ISSUE 42|APRIL 2018
MAKE YOUR BUSINESS
IRRESISTIBLE TO BANKS & Other Lenders
YOUR MONEY IS WAITING FOR YOU! THIS MONTH FOCUSING ON: What Is WiFi Marketing & Why It’s Important
How to Deal with Computer Vision Syndrome?
How to Avoid Cash Flow & Collection Problems
Become An Industry VIP 16 Ways Mobile
EDITOR'S NOTE MB Business Magazine’s April issue features a wide selection of articles covering topics such as business, travel, health, law and taxation, grooming tips, financial planning and advice for entrepreneurs. April’s Issue has a number of key contributions from our RMA vendors and partners, among these are an article on How to Avoid Cash Flow Problems by Michael Lebovic - President of Canadian Corporate Legal Services, an article on the effectiveness and cost saving benefits of 3PLs - courtesy of our partner eShipper and an article on how your business can plan for Cyber Risks in 2018 by Federated Insurance. We have also included two exclusive features for small business owners, an article on How Your Small Business Can Be Irresistible to Banks and Lenders by Cubeler Financing Solutions and Hyper-Targeted Video Advertising Solutions For Small Businesses by R5 Communications. Continuing with tradition we have included the event calendar showcasing all major holidays and events set to be celebrated across Canada in April 2018. We have also included the latest and most relevant business news coverage from across the world. As always we hope this issue is an informative and entertaining experience for all our readers and that it will live up to your expectations. Our team continues to work tirelessly to improve and refine our business magazine. Your feedback is highly valuable to us, if you have suggestions or comments feel free to call us at 1-866-667-1377 or email us at info@mbeforyou.com to tell us what you think about this issue. For Ad placements and marketing related queries, please email us at mbe-marketing@mbeforyou.com Thank you, Aurora Zabala, Editor In Chief.
CONTENTS
04
Not Asking The Right Question Is A Big Time Failure, The area that we will look.no in months, years,...
06 07
08
Event Calendar
12
How Your Small Business Can Be Irresistible... You go to the bank to try to get a loan for...
Always Be Thankful It is in our human nature to never be satisfied with...
How o Keep Your Employees Happy Most employers want to ...
April Event Calendar
14
Human And / Or Humanoid : Part One With fast-paced changes in our abilities to communicate along with enhanced...
Publisher MB Enterprises Editor-in-chief Aurora Zabala Senior Editor Peter Z. Vaisey Managing Editors Steve Montgomery Mahmood Naqvi Design Cynthia Tolson A. Khan S. Saad Production, Technology & Print Simon Wilson R.J Advertising S. Hassan Shoeib Kamal Administration Alamdar Hussein Erum Asghar R. Adil HOW TO REACH US Website: www.mbeforyou.com Feed-back: 1-866-667-1377 E-mail: info@mbeforyou.com Mail: 100 Dynamic Drive, Unit 104, Scarborough, ON, M1V 5C4. Fax: 1-866-204-6888 MBE Business Magazine is a monthly issue business magazine published by MBE. Inc. Ontario, Canada. Printed by Vision Printers Contents © Copyrights 2017 by MBE, may not be reprinted without written permission. Subscribe / Unsubscribe or Advertise by emailing us at mbe-marketing@mbeforyou.com
Not Asking The Right Question Is A Big Time Failure, And How To Avoid It.
Courtesy: MANSOOR NAQVI President MB Enterprises have found incredibly helpful in my life are: 1. What is my value? 2. What would I do if I know I could not fail? 3. What could go wrong? 4. How do I make ten times more money? 5. What could I do more? 6. Should I even be involved with this? 7. How can my competition defeat me? 8. What is the best use of my time right
The purpose of this article I have written
When you look closer into the topic you
now?
is to look at the overall potential in a
will realize that you are in control of most
9. When I die, what kind of life would I
person’s life. This potential is not looked
of the questions you are asking yourself.
have lived?
at in months, years or decades but in
At the end of the day you are your own
10. How could I improve that perfor-
individual days.
ruler and you are the one that will decide
mance?
what your future will be like. People who There is a single force that builds your
often ask themselves negative questions
In my article next month I will elaborate
future, a small yet profoundly powerful
such as, “Why can’t I ever get it right?”
on the answers to these questions and
force that shapes your health, quality of
are letting themselves down and are
how to find them. However for now these
your life, your maturity and your overall
bound to fail if they maintain such a
are the kinds of questions you should find
happiness. How one uses this force in
negative attitude.
yourself asking if you want to achieve
their daily lives affects the overall success and failure of a person’s life.
04
more in life and become an overall You must be very careful of the type of
happier and more successful person
the questions you ask yourself. If you
than you are today.
The question that arises is that what is
want a premium quality life, you need to
this all important force sculpting? Some
think of high quality questions to ask
These questions should be written down
of the daily questions we ask ourselves
yourself. One should find themselves
and tracked down on a daily basis in
and find ourselves worrying about are:
asking
support
order to get the most out of them. These
• How can I earn more?
themselves and help them create the
questions can also be used as a
• How can I get out of this situation?
best life for themselves and the people
compass that points you towards the
• Does he or she care for me?
around them. The right kind of questions
right direction. If everyone can find
• What is the solution?
will help you stay on the right track, be
themselves blocking out the negative
• Where is my future?
more optimistic, and take the best daily
questions in life and find themselves
• What should I have for lunch?
actions required to achieve your goals
asking the right questions then nothing
• What should I do today?
and dreams. The kinds of questions that I
can hold them back.
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that
MBE BUSINESS MAGAZINE APRIL 2018
05
Always Be Thankful
Courtesy: MAHMOOD NAQVI Vice President MB Enterprises
It is in our human nature to never be
more thankful and grateful. Some of
It is so easy to take people for granted, or
satisfied with what we have. Whether we
these habits that should be ditched are:
even to complain and become angry
are rich or poor, healthy or sick, we
jealousy, envy and greed. Jealousy and
because they do not meet our every wish.
always find a reason to not be satisfied.
envy towards other people will always
However If we thank the ones around us
The crucial mistake people are making
make you less grateful for what you have.
we will be more inclined to be thankful for
with this attitude is that they are failing to
If a person is too greedy then they will
what we have.
realise that they are blessed with
never be able to appreciate properly what
everything they have and everything that
they already have as they will always be
I would like to end this article by
God has blessed them with.
greedy for more.
reminding everyone that no matter what
In order for us to be thankful for what we
“Learn to be thankful for what you already
in this world that would give anything to
have, we have to look into our hearts and
have, while you pursue all that you want�.
be in your shoes and live your life. We
be reflective and appreciative of all that
This famous saying teaches us that it is
must be thankful for the things we take for
we have earned and been blessed with.
not wrong to pursue everything you want,
granted like our health, our families and
There are certain times of the year that
however during our pursuit of happiness
our opportunities. Not everyone in the
everyone starts being thankful which is
we must not neglect and fail to appreciate
world is as blessed and there are a lot of
usually around thanksgiving. However for
all that we have achieved in the past.
people that are facing much larger
stage of life you are in, there are people
us to properly be thankful we must not
06
problems than we are. The best thing we
only be thankful during certain times of
As we become successful and achieve
can do as human beings is count our
the year and instead should strive to be
more and more we also need to thank
blessings, remain positive and always
thankful all year round.
those around us. Our families, spouses
look to stride forward whilst not forgetting
and friends that have come along with us
our past.
There are certain habits that one should
in our journeys also deserve to be
remove from themselves in order to be
thanked for their support and motivation.
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MBE BUSINESS MAGAZINE APRIL 2018
How To Keep Your Employees Happy
Courtesy: ALAMDAR HUSSAIN Country Head MB Enterprises
Most employers want to make sure their
move faster and smarter, and achieve so
management software includes elements
employees
much more together.
as simple as the ability to give other
are
productive
and
professional at work. But should you also
employees' work a "thumbs up."
worry about whether they are happy in
Develop your management skills.
their job?
Good managers bring out the best in
Whether you go the verbal, written or
employees, while bad managers make
monetary route, showing appreciation for
A happier employee is more likely to be
them
employees' work increases their sense of
creative. A happier employee is more
unappreciated.
feel
unmotivated
and
satisfaction and makes them feel like a
likely to be productive. An employer can
valuable part of the company.
rely on a happier employee to be a public
The three qualities most valued in a
advocate
That's
manager are:
invaluable. A grand survey was made in
1. Leadership
Let employees do work they feel passionate about.
136 countries to find out what makes
2. Honesty
The second most important contributor to
employees happy in their jobs, they were
3. Ability to delegate
employee happiness is working in an
for
the
company.
surprised to find that salary did not top
area or industry you’re passionate about,
the list. In fact, it was at the very bottom.
Rather than promoting managers and
followed closely by working for company
Money, it turns out, matters less than
expecting them to learn leadership
that effects positive change in the world.
other areas of work culture and job
abilities on the job, take time to develop
Both of these values ranked far higher
satisfaction.
those skills. Set aside resources for
than
training, whether in person or online, that
happiness in the workplace.
salary
in
terms
of
creating
So what makes people love their jobs,
will help your senior staff learn to
and how can you create those conditions
delegate, motivate and communicate
While we understand that people need a
for your own employees?
effectively with other workers.
certain level of financial security, we
Encourage transparency.
As an employer, you are responsible for
learn that people are pursuing their
One of the biggest problems employees
creating the culture in your company.
passions in the workplace.
face, is a lack of understanding of how
Make it clear to your employees that you
our work fits into the bigger picture, which
value how they manage their teams just
If your company is purpose-driven in its
can lead to not feeling appreciated or
as much as the end product they
mission, you are likely already attracting
motivated.
produce.
workers who are doing work they feel
To combat this, create a culture of
Show your appreciation.
find ways for their work to give back to the
transparency so that all your employees
Feeling a sense of recognition for your
community.
understand
and
work and contributions as the fourth most
challenges confronting the company. This
important contributor to their happiness
Consider donating a portion of profits to a
will not only make them feel like they're
at work. Not feeling appreciated directly
scholarship fund or sponsoring a local
an important part of the team, it gives you
affects motivation and productivity. We
charity drive. If your employees are able
the chance to receive ideas and input
believe in recognizing employees for their
to see tangible proof that their employer
from people who otherwise might not
every contribution.
is contributing to a worthwhile cause,
found this very compelling. It is exciting to
passionate about. But any company can
the
goals,
plans
have felt empowered to speak up. When you
create
transparency,
you
they are more likely to feel positive about
can
Showing appreciation doesn't have to
harness the full intelligence of the team,
come with fanfare or perks. Team
MBE BUSINESS MAGAZINE APRIL 2018
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the work they do.
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07
April
EVENT 2018 CALENDAR APR 1
SUNDAY
Easter Sunday in Canada
APR 2
MONDAY
Easter Monday in Canada
Easter Sunday in Canada celebrates Jesus Christ's resurrection after his death, which is described in the Christian Bible. Some people observe Easter Sunday by attending church while others spend time with their families and friends or engage in Easter egg activities.
Easter Monday is the day after Easter Sunday, which commemorates Jesus Christ's resurrection, according to the Christian Bible. Easter Monday is also a holiday for many Canadians.
APR 6
FRIDAY
Orthodox Good Friday in Canada Many Orthodox Christian churches in Canada often observe Good Friday at a later date than the Good Friday date observed by many western churches. Good Friday focuses on Jesus Christ’s death, which is described in the Christian bible. The day is also known as Great Friday, Holy Friday, and Holy and Great Friday.
APR 6
National Tartan Day in Canada
FRIDAY
Tartans of all varieties are worn on Tartan Day, which recognizes and celebrates the contributions of Scots and their descendants in Canada on April 6.
APR 7
SATURDAY
Last day of Passover in Canada Many Jewish communities in Canada mark the last day of Passover as the end of a Jewish holiday that celebrates the deliverance of Jewish people from slavery in Egypt. Passover is also known as Pesah, Pesach, or the Feast of Unleavened Bread.
APR 7
SATURDAY
APR 8
SUNDAY
Orthodox Holy Saturday in Canada Holy Saturday is the day when Jesus lay in his tomb after his death, according to Christian belief. Many Orthodox Christian churches in Canada often observe Holy Saturday at a later date than the Holy Saturday date observed by many western churches. Holy Saturday is also known as Holy and Great Saturday.
Orthodox Easter in Canada Orthodox Christians in Canada celebrate Jesus’ resurrection on Easter Sunday. The Orthodox Christian date for Easter Sunday, also known as Pascha, is often at a later date than the Easter date observed by many western churches.
08
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MBE BUSINESS MAGAZINE APRIL 2018
APR 9
MONDAY
Orthodox Easter Monday in Canada
APR 9
MONDAY
Vimy Ridge Day in Canada
Easter Monday is the day after Easter Sunday, which celebrates Jesus’ resurrection, according to Christian belief. Many Orthodox Christian churches in Canada often observe Easter Monday at a later date than the Easter Monday date observed by many western churches. The day is also known as Bright Monday.
Vimy Ridge Day is an annual observance on April 9 to remember Canadians who victoriously fought in the battle of Vimy Ridge in northern France during the First World War. The day is also known as the National Day of Remembrance of the Battle of Vimy Ridge.
APR 11
WEDNESDAY
Yom HaShoah in Canada Many Canadians observe Yom Hashoah, which is also known as Holocaust Remembrance Day. It commemorates the lives and heroism of Jewish people who died in the Holocaust between 1933 and 1945.
APR 13
FRIDAY
APR 19
THURSDAY
Isra and Mi'raj in Canada Many Muslims in Canada observe Isra and Mi'raj (Al Isra' wal Miraj, Lailat al Mi’raj, or Laylat al Miraj). This event commemorates the Prophet Muhammad’s journey from Mecca to Jerusalem and his ascent into heaven. It is observed on the 27th day of Rajab, the seventh month in the Islamic calendar.
Yom HaAtzmaut in Canada Many Jewish people in Canada remember Israel’s Independence Day, also known as Yom Ha’Atzmaut (or Yom HaAtzmaut). Celebrations are annually held on or around the fifth day of the month of Iyar, according to the Jewish calendar.
APR 23
MONDAY
St. George's Day in Canada St George’s Day commemorates the life of St George, a Roman soldier and Christian martyr. St George’s Day is a provincial holiday in Newfoundland and Labrador in Canada. It is observed on the Monday closest to April 23 each year.
MBE BUSINESS MAGAZINE APRIL 2018
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09
TO CONTACT US FOR MORE INQUIRY..
Mahmood: 1-416-939-9378, Syed Hassan: 1-647-832-7265 www.mansoornaqviteam.com
www.mansoornaqviteam.com
www.mansoornaqviteam.com
www.mansoornaqviteam.com 104-100 Dynamic Drive, Toronto, ON M1V 5C4 200 Consumers Road, Suite 100, Toronto, ON M2J 4R4 (416) 939-9378 (416) 497-5949 www.mansoornaqviteam.com 10
Helping you is what we do.
TO CONTACT US FOR MORE INQUIRY..
Mahmood: 1-416-939-9378, Syed Hassan: 1-647-832-7265 www.mansoornaqviteam.com
Project
THE WAY
Project
ONE28
Project Detail:
Project Detail:
Developer
: Sorbara Group partnered with Metropia and Greybrook Realty Partners
Project Type
: Stacked Towns
Location
: Mississauga, ON
Launching
: March 2018
Suite Types
: 2 Storey, 2 and 3 bedroom designs with 2 baths on upper level, powder on main Underground Parking Features and Finishes: Stainless Steel Appliances, Quartz Kitchen countertops, 9 ceilings on main levels, Large Rooftop or Garden Terrace with every unit equipped with Gas BBQ connection
Suite Sizes
Mansoor Naqvi Team Platinum Benefits For:
859WSET (Islington & Queensway west) - Price discounts (Value$8,000 to $12,000) - $0 Assignment Fees (Value: $5,000) - 10% Deposit Only in 1st year - Cap on development charges - Right to Lease during Occupancy
MANSOOR NAQVI TEAM IS PROUD TO BRING 859WEST CONDO PROJECT IN THE HEART OF TORONTO.
Location
: Waterloo
Launching
: March 2018
Suite Types
: 1 Bed, 1 Bed+Den,
Storeys
2 Bed : 15
Suites
: 120 with balconies or
Suite Sizes
: 536 – 959 sq. ft.
terraces
Starting Price : From the high $200’s
App. Avg PSF : $520
859WEST
: CTN Developments
Project Type : High-Rise Condo
: 144 units ranging in size from 960 sq ft to 1340 sq ft.
Project
Developer
Project Detail: Developer : First Avenue and Latch Developments Project Type : Mid-Rise Condo Location Launching
: Etobicoke (On the Queensway, west of Royal York) : March 2018
Architect Storeys
: Teeple Architects : 14
Suite Types Suites
: 1Bed,1Bed+Den,2Bed, : 228 with balconies or terraces 2Bed+Den, 3Bed, 3Bed+Den
Suite Sizes : 528sq.ft. – 1,171sq.ft. Starting Price : From the $300’s
MANSOOR NAQVI TEAM PLATINUM BENEFITS FOR ALL PROJECT 1. Free Assignment clause 2. Price discounts 3. Lease during Occupancy 4. Extended Deposits 5. Capped development charges MAHMOOD NAQVI SALES REPRESENTATIVE
SYED HASSAN BROKER
11
How Your Small Business Can Be Irresistible To Banks & Other Lenders Courtesy: CATHY HUME, Toronto small business owner
You go to the bank to try to get a loan for
lenders.
your small business. You’re asked to
businesses match with would definitely
compatible
provide all sorts of documents, financial
help prevent a lot of frustration. But how
revolutionary
statements, projected cash flows, etc.,
do you know that? In addition to
financial
only to be turned down after what is too
Canada’s six largest banks, there are
registered small businesses with the
often a very frustrating process. If you’re
literally hundreds of credit unions and
lending
a small business owner reading this
other lenders. Obviously, you can’t go
registered lenders, which include banks,
article, this probably sounds very familiar.
see them all, but thankfully, the guys who
credit unions and various other types of
Like many small business owners, I used
created the Cubeler commercial lending
lenders. The end result is that you can log
to think that banks and other lenders
platform have now given us a much
in to your Cubeler account to review the
simply didn’t like small businesses. But I
better alternative.
matches presented in the form of
Knowing which lenders our
discovered that that’s not entirely true. It
12
offers from each and every one of those lenders. platform
data criteria
from of
Cubeler that the the
is
a
matches platform’s platform’s
pre-qualified credit offers and accept the
turns out that very often the main reason
Register your business on Cubeler and
offers that best suit the needs of your
small business owners get turned down
you’ll not only find out what lenders your
business.
for loans is because our businesses don’t
small business is compatible with, but
fit the lending criteria of the banks or
you’ll also receive pre-qualified credit
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To understand how Cubeler works, you
MBE BUSINESS MAGAZINE APRIL 2018
first have to understand what banks and
to be diligent in your bookkeeping and
consulting firms to manufacturers selling
lenders are trying to find out about your
accounting
to a global audience.
small business before they lend you
attempt to read information from your
money. When lenders ask you for, and
accounting software periodically as it
Here’s a brief summary of why I believe
analyse your financial statements and
updates the Cubeler Score™ only when
small business owners should take a few
cash flow projections, what they’re trying
new data is available. If you’re accounting
minutes out of their busy schedules to
to do is determine whether or not you will
and financial data isn’t kept up-to-date, it
register their businesses on Cubeler:
be able to pay back the loan that you’re
may negatively impact your score. As
asking for. By retrieving financial data
most
Pre-qualified credit offers without
periodically from your small business’
probably have better things to do than
having to submit a single application.
accounting software, Cubeler is able to
worry about accounting data entry, so
Multiple lenders and various types of
repeatedly perform that analysis and
working
lenders on a single platform.
present the result in the form of a credit
bookkeeper would be a good idea to
Better interest rates as lenders
score called the Cubeler Score™.
make sure your Cubeler Score™ always
compete to obtain your business.
small
reflects A business’ Cubeler Score™ provides an
data
business
with
the
entry. Cubeler
an
owners,
accountant
current
state
of
will
you
or
Easy and free registration.
your
business.
So, if you want to avoid the potential
indication of the overall health of the
frustration of dealing with a bank or a
business and its ability to pay back debt.
Besides offering free registration to small
lender the next time you need to borrow
The Cubeler Score™ has a trend
business owners, one of the things I like
money for your small business, just do
analysis
compares
the most about Cubeler is that the variety
what so many other small business
several financial ratios over three-month
of lenders on the platform makes it a
owners have already done and register
increments.
your
solution that will fit the financing needs of
your business on Cubeler. Your money is
business has to have been registered on
ANY type of business, be it hospitality,
waiting for you!
the platform for at least 3 months before
farming, retail, healthcare, distribution,
it can earn that portion of the Cubeler
you name it. In fact, registered Cubeler
Score™. The second thing you can do is
members
component This
that
means
that
MBE BUSINESS MAGAZINE APRIL 2018
range
from
self-employed
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13
Human And / Or Humanoid Part One
Courtesy: DAVID RALPH MACKERETH dmackereth@canimac.com
With fast-paced changes in our abilities
Enlightenment
to communicate, along with enhanced
Quantum Era. These glimpses should
John
search tools to explore any topic, it
inform younger generations, and remind
inimitable quality paintings.
appears we are developing geniuses at a
older generations, of what Humans can
produced only fifteen known paintings,
more accelerated pace than anytime in
achieve without digital age assistance.
this surely places Da Vinci as the revered
human history.
painter of all time.
Period
and
early
the
Baptist,
all
considered Having
I thought it may be
As Sir Winston Churchill stated, “the
worthwhile to bring to the attention of
farther backward you look, the farther
those born in the Digital Age, that there
forward you can see”, and we must all do
Leonardo did not attend school, nor was
have been (for a few thousand years)
our best to have these younger eyes
he able to make use of any modern
extremely clever innovative and creative
looking backward, at least some of the
digital
people operating in analog.
time.
unparalleled volume of creative work. I
older
generation
themselves
Have the
achieved,
and/or
the
for
facilities
in
producing
his
would encourage anyone under the age
younger
Leonardo da Vinci (1452 – 1519), is an
of fifty to read Walter Isaacson’s book -
generation, any benefit in their judgment,
Italian Renaissance polymath, skilled
Leonardo Da Vinci - to become familiar
someone is a virtual genius while
and knowledgeable in many topics. He is
with this quintessential human. Isaacson
engaging effortlessly with modern digital
known
and
affirms – “his genius and creativity had
devices? Let’s first have a look at a group
inventions: first person to record the best
always come from proceeding without
of eclectic geniuses (from the past) on
mix of metals to produce an alloy; first
preconceptions – he was more interested
how they have advanced what it means
person
dental
in pursuing knowledge than in publishing
to be human.
elements; optic discoveries a century
it – one mark of a great mind is the
ahead of his time; first imagined scuba
willingness to change it.” (1)
for
to
many
describe
innovations
human
According to Wikipedia, those over
gear; first description of arteriosclerosis
sixty-five represent approximately eight
as a function of time; correctly speculated
Writing seventy-five years or so after
percent of the world’s population, and
how
(only
Leonardo’s death, we have Shakespeare
these elders mostly developed their
confirmed in modern times); correctly
creating the Human, as is adequately
ideas and skills working without digital
hypothesized that sound and light travel
described
age assistance. For the remaining bulk
in waves; pioneered ichnology (deals
Invention of the Human, by Harold
of the population – Gens X and Y, and
with traces of organismal behaviour);
Bloom. Bloom takes as a given “that The
Millennials – the Digital Age has had an
pre-dated Copernicus and Galileo with
Complete Works of William Shakespeare
immense impact on their evolution,
his assertion the sun does not move; and
is a secular scripture from which we
possibly without them even being aware.
many, many more unique observations
derive much of our language, our
and theories, especially in the universe of
psychology, and our mythology. Literary
art. (1)
character
To highlight human achievements before
the
aortic
valve
works
the help of digital marvels, we will overview
14
Saint Anne, Lady with an Ermine, and St.
the
accomplishments
in,
Shakespeare
before
–
Shakespeare
The
is
relatively unchanging; women and men
of
In his spare time, our Leonardo was
are represented as aging and dying, but
Leonardo da Vinci, Shakespeare and
commissioned to paint: The Mona Lisa,
not as changing because of their
Lucretius, before moving to the later
The Last Supper, Virgin and Child with
relationship to themselves, rather than to
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MBE BUSINESS MAGAZINE APRIL 2018
their gods or God, had changed. These
guide his life by true principles, man’s
record of curiosity ever created, a
plays remain at the limit of human
greatest riches is to live on a little with a
wondrous guide to the person whom
achievement: aesthetically, cognitively, in
contented mind; for a little is never
eminent historian Kenneth Clark called
certain ways morally, even spiritually”. (2)
lacking.
So rolling time changes the
‘the most relentlessly curious man in
Bloom
seasons; what was of value, becomes in
history’. His notebooks have been called
turn of no worth.” (4)
‘the most astonishing testament to the
continues,
“It
provokes
considerable resistance from scholars when I say that Shakespeare invented
powers
of
human
observation
and
us, but it would be a statement of a
Greenblatt continues “In Lucretius it
imagination ever set down on paper’.
different order if anyone were to assert
welled up out of a recognition that we are
The more than 7,200 pages now extant
that our personalities would be different if
made of the same matter as the stars
probably represent about one-quarter of
Jonson and Marlowe had never written.
and the oceans and all things else.
what Leonardo actually wrote.” (1)
Shakespeare teaches us how and what
Cicero – Poggio’s favorite Latin writer –
to perceive, and he also instructs us how
conceded the marvelous power of On the
As we advance this inquiry into the
and what to sense and then experience
Nature of Things. The greatest Roman
discoveries
as sensation. The Complete Works of
poet, Virgil, about fifteen years old when
development of modern humans, we will
William Shakespeare could as soon be
Lucretius died, was under the spell of On
take a respite from historic references. In
called The Book of Reality.” (2)
the Nature of Things.” (3) Greenblatt also
Marshall McLuhan’s - The Medium Is the
quotes
Leonardo
drafted
without
As CAD,
the
facilitated
the
philosopher
Message – we find, “a medium affects
Shakespeare wrote without any help
Santayana on Lucretius, “the ceaseless
the society in which it plays a role not
from the internet, and he was finished
mutation
of
only by the content delivered over the
with his formal education by fourteen.
indestructible substances – the greatest
medium, but also by the characteristics of
thought that mankind has ever hit upon.”
the medium itself”. (5) With McLuhan’s
Approximately seventy-five years prior to
(3) And again in The Swerve we read,
pronouncement, we will progress our
the height of Leonardo’s creativity, we
“Unlike Brunelleschi’s massive cupola,
survey of archetypal analog founders of
witness Poggio Bracciolini’s discovering
the greatest dome constructed since
the Digital Age in the second half of this
“On the Nature of Things” written by the
classical antiquity, Lucretius’ great poem
article.
Ancient Roman, Titus Lucretius Carus.
does not stand out against the sky. But
business capitalist vanguard are Bill
Bracciolini (1380 – 1459) was an Italian
its recovery permanently changed the
Gates and Steve Jobs, both of whom did
scholar and an early humanist. Written in
landscape of the world. (3)
not graduate from university, and PayPal
of
Spanish
that
forms
composed
50 BCE, this book “is certainly worth
Remembering, on the digital
co-founder and early Facebook investor,
reminding ourselves that Greek and
Just after the discovery of On the Nature
Peter Thiel’s comment, “we wanted flying
Roman classics, largely displaced from
of Things, we find Johannes Gutenberg
cars, instead we got 140 characters.” (6)
our curriculum, have in fact definitely
using movable type in 1439. When he
shaped
as
opened his publishing house in 1452, he
1. Leonardo Da Vinci, by Walter
Stephen Greenblatt writes in The Swerve
effectively started the book publishing
Isaacson
– How the World Became Modern.
revolution. As Isaacson writes, “and soon
2. Shakespeare – The Invention of the
modern
consciousness”,
others were using his moveable-type
Human, by Harold Bloom
Over two thousand years ago, Lucretius
press to print books that would empower
3. The Swerve – How The World Became
wrote “The stuff of the universe is an
unschooled but brilliant people like
Modern, by Stephen Greenblatt
infinite
moving
Leonardo. It is reassuring to discover
4. On the Nature of Things, by Titus
randomly through space, like dust motes
that Leonardo spent as much on books
Lucretius Carus
in
hooking
as he did on clothes. He drew on Virgil’s
5. Understanding Media: The Extensions
together, forming complex structure,
Aeneid, Ovid’s Metamorphoses, and the
of Man, by Marshall McLuhan
breaking apart again, in a ceaseless
thunderous natural phenomena in book 6
6. Elon Musk, by Ashlee Vance
process of creation and destruction. The
of Lucretius’ On the Nature of Things.” (1)
a
number sunbeam,
of
atoms
colliding,
first-beginnings of things cannot be seen by the eyes. Life is one long struggle in
Thanks
the dark. To none is life given in freehold;
publishing,
to all on lease. What is food to one, is to
made available to us as Isaacson
others bitter poison. But if one should
outlines, “His notebooks are the greatest
MBE BUSINESS MAGAZINE APRIL 2018
to
Gutenberg Leonardo’s
and thoughts
book are
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15
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16
with a damaged or lost shipment, it can
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MBE BUSINESS MAGAZINE APRIL 2018
You save money! Lots of it
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or
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platforms
platforms.
These
that
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able
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MBE BUSINESS MAGAZINE APRIL 2018
have at all times. Companies like
Shane
Friedman
at
tools
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17
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18
E-Commerce
What Is WiFi Marketing & Why It’s Important To Your Business?
Courtesy: SABRINA DE MARZI, Digital Marketing Manager Falcon Retail
Turn Your Guests WiFi into a Powerful Marketing Tool
customer loyalty, and increasing sales.
whether they’re connected or logged in.
These technology tools are often referred
How this is done is relatively simple.
Mobile is a default position for a growing
to as a WiFi Marketing platform.
Every WiFi device has a unique digital
number of Internet users who consider
identity that it frequently transmits. The
smartphones essential to their daily lives.
What is WiFi Marketing?
WiFi access points gather this data and
As consumers we use our smartphones
WiFi Marketing means treating your free
transmit it to the cloud-based platform,
for a multitude of daily activities outside
guest WiFi as more than just a perk for
which
of communicating with family, friends and
customers. As an entrepreneur, you need
customers’ experiences from any web
colleagues. Smartphones are our lifeline
to view it as a business opportunity; an
browser.
to how we work, live and play. We expect
efficient
connectivity wherever we go, and those
customers and promote your brand,
expectations will only increase in the
products or services using real-time
Benefits of WiFi Marketing to Your Business
coming years as we are able to control
automated marketing campaigns that
Purchasing an account license for a WiFi
more
create
channel
engage
to
configure
your
customer
Marketing technology platform, like that offered by Falcon Retail Inc. of Bolton,
owners view offering free Internet access
Ontario, enables you to transform your
That’s why many retailers and hospitality
to
unnecessary
guest WiFi into a powerful marketing tool.
owners already offer guests free WiFi
expense rather than an opportunity to
Working seamlessly with your existing
connectivity on their premises as a
create loyal customers and improve
WiFi infrastructure, it allows you to:
value-added experience, which keeps
repeat business and revenue.
our
lives
through
our
smartphones.
their customer on site longer and proves
personalized
you
experience. Regrettably, many business
of
a
to
enables
customers
as
an
• Understand Your Customers Better
to lead in an increase in purchase spend.
How WiFi Marketing Works
In fact, almost 62% of businesses
If you already have a WiFi network
able to passively track and monitor foot
surveyed by Small Business Trends
installed in your venue, then you are
traffic at your WiFi-enabled premise.
found that customers spent more time on
more than half way there. If you don’t, you
From how many guests walk by your
their premises once WiFi was introduced.
will be required to install a WiFi network
facility
More
important,
customers
spent
Unfortunately,
With a WiFi Marketing platform, you are
to
those
that
enter
your
around
50%
said
to provide wireless Internet access to
establishment, all through the unique
more
money
too.
mobile users visiting your establishment.
digital identity picked up from the mobile
few
retailers
devices that have come in range of your
are
leveraging their guest WiFi as part of
WiFi
Marketing
platforms
are
a
their overall mobile marketing strategy.
cloud-based technology that enables you
network radius.
to access a host of marketing features
You may even deepen the breadth of
Guest WiFi, coupled with the right
and
by
data by creating a branded WiFi Sign-In
technology and tools provide business
piggy-backing off your existing WiFi
splash page, which is automatically
owners a unique opportunity to offer their
network. Secure, easy and cost-effective
presented to the anonymous visitors that
patrons
personal
to deploy, it utilizes your access points to
have entered your WiFi network radius.
driving
passively gather information about WiFi
To access your free WiFi, they must
building
users in the radius range of your network,
provide their contact information for
a
customer operational
seamless experience
and while
efficiencies,
MBE BUSINESS MAGAZINE APRIL 2018
analytical
capabilities
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19
authentication and are knowingly opting
customers are visiting your premise. For
list and social following through WiFi
in for future marketing communications
instance,
could
Marketing, which is very simple and
from your brand. Typical authentication
promote rust proofing packages or
economical to do, you can drastically
options include email address, mobile
discount
improve your brand`s exposure with
number, and social media profiles such
customers.
as Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and more.
promote a specialty seafood entre to
This is the first step towards building an
boost ticket size and keep customers
Staying top-of-mind is very important for
ongoing
seated longer.
any
relationship
with
your
automotive oil
shops
changes
for
Restaurant
waiting
owner
can
customers.
business.
Staying
relevant
to
consumers and providing a personalized The
opportunities
WiFi
Marketing
experience is what will make your
Once guests are signed in, you can get a
provides for customer engagement are
better
limitless.
Businesses
demographics, interests and behavior.
maximize
their
You’ll learn all about how often they visit,
repeat business and grow sales should
Mobile Digital Marketing for the Budget Conscious
the duration of visits, as well as about
consider WiFi Marketing unique ability to
Business owners of all sizes can easily
their age, gender, and more. Collecting
create
customer
adopt this extremely effective mobile
such data is extremely valuable and
shopping
drives
marketing tool with minimal resources
highly effective for driving more repeat
engagement and gathers actionable
business. You’re provided with insight to
customer analytics that assist in further
target your customers more accurately,
improving your marketing and sales
The
improve promotional offers, employ more
results.
cloud-based platform license fee ranges
understanding
of
their
a
seeking
exposure,
generate
personalized experience
that
most importantly… serve your customers better.
business a success.
to
successful methods of advertising, and
required – financial and human. cost
of
a
WiFi
Marketing
anywhere from $100 to $300 per month
• Develop Experience
a
Better
Customer
depending on the vendor you choose. That translates to as little as $3 a day; the
You can also use WiFi Marketing to
daily equivalent of ordering a cup of
• Keep Customers Coming Back
connect with audiences after they have
coffee.
As customers sign-in to your free WiFi
left your premise or signed off of your
service, you can easily start sending
WiFi network. Like any other marketing
Now let’s look at it from a total cost of
compelling
channel, you can use WiFi Marketing as
doing business perspective. To list your
promotional offers and coupons based
an
valuable
business online on a local directory can
on their demographics, visit frequency,
information with customers, but with
range anywhere from $29 to $499 per
interests, and more. Great news is that
great precision.
year. To place an advertisement in a print
marketing
messages,
opportunity
to
share
some WiFi Marketing platforms offer a
publication ranges anywhere from $500
variety of pre-built templates to quickly
WiFi Marketing enables you to share
to $20,000, depending on whether it’s
get your campaigns up and running
customized content based on your
local or national, size of ad, or whether
without much fuss or technical knowhow.
customers’ demographics, behavior or
you use color or black and white. Neither
interests.
include
initiative will guarantee your business will
You can easily send out marketing
announcements about a new product or
be found or enable you to grow your
campaigns to promote repeat business.
service, upcoming event or contest,
customer base, repeat business and
For example, customers who have visited
holiday hours, or simply to share facts
sales revenue.
your store can receive a marketing
about your brand. It can even be used to
message notifying them about a sale or
encourage customers to sign-up for your
When you calculate the return benefits of
to enjoy an exclusive coupon on one of
new business app, newsletter, loyalty
investing in a WiFi Marketing technology
your many store items. These types of
card, or to connect with your brand on
platform, the investment cost decreases
messages
social media.
significantly. WiFi Marketing can increase
increase
return
rates
of
This
may
customers and grow your business,
your customer base, build brand loyalty,
attracting them back on a day they
The key is to engage your customers and
and grow sales revenue, which all benefit
weren’t originally set out to do so.
develop
your bottom line.
You can also use triggered marketing campaigns to boost purchase spend as
20
customers near and far.
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a
experience.
personalized Therefore,
if
customer you
can
increase the size of your email contact
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MBE BUSINESS MAGAZINE APRIL 2018
How To Deal With Computer Vision Syndrome?
Courtesy: KANDA OPTICAL
ophthalmologist can keep you updated as to your eyes’ condition and whether you have CVS or anything more serious.
• Adjust the View Angle The angle you gaze at is important in computer vision syndrome. Follow these tips to adjust your view angle: • Make sure that the screen’s center is 20-28 inches from the eyes • The screen’s center must be 4-5 inches below your eye level Today technology surrounds you more
eyes from CVS:
• Keep other reference materials in a way
than ever. Technology is meant to
that you don’t have to move your head
improve your life, but things can become
• Reduce the Glare
overwhelming at times. Computer vision
Wear a pair of glasses with polarized
syndrome, also called CVS is a common
lenses that help protect your eyes from
• Blink Regularly
problem among those who spend a lot of
the glare. Even if you use a bright screen,
Do you know that those who use
time in front of a computer screen. There
the lenses will protect and soothe your
computer
are some ways to deal with this issue,
eyes. You can also add a glare-reduction
non-users? The usual blink rate is 18
which also includes protecting your eyes
filter to the screen.
times per minute. But computer users
much
with the right pair of eyeglasses.
How Can CVS Harm You?
don’t
blink
as
often
as
may not blink more than a fourth of that.
• Take Breaks Every 20 Minutes You don’t have to sit for hours in front of
This adds to computer vision syndrome
CVS can cause serious eye irritation.
the screen. It can cause much more
and can leave your eyes dry. So make
Some of the main symptoms of it include
damage than showing symptoms of
sure to blink more often. You can also use
eyestrain, blurry vision, headaches, dry
computer vision syndrome. If you spend
some doctor-suggested eye drops to
eyes, pain in the neck and/or shoulder.
more than an hour in front of the screen,
lubricate your eyes.
But in most cases these symptoms
make sure you take a break every 20
vanish if you take a break. However,
minutes. During the break, look at objects
So follow these tips if you want to prevent
exposing your eyes to it for long can
at distance. This can help in working your
CVS.
develop issues. CVS is a problem that
eye muscles and eliminate the strain.
affects not only computer users but also those who use smartphones and tablets for long durations.
Kanda Optical offers complete range of
• See Your Doctor Once in a While
eyeglasses
Your eyes are too important and you
anti-glare benefits. Choose the right pair
shouldn’t take them lightly. Make sure to
that suits your style and needs.
Protecting your Eyes from CVS
get regular checkups once every 6
There are effective ways to protect your
months
MBE BUSINESS MAGAZINE APRIL 2018
or
12
months.
and
sunglasses
with
Your
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21
MBE
inc.
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How To Avoid Cash Flow & Collection Problems ALLOWING YOU TO FOCUS ON THE GROWTH OF YOUR BUSINESS
Courtesy: MICHAEL LEBOVIC mlebovic@cclsinc.ca 416-784-3770 xt224 www.canadiancorporatelegal.com
Whether you are a small business or a
client. It is only prudent that you know
The best way to make sure that there are
large one, extending credit in these tough
exactly who you are dealing with, what
no errors is to get a business card and/or
times tends to be tricky if not downright
shape they are in financially and what
letterhead and attach them to the credit
dangerous. The right collection system
sort of payers they are.
application. You might even try to get the
can be key to the survival of your
owners home telephone number and
business. Here are 7 tips that will help
#2 What should I be asking for?
address if possible. Last but not least,
protect you.
If you are dealing with a business always
ask for a copy of their check to confirm
ask for its full legal name. If it turns out
the banking information they give you.
#1 First things first, create a paper trail
later that you were not given the proper
The more information you have, the more
name or were given an inexact name,
secure your position.
As we all know “the devil is in the details”.
you may just be able to look to the
How are you going to have those details
owners personally for any outstanding
You should also get references from
if you don’t ask for them, write them down
balances.
other suppliers. Note the name and position
and save them somewhere? This should
of
the
person
giving
you
be done before you even begin doing
Get the full name of the owner or CEO,
information. Find out how long they have
business with your client or customer by
make sure it’s written out, so you know
been doing business with the applicant,
having them fill out a credit application.
how it’s spelled. (I wish I had a dollar for
at what volume? What sort of payment
every file I’ve seen where $20,000.00
history they have.
I am amazed at how many businesses
worth of goods was shipped out to Fred
never bother to take this step. Credit is a
at Toronto Bargain Bonanza)
privilege that you are extending to your
Your prospective client will often cherry pick who they give you as a reference, resulting in a picture that might not be completely accurate. So here are a few additional steps you can take. Call around to colleagues or suppliers in the industry and see if they have any information they might be willing to share. You will be surprised how helpful others who have been in business for a while can be. Everyone gets burned sometime and the smart businessman knows that if he looks out for you - someday you will be there for him. Now you are ready to provide your goods and services having covered all the bases and minimized your exposure to the risk of not getting paid.
24
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MBE BUSINESS MAGAZINE APRIL 2018
#3- Documents that help protect you
spend on collection of a delinquent
days
“It’s OK, I trust him”.
account including legal fees.
• Customer Name (just the way they gave it
I confess that I am aware of many people
You might also want to think about
• Address where goods or services were
who do business or even lend money on
including a personal guarantee.
provided, and to whom if it is different than
to you) and address.
the party named
a handshake and everything works out just fine. I know even more people for
It should be signed by both parties and
• What exactly was provided and when
whom it did not work out so fine. The end
dated.
• Amount due
relationship that was ruined, perhaps
If you or your customer need to make any
Put your company’s policy about returns,
forever.
changes, make sure you get that in
complaints or disputes at the bottom of
writing too.
the invoice, e.g.;
reduces the possibility that one side or
#5 After the work is done
“All complaints must be made in writing
the other will misunderstand or forget
“I don’t remember getting that”
within 14 days, no returns after 30 days”
This will seem self-evident but let me
Last but not least add a line specifying
For starters, send a written quote and
point out the importance of having your
the interest that will be charged on
ask for an acknowledgement.
client sign off on delivery of or pick up of
past-due payments.
result was a substantial loss as well as a
Putting something in writing, greatly
what was said.
goods, or the provision of services Once it's clear you have an agreement on
(signed work / service order) whenever
You must have both the monthly and
the scope of the job and the cost you are
possible.
annual rate printed or it is not enforceable
It’s a good idea to have your terms
I have mentioned interest on late
#4 The contract.
(interest charged on past due accounts)
payments several times because without
A written contract will help protect both
on all those documents.
stating it on your documents you will not
ready to move on to the contract.
be able to claim any interest beyond a
sides from future problems.
#6 Billing
very low rate set by the court.
Make sure the terms are clear because
Your Invoice should minimally have the
any dispute about the meaning of a
following:
In the general course of business this is
clause or term will go against the drafter
• Your company’s proper name and address
of no consequence. Most of us do not go
of the contract.
• Invoice number for identification purposes
after our clients for interest on late
What should the contract consist of?
• Date of Invoice
invoices anyway because we want to
• Terms of payment e.g.; upon receipt or 30
protect the good will established. So,
Everyone’s
needs
are
different
but
minimally you want to make sure your agreement contains: 1. The proper names and addresses of both parties 2. What exactly is being offered for sale or service 3. What quantity at what price 4.What is the total due and when will it be payable 5. What are the consequences of late payment (interest? late payment fee?) 6. How will extras that come up be dealt with? I recommend to my clients that they also include any costs that they will have to
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don’t be shy about putting this term on your invoices.
For the last 30 years, he & Canadian Corporate Legal Services have been helping thousands of businesses & individuals
You may still want to maintain good will, but once a client has to
retrieve their delinquent receivables.
be sued you are going to want your interest and you will deserve it. A few percentage points can make a big difference as to what
His consultancy also helps his clients increase the effectiveness
amount you wind up with when the dust settles.
of their A/R departments so they can avoid painful & unnecessary write-offs.
Also, an interest charge on late payments serves to motivate your clients to pay on time.
His motto is: “3rd party collections doesn’t have to mean good-bye client if it's the right 3rd party”
# 7 Take Action The most common A/R mistake businesses make is waiting too long before taking action. You have worked hard to get your customer and to maintain a relationship. Of course we all want to retain our customers and not burn any bridges, but, this relationship should flow both ways. Your customer should get regular past due notices for the first three months. You can add “If there is a problem please call us" or something similar. If you are not getting paid 90 days after an invoice is due, you are in jeopardy of losing that receivable. The longer you wait the harder it will be to get paid and the further back in the line of creditors you will be.
6055 Steeles Ave E, Sacarborough, ON, M1X 0A7 PH: (647) 947-2864
Your customer should be advised, in writing, that you value the relationship but if the bill is not paid by whatever deadline you set (I recommend 7 days) the matter will be turned over to a third party. Allowing a customer to constantly kick the payment down the road is setting yourself up for a problem. Keep a collection record of your calls and what was said as well as copies of the notices you sent asking for payment and any response you receive.
In Conclusion Dealing with collections is never fun. Often, it causes the business owner a lot of additional stress and results in the loss
NĀRAT ●The Leaders in worldwide experience based travel .....satisfy your knowledge through wonder
of too much time that could be put to better use. In fact, most companies are pleasantly surprised at the value of passing over hard to collect from clients, over to a third party.
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Michael Lebovic is a licensed paralegal and the President of Canadian Corporate Legal Services Inc., a law office that specializes in debt collection.
26
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250 Consumers Road, Suite 719, Toronto, ON. M2J 4V6. (416) 850-6819 inquiries@narat.org www.narat.org
Call Now 1-877-BY-NARAT (29-62728)
MBE BUSINESS MAGAZINE APRIL 2018
Retail Merchant Association /MBBP Members
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27
Become An Industry VIP 16 Ways A Mobile App Will Help Your Restaurant
Courtesy: NEBS DELUX
through a branded mobile app? It’s simple. Deluxe now offers a new service that makes creating a mobile app for your restaurant quick, scalable, and affordable. If you’re still undecided, get a taste of what a mobile app can do for your restaurant.
1. Designed For Your Business Let’s start with the beautiful home screen designed to complement and showcase
your
brand. Information
displayed can be anything related to
This article first appeared in the Small Business Resource Center blog at Deluxe.com. Not long ago, the cost to create a mobile app was out of reach for restaurant owners. A typical quote to develop a mobile app used to fall somewhere between $50,000 to $150,000. Unless you’ve got a line of people around the block dying to dine on your $2,000 gold leaf, truffled foie gras burger, it’s hard to justify the investment.
requires tens of thousands of dollars. Even if you get past the sticker shock, you’re left with months of planning, development, and debugging. None of which sounds very appetizing. But don’t 86 the idea of a mobile app yet. Whether a corner pizzeria or a special-occasion brasserie, how can your restaurant give its customers the ability to order and pay online
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a variety of appetizing images.
2. Provides Location, Hours & Directions Do you have more than one location? The location feature can display all of your locations in one central place so diners can easily find your restaurants. Get detailed analytics on a particular location. From the app, customers can call, email, get GPS directions, or visit the
Though prices have come down, today a custom app still
28
your restaurant. Home page background can animate or fade to
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website. You can track which locations are most popular or which could benefit from additional traffic and create location-specific promotions to help all your restaurants thrive.
3. Makes Ordering Food a Delight Your customers can order from your full menu with our easy-to-use interface. You can set delivery parameters, such as a distance limitation or a delivery fee which can be set to zero
MBE BUSINESS MAGAZINE APRIL 2018
after a set dollar denomination spent. Payment can be taken by
favourite social media sites.
cash or credit card via Braintree (a PayPal company). Both parties will receive email confirmation; in addition, the order can
12. Offers QR Coupon
be printed out on a wireless printer as well (even in multiple
This feature utilizes a mobile device’s camera, and allows users
locations). The food ordering system can be modified within
to collect coupon scans right through the app. With QR codes,
seconds from the back office to update prices and menus.
you can provide easily accessible coupons to your users. Each scan of the code will get the app users one step closer to a
4. Keeps Your Menu Handy
reward.
Diners want to know what to expect. Integrate your menu within the mobile app – this can be set up as a PDF or typed. For
13. Builds A Fanbase
convenience, integrate the mobile website version of your menu
The fan wall is an easy way to increase engagement with the
within the app.
app. This feature allows users to comment, ask questions, and discuss what they love about your restaurant. Users can share
5. Tells Your Story
photos, reply to each other’s comments, and view the location of
Display information about your restaurant and how it got started
fellow users.
or detailed information about your chef and staff. What sets your restaurant apart?
14. Creates a Community Users have the ability to email photos directly from the app. For
6. Lets Users Know About Special Events
instance, if you named a tab “Party Cam” for your mobile app,
List your weekly specials or upcoming events using this feature.
users could email photos of their favorite moments, which you
Your customers will be kept up to date with the ability to add
could post on your restaurant’s Facebook page
those events to their personal calendars.
15. Messages Customers at the Right Time 7. Creates a Mood
Send GPS push notification messages to your customers
Display pictures of your restaurant, customers enjoying your
whenever you like. You can send a message immediately or
food, menu items, or photos from past events, all optimized for
choose to have a message go out on a certain day and time. You
iPhone, Android and iPad platforms.
can also focus on your target area by specifying the GPS area a diner must be within to qualify to receive a notification. The
8. Keeps Customers Connected Through Social Media
message screen shot on the right displays all the recent push
Users can sync their Facebook and Twitter accounts within your
notification messages that were previously sent out. This is all
app. This pulls their profile photo and name which will display
viewable within the mobile app.
along with their comments and posts throughout your app. In addition to being a great personalization feature, it’s also a great
16. Helps You Make Decisions with Analytics
tool for seamless activity sharing and tracking.
Get up-to-date analytics that tell you how many people have downloaded your mobile app and how frequently they’ve visited.
9. Grows Your Mailing List
The analytics will break down the number of iOS and Android
Stay in contact with your customers by gathering names and
downloads daily, monthly, and annually. By knowing the number
email addresses directly inside your app.
of downloads, you’ll have a better understanding of just who you are sending your push notifications to. This tool will also allow for
10. Promotes Loyalty
accountability within your staff so you can monitor marketing
The Loyalty feature allows users to have an in-app version of a
efforts.
traditional stamp card. Rather than pulling out the hole-puncher or scribbling an easy-to-forge symbol, you can punch a secret
Summary
code into your customer’s phone to add a “stamp.” Once diners
There can be no doubt that adding a mobile app to your menu of
have reached the required number of “stamps,” they’ll unlock a
marketing efforts will enhance your business and add value to
deal that can be redeemed immediately or saved for later.
your customers. As customers are more and more on the go, having a mobile app is a great way to ensure your restaurant will
11. Allows Your Restaurant to See and Be Seen
stay top of mind when hunger strikes.
Integrate your Facebook, Twitter, Google Plus, Yelp, YouTube, or Instagram page to connect with your customers through their
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30
Ending The Employment Relationship, “Breaking Up Is Hard To Do”
Courtesy: PAUL WEARING
* This article does not constitute legal
• Resignation
in jail, or conduct that compromises the
advice or opinion. The author disclaims
employer’s reputation. An employer can
all liability in respect of any actions taken
Dismissal for Cause
rely on serious criminal chargers against
or not taken in reliance on information in
If there is cause to terminate, and the
an employee. In those circumstances the
this article.
employer can prove it, the employee is
employer must prove on the balance of
not entitled to any compensation. Theft,
probabilities that its reputation is or will
Without a written employment contract
fraud, violation of sexual harassment
be
specifying the terms for payment of
policies, assault of a supervisor, or time
employee continues to be employed.
termination
compensation,
employers
compromised,
the
accused
theft are just a few examples of what is
Ideally
are at the mercy of the Ministry of Labour
usually
conduct not tolerated and for the penalty
and the courts as to what if any
dismissal for cause.
recognized
as
grounds
for
for
compensation is payable to a terminated employee.
employers
if
such
should
misconduct
in
address a
written
employment contract. Everything turns on the nature and “context” of the impugned conduct of the
Employers
Employees are protected from arbitrary
employee. The court will make an
misconduct. If an employee’s conduct
decisions of employers to end their
assessment of the full context of the
warrants dismissal for cause, and you fail
employment without cause in Ontario, by
obligations of the employee, including the
to act on it, the misconduct cannot be
the Employment Standards Act, 2000,
nature
the
saved up and used at a later date as a
(ESA) and the common law (judge made
wrongdoing to assess whether it is
justification for dismissal for cause. An
law). All other common law provinces
reconcilable
employment
employer is deemed to waive its rights to
have similar legislation to the Ontario
relationship. Some judges have asked
rely on misconduct as the basis for
Employment Standards Act, 2000.
the question “does the wrong doing go to
discipline or discharge, if not acted on
the heart of the employment relationship,
immediately.
and
seriousness with
the
of
beware
of
There are eight scenarios ending the
such that all trust has been lost. If the
employment relationship:
answer is yes, the court will uphold the
Dismissal Not For Cause
• Dismissal for cause
dismissal without compensation.
If
• Dismissal not for cause
you
must
end
the
condoning
employment
relationship for reasons that fall short of
• Constructive dismissal
The court will also uphold a dismissal for
cause, the employee is entitled to
• Deemed termination by operation of the
cause
advance notice of his termination.
law
workplace. The foundation for such a
• Frustration of the employment contract
dismissal is the concept that the conduct
This principle is embedded in statute
• Expiration of a fixed-term contract
is
(ESA) and the common law.
• Early termination of a fixed-term
employment.
contract
employee’s absence as a result of being
MBE BUSINESS MAGAZINE APRIL 2018
for
misconduct
incompatible
with
Examples
outside
the
continued are
an
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The ESA stipulates a minimum notice
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31
period that all employees, regardless of
having
whether they are full time or part time
education, training and experience
regard
to
the
employee’s
employment by the employer whether or not the employer intended to continue the
employees are entitled to receive. The
employment relationship.
notice period is based on the length of
No one factor is considered more
service of the employee ranging from 1
important or given more weight than
If this occurs, the employee can treat the
week
to
another factor. However terminating an
contract as wrongfully terminated and
recognition of a notice period, employees
employee over the age of 60 who has
resign which gives rise to an obligation
employed for 5 years or more in a
spent virtually his entire working life with
on the employer’s part to provide
business that has an annual payroll of $2.
the same employer will likely attract a
damages in lieu of reasonable notice.
5 million are entitled to severance pay
greater notice period.
This definition has been refined to
to
8
weeks. In
addition
which again is based on a formula taking
include a series of actions that taken
into account their length of service.
Generally the courts award one month
together demonstrate that the employer
Severance pay may range from 1 to 26
pay
no longer intends to be bound by the
weeks of regular pay. An employer may
managerial employees, but this is not a
elect to give an employee “working
rule.
for
every
year
of
service
to
notice” based on the notice period
contract. Then obvious scenarios for constructive
formula or may choose instead to award
Paying any amount greater than the
dismissal
the employee “pay in lieu of notice” based
statutory
reductions. More subtle scenarios involve
on the notice period formula. In addition,
negotiation if you want to settle the claim
significant
changes
in
working
the employee is entitled to vacation pay
before trial. The negotiation must take
conditions,
changes
to
reporting
on the termination pay amount, and the
into account the employee’s “global
responsibilities, increased or decreased
value of any benefit premiums pro-rated
compensation”.
This
on the termination pay amount. These
monthly
bonus,
rights are absolute and not subject to negotiation when termination is not for
allowance if reported on his T4.
even when there is no change to the
minimum
is
a
matter
of
are
demotions,
and
pay
includes,
his
working hours, or changes to schedules
health
care
to name a few. The courts will hold a
benefits cost, profit sharing, and car
scenario to be “constructive dismissal”
salary,
cause.
employee’s compensation. If negotiations fail, the court will award
Employers regularly make the mistake of
damages based on the employee’s
thinking that if they meet the obligations
global compensation, less any ESA
Deemed Termination By Operation of Law
stipulated in the ESA, that they have no
amounts already paid and mitigation
In Ontario, pursuant to the ESA, all
further liability.
compensation earned and legal costs.
non-construction
However, a terminated employee is
the period of temporary layoff, as that
entitled to receive notice or pay in lieu
Constructive Dismissal- “Actions Speak Louder Than Words
and severance pay where applicable and
Decisions taken to realign an employee’s
terminated and entitled to termination
issue a claim for damages for wrongful
duties and responsibilities or fine tuning
pay and severance pay where applicable.
dismissal at common law, if he chooses.
working
the
Employers should also be aware that a
employee-s agreement can result in
temporary layoff of any duration triggers
The damages claim, usually expressed in
liability for dismissal even though the
liability for damages for “constructive
months pay, is based on what the
words “ dismissal or termination” are
dismissal” unless the employee has
common
never spoken.
agreed to such an event recited as a term
industry
employees
who are laid off for a period of longer than
law
considers
“reasonable
conditions
without
notice” of dismissal. The courts take into
32
term is defined in the ESA are deemed
of
his
employment
in
a
written
account the following factors:
Constructive dismissal occurs when an
• Employee’s age
employer
• level of responsibility of the employee (
fundamental change to a term or
managerial or non managerial)
condition of an employment contract
Frustration Contract
• employee’s education
without providing reasonable notice of
Contrary to what some of my clients
• employee’s length of service
that change to the employee. The courts
think, “frustration” of the employment
• availability of similar or comparable
have held that such action amounts to a
contract is not a state of mind suffered by
employment at the time of the dismissal,
repudiation
an employer due to the performance of or
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a
the
unilateral
contract
employment contract.
and
of
of
the
Employment
MBE BUSINESS MAGAZINE APRIL 2018
lack of it by an employee.
season ends provided that the true
resign. An employee can withdraw a
nature of their employment does not look
resignation provided that the employer
like employment of an indefinite duration.
has not relied on it to its detriment.
of either party “ a contractual obligation
If a fixed term contract is terminated
An employee is obligated by law to give
has
being
before the expiration of the term, the
his employer reasonable notice of his
performed because the circumstances in
employee may be entitled to damages
resignation regardless of whether there
which performance is called for would
equal to the unexpired term of the
is a written employment contract or not.
render it a thing radically different from
contract unless the language of the
that which was undertaken by the
contract stipulates otherwise. Including a
Employees who voluntarily resign are not
contract.”
fixed
entitled to termination compensation.
Frustration of contract occurs whenever the law recognizes that without the fault become
incapable
of
amount
of
termination
compensation, in a fixed term contract
About the author.
In the employment context, this often
provides
the
Paul Wearing is a lawyer practicing in
arises when the employee is unable to
employer’s liability if the contract is
Toronto. He advises employers on all
work due to a disabling illness. If the facts
terminated early.
aspects of employment and labour law.
certainty
and
caps
based on unequivocal physician opinions and
including
His
law
practice
includes
strategic
lengthy
For contracts of indefinite duration (the
employment and labour advice, training
absences are substantiated, an employer
most common), the employer should
and representation before the courts and
may
address
administrative tribunals of Ontario.
be
extremely
entitled
to
terminate
the
liability
for
termination
employment of an employee by relying
compensation in a written contract
on the frustration of the employment
capping the employee’s entitlement with
Paul was called to the bar of Ontario in
contract. Physicians by their calling are
appropriate language.
1978 and is the author of Employment
traditionally optimists and are usually
and Labour Law Toolbox, What Ontario
reluctant to provide an opinion to the
In addition the contract should stipulate
Employers Need to Know, a publication
effect that there is no likelihood that their
the duty of the dismissed employee to
of Irwin Law Inc.
patient (employee) will be able to resume
mitigate their damages by diligently
their duties.
seeking re-employment.
Employers must be mindful of their “duty
An employee’s entitlement to common
of accommodation” pursuant to the
law damages for dismissal without notice
Human Rights Code in situations where
and without cause is limited by the duty to
the physician’s opinion of the chances of
mitigate his damages, provided that term
the employee returning are equivocal.
is recited in a written employment
Furthermore, even if the facts do support
contract.
termination of employment due to the frustration of the contract, termination compensation
may
be
payable
by
Resignation “I quit, I am done with this place… you
operation of regulations under the ESA.
can take this job and…..”
Termination by Operation of a Fixed Term Contract
Don’t be surprised if the speaker of these
There
employment
and declarations of independence made
contracts and employment contracts of
in the heat of a moment in emotionally
indefinite duration. A fixed term contract
charged circumstances will be forgiven
will avoid any ambiguity as far as the
by a court and ruled unenforceable.
are
employer’s
fixed
term
liability
for
words retracts his swan song. Outbursts
termination
compensation at the end of the term, if
The test for determining if an employee
properly drafted. Seasonal employment
has resigned is an objective one. The
contract
evidence must show that the employee
termination
employees
are
compensation
denied
when
MBE BUSINESS MAGAZINE APRIL 2018
the
clearly and unequivocally intended to
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MBE BUSINESS MAGAZINE APRIL 2018
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RMA / MBBP Logistics Program Raedan Freight Services Inc. 416-(571-3717)-(809-1647) Email: Raedan@sympatico.ca or Daniel@raedanfreightservices.com
Why Benchmarking Alone Isn’t Enough for Proper Transportation Cost Analysis
benchmarking,
intertwined. Without understanding true
Benchmarking as a Hard Rule within Transportation Cost Analysis Can Be Damaging
Carriers in the trucking industry and also
costs and using benchmarks as just that
A popular, and possibly overly-stressed,
shippers today are actively looking for
– benchmarks – carriers and shippers
component of profit management is
ways to combat the rising costs of
will struggle to effectively analyze and
benchmarking. Although it is certainly
operating their businesses, but they often
reduce their costs.
important for carriers and shippers to
do
38
not
fully
understand
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transportation
cost
analysis, and profit management are
proper
W W W. FAC E B O O K . C O M / M B E F O RYO U 7
review industry averages in comparison
MBE BUSINESS MAGAZINE APRIL 2018
with their own costs and profits, many
• Freight cost per unit shipped
truck, and sometimes, your warehouse
may
use
these
averages
–
or
• Outbound freight costs as percentage
as a profit center, and know prior to
benchmarks – without proper conjunctive
of net sales
dispatching every truck or executing your
analysis and without fully understanding
• Inbound freight costs as percentage of
routing guide whether or not you’ll make
their costs and profits. For a trucking
purchases
a profit each time it is dispatched or
company, shipper, or logistics provider to
• On-time pickups
picked up.
their cost of purchased transportation
Do you know how your company fares
One of the reasons why benchmarking
and expenses need to be in line with
against these figures above as a carrier?
alone isn’t enough to properly measure
desired profitability. Using only industry
Do you benchmark yourself against
profits is that there are constant changes
averages in your transportation cost
yourself year over year or even if you
that influence the industry and affect
analysis to gauge business successes
know your industry well enough to get
costs and profits. Furthermore, each
can not only be inaccurate, but can also
accurate data as a shipper? If you are
change that comes about impacts every
be ineffective and even damaging.
looking for ways to reduce your costs but
business in a unique way; no two
don’t
businesses
be profitable, owners must understand
understand
a
comprehensive
are
exactly
alike,
and
Experts figure that on average for
breakdown of those costs, benchmarking
fluctuations in the industry are never
carriers are as follows:
won’t be a useful tool by itself. Comparing
going to impact two companies in exactly
• Fuel costs represent 39% of a total
your own metrics as a shipper or carrier
the same way. Some of those changes
carrier’s cost
is a much better approach.
come about as a result of changes in
• Driver wages represent 26% of costs
laws; currently, there are numerous laws
• Maintenance repair was the next most
Profits Need More Benchmarking in Transportation Cost Analysis
expensive line item expense
While benchmarking is a valuable tool to
• Payments on leased/purchased trucks and trailers represent 11% of costs
than your
pending that will impact the cost of transportation – not to mention CSA compliance, e-logs, and changes in other areas as well.
gauge costs and profits overall, it is For
shippers,
popular
metrics
that
critical to also utilize effective profit
Focus on the Future, but not at the
shippers benchmark year over year that
management skills as well. In order for a
Expense of Today
are often benchmarked, but don't have
business to be successful, you must plan
Regardless of how your numbers stack
reliable enough industry wide data are:
your expenses to your profits, treat every
against benchmarked industry averages, it is important to not only think about the future,
but
also
to
deal
with
the
complexity of today. Today there are too few drivers, costs are rising, and keeping ahead of technology being one way to grow a business is often overwhelming. Staying on top of today’s developments in the industry will provide you with a roadmap to the future. With sound awareness of benchmarking and diligent, accurate
profit
performance
management, you will be on the right path to a proper transportation cost analysis that allows you to operate a continually profitable business not only today but in the future as well. For help with effective cost analysis and management for your company, contact RMA/MBBP new Logistics Program.
MBE BUSINESS MAGAZINE APRIL 2018
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Ontario Government Ignoring Taxpayers Demands
Courtesy: RALPH MOYAL President and CEO Retail Merchant’s Association
Retail Merchants Association (RMA) is a
associated with the payment system. In a
taxpayer.
not-for-profit association that has been
common attempt to fight these giants,
shamefully irresponsible treatment of the
operating since 1910. RMA has been
progress was made thanks to the
taxpayer, the constant stream of red tape
assisting the “independent” retailers and
intervention
of
imposed on the retail business, the time
in recent years, associations by offering
compromise
was
the
and money to fight some of the absurd
programs and services designed to
Voluntary Code of Conduct was born.
regulations, the constant fiscal abuses
reduce
their
operating
expenses,
Minister
Flaherty. A
reached
and
incompetence
and
This was a step in the right direction.
and mounting tax burdens (no need to
compete and make a profit. Since this
Several
article was written, we are happy to
termination
issues
still
remain;
the
name the myriad of these outrageous
high
cost
abuses), all have adversely affected
advise that RMA has completed a
associated with credit cards that are
business in Ontario, particularly small
merger with MB Enterprises (MBBP).
being offered to “uninformed” consumers,
independent
granting generous rewards and the
stores, the backbone of our economy.
fees,
the
RMA has been serving the independent
clause to cancel a contract without
food
penalty, to name a few.
and
non-food
industry
with
Rather
membership consisting of all types of
than
business/convenience
looking
at
reducing
expenses, the tendency has been to
outlets, from grocery stores, convenience
Merchants are not always aware of the
simply resort to increasing taxes. This
stores, drug stores to a wide variety of
aggressive
has
large and small independent stores from
consequences
coast to coast.
“contract without penalty”. They may be
independent business to compete and to
able to cancel the contract for the
survive. It will not be in the best interest of
Owing to its combined memberships and
processing portion without penalty, but
Ontario either to proudly follow the
alliances,
would still remain responsible for the
“legacy”
members realize substantial savings on
monthly
their
McGuinty. This incredible comment will
such programs as payment processing
terminal(s) for another two-five years if
surely make Ontario a “has been”
rates to which individual members would
they are dealing with a third party that
province and a lot more food banks will
not have access; rebates that grocers
holds the terminal lease agreement. In
become necessary.
cannot reach on their own and to a large
this
array of other saving programs, including
processor, without the ability to also
The convenience stores have been badly
some involvement in advocacy to protect
cancel at the same time the lease
affected by this irresponsible regime and
its members. One RMA program alone
agreement is practically useless. This is a
as a result need new sources of revenue
may save members a few times their
serious flaw of which merchants must be
in order to survive. They have identified
small membership fee.
informed. Cancellation without penalty
and advocated to open the sale of beer
RMA
food
and
non-food
penalties of
lease
case,
a
and
the
cancelling
their
payments
cancellation
of
with
become
Ontario,
common
making
of
it
former
currency
difficult
premier
for
in the
Dalton
the
therefore is only helpful in the case where
and wine in the convenience stores, a
The extremely high processing cost of
the merchant deals with a processor that
move that would prove beneficial to all of
credit cards represent a huge burden that
provides an agreement covering both the
Ontario. This has met with unreasonable,
has plagued the overall industry and in
processing and the terminal.
stubborn refusals.
associations
In my opinion, the Ontario Government
In conclusion, there is an urgent need
collaborating as a team, including RMA,
has demonstrated for a number of years
for associations to work together, rather
presented to the federal government the
a complete and utter lack of fiscal
than working independently to address
case of these high rates and problems
responsibility
the issues that confront business daily.
particular business.
40
The
the
small
independent
Several
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and
W W W. FAC E B O O K . C O M / M B E F O RYO U 7
respect
for
the
MBE BUSINESS MAGAZINE APRIL 2018
Grand Buffet
CONTACT:
SCAN ME
Address: 4141 Dixie Road Mississauga, ON L4W 1V5 Tel: (905) 212-1255 | Email: info@continentalgrandbuffet.ca Web: www.continentalgrandbuffet.ca 41
3 Painless Ways To Coach Your Fleet To Success
Being a business leader can mean a lot of different things. As a fleet manager you naturally want to find ways to inspire success out of your team. In today’s day and age, more companies are learning the value of “coaching,” or not just delegating, but also training and teaching your staff.
you need to be concerned with the development of your employees. Plus, you must also think of your company as a team with its own set of needs and goals. Above all else, remember that being a coach isn’t the same as being the boss. To clarify these issues and help you coach your fleet to success, here are three easy ways to improve this aspect of business leadership:
42
The key to all management, including fleet management, is the workplace According
to
Forbes,
becoming a better coach on the job requires you to have this foundation in place first. Integrate yourself into your team, talking to people on a regular basis
In order to become a coach of your fleet,
1.Improve
company can operate smoothly without
relationships
relationship.
Build trust when you can, and try to be as compassionate
as
possible
without
sacrificing your authority.
As a fleet manager, you likely have a fair number of employees beneath you. One of the best things you can do to coach them is to let them take control, according to the consulting firm New example,
workplace
|
3.Be prepared for anything A great coach can handle anything and adapt
on
the
fly.
New
Directions
recommended that you will want to have a similar approach in your workplace. You never know when things could change, and if you can’t be ready for surprises your company could suffer. So, get your team prepared for these shifts. Make knows how to cover other aspects of the
2.Let your team take control
For
your input in every facet of each day.
sure each employee is well-trained and
avoid
micro-managing. Trust your staff to know
your
W W W. M B E F O RYO U. C O M
and being patient when solving problems.
Directions.
Courtesy: WEX INC.
their roles and perform them admirably.
job. This way, when things do go awry, everybody can step up and perform. Overall, a coach needs to be a resource for his or her company. As a fleet manager, look for ways to support your staff and help them grow, so your business can prosper for years to come.
Step back from time to time to see if the
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MBE BUSINESS MAGAZINE APRIL 2018
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44
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46
KNOWING YOUR BUSINESS MATTERS
Tips on how your business can plan for cyber risks in 2018 by Mauro Di Tullio, SENIOR ACCOUNT REPRESENTATIVE, ASSOCIATIONS | www.federated.ca
2017 was yet another year where cyber risks, data breaches and cybercrime made international headlines. From the BadRabbit ransomware attacks to Equifax hackers (as well as countless other incidents throughout the year), we never stopped hearing about cyber threats.
Mauro Di Tullio
mauro.ditullio@federated.ca
Cyber risk will no doubt be a big focus again this year. Whether you’re a consumer or a business owner, you need to plan ahead and assume that your private information will always be exposed to risks. In addition to taking preventative measures that can help you avoid becoming a target, you also need to ask yourself “how can I recover from a hack or data breach when I’m targeted?”. Unfortunately, most online users don’t even take the time to ensure they have adequate password security, so there’s a lot of cyber risk planning we could all benefit from in the New Year Planning for cyber risks
Always keep in mind that you could be an easy target:
When a big corporation or government experiences a data breach, it makes headlines. But increasingly, small and medium-sized businesses are the silent victims of cybercrime that you don’t hear about. Every day, Canadian small businesses suffer smaller-scale cyber attacks that may go unreported. According to a survey conducted by Public Safety Canada last August, nearly 70% of Canadian businesses have been victims of cyber-attacks with an average cost of $15,000. Depending on the size
and state of your business, the cost of an attack can be more than an inconvenience. It’s safe to assume that cyber risk will still be prevalent as cyber criminals become more sophisticated and mid-sized and smaller businesses play catch-up.
Educate and train your employees
While most people understand that cybercrime is a real threat, they might not understand specifically how they are targeted and what precautions they need to take. Understanding what risks you and your employees are exposed to and making sure that they follow company policy to ensure their safety is an important first step. Cyber security and risk management aren’t just for the IT department to worry about – they should be central to your employee education, policies and procedures. It’s especially important for employees to understand that they may be specific targets of highly sophisticated phishing attacks. These e-mails are designed to appear as if they’re coming from other employees, executives or even suppliers. Many breaches occur due to human error or social engineering. If an employee isn’t trained to look for the right clues or speak with someone from IT before opening the e-mail or clicking on a link, your data could be stolen or held hostage by ransomware
A cyber risk management plan:
Many small businesses might have firewalls, data backup, virus scanners and the like, but those are only specifics
47
tools that play a role in a larger plan. Managing cyber risk is just like managing any other types of risks. You need to have a formal plan in place to ensure you know what cyber risks your business is facing, how to identify those risks and how to prevent them. If you’re a Federated Insurance customer you can take advantage of our RiskWise program and speak to an expert that will help you craft a risk management strategy. Mitigating cyber risk isn’t just about playing defense; it’s also about having a plan of action for when a data breach happens. With the proper plan in place, your business will be aware of cyber risks and your employees will know how to identify a potential incident when it occurs. Reacting quickly may also help your business contain the damage so that it’s minimized. Finally, having adequate insurance that includes cyber coverage is an essential part of a cyber risk management plan.
© Federated Insurance Company Canada. All rights reserved.
This document is provided by Federated Insurance Company of Canada (“Federated”) for informational purposes only to augment your own internal safety, compliance and risk management practices, and is not intended as a substitute for assessment or other professional advice by a qualified person or entity. Federated makes no representations or warranties regarding the accuracy or completeness of the information contained in this document. Federated shall not be responsible in any manner for any loss, or any direct, indirect, consequential, special, punitive or other damages, arising out of your, or any other person’s, use or reliance on the information contained in this document. Mauro Di Tullio is the Senior Account Representative for Associations at Federated Insurance.
48
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A VARIETY OF HOTELS TO SUIT EACH
BUSINESS TRAVELER’S NEEDS.
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Business travelers come in all varieties. So whether your travelers wear workboots or wingtips, we provide an array of brands so your travel program can meet the needs of every type of trip.
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Unique, upscale and boutique hotels perfect for the business traveler who wants to feel immersed in the local community.
Designed to give the business traveler an upscale experience that feels like an upgrade without breaking your travel budget. Each modern room is equipped with the essentials for business travelers, and the on-site bar and dining experience offers great food and local craft brews.
Expect the highest standards of hospitality, comfort and service, with each location committed to helping guests make the most out of their stay.
Rested. Set. Go.® We’ve upped our game with the Comfort® brand, investing over $300 million in updates to make these hotels even better for your company’s business travel. 100% smoke-free across the United States and Canada, our Comfort hotels feature an all-new look and feel across hundreds of renovated locations. Plus, at Comfort Suites® hotels guests get 25% more space in all-suites rooms with separate areas for work and relaxation.
Get your money’s worth. Get real value for your company’s money from affordable hotels with the key amenities your travelers expect—including free hot, fresh, and healthy breakfast, free Wi-Fi, and, of course, service that is professional, responsive and friendly.
Dream Better Here® The Sleep Inn® brand is the most established brand offering a reliable stay experience at a midscale price point, allowing your travel program. Business travelers can expect a simply stylish sanctuary at Sleep Inn® hotels—with 90%+ hotels fully transformed to the Designed to Dream® standard.
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51
STAY AWHILE
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Hotels for Real Life® A simple solution to your travelers’ longer-term housing needs that is as pleasant as it is affordable. Studio suites feature well-equipped kitchens and free Wi-Fi—all without requiring a long-term lease.
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3 Tips For Humanizing Your Automated Voice System
Courtesy: SAMMI CARAMELA
handled with consideration. Hearing the
"Think about how many things influence
same voice for entirely different issues
a company's brand – not just signage
will cause customers to feel less valued
and promotions and floorplans, but even
and cared for.
the smells and sounds experienced."
"If you're trying to deliver customer
Think about how other brands appeal to
experience excellence, you can't remove
your senses to play into customer
the human element from the equation,"
experience. For instance, Abercrombie &
said Kelly.
Fitch uses their signature cologne and dark lighting to lure a younger crowd,
The tone of the message should depend
their target audience, into their stores.
on the situation. For example, Kelly
"Voice works the same way," she said.
added, if a customer has been in a car
"Finding the right voice, and using the
accident, the tone should be much
right tone is essential. And leaving that to
different than when handling concerns
a cold, robotic voice generator is simply
about credit card payments. Tools like
not going to humanize the experience for
Automated voices are impersonal and
SPLICE allow you to change your voice
your customers."
can negatively impact your customer
system's tone.
3. Consider your demographic.
service and the user experience you hope to provide to your customers.
2. Be company-speciďŹ c.
Cater your tone to each demographic to
According to Kelly, there are about
get the best customer service results. Is
"Human voice can convey a level of
25,000 services and counting available
your audience predominately female?
emotion and authenticity that automated
on Amazon Echo. Don't use the same
How old are they? What message are
voice cannot, which, when paired with
voice system that every other business
you trying to relay? The answers to these
highly personalized messaging, truly
uses.
questions are crucial to consider when
optimizes the customer's experience with
forming your voice system.
your brand," said Tara Kelly, CEO of
"We believe that unless your brand is
SPLICE.
Amazon, your voice should not be
"It's
Alexa," said Kelly.
demographics being targeted with your
Furthermore, using the same voice that
important
message,"
said
to Kelly.
consider
the
"Interestingly,
other companies are employing will
If you want to set yourself aside from
highly-female
prevent you from making a positive,
others in your industry, you need to be
prefer male voices. The accent of the
lasting impact on your consumers. Here
company-specific. Choose a voice that
voice talent should be appropriate for the
are three tips for creating a more
best represents your brand and its
location being targeted – and, of course,
humanized automated voice system.
products and services.
the tone must be emotionally relevant to
demographics
tend
to
the message being communicated."
1. Be emotionally relevant. Each
customer
concern
should
MBE BUSINESS MAGAZINE APRIL 2018
"Making certain that your voice matches be
your branding is essential," said Kelly.
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MBE
inc.
YOUR SUCCESS IS OUR PASSION
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4 Ways To Implement Psychology In Marketing
Courtesy: SAMMI CARAMELA
It's difficult to keep anyone's attention for
Citizen. "Great storytelling moves people,
engaging to buyers and when they are
more than a few seconds. Social media is
no matter the media. Clear branding,
most likely to make a purchase, you can
especially distracting with news feeds
delightful
channel
and notifications on multiple platforms.
technology
For your business to prosper, you need to
whether that’s via a website, online ad,
using
find special ways to connect with
TV commercial or even in a face-to-face
marketing strategy.
consumers and encourage them to take
meeting."
design
and
drive
people
easy-to-use to
action,
that
knowledge
to
attract
potential customers. Here are four tips on psychology
to
improve
your
1. Provide context
action through marketing. Leveraging psychology as a marketing
When your customers shop online, you
"The motivations that lead people to
tactic is a great way to get your brand
want them to still have an "in-store"
action are the same online and offline,"
noticed among millions of possible
experience. Rather than just offering a
said Rachel Clemens, CMO of Mighty
distractions. If you learn what is most
product or service as is, provide
MBE BUSINESS MAGAZINE APRIL 2018
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55
additional information to personalize customer experience.
Creating a digital community for your "Making your users feel duped is a sure
customers
way to turn them away," Clemens said.
become more renowned and increase
"When making decisions, people love
will
help
your
company
your sales.
know what other people are doing, and
3. Offer additional products/services at end of transaction
This is a concept called social herding, or
they tend to opt for the same."
When a customer proceeds to checkout,
"the practice of giving an online presence
they are typically more open to additional
a sense of community," according to
Organize your products by price and
purchases than when they are simply
Clemens. Take Aerie for instance: their
relevance, or based on the customer's
browsing. Take this opportunity to show
#AerieREAL
purchasing history. Tell your customers
them related products and deals that
encourages women of all sizes to feel
which products are most popular so they
might interest them. For instance, if they
comfortable in their own skin, is also a
feel more confident in their selections.
have a pair of jeans in their cart, and you
major drive for revenue. The movement
have a sale of buy one pair get one
positively
half-off, alert the customer before they
simultaneously marketing the brand.
context," said Clemens. "They want to
2. Use default checking During
checkout,
many
companies
campaign,
impacts
society
which
while
place their order. Another example is the ALS Ice Bucket
experiment with default checking, which automatically selects an option for the
If they already made the purchase,
Challenge, which gained widespread
consumer. Examples are opting to pay
however, you can still follow up with
attention across various social channels
extra for two-day shipping or subscribe to
suggestions.
and raised $115 million in the summer of 2014.
the company's email list. "Once your users have made a decision "When an option is pre-selected by
‌ it's easier for them to make another
"Hashtags and handles were used to
default, people are far more likely to
small
said.
spread the message and tag others to
accept it," Clemens told Business News
"Organizations can use this tactic on
participate," said Clemens. "Those that
Daily. "In turn, organizations make more
thank you pages or in confirmation
participated felt a social kinship with
money and grow their email lists quicker."
messages to offer additional value-added
others who had also participated and a
products and services."
viral experience was born."
your customers. If you're selecting these
4. Use social herding
"Humans are pack animals," Clemens
options at their expense, they'll likely
If your customers see that many people
added. "We like to follow the crowd. If we
notice
are buying a specific product, they'll feel
see other people doing something, we're
more inclined to purchase it themselves.
more likely to join in."
decision,"
Clemens
However, she noted, be considerate of
and
lose
respect
company.
56
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7 Tools To Drive Sales On Social Media
Courtesy: MATT D'ANGELO
prices online, but you can usually request a demo to try out the service and decide whether it's right for your business. Before you purchase anything, make sure it works for you and your business – sometimes,
establishing
business
accounts on different social media sites can provide you with all the engagement you need.
1. Shopial Shopial is a platform that integrates your online store with your Facebook page. It curates your products and features them so users can make purchases directly from the social media sites. You can install the Shopial Facebook app into a new tab on your page, and shoppers will be able to view and purchase products. The emergence of online shopping
business account, you can connect with
This platform can also handle advertising
platforms like Amazon has taken the
customers without having to pay extra for
on Facebook. If you click Promote,
headache out of looking for a product and
another software.
Shopial will design and organize your
added the convenience of home delivery.
Facebook ads for a product. If you sync
Social media platforms have become
If you're too busy or not the most
Shopial with Pinterest, it will turn your
another method for consumers to look for
tech-savvy business owner, some social
products into optimized pins. Shopial also
and purchase products. Whether you're
media selling solutions can get your store
offers custom reporting, so you can track
operating an e-commerce website or
up and running so you don't have to
your ad performance and campaigns.
running
brick-and-mortar
worry about connecting with customers.
This
business, extending your social media
A lot of these solutions require little
Shopify, eBay and Magento, so you can
presence and setting up online stores
oversight and maintenance. Once you set
easily track data in one place. Shopial
can
up your account, you can go about
provides tools so you can worry about
running your business without having to
your own online store without having to
constantly do upkeep on a store on social
handle social media selling as well.
your
add
own
convenience
and
make
connecting with customers even easier. It's a compelling market, and luckily,
integrates
with
Etsy,
media.
2. Soldsie
some solutions have emerged to help
58
platform
you merge your online store with your
The price will vary depending on which
Soldsie turns your Instagram feed into a
social media accounts. By establishing a
solution you choose. Most don't list their
shoppable list of products, so your users
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MBE BUSINESS MAGAZINE APRIL 2018
can make purchases directly within
anything
your
across multiple channels and issue
Instagram. This added convenience can
products based on your site's inventory.
discounts and incentives to customers
drive sales to your business. Soldsie
Besides adding a store to your Facebook
who use a particular hashtag, refer a
provides your business with a unique link
page, Beetailer provides tools to run
friend or promote your products. The
feature in your bio called Have2Have.it.
promotions and integrate Facebook back
CRM features of this software also allow
When users click on this link, it opens
into your own website. This easy access
for enriched data about your customers.
your feed and makes your posts and
can help customers drive discussion
While Chirpify offers robust features, it
comments clickable. This is an ideal
about your brand.
may be geared more for enterprises than
–
Beetailer
curates
service for an e-commerce platform with
small businesses. You can request a
a strong Instagram presence or a
Unlike Shopial, Beetailer provides its
demo to see if Chirpify is right for your
publisher looking to push more content
pricing directly on its website. It offers
business.
on Instagram. The only barrier of this
three plans, including a free option for
service is that a user must be on your
one store featuring up to 30 products.
7. Heyo
profile to click the link – they can't do it
There's also a 14-day free trial, so you
Small business owners can use Heyo to
from one of your posts that appears in
can try Beetailer and see how it fits into
create
their feed. Soldsie offers a 30-day free
your workflow.
promotions to drive sales. Heyo's online
trial, and it uses a pay-per-click model
campaigns
and
platform provides templates and intuitive
that charges a monthly fee based on how
5. Inselly
drag-and-drop
many clicks a link garners. Soldsie also
Inselly curates your Instagram posts into
designing campaigns easy. Heyo is an
integrates with Shopify.
an online platform. It's a simple service –
ideal app for small business owners
features
to
make
when you add #Inselly to a post, it will
without design experience looking to run
3. Olapic
appear
original
Olapic is a platform that allows you to
Inselly.com. Once you've established a
through Facebook. Once you've created
curate user content and then transition
profile, you can add product descriptions,
a campaign, you can publish it directly to
your feed into an e-commerce selling
pricing and other details to each item.
Facebook.
solution. It collects images and videos
Include the link to your store in your bio
responsive – they adjust and fit to both
customers share so you can view the
so your customers can easily find what
mobile and desktop screens, so your
best content involving your products.
products they're looking for. The best part
customers will have easy access to
From here, you can request rights by
about Inselly is that it's completely free –
promotion information regardless of what
commenting on a post with the hashtag
users can create a mobile-friendly store,
device they're on.
#sharemyphoto. If the user agrees, you
add an unlimited number of listings and
can then feature their post on your own
adjust delivery options all with a basic
Heyo offers multiple plans with varying
feed and activate it so other customers
Inselly plan. Inselly can only be used with
features, the most basic of which is $25
can purchase products directly from your
Instagram.
per month, billed annually. It also offers a
on
your
online
store
on
store. You can add a store link to your bio
campaigns
Heyo's
and
promotions
campaigns
are
seven-day free trial.
and build your feed to draw more
6. Chirpify
customers. Olapic also offers some
Chirpify differs from some of the other
Bottom line
advanced
and
solutions on this list in that it focuses on
A lot of these solutions will complement
analytics, scheduled social media posts,
driving discussion about your business
your e-commerce platform well. They can
and integration with your e-commerce
as opposed to converting a social media
make
site. To get started with Olapic, you can
page into a web store. You can use this
convenient for your customers, and with
request a demo.
platform to listen to and analyze what
their custom analytics and reporting, you
customers
features,
like
data
the
buying
experience
more
your
can manage customer behavior and
4. Beetailer
business and issue incentives to help
interaction across multiple platforms. We
Much like Shopial, Beetailer is a platform
drive
integrates
featured some free solutions, but if you're
that can handle selling your products on
multiple social media channels and
still testing the waters with your business,
Facebook.
your
manages customer profiles so you can
try setting up business accounts on
e-commerce store and manages sales
get a better understanding of the online
social media platforms like Instagram
on your social media sites. Once you set
habits of your buyers. The platform allows
and Facebook.
up the account, you don't have to do
you to manage multiple customers
It
integrates
with
MBE BUSINESS MAGAZINE APRIL 2018
are
discussion.
saying
about
Chirpify
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What Small Business Owners Need To Know About AWS
Courtesy: DEREK WALTER,
is building artificial intelligence APIs that companies can use to glean greater insights about their products. AWS offers machine learning APIs for your
own
development
purposes.
Amazon SageMaker is a more robust tool for
developers
and
data
scientists
wanting to use machine learning with their software. Even if this type of development work is above your pay Amazon Web Services (AWS) isn't just
business.
grade, being aware of the trends in cloud
for the megacorporation’s. It may seem
usage is critical as the world moves more
that way, with companies like Netflix,
Instead
Comcast, PG&E and other large entities
on-premises storage or manage the
hosting their data with Amazon.
infrastructure, you rent out space on
Businesses will increasingly use the
Amazon's servers. Because all the work
internet of things to glean more insights
Yet much of what AWS offers can also be
is done online, you're able to tap into
about
used by small businesses seeking a way
Amazon's capabilities across several
computing possibilities will further push
to offload the complexities of managing
different industries: financial services,
more industries to embrace how software
software or their own infrastructure. The
digital
and analytics will make a tangible
very
healthcare and various other industries.
difference in their business efforts.
can also be used by smaller shops:
While it's an overused term, scalability
If your business is new to the cloud, AWS
low-cost computing resources, the ability
really matters here. Increasing the speed
can seem like a confusing place to start,
to scale quickly and a platform-agnostic
and efficiency of a project is a difficult
as Amazon has been unveiling products
approach.
undertaking if you're a small team. With a
at a dizzying pace. Amazon is also
service like AWS, such efforts are more
dabbling in the productivity space with
It's all about the building blocks
palatable thanks to the developer tools
Amazon WorkDocs and Amazon Chime,
For those who, like myself, spent more
and
a Skype competitor.
time at university learning about the
infrastructure and computing power to
building blocks of civilization instead of
Amazon's cloud.
advantages
that
such
cloud
of
having
marketing,
to
media,
purchase
enterprise,
toward AI and automation.
customer
behavior.
Such
offerings provide to large corporations
ability
to
outsource
all
the
Just like how many people find it impossible to live without Prime, Amazon
software, it helps to think about AWS in terms of what you're able to build. Browse
The machine is always learning
wants to be just as essential of a
through a few videos, and you'll hear a
The other major attraction of cloud
resource for the business world. The
consistent theme: You can use the
providers is the work they are doing with
software empire that it's building certainly
building blocks of AWS for creating
artificial intelligence (AI). AWS, along
makes it hard to ignore..
software
with Google Cloud and Microsoft Azure,
or
other
solutions
MBE BUSINESS MAGAZINE APRIL 2018
for
a
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61
Choosing CRM Software: A Buyer's Guide
Courtesy: MONA BUSHNELL
CRM software was originally designed to
providing excellent customer support.
per month, depending on your business's
help businesses build and maintain
Here is our 2018 guide on how to choose
unique needs.
relationships with new and existing
the right CRM software for your business.
customers. Since then, CRM software
Don't have a budget for CRM software?
has evolved from a simple contact
How much does CRM software cost?
Or maybe you're not sure that CRM
management system into a robust tool
The cost of CRM software varies greatly.
software is right for your business, but
that
Vendors
a
would like to see what it has offer. Many
helps
marketing,
users
manage
point-of-sale
sales,
typically
use
(POS),
subscription-based pricing model, which
vendors offer free trials of their software.
accounting, vendor and other types of
can depend on a variety of factors, such
There are also free versions of popular
operational data, all in one easily
as the number of users and the types of
CRM software; some are full-featured but
accessible solution.
features available.
limit the number of users or records, while others offer only the bare-minimum
62
From a growth standpoint, CRM is used
You can generally expect to pay on a
to find leads, follow up with prospects
per-user,
and nurture them through the sales
vendors charge a flat monthly fee for a
pipeline. CRM is also used to maintain
set number of users, but require larger
What features should you look for in CRM software?
customer
key
packages or extra fees for additional
CRM doesn't just keep your contacts
information to boost sales – for instance,
users. Pricing can range from $10 per
organized – it offers a bevy of tools to
by personalizing the experience and
user per month to thousands of dollars
help you boost sales and execute more
loyalty
by
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basis.
capabilities.
Some
MBE BUSINESS MAGAZINE APRIL 2018
effective marketing campaigns. These
ecommerce
include:
accessing the API or by using a
customizable varies from products to
third-party service.
product, so if you require a specific
integration,
either
by
Lead management and sales.
project
management
tools
are
workflow step or approval process, make
Find new customers by automatically
Reports/dashboards.
sure it is achievable with the product you
generating leads from various sources
Most CRM software includes some
choose.
like
visitors,
reporting functionality, and many of the
inbound calls, newsletter sign-ups and
social
media,
website
higher end products sport live dynamic
more. Follow up with leads automatically
dashboards. Make sure any exporting or
Questions to ask when evaluating CRM software
with preset emails and tasks, or contact
importing needs you have (for instance,
There are many different types of CRM
them directly yourself. CRM can nurture
transferring information to and from Excel
software available, so choosing the right
prospects all the way through the entire
or Quickbooks) are compatible with a
one is key to making it work for your
sales pipeline, from lead generation to
system you choose.
business. Here's what small business
closing the sale. Additionally, many CRM
owners advise asking potential vendors:
allow users to create and store sales
Call center.
• Is it built for small business?
quotes and track invoices.
Most low-cost CRM products do not have
• What is the implementation process like
call center capabilities, but there are
and how much technical assistance is
Marketing. Many
CRM
marketing
third-party integrations available to link
included?
have
built-in
call center software with CRM software.
• How easy is it to use? Can I easily train
including
solutions
However, if a call center is central to your
employees?
templates, email marketing pipelines,
tools,
business, it may be worthwhile to adopt a
• Are there any user minimums?
SMS messaging and lightweight project
CRM with full call center features.
• How easy is it to integrate with other
management tools. Some even offer
solutions I already use?
Workflows/approvals
• What is the total cost of the software?
Project management is an important
Are there any setup or additional fees?
aspect of any CRM. Most high-quality
What if I need to add more users or
E-commerce.
CRM
integrations?
Some high-level CRM software has
checkmark style approvals that help with
• Is the API accessible?
built-in e-commerce functionality, while
task management and organization.
• What type of security features are
many other products allow for easy
However, the extent to which these
built-in?
competition
tracking
and
sales
forecasting capabilities.
MBE BUSINESS MAGAZINE APRIL 2018
have
built-in
workflows
and
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63
How To Choose A Customer Service Call Center For Your Business Courtesy: ADAM C. UZIALKO
Responsive
communications
are
an
between
call
center
services
and
of a business that might employ an
Knowing
the
answering service is a medical practice.
absolute must for businesses, especially
answering
in a digital world where customers expect
differences between them is key to
timely
choosing the right service for your
Why employ a call center service?
business.
The primary benefit of hiring a call center
and
satisfactory
attention.
Unfortunately, manning the phones and
services.
running your day to day business at the
service is to free up your staff members,
same time can become burdensome
Call center services are broad and
so they can spend their time focusing on
without an in-house customer service
general. They usually maintain a large
your business's productivity, rather than
staff,
stable of employees and tend to field a
on fielding calls. Many call center
higher volume of calls. They are also able
services
to serve almost any industry, compiling
necessary, allowing your customers to
When businesses can't handle customer
orders,
offering
support
constantly be in touch the moment any
service and technical support, or need
services
and
relevant
issue arises. Finally, a call center service
assistance in generating new leads,
information back to their clients. These
can add a level of professionalism to your
many turn to call center services. These
services can typically function with a
small
companies do more than just answer
general script and basic information
necessitating the costly creation of your
calls; call centers will assist customers,
about the client's business. Call center
own customer service team.
conduct surveys, and obtain feedback to
services will usually archive orders and
find out how you can better position your
interactions,
the
When you hire a call center service, you'll
company in the future. A call center can
information as part of a report to the
usually be asked to provide the company
also add a layer of professionalism to
client. One example of a business that
with a script and as much information as
your company, whether it's handling
might employ a call center is a retail
you deem necessary so that their
existing
company.
representatives can better serve your
which
can
be
expensive
to
implement and maintain when scaling.
customers
or
performing
customer
sending
and
the
then
send
outreach to potential leads. Some even offer
technical
support
and
be
business's
available
brand,
24/7
if
without
customers. Some services will record Answering services, on the other hand,
phone calls so you can review them for
are usually much smaller and often
quality-assurance
handle complex, specialized tasks. They
services will even provide you with daily
Call center services can vary widely.
generally
"vertical
reports detailing how many calls were
While some businesses might only need
markets" that require a more intimate
fielded and which issues they involved.
a basic answering service, others might
knowledge of the inner workings of the
When you're selecting a service, it's
want the most sophisticated outreach
client's business. Answering services are
important to find out how well and how
options. This
you
best equipped to deal with specific
often the service intends to keep you in
understand the variety of call center
industries that might require critical
the loop, as you will want to monitor the
services available and determine which
thinking
company's performance closely.
one is right for your business in 2018.
Sometimes,
answering
engage
time-sensitive
industry-specific services.
64
can
guide
will
help
serve
and
specific
decision
making.
services
purposes.
Other
will
Answering services vs. call center services
personalized
Oftentimes,
What to look for in a call center service
answering services will immediately relay
Call center services might seem similar
There are a few important distinctions
individual calls to the client. An example
on the surface, but the details of each
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or
highly
MBE BUSINESS MAGAZINE APRIL 2018
company's offerings can vary quite
Dedicated and/or shared agents?
take over completely if your own phone
widely. Once you start asking specific
The best call center services offer both
lines go down due to an emergency.
questions, the differences among the
dedicated and shared agents. Dedicated
Selecting a service that is always
companies will start to become more
agents
available and very reliable should be a
apparent. To find out which vendor is right
account, giving your company their full
for your business, here are a few
time and attention. This is best for those
questions to ask yourself and features to
businesses with specific, detailed needs
look for in a call center service.
that demand familiarity and consistency
What is my anticipated call volume per month?
from their agents.
Some call center services have minimum
Inbound and outbound services
are
assigned
only
to
your
major focus for your business.
volume requirements. These services
A major function of call center services is
For those companies with more general
might not be suitable for a small company
to accept calls to answer customers'
needs, however, a shared agent might be
that doesn't expect many customer
questions
more appropriate. These agents handle
service calls, or doesn't intend to make
products or services. Call centers can
multiple
clients
center,
many outbound calls. However, for a
often provide information or technical
including
your
don't
larger company or one that relies heavily
support, as well as take orders and
necessarily answer your business's calls
on phone contact with customers, these
process payments over the phone. Many
100 percent of the time. These services
services might make more sense. Try to
will also dispatch calls to you in the event
are often cheaper, but effective for those
accurately gauge your call volume and
a customer needs to speak directly with
companies that don't require specified
estimate how many call center agents
someone inside the company. All of these
attention day in and day out.
you might need before searching for a
about
your
business's
of
the
company,
call and
services fall under the "inbound services" umbrella.
call center service. This is especially
Reporting
important for pricing, since some call
A call center will be dealing directly with
centers charge for a package of minutes,
Some call centers also offer outbound
your customers, meaning it could have a
rather than by the month.
services, which include lead generation,
great influence on how they perceive
such as cold calling and survey-data
your business. Reporting offers you a
compilation. These services can also
window into the day-to-day operations of
How does outages?
include
the call center service you've hired.
Call centers are an integral component of
follow-ups
with
previous
customers to ensure their satisfaction or to
further
encourage
a
successful
many
a
company
businesses.
handle
Downtime
can
But not all reporting is created equal.
seriously harm your business if your
conversion. Some call centers also
Some
basic
customers are unable to get through to
conduct feedback surveys or engage in
summaries of how many calls they made
the call center agents. That means you'll
customer winback attempts when you've
or received in a given time period, while
want to partner with a call center that is
lost someone's business. Traditionally,
others provide access to real-time data
dependable, with reliable redundancy
call centers were viewed as a necessary
analytics and even record the audio of
and a solid disaster-recovery plan so that
expense
to
preserve
companies
only
offer
existing
calls for review when something goes
an
relationships, but when you consider
wrong. Before you sign up with a call
productivity.
these additional functions, call centers
center service, it's important to know how
can actually broaden your customer
transparent and forthcoming it will be and
base, forge new relationships and bring
what you can expect from the company's
Does the company offer multilingual services?
in more money.
self-reporting.
If your business needs to reach a
outage
doesn't
cripple
your
bilingual or multilingual audience, you'll and outbound services, so consider your
What is the availability?
business's requirements. Once you know
Another important question to ask is how
centers offer Spanish-speaking services,
exactly what you need, ask each call
often agents at the call center are
and others even offer a wide array of
center
available. Good services have 24/7/365
languages to choose from. If you're in
availability for your customers. Some call
need of a multilingual service, be sure to
center services even offer disaster
ask up front which languages the call
recovery services, meaning they can
center can provide for you.
Not every business needs both inbound
service
which
inbound
outbound services it offers.
MBE BUSINESS MAGAZINE APRIL 2018
and
call
center's
want to partner with a call center that has fluent speakers on staff. Many call
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MBE BUSINESS MAGAZINE APRIL 2018
How 5G Will Change Your Small Business
Courtesy: ANDREAS RIVERA B2B Staff Writer
There were rumblings of a worldwide 5G
expect in the next few years. Generally
mobile phones will be introduced as early
network last year, but it seems telecom
speaking, the upgrade will mean faster
as the beginning of 2019 and may be
and tech companies everywhere may be
uploads and downloads and better
showcased at next year's CES.
ready to make it a reality this year. Tech
support for many devices simultaneously.
companies are ready to release a new
However, 5G will mean much more than
wave of innovations that will require 5G
The first set of standards for 5G were
higher speeds for our smartphones. The
connections, which will be a boon to
approved in December by 3GPP, the
upgrade to download and upload speed
consumers and businesses everywhere.
governing
oversees
will be substantial, but the real factor in
body
that
industrywide standards for telecoms.
how 5G will change industries and
The future of 5G, which refers to the fifth
Major telecoms are currently staging
innovation is the major reduction in
generation of mobile networks, was the
their rollout of 5G, with companies
latency,
subject of a keynote panel at the 2018
Verizon and AT&T planning to roll out to
connections stay strong, consistent and
Consumer Electronic Show, with industry
limited markets throughout the year.
without interruption.
experts giving their outlook on the
Cristiano
potential of the wireless technology and
semiconductor and telecom company
With more dependable connections,
what consumers and industries can
Qualcomm, predicted that the flagship
Amon theorized, we may see a reversal
MBE BUSINESS MAGAZINE APRIL 2018
R.
Amon,
president
which
will
ensure
that
of
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in the trend of devices with greater
success. In scenarios of constant connec-
on virtualization may re-evaluate when
onboard memory to ones with less as we
tion to a network such as digital maps as
the benefits of 5G latency and speed
move our data to cloud storage, which
well as security, the self-driving vehicles
become clear.
will be much more accessible with 5G.
of the near future will rely on strong 5G
Another 5G goal is to allow more devices
This may affect the prices of mobile
connections to work. Qi Lu, COO of
to be connected without the typical
devices positively, since there will be less
Baidu, said 5G will drive innovation in AI,
congestion we see with 4G LTE when too
need for physical storage.
and vice versa.
many phones are in one area. This will be essential as more IoT devices hit the
Beyond
consumer
electronics,
low
Other
fields
where
mission-critical
market and compete with smartphones
latency will be key for new innovations in
connections will be essential include
the tech industry, including AI and
medicine, banking and automation. IT
automation. 5G will enable tech services
infrastructures are also expected to
Other benefits to businesses will come
to perform mission-critical operations.
elevate to the cloud, reducing the need
from being closer to their customers who
Chinese
tech
giant
Baidu
for signal.
recently
for physical hardware and transforming
are connected to them through 5G
announced its plans for self-driving
the workforce. In the past, companies
technology. Near-instant connection to
vehicles, with 5G technology key to their
that have hesitated on pulling the trigger
customer service, AI or human, will require speed and latency. As telecoms continue to build up the 5G network
infrastructure,
it's
time
for
businesses to begin thinking about how 5G will impact them and how they can take advantage. 5G will be key to fields like automation, AI, machine learning, virtualization and cloud computing. It's important to start planning how these fields will affect your workforce and how you do business, because these fields will likely see a boom in the next few years.
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MBE BUSINESS MAGAZINE APRIL 2018
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MBE BUSINESS MAGAZINE APRIL 2018
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MBE BUSINESS MAGAZINE APRIL 2018
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MBE BUSINESS MAGAZINE APRIL 2018
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