner voice and intuition, trusting their gut instinct to guide them. And they are not afraid to take risks, because they know that this is how the big wins are made. This shift in thinking will open up new possibilities and help you reach your full potential.

The second barrier is personal brand reputation.

In today’s digital age, our personal brands are more important than ever before. And many entrepreneurs are so worried about what other people will think of them that they hold back from really putting themselves out there and lose out on an immense amount of opportunities. But the truth is that if you’re not actively working on your personal brand, you’re not going to get very far in business.

Additionally, always remember that you are your Brand and your personal brand reputation is an asset so don’t be afraid to promote yourself and your business.

The third barrier is brand marketing.

Building a brand, marketing and advertising is an important way for any business to reach new clients. Too often, entrepreneurs think that they can’t afford to invest in marketing, or that it’s not worth the effort. Reality is that without a strong brand presence and marketing strategy, your business will struggle to reach its potential and stand apart in a crowded marketplace… If you want to grow your business, you need to invest in branding and marketing.

The fourth Barrier is time management skills.

As a small business owner, you have a lot on your plate. From sales and marketing to product development and customer service, there are a lot of moving parts to your business. And while it’s important to be involved in all aspects of your business, you can’t do everything yourself. That’s why time management skills are so important for entrepreneurs.

By learning how to manage your time effectively, you can free up more time to focus on brand strategy, business marketing, and other activities that will help grow your business. And when your business is growing, you’ll be able to show potential investors that you’re serious about making profits. In addition, good time management can help you to build a strong reputation for customer service and quality products or services.

Submitted by:

Puja Misra, the President of Zoom Into Life Studio. A creative branding agency helping businesses & entrepreneurs transform into Brands for over a decade. Proudly serving small businesses in Oakville, Burlington, Milton, Mississauga, Toronto, and the Greater Toronto Area.

www.zoomintolife.com
puja@zoomintolife.com

June 27, 2022July 17, 2023

Reasons versus Excuses

What did I learn today as an entrepreneur?

Often, we offer a reason or excuse when something didn’t happen, or is not done.
First, let me start with my perception of the difference by defining each concept as I see it.
Excuse* – to me, this says, it was avoidable, and within our control to change the outcome.
Reason* – to me, this says, it was maybe not avoidable, but still within our control to change the outcome. Let’s look at Reasons versus Excuses.

*Disclaimer: I know and get there are other factors and circumstances where what I am sharing is NOT the case. Those instances are not what I am discussing in this article, but rather those situations where we have control of our decision-making processes involving our business.

Reasons versus Excuses

I want to pause us here and ask: Why is it we don’t spend as much energy on using a reason or excuse when something is successful, completed, or done? Is not the learning moment and evaluation of what led to the successes or accomplishments equally important as the time we invest in justifying why something did not happen or is not done?

When do we find ourselves articulating a reason or excuse?

Do we more often work on coming up with either of these when it comes to feeling the need to offer others one? Are we looking for empathy? Understanding? Justifying?

Do we in our own mind craft one for ourselves to make us feel better about the lack of a result?

I have finally come to the place where I won’t offer, volunteer, or blurb out a reason or excuse when something is not done, unaccomplished, or has not happened. It doesn’t change the fact! It doesn’t alter the outcome!

Don’t get me wrong – if I am asked, I will share my perception of why something has not gone as planned or has not occurred. Too often, however, I find the sharing of the reason or excuse is nothing more than providing myself or another party with the opportunity to play the ‘blame game’. This game does not, again, alter the outcome but boy how it can feed or deflate one’s ego! What are the differences between the words?

I’d love to hear your thoughts!

I do see the reason as being outside of our control happening, occurrence, and or the moment but that does not mean it has to dictate the outcome. We allow that. I see ‘reasons’ as being a problem and I try my best to live in a world where all problems have solutions. With this thought in mind when the reason appears, even outside of my control, I should be able to pivot around it and regain control to get the outcome I am needing.
Therefore, any reason and or excuse (for the most part) is not acceptable as to why something did not get done or occur.

I have started to phrase things differently. I feel this has been a huge moment in my personal and professional development, to be honest. I am at a place where I say (to myself), “This did not happen, and this is how I see it moving forward.” It takes the pressure from the disappointment and puts the focus on the forward movement. Movement is about finding a solution. That is powerful for both and all parties. Why linger on the “ugh” of what happened, or why it didn’t happen? Don’t we all just want to focus on the forward movement and momentum of how it is now going to take shape and occur?

Reason or excuse? Fact and movement? Let’s state the fact and get to the moving!

Submitted By:

Cheryl Clark of Clark Strategies | team@clarkstrategies.ca | www.clarkstrategies.ca

June 13, 2022July 17, 2023

Make A Lasting Impact

What did I learn today as an entrepreneur?

As business owners we drop the ball. As business owners we make mistakes. As business owners we screw up. As business owners our actions and our lack of actions has an impact. I intentionally put a period there after the word impact. Impact – PERIOD. This will not be a light and fluffy, heart-warming blog. This will be as real as it gets from many angles.

Recently I had a client trust me to do certain tasks for them. Without a lengthy list of excuses and reasons – I did not get the said tasks done.

In my mind, this has created a Tsunami.

Tsunami Definition: a long high sea wave caused by an earthquake, submarine landslide, or other disturbance. It can also be an arrival or occurrence of something in overwhelming quantities or amounts.

As business owners, we hear repeatedly the client is always right, and we need to see things from the client’s perspective. From the client’s perspective, it is quite possible my name is mud!

Now, I have not asked how they are feeling about my lack of performance, I have not reached out to take a poll or get the low down on how they are feeling. I have not asked about their frustration level and or anxiety level centered around their expectations being crushed. I have not asked.

Instead, I am assuming, and yes, I know what that word breaks down to be. In my assumptive state I am thinking they will blacklist me; talk to everyone they know about how horrid “I” am. See what I did there? How horrid “I” am rather than how horrid my service was! There is a difference.

So now I sit on an unfinished task, not communicating out of fear and waiting for the wave to hit me and leave me gasping for air. That is what I can articulate on one level. Yes, there are levels to this thing called business ownership. Level 1 completed – I am waiting for the wave.

Level 2 is being played out simultaneously. Level 2 looks something like this! I go to bed every night knowing I didn’t face the ‘task’ or ‘client’ and thinking tomorrow I WILL! I will make this as right as I can! Level 2 includes me waking up every morning carrying the weight of I must get this done and how in the world do I even make this right now?? At this level I find I am equipped with no free hands because they are busy picking up every piece of baggage I can manage to find to carry. The baggage of “I messed up”, “I failed”, “I disappointed someone”, “why do I do this?”, “who is going to do business with me now?”, “screw it”.

Crazy enough the point of this post is: Yes, care for your client and how they feel but, dang it, as a business owner be attentive to how you are feeling and handling things for your own mental peace of mind.

Failure is an event.
Disappointing one is not disappointing all.
Feelings change.
LET IT GO!
Stop carrying it.
Come to a place of peace.
I messed up and own it. I can’t fix it and own it. Move forward and OWN THAT forward movement.

Submitted By:

Cheryl Clark of Clark Strategies | team@clarkstrategies.ca | www.clarkstrategies.ca

June 6, 2022July 17, 2023

What I Wish I Knew When I Started This Journey

Have you just started your entrepreneurial journey? Let me share with you some lessons learned.

I remember it like it was yesterday.

I was attending my first networking event as a new entrepreneur, and on the drive there, I almost talked myself out of going.

Public speaking wasn’t new to me. Before starting my business, I had built an award-winning 15-year career in public relations and corporate communications. I advised, wrote for, and trained managers, senior executives, and politicians on communication.

But this was different. This was me talking about me. I had no idea how challenging that was going to be.

When my turn came to introduce myself and my business, I stumbled through my intro. I felt wholly inadequate as I compared myself to other entrepreneurs in the room. I admired those who appeared confident, clear, and who knew exactly how they served. I wanted to be like them.

That day served as a touchstone moment for me. It showed me how much I needed to learn to believe in myself and I didn’t yet know-how. It provided me with the opportunity to see that entrepreneurship was a journey of becoming – a journey that’s not talked about enough, and one which new entrepreneurs would benefit from learning more about.

You don’t know what you don’t know, right? Here are three lessons that flowed out of that day that I wish all new entrepreneurs knew:

No matter how awesome you were in your 9-5, entrepreneurship is a different beast. I don’t mean to scare you. The reality is in your 9-5 you had a specialized role. In your business especially at the beginning, you’ll wear many hats. Some you’ll master. Others you’ll need help with. You’ll learn. You’ll fail. You’ll get back up and adjust.
You’ll come face-to-face with feelings of inadequacy. “Not enough” and “not worthy” will show up a lot. Avoid believing these stories. A large part of the entrepreneurial journey is learning to let go of self-limiting thoughts and beliefs, and continuously moving forward with purpose.
You’re not alone. I developed relationships with entrepreneurs who were present at my first networking event. We talked about our challenges with growing confidence and learning what it meant to be an entrepreneur. We found comfort knowing we weren’t alone. There are many entrepreneur communities. Find yours and lean into them.

May these lessons serve you as they served me in the brave and fulfilling journey of entrepreneurship.

Submitted By:

Fazeena Haniff | CEO & Leadership Communication Coach | The Conscious Communicator hello@theconsciouscommunicator.ca | www.theconsciouscommunicator.ca

May 27, 2022July 17, 2023

Possessing the Radar For Opportunity

What did I learn today as an entrepreneur?

I learned that not everyone sees there is always a verb before the word opportunity.

Think about that for a minute.

We need to LOOK for opportunities.
We need to CREATE opportunities.
We need to GIVE or be GIVEN opportunities.
We need to TAKE opportunities.
We need to CAPITALIZE on opportunities.
We need to PASS on opportunities.
We need to USE opportunities.
We need to RECOGNIZE opportunities.

I am sure I am missing a few on my list here but I think you get where I am going with this. Opportunity and or opportunities always take work and or action on our part.

The famous Ann Landers wrote, “Opportunities are usually disguised as hard work, so most people don’t recognize them.” Her point has two aspects that ring so true for me. #1 – They are work; and #2 – They are disguised.

Opportunities do not just arrive and materialize into all we hope they will be. They do not self-install or work for us and our businesses, though they do seem to have a mind of their own. For some, opportunities will sit and wait forever – it seems; and for others, opportunities will be there when we are ready to receive them; and yet for still others, opportunities arrive and leave so quickly it is in hindsight that they recognize they were even there.

Another point on opportunities is often “you” don’t see what “I” see. This viewpoint goes two ways. You don’t see what I see for you, and I don’t see what you see for me. What do I mean by that? I believe there are a lot of factors to this point but to me, this says so loudly we should be pointing them out for one another and be open to seeing from one another’s perspective.

Another verb I should have added to the list above is ‘chasing’. I have been guilty of ‘chasing’ an opportunity only to find it is not within my reach and by reach, I mean capability, but yet, I have spun my wheels trying to take something I was not capable of holding onto and working effectively.

Not every opportunity is for us. Hardcore fact! This is my second favorite part of my thought process on opportunities. My first favorite part was the knowledge there is always action associated with opportunities. My second favorite part is we truly need to know where we are going, what we want to accomplish, and what our core goals and values are to determine what opportunities are meant for us! Not every opportunity is for us.

Be willing to do the action/verb for your forward movement and be a team player. Keep an eye out for fellow business owners. I, we, they need your perspective at times and community is so valuable for just that – perspectives around opportunities.

Submitted By:

Cheryl Clark of Clark Strategies | team@clarkstrategies.ca | www.clarkstrategies.ca

May 19, 2022July 17, 2023

“Validation” a Game Changer?

What did I learn today as an entrepreneur?

I learned a long time ago that we are in the ‘People Validation’ business. Recent events had me reflect on just how this knowledge is not common, nor are the benefits of operating from this perspective well known.

It does not matter what product or service you monetize on, you are in the ‘People Validation’ business. I intentionally use the word monetize and not the word sells, and in another blog I will explain why!

I think at times we get it backward as business owners. We think it’s “Us” that needs to be seen and heard. Now don’t get me wrong I love a good marketing campaign! I love businesses putting out content. Again, note my choice of word ‘content’ – not sales pitches.

I see content as being educational pieces, creating awareness, providing opportunities that lead to sales, sharing accolades and accomplishments, and branding one’s self as an expert – I love seeing it all. We shine when we show up like that! If this is how you are showing up – KUDOS! If it is not how you are showing up, please keep reading.

Stick with me here.

You can show up for yourself and your business and do so in a way that others will feel seen, heard, and validated. You know those posts that share how you served another, the posts that share a pain point and how you may be able to help others, the posts that share you doing something online or in your real community – you are showing up, but others are also feeling the ‘love’, the validation. It’s not just about you.

Recently I sent out a series of emails to a group of business owners in my circle. Seems simple enough, doesn’t it? 44 emails in total. 44 emails sharing news and positives for the receiver and in some cases information that was requested. All these sent emails equaled 4 replies in my inbox, validating the content I sent, and sharing how it was received. Now, don’t get me wrong I do not need the validation, it is what it is … however, it made me pause and think about Validation.

How many emails do you receive in a day? Newsletters? Informational content? Opportunities for connection? Alerts? A few, I am sure.

Who are the folks sending emails to you? Fellow business owners, clients, friends, or, strangers not yet friends?

How about seeing those who are sending emails as referral partners, potential collaborators, cheerleaders, supports, encouragers, teachers, mentors, or someone who will be instrumental in your business growth – think they warrant a few seconds of your time to share a ‘Thank you’, ‘I appreciate your email’, ‘Email received and read’, ‘Appreciate your time in sending this’, or maybe, ‘Loved your point in this email’.

The ripple effect is:
#1 – they feel heard and seen – THEY FEEL VALIDATED! The warm fuzzy! The positive vibes! And when people feel good, they keep coming back for that feeling.

You are in the people validation business. See that as your main role and the rest will fall into place!

Submitted By:

Cheryl Clark of Clark Strategies | team@clarkstrategies.ca | www.clarkstrategies.ca

April 12, 2022March 30, 2023

Taken By Surprise

Life may take us by surprise
Happy it may be or sad,
Attitude’s what helps us rise
When life circumstance is bad.

In sickness, there’s always hope
That tomorrow may bring health,
In poverty’s far tightened rope
Dreams of future with much wealth.

If children hurt and leave you
After labor for their good,
Send upward prayers in lieu
Of broken hearts and fired wood.

Friends may deeply let us down
With words that stab the guts,
Pick the pieces do not frown
Heal the wounds and mend the cuts.

Losing loved ones; death so brings
Grief and sadness take control,
Future hope of heaven sings
Life gets better; let time roll.

Life will take us by surprise
Are we ready to respond?
Let hope for tomorrow rise;
Daily living with much fond.

BizReflections

www.bizreflections.ca

March 22, 2022March 30, 2023

Dogmatic Leaders: Will The World Survive The Fight?

When leaders and political masterminds of the world give orders to start a war, do they empathize with people? Do they think of individuals as fragile beings that may get broken, destroyed, or killed? Or do they count them in numbers as part of statistics that will determine whether they will win a war or not? How long has the world been ruled by such dogmatic leaders?

It is too sickening to think about people in power today. Where are the days when world leaders lead by example? Leaders then were willing to sacrifice for the public. They served their followers willingly without expecting anything in return. After all, that was the reason they were in public service! Maybe that’s why the world was a more peaceful place for everyone to enjoy and develop, grow and advance.

Dogmatic leaders of today have created extreme ideologies and have made these ideologies rule their nations. They are willing to fight and die for their doctrines; as long as their extreme school of thought gets to rule the world. They made the world a sphere of extreme dogmas that kill and destroy in order to grow, and demolish other extreme beliefs. All that is being done at the expense of ordinary people whose dream is just to live in peace and lead daily normal lives.

It is so sad to watch people destroy people. It’s so pitiful to witness times when earth’s inhabitants have become so power-thirsty. So filled with hatred for each other and for the earth they live on. It’s so painful to watch the world destroy itself.

Would there be an end to this political greed before it ends the world? Is it too late for change? Can current leaders still make the paradigm shift, or has it become too late to restore humanity in people?

BizReflections

www.bizreflections.ca

August 11, 2021March 30, 2023

Humanity: Craving For Authenticity

What happened to the days when people used to talk, laugh, and just be themselves? Is it just me or did the nature of relationships change? Is it the stress of this industrial, and rapidly developing technical world? Or is it a side effect of the pandemic era? Why is the world in turmoil, craving for authenticity?

This trend is even evident in kids. We find them messaging each other while they are in the same house or even in the same room at times. We find them so immersed in their world of tapping screens and totally disconnected from their surroundings. Should we succumb to this new reality of life?

I miss seeing smiles while walking the streets in our neighbourhood. I long to listen to people greeting each other as they crossroads during a jog or a stroll. I want to hear the loud voices of kids playing outside again. Is it the mask that is making us crave authenticity in people or did these difficult days really change us as humans?

Hopefully, I will not get misunderstood. I am not against technology. In fact, I work in that domain! And, I am not against staying safe by wearing a mask and refraining from shaking hands, at a time where illness is real. What I am questioning is the cause behind the damage that was done to our human authenticity. And at the same time, I am wondering if there is still a glimpse of hope for restoration.

HUMANITY

I looked up the meaning of Humanity on Google, and that is what I got from Vocabulary Dictionary. “The word humanity is from the Latin humanitas for “human nature, kindness.” Humanity includes all humans, but it can also refer to the kind feelings humans often have for each other.”

An algorithm was programed to define humanity as kindness, at a time when this new world has lost its humanity. How come everywhere we turn we see aggression, devastation, mistreatment, and injustice? How come every time we tune in to watch the news we are faced with a reality that is overtaken by unkindness and inhumanity.

I wonder where to find kindness in inflicting wars and destruction on others. And where to detect kindness in leaving elderly people secluded and isolated during a time where fear and confusion rule? Where is kindness when refugees are scattered across the globe seeking a home and when children spend years with little nutrition and lacking social re-enforcement? All that is topped with misplacement of humans and exploitation of governments and nations. We are living a time where our humanity has been altered to fit the requirements of an era that has robbed humanity of its true meaning. These days, we find that people are not just seeking to find authenticity in others. In fact, they are searching to find out how to restore the humanity they have lost themselves.

BETTER WORLD

World leaders are promising that better days are looming. However, is it too late to restore the brokenness in humanity? These past two years have left people emotionally, psychologically and, in some areas, physically shattered and scattered. Humanity is craving for the authenticity that brings balance to its being. It is longing to love and be loved again. Humanity is aching to exchange kindness and practice genuine acts of a healthy relationship.

Some areas of the world may be able to restore their new lifestyle and regain their new stability standards much easier than others. However, in areas of conflict, people are experiencing mistreatment and injustice day in and day out. They have forgotten what peace means. People have been forced to live one trauma after the other in such rapidity that they do not comprehend the situations they are in anymore. And with that, individuals have lost their judgment on how to deal with their ordeals and distress. I am talking about people that live on the frontline, in countries like Iraq, Lebanon, Syria, Afghanistan, etc. I am talking about human beings that were created and made to live kindness, love, and peace.

Will these people ever get to restore their distinct identity? Will they ever be able to mend their brokenness and heal their inner being? Or will they always live a life that is craving for its natural authenticity?

This blog post has also been published on VOCAL

BizReflections

www.bizreflections.ca

March 9, 2021July 17, 2023

Starting A Business: The Under-Appreciated Element

Listen as you read …

Many in this world dream of starting a business. However, establishing a business requires an entrepreneur’s character and resilience. An entrepreneur is driven by a dream and does whatever it takes to make his vision come true. At times, it may require long days and nights of work. There may be instances where one will face failures but learns from them. Other times it will require the ability to handle different types of personalities. And definitely, it expects a character that can handle success with grace.

A Guide to Starting a Business in Canada

While talking to people, I find it common to meet individuals that love to start their own business but do not really know where to start from. Some people begin with writing a business plan, but I personally favour a different approach. And I always recommend for my clients to start by finding their business dream.

Have You Found Your Business Dream?

We can start a business based on numbers lacking the passion that drives the business, but that will only be a project with a short lifespan. Or we may start a business with big dreams and a great passion to accomplish the work, but lacking structure, budget, and projections for profits and gains. And that is also a project with a short lifespan. Finding the business dream can be a good start as one will go into the business with enthusiasm and passion to accomplish the work. However, the structure has to be identified and defined as part of the process.

Yes… A business dream is a major element in starting a successful business and cannot be underappreciated as it is the driving force of business development.

Find your business dream

An Inspiring Vision

Once we find what our business dream is, then it’s time to think it through carefully and turn the dream into a vision. A vision is more defined and allows us to see what the final destination is like as we dive into our business journey.

See how the bigger picture is clear?

We have the dream, and we have the vision. Yes, it is time to move on and identify the product or service that will be offered to clients. In Addition, a decision has to be made in regards to the type and name of the business.

Structure and Finances

At this stage, it is a good time to write a business plan. It doesn’t have to be too complex and long, but it has to be measurable with a clear action plan and timeframes. A 1-year, 3-year, and 5-year plan is recommended as guidelines to help the business reach its important milestones. And as part of the planning process, we need to carefully think about the financial status of the business. Now is the time to reflect on whether we will be needing a bank loan or not. What type of Bank accounts will we need to operate the business? Will there be a need to rent an office or rent equipment? All these decisions may have financial ramifications in the future, and that is why it may require some planning before we move into the execution phase.

Get The Business Registered

Running a business requires an official status that we cannot neglect. If the business is planning to operate across Canada then it has to get registered with the Federal government. On the other hand, if the plan is to operate inside one specific Canadian province, then there is no need to register it at the Federal level, but we definitely will need to get it registered with the provincial government.

End the Startup phase

We still need to complete the financial structure and open the bank accounts or get the loans that we need to run the business. I also recommend short-term planning as the final step to starting a business. Set short-term measurable goals one or two weeks at a time and make sure to work hard to achieve them.

Notice how we started with the bigger picture and once we understood and mastered that part, we then moved on to a short-term action plan. That’s when the Startup process is complete and it’s time to move on to the execution phase.

A guide to starting a business in Canada

BizReflections

www.bizreflections.ca

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