what’s inside - aurora 2015 magazine - web version.pdf · royal lepage sean mccloskey thompson...
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WHAT’S INSIDESmall Businesses Can Win Government Contracts Too
Employer Recruitment Approaches Canada Revenue Agency Becoming More Aggressive
13 Things Not to Do at a Networking Event, Ever
INSIDEWhat’s
Small Business Can Win Government Contracts Too ......................5Peter Lau, PhD
Canada Revenue Agency Becoming More Aggresive ....................6Geoff Crewe, CPA, CA, CFP
Rise and Shine – 5 Early Morning Habits of Successful People .......7Leah McGuire
The Loonie’s Decline: Here to Stay?.................................................8Hendrik Brakel
Top Business Books at the Aurora Public Library .............................9TIm J. Neale & Reccia Mandelcorn
5 Tips to Manage your Cash Flow .................................................11Business Development Bank of Canada
Future Trends in the Local Labour Market ..................................... 12Workforce Planning Board
How Your Small Business Can Succeed Using Social Media .........15Javed S. Khan
13 Things Not to Do at a Networking Event, Ever ........................16Young Entrepreneur Council
Coaching as a Block Bluster ..........................................................17Marion Howell
Employer Recruitment Approaches................................................18Frank Martino, Hons. BA, RRP, CCRC, CVP
Message from the Chair ...................................................................4
Message from the CEO ....................................................................4
2015 Aurora Chamber Home Show ...............................................10
New Members ................................................................................19
Member Announcements ...............................................................21
Chamber News ...............................................................................21
Members Out & About...................................................................22
Aurora Chamber of Commerce
The Mission of the Aurora Chamberof Commerce is to move Aurora
business forward.
Our Vision is Aurora businesspeople living, learning, and
thriving together.
Office Address:14483 Yonge StreetAurora, ON L4G 0P3
Mailing Address:6-14845 Yonge Street, Suite 321
Aurora, ON L4G 6H8
Tel: 905-727-7262Fax: 905-841-6217
www.aurorachamber.on.ca
Publisher: Judy MarshallEditor: Crystal Walsh
Advertising: Lorie Butkus-HillGraphic Design: Type by Design
Printing: CanMark Communications
2014 – 2015 Board of DirectorsChair
Patricia Poulin-Ulbricht Ulbricht Mediation Services
Past-ChairPaul Smith
Kilroy & Smith
First Vice-ChairJaved S. Khan EMpression
Second Vice-ChairTina Sakellaris National Bank
Secretary/TreasurerBrian Roberts
van Nostrand & Partners CertifiedGeneral Accountants
Directors
Jason AllanAllan Law
Melanie AttridgeThe Aurora Banner
Sabrina Crossley, DCAlign Health Centre
Glen HaywoodCommport Communications
International
Angela JonesRoyal LePage
Sean McCloskeyThompson Funeral Home
Eric SkillinsRE/MAX Hallmark Lind Group
Realty Ltd., Brokerage
Publication Agreement Number 40028413
Features
From Your Chamber
4
An Exciting and ChallengingRole
Just after the second meeting of the2014-2015 Aurora Chamber Board
on November 20, 2014, I thought,“We have so much to do in a veryshort period of time!” and after myheart rate slowed to a regular pace, Irealized that the position of Chair ofthe Board is going to be very excitingand a great challenge. I am lucky to bea member of an engaged, energized,
and committed Board and honoured to have been elected asthe chair for 2014-2015.
This message provides an excellent opportunity to share theBoard’s focus for this year. Our first priority is to oversee thedevelopment of new programs that will bring value to ourmembership and generate new revenue streams. We are goingto hold a brainstorming session for the Board and committeesin the New Year and I encourage you, our membership, to bringany ideas forward to the staff or myself.
In addition to new projects, the Board will also continue to workon governance, advocacy and ensure accountability for ourresults.
I am excited to be able to carry on the “Coffee with the Chair”event, so please come out and tell me what is on your mind. Iam looking forward to answering your questions and sharingideas.
Speaking of sharing ideas, the Chamber’s past-presidents,board and committee members represent a rich brain trust thatwe respect and honour. I will be reaching out to as many of youas possible and I hope you will find some time to let me buyyou a cup of coffee or tea and pick your brain.
Of course you can also communicate directly with me [email protected]. This email address was created asa way to encourage feedback and allow members to receive atimely personal response. I am proud to continue this tradition.
All the best in the New Year! Patty Poulin-Ulbricht, Chair of the Board
Recruitment Begins as Soon asIt’s Over
The Aurora Chamber of Commercehas a new Board of Directors,
effective October 9, 2014. After twoBoard meetings, it looks like we havea very cohesive group that has a lot ofpassion for the Chamber. I am reallylooking forward to working with thenew Board members and those thatare continuing their tenure.
As soon as a new board is in place, the recruitment processbegins again to ensure there are members ready to fill any gapsthat might occur during year. It also starts for the following year,2015-2016, as some members leave at the end of their term orin response to increasing family or work commitments.
Committee Involvement
The dictionary describes a committee as a group of people whoare either appointed or chosen to study, take or recommendaction on behalf of a board of directors or the most senior staffperson. Often, with a membership organization like a chamberof commerce, committees are the membership in action.Committees enable members to participate in realizing achamber’s goals and provides valuable training for those whomay eventually want to serve as a member of the board.
The Aurora Chamber has two types of committees – board andoperational. One does work for the board while the latterassists with operational work, such as involvement with events,drafting reports, assisting with membership recruitment andretention, and marketing.
Interested in Joining a Committee or the Board?
To join a committee, send an email to the office and we willforward the terms of reference to assist you in deciding whichcommittee is of most interest to you. A staff person or thecommittee chair will follow up. Committee work is an excellentway to begin a relationship with the Chamber, as your input as amember is vital to making informed decisions.
Effective recruiting takes time and effort, and needs to be anongoing activity. If you are interested in joining the Board,preference would be given to a member who has worked on acommittee. An interview will be scheduled with the nominatingcommittee and the CEO. Participation on a committee or theBoard will enhance your skills as a leader as well as thoseneeded for your chosen career path. In addition, you will becontributing greatly to the success of the Chamber.
Wishing you the very best in 2015. Judy Marshall, CEO
Messages from the Chair & CEO
View the ChamberCALENDAR OF EVENTSand register online at
www.aurorachamber.
on.ca/events
In today’s competitive businessenvironment, many Canadian
companies go out of their wayto save taxes using variousexemptions, loopholes, andirregularities. Tax planning isundoubtedly an important partof a solid business strategy.However, not many businessowners realize that anotherlegitimate way to “recoup”some of your business taxspending is by recruiting thegovernment as your customer.
Contrary to popular notion, youdo not need to be a bigcorporation to do business withthe government. According tothe Office of Small and MediumEnterprises (OSME) at PublicWorks and Government ServicesCanada (PWGSC), about 70percent of all governmentcontracts under $25,000 areawarded to small and mediumbusinesses. Therefore, any smallbusiness can win governmentcontracts too. Whereas sizemight imply credibility and giveyou a slight edge, moreimportantly, you need to bestrategic in your approach andvery well prepared for thetendering process.
First, find out what products andservices are required by thevarious levels of government(federal, provincial/territorial,regional, municipal) that match
your offerings.
Second, invest some time tothoroughly understand theprocurement process for thegovernment department youare targeting. In Ontario, publiccontracts for tendering and therelevant processes for federal,provincial and localgovernments are posted onbuyandsell.gc.ca,ontariotenders,bravosolution.com andbiddingo.com, respectively.Whereas BuyandSell iscompletely free, OntarioTendersis free for viewing but chargesfor bidding. Currently, Biddingois the only major subscription-based governmentprocurement platformremaining that incurs afee for both viewingand bidding. Notethat merx.com is a paidsubscription service thatpreviously hosted all federal andprovincial contracts exclusively,but that is no longer the case.Also, keep in mind that somelocal governments (for example,City of Toronto, York Region,Durham Region, etc.) may optto post their contracts on their
own website instead of usingthird-party solutions.
Third, register your company asa supplier or a vendor of recordand obtain the relevant security
screening for the contracts ifrequired.
Fourth, build relationships withkey players in government andindustry through networkingevents such as seminars,conferences and reversetrade shows, as
departmental managers andpurchasing officers arepermitted to make smallerpurchases (usually under$25,000 for products and under$100,000 for services) directlyfrom suppliers without bidding.
Finally, recruit a dedicated teamto monitor contract tenderingsites and support you to bid onsuitable opportunities, as theprocess can be protracted andtime-consuming, but well worththe initial investments.
Incidentally, it is also imperativethat your company’s onlinepresence is impeccable, sincemultiple government officials atdifferent levels have pointed outthat the first step in theirevaluation of a company’s bid isinvariably to “Google” them.
For more tips on how to sell tothe government, visit thecorresponding contract biddingwebsites mentioned above.
Doing business with thegovernment can often be verystable and lucrative in the longrun, as public purchasingofficers often prefer to stay with
qualified and reliable suppliersoffering the most affordablepricing.
Government purchasers are alsothe most reliable anddependable clients you couldfind, so business risks can beminimized. If your company isinterested in doing businesswith the government and wouldlike to find out where to start,talk to a procurement specialisttoday!
Dr. Peter Lau is the founder ofLumawiz Inc., a dynamicscience, technology, enterpriseand media consulting firmbased in York Region thatspecializes in grant application,contract tendering, mobiletechnologies, online marketingand e-commerce. You canfollow his company on the webat www.lumawiz.com or onTwitter @Lumawiz.
5
Small Business Can Win Government Contracts TooBy Peter Lau, PhD
Doing business with thegovernment can often be very stable and lucrative in the long run.
6
The difficult economic timesof recent years have been
hard on governments aroundthe world, as well as theircitizens. Tax revenues havedecreased, yet it is politicallydifficult to deal with thisproblem by raising existing taxrates and/or introducing newtaxes.
One of the ways governmentsaddress their need for moremoney is to initiate more taxaudits on corporations andindividuals, and to performthose audits more aggressively.It is certainly apparent that theCanada Revenue Agency (CRA)has increased their taxenforcement efforts. I see it inmy practice and so do otheraccountants and taxpractitioners.
If you or your company receivea letter or phone call advisingthat you have been selected foraudit, I encourage you tocontact your accountant first,not the CRA. There are twomain types of audits. The first isa desk audit, which usuallyfollows a filing the CRA finds
unusual in some way. Anexample would be a request forinformation supporting a largeHST refund claim for a particularperiod. The second type is afield audit, where the CRAconducts an examination ofyour books and records. Youmay have been selectedrandomly or perhaps the CRAhas decided to targetcompanies in your industry.
To enhance your chances of“minimizing the damage” froma CRA audit, I offer you thefollowing advice:
☛ Keep accurate and up-to-date records. This is sofundamental, yet poor recordkeeping gets taxpayers intotrouble. Even if you havedone nothing wrong, the lack
of good recordsmay make itimpossible todefend yourself.
☛ Don’t ignorethe request.Failing torespond to a
request for information canresult in an automatic, evenarbitrary, reassessment ofyour tax return or the threatof legal action.
☛ Call your accountantright away. They are likely tohave a lot of experience indealing with CRA auditors
and the knowledge toanalyze technicalarguments the CRAmay make tosupport aproposedreassessment.Sometimesthe CRAmakesmistakes in theway theyinterpret aparticular transaction ormisapply provisions of theIncome Tax Act.
☛ Try not to hold meetingswith the auditor without youraccountant present, becauseyou could get tricked intogiving the wrong answer to aquestion whose taximplications you may notunderstand.
☛ For a corporate audit,expect the auditor to findsomething to reassess. Onlyin rare circumstances is abusiness completely “clean.”
☛ If you don’t agree with areassessment, consider anappeal.
One of the tactics I seeemployed more and more bythe CRA is the (almostautomatic, in certaincircumstances) application ofgross negligence penalties to a
tax reassessment. Grossnegligence arises when a
taxpayer knowinglymakes a false
statement oromission, or actswith indifferenceor recklessnessas to whether thelaw is complied
with. The courtshave held that gross
negligence involves agreater neglect than
simply a failure touse reasonablecare. When tax
is reassessed, itis up to the taxpayer to provideevidence to refute the CRA’sposition. However, the CRAmust prove gross negligencehas been displayed if youappeal the imposition of thispenalty (which I would alwaysadvise you to do). The penaltyis serious if the CRA can make itstick – 50 percent of the taxowing.
Tax is complicated! Evencomplying with the legislationto the best of your ability cannotprevent you from being audited.So make sure you enlist goodhelp to reduce the chances ofbeing audited in the first placeand in responding if it doeshappen.
Geoff Crewe, CPA, CA, CFP, canbe reached at 416-490-1042 or www.gcrewe.com
Canada Revenue Agency Becoming More Aggressive By Geoff Crewe, CPA, CA, CFP
Keep accurate and up-to-daterecords. This is so fundamental, yet poor record keeping getstaxpayers into trouble.
The early bird gets the worm. This oldadage may have more substance than
we give it credit. Many of the most highlysuccessful people in the world are earlyrisers. Not only do they wake up early, butthey make the absolute most of their timebefore the work day starts.
Margaret Thatcher was known for waking upevery morning at 5 am, and Disney’s CEOBob Iger has been quoted as saying “I getup at 4:30 in the morning, seven days aweek, no matter where I am in the world.”The list goes on from here, but these aretwo strong examples illustrating the pointthat success begins in the early hours of themorning.
Luckily, overachieving early birds attributetheir success to a fairly common set ofdaybreak activities. By introducing thesesame activities into your own morningroutine, it only stands to reason you may beable to achieve similar results. Let’s take alook at five early morning habits successfulpeople have in common.
Habit 1: Exercise and meditateYou are more likely to work out on a dailybasis if you work out in the morning.Getting exercise out of the way first thingensures you won’t skip your workout whenyou’re tired after a long day at work. Thelength of your workout isn’t what mattersmost. Whether you prefer to exercise athome or at the gym, even devoting 15minutes in the morning to resistance orcardio training is well worth the effort.
The prospect of getting your body movingso early might be less than desirable, butexercising in the morning gives you a boostof energy and prepares your body for theday ahead. It also improves your focus andcognitive performance, while providing youwith a sense of accomplishment.
Meditation is a highly regarded habitamong successful people.Taking time in themorning to center yourself through
meditation will equip you with a positivemindset for the rest of the day, and allowyou to overcome any obstacles you facewith a cool and calm focus. A yoga sessioncan combine your exercise and meditation,and will wake you up and clear your mind.
Habit 2: Check email and read the newsThe morning doesn’t have to be a time ofsensory deprivation. Take a look throughyour email, assess which matters are in needof your urgent attention, and prioritize fromthere. You might want to consider settingaside some time in the morning to craft anyemails requiring an immediate response.Many successful people find they have aneasier time focusing their attention on thesetasks while their minds are fresh. Gettingyour inbox down to zero and catching up onsocial media before tackling a new day willallow you to better concentrate on the tasksat hand once the work day begins.
Whether you are reading or watching thenews, you shouldn’t feel guilty about takingsome time in the morning to relax and catchup on current events. Even if you arereading about those events on Twitter, it isimportant to get up to date on the latestheadlines. How do you expect to changethe world if you don’t know what’s going onin it?
Habit 3: Visualize and strategizefor the day aheadPlanning ahead is an important timemanagement tool, and gives you clear goalsto strive towards when work and life getshectic. Being busy isn’t the same as being
productive, so it is important to prioritizeyour tasks and visualize the day ahead. Themorning hours are often some of the onlyquiet hours in the day, so this is the perfecttime to reflect, problem solve and work outa schedule for the upcoming day, week ormonth. Creating a clear road map in yourmind will maximize your potential and keepyou moving towards your goals.
Taking a few moments to visualize thesuccess you are going to have in the dayahead will help to improve your mood andwill make your work load seem lessdaunting. When you wake up in themorning, identify a few tasks that would addvalue to your life upon their completion.Identifying these tasks on a consistent basisand following through will propel youtowards success.
Habit 4: Work on a projectA regular work day can quickly be filled upwith meetings, interruptions and small tasks.Before you know it, the day is over, you’reexhausted and you haven’t reallyaccomplished anything important. Takingtime in the morning to work on a top-priority business project enables you to fullyconcentrate without being interrupted. Thehours before the work day begins is theperfect time to devote a fresh mind to aproject, while also ensuring it gets yourattention before the other people in yourlife use it all up.
Whether it be writing or making art, manysuccessful people dedicate some of theirmorning hours to a personal creativeproject. Taking time in the morning to workon a passion project places a priority onyour creative expression. Whatever theproject may be, it is important and fulfillingto have an outlet outside of work and dailyresponsibilities. Doing something for thepure pleasure of it will recharge yourbatteries and fill you with a feeling ofachievement.
7
Continued on page 8
Meditation is a highlyregarded habit amongsuccessful people.
Rise and Shine 5 Early Morning Habits of Successful PeopleWritten by Leah McGuireOriginally published online by Neil Brady
8
The Loonie’s Decline: Here to Stay?By Hendrik Brakel
Rise and Shine – 5 Early Morning Habits of Successful PeopleContinued from page 7
Habit 5: Eat breakfastwith somebodyBreakfast really is the mostimportant meal of the day.Running out of the house withjust a coffee in hand is an all toocommon habit. Taking the timeto sit down and eat a healthybreakfast will fuel your body forthe tasks ahead of you. Startingthe day on an empty stomachwill leave you watching theclock until lunchtime, but havinga full stomach will allow you toget down to work.
Family dinners are a highlyregarded ritual, but the timingof the meal isn’t the importantpart. Some successful peopleturn their breakfast into a familyaffair. At the end of the day youare more likely to be exhaustedand want to zone out in front ofthe TV. Using the morning as atime to connect with yourspouse and/or children givesyou the opportunity to sharewhat’s going on in your liveswhile you still have the energyto do so. Scheduling a
networking breakfast every sooften is another way to build theconnections in your life, whilemaking sure you have a bite toeat before the work day begins.
Incorporating these five habitsinto your morning routine willset you up for greatness. Takingadvantage of the quiet hours ofthe morning to concentrate onyour goals and take care ofimportant business will put youa step ahead of the pack. Getup early. This simple step willplace you in the same company
as some of the most wildlysuccessful people in the world,and might even make you oneof them.
Schooley Mitchell is the largesttelecom consulting company inNorth America. They publish“The Pulse,” which delivershigh-level business information. For more information, contactNeil Brady at 1-855-572-SMTC(7682) or visitwww.schooleymitchell.com/sb.
The loonie has fallen below89 cents, a sharp decline for
a currency that was stubbornlystuck around parity for almostthree years. Is this a temporarytumble or is the loonie goingsouth for a prolonged period oftime? At the Canadian Chamberof Commerce, we think thedollar is headed lower, likely toaverage 85 cents in 2015. Itcould even fall below 85 centsfor the following three reasons:
1. Weaker oil prices due tosurging U.S. productionThe Canadian dollar is oftencalled a ‘petro-currency’because its movements track soclosely with oil prices. The ruleof thumb was that a $10increase in the price of a barrelof oil would push the loonie upby three cents. But oil prices areheaded lower, mainly because anew drilling technology,hydraulic fracturing, has causedan astonishing boom in U.S.crude oil production, nowsurging to a 45-year high. In2011, the U.S. had to importalmost half of the oil itconsumed. By next year,imports will only account for 21percent of American oilconsumption, and within a few
more years, the world’s largestconsumer of oil will become amajor exporter. Thus, a massiveincrease in global oil supplies isexpected, while demand growthhas been fairly weak.
2. The U.S. economy isbooming, so Americaninterest rates will risesoonerThere is a sea of change ininvestor perceptions about theoutlook forinflation andinterest rates.With the U.S.economyroaringahead at 4.6percent GDPgrowth in thesecondquarter andthe un-employmentrate down to 5.9 percent,investors are expecting inflationto pick up very quickly and theU.S. Federal Reserve will likelyhave to raise interest rates inJuly 2015 or earlier. Meanwhile,Canada’s domestic economyremains soft and there are fewsigns of inflation, so little needexists for the Bank of Canada to
raise interest rates anytimesoon, a point Governor Polozhas made repeatedly. Thismakes American securities farmore appealing to investors.
2. Markets are nervousabout Canadianvulnerabilities A torrent of investor fundsflowed into Canada from 2009to 2012 because the countrywas seen as a safe haven and
this drove upthe dollar.
TheCanadianeconomyfared betterthan anyother G7countryduring thegreatrecession
and our banks did not requireany bailouts. But now, Canada isstarting to show vulnerabilities,particularly our soaringconsumer debt and a potentialhousing bubble, right when theU.S. is getting back on track.
Investors have no need for aCanadian safe haven in themidst of the booming U.S.
economy and so we have seenrising net outflows, particularlyfrom Canada’s governmentbonds. Next year, when U.S.interest rate hikes become acertainty, while Canada’s remainunchanged, the flow ofinvestment funds will accelerateand the loonie will head lower.
Overall, it’s not Canadianweakness that’s causing theloon to swoon, it’s Americanstrength. The Canadianeconomy and Canadianconsumers held upextraordinarily well during thepast five years, but we need aslow-down to fix some of ourdebt imbalances, and this ishappening right as the U.S.heads into overdrive. The tiredold loonie is missing a fewfeathers and needs a rest whilethe American eagle is hungryafter a long hibernation and isabout to take flight. We wish herGodspeed.
For more information, pleasecontact Hendrik Brakel, SeniorDirector, Economic, Financial &Tax Policy, 613-238-4000 ext.284, [email protected] provided by theCanadian Chamber ofCommerce.
The Canadian economyfared better than any
other G7 country duringthe great recession and
our banks did notrequire any bailouts.
Top Business Books at theAurora Public Library
9
Think Like a Freak By Steven D. Levitt and Stephen J. DubnerReviewed by Tim J. Neale and Reccia Mandelcorn
When MBA programs at IvyLeague colleges look at
creativity and innovation asseriously as SAT admissionscores, the writing is on the wallfor entrepreneurs to startthinking outside the box.Apple’s Steve Jobs pioneeredthe concept of thinking big, buthow does this translate into thereality of everyday business?The answer is likely much moreattainable and enjoyable thanyou may think.
Tim Neale, the Aurora PublicLibrary’s Business Librarian,loved Think Like a Freak, thelatest business book by “out-of-the-box thinkers” Steven D.Levitt and Stephen J. Dubner.Following their incrediblesuccess with Freakonomics andSuperfreakonomics, the duowrote this latest book tochallenge readers to thinkdifferently.
While most people think there isa correct way to solve a givenproblem, Levitt and Dubnerdismiss that thinking byproviding an entertainingblueprint for today’s businessenvironment on how to succeedin an ever-increasingcompetitive world.
Think Like a Freak demonstratesthrough amusing anecdotes thatthere is no “right” way to thinkabout solving a problem.Today’s economy demands thatwe think more creatively andfrom a variety of vantage points.It provides the reader withguidance and tools to enablecreative thinking; each chapteridentifying a trait orcompetence required foreffective “freak-thinking.”
The first chapter stresses theneed to make decisions basedon the likelihood of successrather than a preconceived bias. Subsequent chaptersdescribe how difficult it is toadmit that you do not know theanswer to a problem, or eventhat you have a problem in the first place.
Levitt and Dubner emphasizethat admitting you do not havethe answer is actually a keycompetency of creative thinkingand problem solving. The needto look past traditional causesand solutions is highlightedthrough supporting andentertaining examples. And this
may well be the true beauty ofthe book.
Think Like a Freak deals withconcepts like thinkingsimplistically, rewardingachievement or behaviour,effective evaluation andjudgment, persuasion skills and
knowing when to quit. Andmost effectively, each chapterincludes a number of counter-intuitive antidotes to support itsarguments and provide a smileto the busy executive after achallenging day.
At slightly over 200 pages,Think Like a Freak is an easyand entertaining read and amost enjoyable business bookfor the creative entrepreneur.Highly recommended!
Tim J. Neale is the BusinessLibrarian and RecciaMandelcorn is the Manager ofCommunity Collaboration atAurora Public Library.
Look for Tim’s reviews in upcoming issues ofChamber Connection. Membership to AuroraPublic Library is free to all members of theAurora Chamber of Commerce.
Admitting you do nothave the answer isactually a keycompetency ofcreative thinking andproblem solving.
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Exhibitor space is selling outfast at the Stronach AuroraRecreation Complex (SARC), a new and exciting venue forYork Region’s best home show!
Thank you to our sponsors:
SIGNATURE GOLD
NEW this year!A special Family Area
for parents and children.
Join us at the 2015 Aurora Chamber Home Show.Visitors will find fresh and innovative products fortheir homes – a one-stop shopping experience forhome décor and renovations. Plus, industry-expertadvice from financial planners, realtors, and healthand wellness professionals will be available, and somuch more!
A unique Feature Area, designed by Jack’sLandscaping and Clements Interiors, will showcasecreative ideas for both the inside and outside of your home. The Chamber’steam of design and landscape volunteers is hard at work planning thishighlight.
The Aurora Optimist Club will be operating the Chamber Pub & Grill. Stopby for a refreshment after browsing – replenish your energy with a barbequedhamburger, hotdog, or the Club’s famous peameal on a bun.
Do you want to be a part of the best home show in York Region? Please visitaurorachamber.on.ca/home-show for more information.
Cash is king – it’s a commonsaying in the business
world. But surprisingly fewentrepreneurs take steps tomanage their cash flow so theydon’t wind up with an emptybank account and nothing topay the bills.
“One of the main causes ofbusiness failure is poor cashflow management,” says SusanRohac, Senior Vice-President,Financing and Consulting, at theBusiness Development Bank ofCanada (BDC). The good news:cash flow management is easyto improve with a few simplesteps. “Getting control overyour cash flow helps youprepare for slow periods, planyour financing and have peaceof mind,” Rohac says.
Follow these five steps to get abetter handle on your cash flow.
1. Profitability check
First, make sure your business isearning a reasonable profit.Even the greatest cash flowmanagement won’t help if yourfundamentals are out of whack.
Analyze each product andservice separately to seewhether it’s pulling its weight.Make sure your products areappropriately priced, and workto eliminate inefficiencies.Instead of just chasing sales,chase profitable sales.
In 2007, Mike Whittaker’scompany Bonté Foods learnedthe consequences of poor cashflow the hard way after facinglarge cost overruns on twomajor projects. The companyhad to act quickly to restore itscash position. It analyzed its
profitability and realized it hadto raise prices to better reflectcosts. Bonté also unloadedlower-margin product lines andlaunched an efficiency drivewhile tightening cash flowmanagement.
The changes had a hugeimpact. Sales in Bonté’s meatdivision are up 36 percent since2009, while gross profit is upalmost six percent. “We learnedto watch our cash verycarefully,” Whittaker says. “Youneed to always be ahead of thecurve on cash flowmanagement.”
2. Do a cash flowprojection
Next, prepare a cash flowprojection for the coming year.This is your early warningsystem for cash flow hiccups.Use an Excel spreadsheet oraccounting software to plug inexpected monthly cash inflowsand outflows, includinganticipated big-ticket purchases.
Use the projection to anticipateslow periods and plan inadvance what to do aboutthem. “Through the year, checkyour actual cash positionregularly – once a week ormonth – against your projectionto see how you’re doing anddeal promptly with anydivergences,” Rohac advises.
3. Finance big buysinstead of draining cash
One of the most common cashflow mistakes is using cash tobuy a major long-term asset,instead of getting financing.Even if you feel flush right now,you may suddenly wind up shortof cash if you experience asudden revenue shortfall orrapid growth.
Use your cash flow projection toplan your financing needs aheadof time, not in the midst of acrisis, when bankers may bewary to lend. Rohac alsorecommends matching thelifespan of a purchase withfinancing of similar duration.
4. Speed up cash inflows
Getting money into yourbusiness more quickly can saveyou carrying costs on your lineof credit. Some tips: send outinvoices as soon as possible, askcustomers to pay electronicallyand charge interest to slow-payers.
5. Raise cash quickly in acrunch
Facing an unexpected cash flowcrunch? You can raise cashquickly using varioustechniques: approach your bankfor help; check your inventoryand assets to see what you cansell off, even at a discount; asksuppliers or your landlord forextra time to pay bills; or offeryour customers a big discountto earn some quick sales.
Many businesses ignorecash flow management:Survey
BDC’s Susan Rohac points outthat managing finances is one ofthe main challenges forentrepreneurs, coming insecond after marketing andsales. The findings of a BDCsurvey this year confirm herobservation: more than four outof five entrepreneurs (82percent) say they’re managingcash flow and financing in thecompany. However, manyentrepreneurs don’t take basicsteps to control their finances.Almost half say they don’t makecash flow projections and checkthem against actual results – abasic procedure of financialmanagement.
Canada’s business developmentbank, BDC, puts entrepreneursfirst. BDC offers loans,consulting services, growth andbusiness transition capital,securitization, as well as venturecapital to more than 30,000small and medium-sizedcompanies. Visit www.bdc.ca formore information.
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5 Tips to Manage your Cash FlowBy Business Development Bank of Canada
One of the main causes of businessfailure is poor cashflow management.
Current trends happeningacross Canada's labour
force may drastically changethings over the coming years.Important factors like aging andretiring workers, shortages ofcertain skilled workers, anincrease in immigrant levels,skills mismatch, a rise in theeducation level and innovativeindustries requiring newknowledge will all have an effecton our workforce. Even thoughCanada's trends play a part, wereally want to know what ishappening in RegionalMunicipality of York (YorkRegion), where we live andwork.
Taking a look at the economictrends in York Regionconcerning areas such asemployment and labour force,live/work ratio and industrysectors indicates a healthy localjob market relative to thenationwide average. Insight maybe found by looking at thenumber of job postings,position types, requiredoccupations, as well as keyhiring employers.
What does York Region looklike? It is one of the fastestgrowing census divisions inCanada. It is the third-largestcensus division in Ontario, nextto that of Toronto and PeelRegion. The economy is robust,diverse, has a relevant jobmarket and includes a full rangeof businesses from industrial tohigh-tech to rural/agricultural.
Our region is home to 117,505employers (as of June 2014).Single entrepreneur businessesrepresent 60 percent (70,873) oforganizations in York Region
and have no employees. Thetop three single entrepreneurindustry sectors are professionalscientific and technical, realestate and construction.
Another 36 percent (42,301) ofthe employers in the Region
employ less than 19 employees,leaving only four percent (4,331)of local businesses with 20employees or more. Our labourmarket consists of predomi-nantly small and medium sizeemployers. York Region truly is asmall business community.
Some good news is there hasbeen a healthy recovery since
the 2008 recession. The numberof employers across allcategories of employee sizehave increased by 10 percentfrom June of 2013. The
professional scientific andtechnical sector accounts for18.7 percent of all employers,which is considerably larger thanthe Provincial average of 15.1percent. This increase isexpected to continue, asManpower reports that YorkRegion’s fourth quarter(September to December) NetEmployment Outlook (thepercent of employers expectinga hiring increase minus thepercent of employers expectinga decrease) of 12 percent is aneight percent increase from theprevious quarter.
Employers are searching forquality employees with the righttalents and skills. Job seekersare searching for potentialemployers that can provide
satisfaction and growth.Employers from key employ-ment sectors identified ongoingchallenges regarding recruitingand retaining their workforce.Challenges such as a lack ofessential “soft skills” and“leadership skills” particularlywith millennials; high cost ofattracting, recruiting andretaining talent; competing withlarger, higher paying firms andthe “Downtown Toronto” allure;and limited awareness ofsubsidized governance servicesand programs. Could there also
Future Trends in theLocal Labour MarketBy Workforce Planning Board
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The economy is robust, diverse, hasa relevant job market and includesa full range of businesses fromindustrial to high-tech to rural/agricultural.
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be a skills mismatch? Skills andeducation that is not being usedand skills required by employersthat is not being trained.
York Region has experienced astrong population growth frommigration across all agecategories. Migration isthe movement bypeople from oneplace to anotherwith the intention ofsettlingtemporarily orpermanentlyin the newlocation.Compared to therest of the GTA,York Region hasthe highest influx ofpeople at both ends of the agespectrum, from 0-17 year oldsto those 65 and over. At thesame time, the number of primeworking age adults is also high.As with any community,evidence identifies that 52percent of residents remain inthe region to work while 48percent of residents commuteoutside the region for work.
Could this be a reason for somuch road congestion?
York Region is a highly educatedcommunity. One clear trend ineducation levels is the fallingproportion of individuals whodo not have a post-secondarydegree: 70 percent of 25-34year olds compared to 48percent of 65-74 year olds havea post-secondary education.When it comes to higher-leveluniversity degrees, recent
newcomers or immigrantsare four times as likely asCanadian-born residentsto have earned aDoctorate degree. Ourhighly educatedpopulation is the reasonthat York Region residentswho work full-time, full-year, earned on average$67,826 in 2010 which is110 percent of the Ontarioaverage at that time. York
Region is in third place of the 49census divisions in Ontario,behind Halton and Ottawa.
Who is keeping a watch ontoday's local labour market?How can we tap into theirfindings?
In 1994, the Local BoardsNetwork of Ontario waslaunched and funded by theMinistry of Training, Collegesand Universities to conduct and
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Continued on page 14
York Region is a highlyeducated community.
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With a busy lifestyle and agrowing family, I am notsure where to begin to or-ganize my finances. Should
all of my finances be in one place?Who can help me choose the rightbanking solutions?
I own a construction company and I am beingbombarded by liens,Canada Revenue Agency,
union issues and sub trades. Whatare my priorities and my rights?
Owning a construction companycan be very challenging at times,especially if you ar e a small
business owner. A curr ent concern forconstruction owners is the financial riskthey face every day , especially whendealing with various contractors andsuppliers of work, services supplied, lienrights, union issues, holdbacks and changeorders. To add, additional onus is placedon owners to deal with the concept of“breach of trust.” The unfamiliarity of thisconcept forces you to turn to your lawyeror accountant to seek dir ection, with thehopes of getting some form of resolution.And what If some for m of restructuring isadded into the mix? How does this impactor change your situation? What is themeaning behind “breach of trust” and whyare owners being faced with the trial andtribulations of this issue? As insolvencyprofessionals we ar e constantly beingasked these questions, often followed bywhom must we pay first? Let us help youunderstand the process of director liability,priority of claims and the various optionsand protection you may be seeking. Call,email or visit us on the web.
Joanne Russo, CIRP, Trustee in BankruptcyRUSSO CAN HELP 905-503-DEBT (3328)[email protected]
distribute local labour market research andengage community stakeholders in aplanning process that supports localsolutions to local issues. As individual as thecommunities they serve, each local boardaddresses labour market issues in its ownway, as each community has its ownpriorities. As a network, Ontario’s WorkforcePlanning Boards also work together toaddress labour market issues from aprovince-wide perspective.
Each Workforce Planning Board producesan annual Local Labour Market Updatereporting on their community’s labourmarket conditions, characteristics andtrends. The report is a snapshot of the typesand size of employers, the industries thatexist and the occupations they contain. Inaddition, it informs the reader of whereresidents work, their level of education andhow many residents from outside the regionenter the region for work.
In our area, the Workforce Planning Boardof York Region and Bradford WestGwillimbury is a community based, not-for-profit organization gathering intelligenceabout the supply of labour and the demandside of the local labour market by workingwith employers to identify and meet theircurrent and emerging skills needs. Theirprimary role is to help improveunderstanding and coordinate communityresponses to labour market issues andneeds.
There are more statistics and findings thatshow trends in our local labour market ofYork Region. The Workforce Planning Boardof York Region and Bradford WestGwillimbury is constantly gatheringinformation and consulting with employersand community stakeholders to keep youupdated. The complete Labour MarketUpdate entitled Workforce Trends in YorkRegion and Bradford West Gwillimbury isavailable at wpboard.ca.
Future Trends in the LocalLabour MarketContinued from page 12
Ask a
MEMBER
At BMO we believe money ispersonal – and a bank should be,too. We take a mor e human,
intuitive approach to everything we do.And we do it as one bank. W e’re greatbankers, but we’r e people first. W eunderstand the complexity of customers’financial lives…and appreciate that no twolives are the same. And we get that peopletake money personally. Because so do we.Our goal is to anticipate what customersmight want to do next. And how we canhelp. At the W ellington and Bayviewbranch there are several fully qualifiedindividuals – but we apply a single lenswhen it comes to our customers. W erecognize that people’s lives and financialdecisions are totally interconnected. Andso are we. Call our branch line to make anappointment or simply stop in to see us.We’re here to help.
Michael Farzaneh, Branch ManagerBayview & Wellington BranchBMO Bank of Montreal 668 Wellington Street EastAurora, ON L4G 0K3 905-717-0660Open 7 days/week for your convenience
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Visit theAurora Chamber’s
website atwww.aurorachamber.on.ca.
Shop local & supportChamber members!
15
How Your Small Business Can SucceedUsing Social Media By Javed S. Khan
Sometimes the distance between acustomer complaint and the resolution is
just a tweet, post or comment away. Socialmedia has allowed businesses across theworld to communicate directly andfrequently with customers, makingcompanies more adept at responding toconsumer demands.
Social media has also created a reality shiftin the way we work, communicate,collaborate and share with each other.Businesses arecultivatingstrongerrelationships andcollaborating onprojects usingthese methods,building a betterand moreeffectiveworkforce in theprocess.However, someorganizations are still hesitant about thebenefits and see it as a fad. But socialmedia is here to stay!
Whether you think social media is justanother way to see pictures of people atparties, there is no denying that platformslike Facebook and Twitter are popular.Nearly 60 percent of people spend moretime communicating online than they doface-to-face. Social media is breaking downbarriers of communication and making iteasier to communicate a message to anaudience. Having the opportunity tocommunicate anywhere, any time, andshare with customers has made it easier forbusinesses to collect information from theirclients and build a stronger brand acrossseveral platforms.
For the longest time social media seemedlike an optional method of doing business,but when some of the largest brands in theworld like IBM, PepsiCo, Apple, Microsoftand Yahoo are all active social networkusers, you can’t help but think theyunderstand the tremendous benefits. All ofthese companies are using social media to
connect with customers and stay ahead ofthe competition. They all want to create abuzz about the products or services theyoffer and are using social media to spreadthe word.
However, the most important aspect offinding success using social media is havinga strong social strategy - it is at the forefrontof any successful business. Without anestablished corporate culture behind it,using social technology is pointless.
Transforming your business into the socialage doesn’t happen in a day, but it doesstart with simple things like showing thatyou’re an expert in your field, formingrelationships with potential clients, andexpanding your horizon to reach people allover the world.
Bringing your business into the social agerequires a constant evolution. Without theright tools behind you, you might find ithard to survive in this ever-changing world.Begin by establishing your strategy: outlineyour goals and choose the social mediaplatform(s) that will work best for yourbusiness. Then find the people who want tohear from you!
Javed S. Khan is an Accredited AuthorizedLocal Expert with Constant Contact andPresident of EMpression: A MarketingService Company. He has presentededucational sessions to over 6,500 businessowners, entrepreneurs and associations,teaching best practices relating to email,social media and online marketing. Connectwith Javed at 416-889-6069 [email protected].
Not at all. The Act per mits anhonest person (who has beenunfortunate) to secur e a
discharge of their debt so that he or shecan get a fresh start and resume his or herplace in the business community . It is afundamental purpose of The Act toprovide for the financial rehabilitation of aperson.
Russo Corp is a hands-on, boutiqueinsolvency firm with over 30 yearscombined industry experience,specializing in corporate and personalrestructuring. Our str ong industryexperience is accentuated with a uniqueskill set in various areas of law, accounting,mortgages and investigations. W e willease your fears, make sure you understandyour options and guide you thr ough theprocess. Whether you ar e a businessdealing with cash-flow issues, tax r e-assessments or gar nishment of youroperating account, or an individual/familyfacing a job loss, mortgage default or overextension of your cr edit, there aresolutions available to you that you may notbe aware of. There is no need to strugglewith these financial issues by yourself. Call,email or visit us on the web.
Joanne Russo, CIRP, Trustee in BankruptcyRUSSO CAN HELP 905-503-DEBT (3328)[email protected]
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16
13 Things Not to Do at a Networking Event, Ever By Young Entrepreneur Council
You can't always avoid bad networkers,but you can certainly avoid being one.
You're probably not going to avoid awkwardnetworking situations entirely, no matterhow hard you try - at some point, you willget cornered by the one person in the roomwho just can't resist making a sales pitch.
But what you can do is ensure that youaren't the one making others cringe, andthat you're focusing whatever face time youdo get on building real relationships. Sobefore you grab that stack of businesscards, read these 13 networkingdon'ts from members of YoungEntrepreneur Council (YEC):
Don't go tonetworking eventswith friends.
“Too often, people areintimidated by networkingevents, so they ask friends tocome along. Then theyspend the whole eventtalking to no one but thepeople they already know. I tryto make a point to go tonetworking events by myselfwhen I can. This forces me tobranch out and meet new people,and I've made some really amazingconnections this way.” Allie Siarto, FareOak
Don't try to meet everyone insight; curate connections instead.
“I used to introduce myself to lots of peopleat networking events, gathering businesscards so I could call them later. Then Irealized that a brief conversation doesn'treally develop a relationship, and callingpeople you've only met briefly isn't muchdifferent from cold calling them. Now, Imake sure to spend good quality time witha few people rather than a little time with alot of people.” Vladimir Gendelman,Company Folders, Inc.
Don't forget to follow up.
“Follow up with the people youconnect with. Do something to maintainthat connection. Add their contactinformation to your address book or addthem on LinkedIn, Facebook, or Twitter.
Whatever it is, do something to keep thatconnection alive.” Lane Campbell, SyntressSCDT
Don't waste time with sales-oriented people.
“I've learned not to spend too much timenetworking with people who are solely
concerned with selling me on something.”Matthew Moisan, Moisan Legal, P.C.
Don't be a stalker.
“I never practice stalkernetworking, which may be defined asendlessly pursuing contact with someonewho has not responded to you. I follow the3/6 rule of networking: Contact a newperson (online, never by phone) three timesin a period of six weeks. If you don't hearback, move on to someone morereceptive.” Alexandra Levit, Inspiration atWork
Don't network.
“Networking is completely useless.I would much prefer to get in the trencheswith people. That's not networking, that's
getting to know what people are made ofthrough action and behavior, not cocktailsand small talk. When I go to a conference,it's because I want a seat at the table there.When I attend an event, it's to learn andteach. I often take time to help people, but Inever ‘network’.” Corey Blake, Round TableCompanies
Don't interrupt. Ever.
“Think about all the times you'vebeen interrupted. It's not fun. Actively
and patiently listening communicatesthat you respect the other person
and are giving them the gift of yourattention and presence. Peoplecan tell, and they appreciate it.”Andrew Thomas, SkyBellTechnologies, Inc.
Don't beintimidated.
“Even the most awe-inspiring,powerful, and successfulpeople are just that … people.
You probably have a lot tolearn from them, but there's
sure to be something that theycan learn from you, too.” Bhavin
Parikh, Magoosh Inc
Don't be a card spammer.
“It's never a good idea to work aroom by handing out your cards or toquickly toss your card to someone who's notasked for it (it will likely get thrown away inthat case). It's important to build a rapportwith someone before you take the step ofoffering a card or asking for a further actionlike a meeting.” Darrah Brustein, NetworkUnder 40/Finance Whiz Kids
Don't talk so much.
“Don't be overly enthusiastic totalk about yourself and your company. It'salmost always better to ask more questionsthan you're answering.” Shane Adams,Sagacious Consultants
Don't be subtle. Be explicit.
“When a lot of people network,they're afraid to step up and accomplishwhat they want to do or say. As somebodywho's sometimes on the other side of that,it's annoying. When people are clear with
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Coaching as a Block BusterBy Marion Howell
As a leadership coach, I receive manyinquiries about the value ofcoaching. The other day, I received
such a call from a man who was referred tomy services by a friend. As he described thedetails of his challenge, I heard the familiarring of frustration. He catalogued what hehad tried that should have worked. Notwanting to appear the fool, he establishedthat he was accustomed to successfullysolving his own problems, yet was baffled asto why this particular issue plagued him.
As a leadership coach, I actually like it whenI hear this level of frustration, but notbecause I’m cruel or unfeeling. When clientsare frustrated it signals that the issues arepersonally important and relevant to theirbusiness, but there is something blockingtheir way. They seek out coaching, oftenwith the mistaken notion that I’m going tohave all of the answers.
As I fielded questions about my businessexperience, the prospective client tried tosort out whether he thought I had thebackground and knowledge to come upwith the right solution. The truth is I don’thave a solution; I do have provenapproaches that facilitate the client’spersonal development and empowers theirprogress towards their goals.
While there are many aspects of coaching Icould highlight, some of the most rewarding
coaching engagements relate to clearingblocks. Blocks can be internal or externalbut what they have in common is thatthey persistently hold the client back.
Beliefs as Blocker: All of us carrymisaligned or outdated personal beliefsthat hold us back. The coach’s job is tofacilitate the identification andexpression of the client’s unconsciousbeliefs. By raising them to a consciouslevel the client can choose a moreconstructive and truthful mindset thatenables them to see with new eyes.
Emotions as Blocker: At times theclient’s block is an unexamined fear orworry. The most disabling cases seem tobe when an undeclared fear is conjoinedwith a declared desire. When thishappens, it’s like the client is driving withtheir foot on the brake and the gas at thesame time; there’s lot of energy but it’sgoing nowhere. The coaching environmentcreates the confidential context where theseemotions can be voiced anddisempowered. Once the foot comes offthe break, forward mobility occurs.
Lack of Confidence as Blocker: Thisblocker may be a lack of confidence turnedinward or may be projected externally ontoothers. When internally focused, low self-confidence dampens performance since theclient habitually withholds their best effort.This in turn creates a self-fulfilling dynamicof perceived inadequacy and failure. This isresolved when the client’s self-sabotaging isreplaced with a more realistic andsupportive mindset. When the lack ofconfidence is projected onto others, itseems to manifest in the perceived need forcontrol that often generates unintendednegative consequences. Once theunderlying beliefs are surfaced and
examined, the client can reframe theirperspective to hold others as capable andwell-intentioned.
Strength as Blocker: It seems that manyhigh-performers are challenged with theoveruse of their signature strength, which isunderstandable. After all, their success inthe past may be largely attributed to thisapproach. By supporting the client’sidentification of the optimal use of theirstrength and identifying where they areoverusing it, we are able to create space forexperimentation of new skills andapproaches.
Whatever your block, a coach can supportand facilitate your ability to move forward,without telling you what to do. Really.
Marion Howell is a LeadershipDevelopment Coach and OrganizationDevelopment Specialist at The Iris Group,and can be reached at [email protected] 905-841-3169.
me and tell me exactly what they want, Ialways want to help. When somebody'strying to be subtle, it hurts my ability toprovide whatever benefit they're looking toachieve in the networking.” Dan Price,Gravity Payments
Don't ask to "pick my brain."
“The problem with asking, ‘Can Ipick your brain?’ is that it's extremely vagueand frankly, it doesn't sound all thatappealing. If you're going to make arequest to someone for their time and look
to build a long-term relationship, be specificabout what you would like to discuss in yourinformational meeting, cocktail, or coffee.You'll get a lot more people saying yes toyour request.” Antonio Neves,THINQACTION
Don't hound the speakers.
“The speaker is getting a lot ofattention, but many times the people whocan and are most willing to help you are noton stage - they are sitting beside you. Don'tthink the speaker is the only one who can
change your life.” Mike Ambassador Bruny,Ambassador Bruny Dot Com
This article was originally published onOctober 6, 2014 by www.inc.com, awebsite launched in 1996 with smallbusiness ideas, information, and inspiration,as well as practical advice. YoungEntrepreneur Council (YEC) is an invite-onlyorganization comprised of the world's mostpromising young entrepreneurs. Connectwith YEC on Twitter @YEC.
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Blocks can be internal orexternal but what they have in common is that they persistently hold the client back.
18
Employer Recruitment Approaches Supports and Government Grants Made EasyBy Frank Martino, Hons. BA, RRP, CCRC, CVP
Quite often employers arefaced with recruiting
reactively to fill an existingposition or a newly created jobopportunity. Employers mustbroaden their reach to maximizetheir chances of securing theright fit, but many resort torecruitment practices that fallshort of the desired outcomes.With consideration for theabundant employer supportsavailable through governmentsponsored services and grants,the process of both recruitmentand training can be streamlinedin a targeted, cost-effectivemanner, enriching yourbusinesses’ productivity andcompetitiveness.
So where does the recruitingprocess begin? Writing the jobdescription is the first and mostimportant step. A jobdescription is inclusive of boththe essential duties of aposition, in addition to the non-essential duties. Writing the jobdescription and establishing theessential duties required toperform the job allows for clarityin assessing a candidate’ssuitability for the position. Forthe employer, this processpromotes the focus needed tofacilitate a job match with themost appropriate candidate. Anessential duty is one that iscritical to fulfilling the purposeor outcome of the job.Conversely, a non-essential dutyis a task that a potentialcandidate could fulfill; however,
is not considered critical to thejob’s outcome.
To crystalize essential from non-essential duties, employers maycreate a matrix of criticalqualifications or experiencenecessary for the job, in contrastto the qualities that would infact be desirable in a candidate.Clarifying how often a duty isperformed, the time spent oneach duty, and how the duty fits
with others performing in thejob are important steps forconsideration. Examining howthe job would change if a dutywas removed is equallyimportant in order to gainappropriate insights regardingthe necessary elements of thejob description. Establishingclarity within the components ofthe job description can thereby
be accomplished in a thoroughand reliable manner.
An equally critical step iscreating the corresponding jobposting once the written jobdescription is completed. It isimportant to structure theposting to attract the largestnumber of potential applicants,by ensuring legibility andproviding clear contactinformation for your company.
Request a current resumeinstead of using applicationforms, as a resume will providea more complete picture of acandidate’s skills andexperience, allowing you toshortlist the best potentialcandidates for interviews.
Getting the word out when youhave a vacancy is where RNCEmployment Services of Aurora(RNC), an Employment Ontarioservice funded in part by theGovernment of Canada, can bea valuable resource. RNC canassist you with everything fromwriting the job description,creating the job posting,outreaching for appropriatecandidates, pre-screening, andnavigating employer support
and grants for hiring as well astraining. These employerservices are provided at no costto you.
Training and placementincentives are available toeligible employers to offset thecost of hiring and training newor existing employees. Forexample, the Youth Employ-ment Fund (YEF) is offered whenhiring candidates 15 to 29 yearsof age. YEF can be used forspecific and relevant skilltraining for youth prior toplacement. Most recently, theCanada Ontario Job Grant hasbeen launched, which providesthe opportunity for eligibleindividual employers to accessfinancial support to purchasetraining for their existingemployees or new hires thatrequire training or upgrading.This program is funded by theGovernment of Canada,through the Canada Job GrantPrograms. It is throughnavigating grants, governmentprograms and services, as wellas a host of employer supportsthat Employment Ontarioservices such as RNCEmployment Services of Auroracan help employers build astrong and competitiveworkforce.
RNC Employment Services ofAurora can be reached at 905-727-3777 and is convenientlylocated at 222 WellingtonStreet East, Main Floor, Aurora,Ontario. Employment OntarioServices can be accessed bycalling the toll-free EmploymentOntario Contact Centre at1-800-387-5656, (TTY 1-866-533-6339) or visitontario.ca/employmentontario.Frank Martino, Hons. BA, RRP,CCRC, CVP, is Principal andCEO of Rehabilitation NetworkCanada Inc.
Training and placement incentivesare available to eligible employersto offset the cost of hiring andtraining new or existing employees.
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Booked SolidJill Schoenhofer, AssociateAurora, ON [email protected] Solid helps entr epreneurs buildtheir business with referrals. Businesses thatbenefit most include insurance andmortgage brokers, web designers, ITsupport providers, bankers, lawyers,financial planners, bookkeepers,accountants and consultants. A scor ecardand referral marketing plan are provided toassist companies with increasing their sales.
Cancer Recovery Foundation ofCanadaShannon Kroon, Executive Director107-16 Esna Park DriveMarkham, ON L3R 5X1905-477-7743skroon@cancerrecovery.cawww.cancerrecovery.caCancer Recovery Foundation of Canada’smission is to help Canadian families andchildren who are facing the challenges ofCancer to recover – emotionally, financially,spiritually, and physically.
Christie Saccucci MathewsFred Matthews74 Wellington Street EastAurora, ON L4G 1H8416-367-0680fjm@christie-lawyers.comontarioconstructionlaw.caFred Matthews is an Aur ora-basedconstruction lawyer, certified by the LawSociety of Upper Canada as a specialist inconstruction law.
Crimson Leaf StudiosCatherine Willems, Owner99 Gurnett StreetAurora, ON L4G 1P5416-994-2332catherine@crimsonleafstudios.comwww.crimsonleafstudios.comBased in Aurora, Crimson Leaf Studios helpsbusinesses build an online pr esence toreach customers anywhere...anytime. We dothat with killer web designs, functionalwebsites, effective communications, greatcontent and terrific branding. W e prideourselves on personalized service, attentionto detail, timely delivery and clearcommunication.
Crossroads ChiropracticDr. Joshua Nikkanen, DC, Owner45 Eagle StreetNewmarket, ON L3Y [email protected]
East Side Mario's AuroraJoe Parker, Owner/Operator15370 Bayview AvenueAurora, ON L4G [email protected] Side Mario's of fers great value, a fundining experience, and high quality pastasand pizzas, all in a r elaxed, friendlyatmosphere. From the initial gr eeting tospecial celebrations, kids’ pr ograms toexcellent customer service, East SideMario's always provides guests with a fun,positive and memorable experience.
Foot Medical CentreDr. Ryan Kerbel, Foot Specialist,Chiropodist203-126 Wellington Street WestAurora, ON L4G 2N9905-503-3668info@footmedicalcentre.comwww.footmedicalcentre.comFoot Medical Centr e is your family footspecialist and orthotic provider. Our caringFoot Specialists are dedicated to providingcomprehensive and effective treatments forall ages. We alleviate foot pain and of ferdiabetic foot care solutions. V isiting FootMedical Centre is your first step inimproving your foot health.
Gunar SkillinsGunar Skillins, Principal405-55 Wellington Street WestAurora, ON L4G [email protected] Skillins provides very experienced,creative solutions acr oss the visualcommunications spectrum. T ools includegraphic design, logos, brand identityprograms, illustration, storyboar ds, handlettering, package design, signage, webdesign, video cr eation/production, andwriting. Whether it's a single pr oject,campaign, one-shot event, or long-ter mrelationship, take a look atwww.GunarSkillins.com.
Magnum Opus SolutionsLawrence Bouchard, President7 Marksbury CourtAurora, ON L4G [email protected] Opus Solutions (MOS) has
MEMBERSNew
extensive experience in cr eating andimplementing solutions that drive continualimprovement in people, pr ocesses andproducts, while reducing costs, eliminatingwaste, improving quality, managing risk andgrowing profitability. Through a network oflikeminded business professionals, MOS isable to cr eate and deliver excellence foryour organization.
Mortgage Brokers CityAmanda Farris, Mortgage BrokerOak Ridges, ON 647-428-0004mortgages@amandafarris.cawww.amandafarris.comMortgage Brokers City is saving time andmoney for Canadians acr oss the country,while delivering an education-basedapproach to serving clients. Knowledge isthe key to making infor med mortgagedecisions. No pressure, no bias, just facts.What will you do with the time and moneyyou save?
North York Heating, Plumbing &Electrical Supplies LtdJeremy Parr, President8 Industrial Parkway SouthAurora, ON L4G [email protected]
Orenbach Consulting ServicesSusan Orenbach, Principal42 Mugford RoadAurora, ON L4G [email protected] Consulting Services pr ovidesinnovative Human Resour ces leadership,change management and implementationto build and drive pr ograms that enhanceemployee engagement and perfor mance.Results oriented, pr oactive, imaginative,adaptable and resourceful, Susan Orenbachhas demonstrated her ability to develop andimplement creative and customizedprograms to deliver what business ownerswant – improved results!
Paradigm Tactivical Strategies LimitedGary Soupcoff, Financial [email protected]
Pest Hound Inc.Jared Dickson, Owner/Operator262 Lewis Honey DriveAurora, ON L4G [email protected] Hound Inc. is a pest and wildlife controlcompany located in Aurora. We provide arange of services in Y ork Region and thesurrounding area. Call us for a free estimateor check out www.pesthound.com for moreinfo. We eliminate your pest pr oblems -mice, raccoons, squirrels and more!
Pop-A-Lock Toronto and York RegionJohn Graham, Owner1600-2300 Yonge StreetToronto, ON M4P [email protected]/pop-a-lock-toronto-york-region
Pop-A-Lock provides exceptional mobilecustomer service and value to allcommercial, residential and automotivelocksmith and lockout needs with adifference. We offer professionaluniformed staff and Pop-A-Lock brandedvehicles. All personnel is security checkedand all work and pricing is guaranteed.Your security and satisfaction is our #1priority!
St. Maximilian Kolbe Catholic HighSchoolDomenic Scuglia, Principal278 Wellington Street EastAurora, ON L4G [email protected] is our pleasure and privilege to be part ofthe Aurora Chamber of Commerce. We areproud of our staff, students, school and thepositive Christian attitude we display everyday. Students develop and foster a sense ofCatholic values including r esponsibility,compassion and citizenship. Staf f arecommitted to serving the needs of allstudents, providing assistance, guidance,and support.
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Member ReferralsThe Chamber office receives frequent inquiries from patrons seekinglocal products and services – we refer members only! Call LorieButkus-Hill, Member Relations Ambassador, at 905-727-7262 toarrange a visit so we can learn more about your business. An in-depthunderstanding of your products and/or services allows us to maximizeword-of-mouth promotion of your business. Referrals are tracked andcards are sent to members that have been recommended – yourbusiness could be next!
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New Member to Member Discounts
Digital Marketing Experts is offeringAurora Chamber members a 30 percentdiscount on all marketing services offeredat digitalmakretingexperts.ca. ContactMaryam Golabgir at 416-629-9876.
Crimson Leaf Studios is offering AuroraChamber members a $200 discount onwebsite design or redesign. ContactCatherine for a free consultation at 416-994-2332 or online atcrimsonleafstudios.com/aurora.
Magnum Opus Solutions providesbusiness improvement strategies and isoffering Aurora Chamber members a freeconsultation and initial strategy creation,along with 50 percent off the first month’sfees. Offer expires March 31, 2015.
Amanda Farris of Mortgage Brokers Cityis offering Aurora Chamber members a$250 Home Depot gift card with a newresidential mortgage, or an existingmortgage refinance. Principal residences,second residences and investmentproperties are eligible (minimum of$300,000 and a term or three years orlonger). Contact Amanda at 647-428-0004.
Pest Hound is offering Aurora Chambermembers a 20 percent discount on allresidential and business pest and wildlifecontrol services. Contact Jared Dickson at289-221-5811.
Anniversaries
Foxglove Design Inc. celebrated their firstanniversary in December 2014.Congratulations!
King Richard’s English Pub celebratedtheir first anniversary in November 2014.Congratulations!
Neighbourhood Network celebrated their7th anniversary in January 2014.Congratulations!
Niche Décor celebrated 22 years inbusiness and two years in Aurora inNovember 2014. Congratulations!
Sunrise Senior Living celebrated their10th anniversary in November 2014.Congratulations!
Announcements
Bulk Barn Foods Limited held their officialgrand opening of the new head office inAurora in October 2014.
St. Andrew's College unveiled their newLa Brier Family Sports Arena in October2014.
Annual Mayor’sLuncheon Save thedate! Join us for alunch onWednesday,February 18, 2015 atKing’s Riding GolfClub from 11:30 amto 2:00 pm,
featuring a special presentation fromMayor Geoffrey Dawe. Register online ataurorachamber.on.ca/events. Members:$45, Guests: $55, Table of Eight: $325(+HST).
Annual Aurora Chamber Street FestivalWe’re celebrating our 20th year! Markyour calendar and plan to be part of YorkRegion’s largest community event onSunday, June 7, 2015. With over 500vendors, street performers, great food,
free admission and parking, this family-friendly festival is not to be missed.Vendor applications are available on theChamber’s website ataurorachamber.on.ca. Sponsorshipopportunities are available. Call905-727-7262 for more information aboutgaining valuable community exposure foryour business by sponsoring this event.
Chamber Members Support Welcoming Arms Thank you forsupporting Welcoming Arms, the localcharity chosen as the recipient ofdonations collected at our AnnualHoliday Celebration in December. TheChamber presented Welcoming Armswith a generous contribution of morethan $1,000 from members to help localfamilies in need during the HolidaySeason.
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OUT & ABOUTMembers
Business After Five at The Millionaire’s Daughter
Business Women’s Luncheon
Chamber Pub Night East Side Mario’s
Networking Breakfast Sponsored by LegalShield Photos by: Crystal Walsh
