Empowered? You Bet!

 How do you measure the results of being part of a ConnectUs Empowerment Team? I wasn’t sure until I sat around the table with the first graduates.

I’m stepping back in time to bring you an update on the team that first met at Stone Edge Estate on Dec. 17^th, 2011.

This group met through an invitation from Smart Betty. The owner, Lisa Rots agreed to promote the event through her newly established company. The results were that 10 people that didn’t know each other; spent a day together. The purpose was to set goals and establish an action plan. Each person had to agree to do what they could to encourage and help each other. I was the facilitator. It was agreed that the team would reconnect after 60 days to report in their success.  We even created an Empowerment Team Facebook Group.

We met on Saturday, February 25^th again at Stone Edge Estate. 8 team members came prepared to share the results of their goal setting.  The results were amazing!

While I could write an entire article on the team and their stories, I encourage you to connect with each member  of the Empowerment Team and learn from them directly.

Meet the team –

Doug Rapien – he is the owner of Stone Edge Estate. He is an incredible host, a fabulous chef, and an interior decorator with an amazing talent for finding the best price for almost everything he purchased for his B & B.   Stone Edge Estate Facebook Page will be up shortly.

Deb Maybury – she is a speaker, trainer and author. She empowers young girls and teaches them self defense.  Deb loves a challenge and is currently interviewing women for her 2^nd book, called Unlock the Door.  She is a savvy real estate investor and willingly shares her secrets to financial success.  Deb can be reached at getrealisticacademy@gmail.com

Nina Menezes – she is an entrepreneur, technically astute and is tapped into the world of technology. She’s a junky when it comes to learning the latest and greatest ways to earn an income on the Internet and she happily shares what she learns.  To find out more about Nina, please visit her Website.

Gary Gradley – he is a faith based author who has had amazing success in interviewing business men and women who have stories they are willing to share. He is a corporate trainer and coach with a goal to transform lives of those who read the book. He is currently using his strengths in the world of volunteering.  Please visit Gary’s Website.

Donna Geary – she is an inspiring marketing professor and a visual merchandising expert.  She is an well respected author and is updating her book, Maximizing Store Impact  to offer it to retailers around the world, through the Internet. You can connect with Donna via LinkedIn

Kristina Brooks – she is a Naturopathic Doctor who loves to share her knowledge through seminars both on site and over the Internet.  She is working on compliancy issues to make sure that all her social media meets the requirements of her profession.  You can connect with Kristina via LinkedIn

Len Vassos – he is socially savvy, technology wise! He built his website, and has established his presence through all the relevant social media sites. An active team player, he consistently shares his knowledge and resources with everyone.  To find out more about Len, please visit his Website.

Rita Farruggia – she is a constant learner; a technically savvy women with a passion for social media. Rita joined us via technology from California! She is actively volunteering while in California with one of North America’s largest networking groups. Please visit Rita’s Website.

Lisa Rots and Mukash Tanna – were unable to attend on Feb. 25^th.

Empowerment Team Interview

You can listen to the interviews on ”Talk to Donna” on Blog Talk Radio.  The team is anxious to share their story and the value of being part of the Empowerment Team.  We will be offering a “Free” Webinar where you will learn their secrets to success. The Webinar will be facilitated and each team member will have the chance to show and tell.

I am ready to recruit my next Empowerment Team.   Do you want to be part of it?

Who am I?  I’m Donna Messer, a proud team facilitator who can’t wait to have each of the team share their success story with you!

Read Full Post »

Georgian College Student Speaks Out!

I spoke at Georgian College a week or so ago, and I offered the students the chance to learn the art of effective networking. I suggested that I could “bridge the gap” between who they were, and where they wanted to go. Sarah Anne Boland, took me up on the challenge and the words below show exactly how she was able to connect with my colleague, recruiter Lee Koren. 

My name is Sarah Anne Boland. I had the good fortune of recently connecting with the incredible Donna Messer at Georgian College. During her informative session, she expertly drew my attention to a very important professional connection – she led me to the senior recruiter, Lee Koren. Today, I would like to share with you thepositive experience I had with Lee Koren.

I was always one of those careful resume writers, not letting too much in, not letting too much out. I knew I had some really strong points to offer, but, like most, I wasn’t sure how to convey my true strengths. Now, let me be frank: I’m after a Law Clerk position, and, anybody who’s anybody knows just how much the details matter, especially in the legal field. I didn’t have a problem about editing the resume; no, my conundrum was how to express the details of my activities so that others would know the lengths to which I would go to achieve professional excellence.So, I was faced not only with the task of creating an outstanding resume, but the extra responsibility of ensuring that the details of my activities were on that resume, front and centre. Since the resume is my selling point, everything had to be arranged just so.

Enter the knowledgeable Lee Koren. As a fantastic communicator and an expert adviser, Lee had the wherewithal to guide my resume to a new level. The one element of Lee’s advice that was invaluable to me was the career specific guidance. My goals of entering the legal profession as a Law Clerk are so strong, however, I had overlooked numerous factors on my resume – the one document required to gain industry entry! Lee, with her natural precision and professional demeanour, carefully turned my attention toward the subtle nuanceunderlining a professionally crafted resume. In my experience with Lee, I really admired her sound, concise, and insightful analysis.

The best thing about the experience was the feedback from Lee. It truly wasmy pleasure to have received comments from an individual as talented as Lee Koren. I would highly recommend this individual, and should my future employment needs rise again, I know to whom I would go.

As I draw to a close, I write, with utmost honesty, of my deep appreciation for the power of networking.

Thank you, Donna Messer.

Donna, you have given me so much, and I need to share how great you are.

Andto Lee Koren, my sincere thanks.

Lee, thank you for your expert advice; I won’t hesitate to spread the word of the great work you do.

Alas, I can only hope that I have done justice to the two individuals I was blessed to have met; two individuals who deserve many more words of praise.

Yours truly,

Sarah Anne Boland

Read Full Post »

The Ultimate Business Makeover

The Ultimate Business Makeover Challenge starts with a one day exclusive retreat!

During this past weekend, I had a few minutes to spend some focused time thinking about my clients and their needs. I recognized that many don’t have a system in place, where they can actually measure their results.

Brainstorming with myself, I was amazed to discover that what I know, they might not know!

I’m determined to make 2012 a year where you can measure results. I’m asking you to follow my directions and I will document your journey. I will write about your progress and include your journey in my online publication – http://entrenomics.wordpress.com

I know I have a model that works, and on the 17th of December, I’m going to share that model.

I’m going to challenge you to put this model in place for a period of 30 days. I guarantee you will be able to measure the results in increased visibility, credibility and ultimately in your profitability!

If you’ve been trying to grow your business by doing what you’ve always done, things that worked in the past, you might be in trouble.

Statistics are showing that this is a new world where you have to be socially savvy to compete.

This isn’t just marketing double talk. It’s absolutely true. And I’m practicing what I preach, as you’ll see over the weeks to come.

My goal is not only to reduce the amount of work currently in your marketing system; it is to increase the results you get from following my strategic process.

In other words, I want you to have more measurable results with a focused effort on your bottom line, and you need to join me. We are going to use what’s called leverage.

It’s the secret to almost any great business success. It’s getting more output with less input. It’s focused, strategic and systematic.

And if you want to learn the system I’m using for 2012, join me on December 17th, at Stone Edge Estate.

There is still time to register!

Stone Edge Estate is an exclusive retreat, far from day to day distractions. The cost of $149.00 is offered as a one time only promo with Smart Betty.

Register Here and create an account, then purchase the deal. Once you have done this, you will receive a voucher in your email that you can present to me.

I’ll send you directions, and a questionnaire to complete prior to the day. Donna Messer 905-337-9578 dmesser@connectuscanada.com

Read Full Post »

Business Matchmaker, Moderator, Keynote Speaker and Coach

Business Matchmaker? Moderator? Speaker? Coach? Seems that’s me!

I can’t believe that it’s almost the end of October and I haven’t updated by Blog! No excuses, but September was busy, and October is even busier! I had a wonderful trip to Alberta and Saskatchewan and got back at midnight on October 21^st.

Just to give you a glimpse of my journey…….I spent several days at a beautiful retreat with the Top Guns of Western Financial Group. I can’t wait to share a little about this group of dynamic men and women. The retreat was at Ghost River Crossing, in Cochrane, Alberta – great food, incredible service and accommodation that included hand made quilts on the beds – awesome! I’ll be telling you more in the next Blog! I did video interviews with some of the Top Guns, and I can’t wait to share those interviews with you.

I travelled to LaRonge Saskatchewan for a Women’s Conference. When I arrived I was amazed that I not only remembered Lynn Reese, a client from years ago who harvests and sells wild rice – I met his wife Irene, at the conference!  Glad to know my memory is still working!

Then to top it off, I was the kick-off speaker to an audience that was a wonderful mix of entrepreneurs and business owners. LuAn Mitchell and Steffany Hanlen were my fellow speakers and I know you will love learning more about them in my next blog. I was delighted to meet them and I know we will be on another stage together soon!

Before I left for the west, I spent several days in the Belleville area – again meeting wonderful people that I know I will reconnect with. The first event was for WSBN, it was organized by Sandra Valks and Marg Newsome. I was the moderator for an amazing panel of women; I know will keep in touch with all of them. Jeanette Arsenault was one of that awesome panel, and I was so impressed with her talent and her songs that I took her CD with me to Saskatchewan. We began the event in LaRonge with the audience swaying to the music of Jeanette’s “Women of the World”!

Darcelle Runciman and some of the women who were at the Belleville event are going to come to my area for a retreat and brainstorming weekend – I am just finalizing the venue. Watch for it!  The second day in Belleville was a job fair with accompanying events that were well organized by Cindy Dow. Here is another awesome woman I look forward to working with again!

I spoke at the Streetsville BIA and again I met people l want to share with my network. I have a question for you.  Have you ever had trouble getting people to pronounce your name correctly? If you have – I’ve met someone who has a product that can assure that everyone knows the correct pronunciation.

You might want to check out www.ANTVibes.com  And as always – I can make the introduction!

I had the opportunity to speak to a group of Schulich Alumni and again I met people that I can introduce to others. It seems I’m making matches wherever I go! Thanks to Howard Lichtman for the opportunity and for sharing his connections with everyone.

This week I get to speak to a group at the U of T who are partners and spouses of newly appointed faculty at U of T.  I’ll bet I’ll be making more introductions and more profitable connections!

I’m also speaking to The Pakistani Business Association, who knows who I will meet. I know I’ll make lots of new friends!

October will soon be over, and I promise I’ll get you lots of new contacts, ideas and information! Thanks to everyone for making my October so memorable!

Talk to you all again soon!

Donna

 

Read Full Post »

Where’s Donna in September?

It’s been awhile since I’ve written a blog and this one is going to be all about getting back into the swing of networking. It’s been a great summer, and many of my colleagues have enjoyed shorter hours and long weekends. Now it’s back to work!

So, where am I going to be this month? And why would anyone care? Well, I’m offering everyone a chance to break a record – I posted on Guinness Book of Records that I can make more business matches in one hour than anyone else. I want you to help me set this record.

September 7th, 2011 – Durham Home and Small Business Association Cruise on Lake Scugog. For registration and details – http://www.dhsba.com

September 13th, 2011 – Ajax/Pickering Board of Trade, Networking Trade Show – details at http://www.apboardoftrade.com

September 17th, 2011 – Barrie Business Show – Help Break a Guinness World Record – http://www.barriebusinessshow.com

September 20th, 2011 – Company of Women Dinner and Networking event – Get Connected, An Interactive Networking Event  http://companyofwomen.ca

September 22nd, 2011 – Power Team Reunion – been part of my network? Then join me for a barbecue and an opportunity to reconnect and increase your business potential. The event is in Halton at Stone Ridge, a fabulous private home, that is amazing.   http://connectuscanada.com

September 27th, 2011 – This is a HAPPEN event at the Mississauga Living Arts Centre – Rogers Television will be filming the networking and the matchmaking. http://www.happen.ca

September 29th, 2011 – Leads, Needs and Good Deeds Networking event at Otello’s Banquet Centre in Oakville. – http://connectuscanada.com

Networking is the single most effective way to build your career success – the difference between not working and net working is the “e” for effort – see you at one or more of these events this month.

Want to be business matched, send me a note telling me what you need. If it’s personal, then the Barrie Business Show is actually going to offer speed dating and will try and break the record between 3:00 and 4:00 p.m.

Read Full Post »

A Poem Written by Barb Babj

Many thanks for your poem Barb. I am including the link to the latest interview on That Channel with Hugh Reilly – it’s all about the New Entrepreneur – and to my thinking, that just might be you!

I sent you an email out of the blue,

You invited a call, though the contact was new. 

Amidst 400 emails, with no time to natter,

You were able to jump to the heart of the matter. 

In less than five minutes, as we chatted away,

You brainstormed some thoughts, held “yeah, but” at bay. 

Thoughts followed thoughts, with no time for blinking,

You expanded the space with lateral thinking, 

I looked at your website, I tiptoed around,

I learned many things as I covered that ground. 

You live your brand, about people you care,

For creative thinking you have quite a flair. 

Your sense of compassion is honest and true,

Your whimsy and humour are slightly askew. 

I learned about dragons, the power of prayers,

I walked through the forest and read about bears. 

Some of your stories could rival Aesop,

There’s power in giving, you RISE to the top. 

I learned you’ve no time for the “Sorry, not-yetters”,

You give your support to the driven “go-getters”. 

The connections you form are often long-lasting,

You don’t disappoint, there’s no room for “bombasting”. 

Per our conversation, I needed a “WOW”

To elicit “Oh, Boy!” instead of an “ow”. 

You asked for a gift, of person or thing,

I decided to write, cuz I really can’t sing.

In closing, I offer my network, my time,

All that I am, and even this rhyme. 

And one tiny thing more, it may give you a lift,

A small talisman, I’d like to gift.

(a tiny Teddy Bear)
Teddy Bear

thatchanneltv has shared a video with you on YouTube: ThatChannel com Interview 2011 06j 14 Donna Messer The New Entrepreneur

 

Read Full Post »

The New Entrepreneur

The New Entrepreneur

Canada Ranks 3^rd in the World of Entrepreneurs

By: Donna Messer

Statistics show that small business and entrepreneurship is the backbone of our Canadian economy. Prime Minister Stephen Harper declared 2011 “The Year of the Entrepreneur” and a new survey suggests that Canadais one of the top three places in the world to start a business and has a culture that admires entrepreneurs and the risks that they take.

Entrepreneurs come in all shapes, sizes and cultures. Men and women of all ages are making the switch from careers to creatively choosing products, services or opportunities that fit their lifestyle and their financial needs.  Earning an income to support a family or an individual no longer equates to finding a job – in today’s economy – it means creating your own source of income.

Using relationship building, (another word for networking) is proving to be the fastest, most effective way to grow that entrepreneurial business.

Canada ranks just behind Indonesia and the United States, according to the newly released survey conducted by GlobeScan where more than 24,000 survey participants were asked a series of questions on how hard it was to start a business and how innovation was valued in their country.  The results for Canada are below:

74% of Canadians took a favourable view of entrepreneurs, saying they believed people who started their own businesses were highly valued individuals.

72% surveyed said innovation and creativity was highly valued inCanada.

66% said they believed that people with good ideas were able to put them into practice in Canada, suggesting that Canadian entrepreneurs face fewer barriers when developing something new.

55% said it was difficult to start a new business in Canada, while 45% said it wasn’t difficult. 

53% of Canadians reported that they had an idea for starting their own business.

With the high marks afforded to both Canada and theUnited States, the survey noted in its summary that “North America has the most entrepreneur-friendly culture of any region.”

Top Ten Tips for Entrepreneurs Starting a New Business

1. Research – use search engines. Subscribe to Stats Canada for current and relevant statistical information.
2. Experts – Find the experts and ask them to share their success stories. They are often early retirees and might even consider mentoring you.
3. Team – Build the team. Buy your weaknesses. Don’t try to be a super hero.
4. Business Plan – No one can succeed without an effective and well thought out plan.
5. Banker – You need a good banker. Find one that you can relate to and build rapport.
6. Lawyer – You need a lawyer in your corner, to set up the company and make sure all the legal bases are covered.
7.  Accountant – You need an accountant immediately. They set up the books, making you compliant with all necessary government forms.
8. Marketing and Media Expert – Believe it or not, you need someone who can not only get your name out there, but can help create brand awareness.
9. Human Resources Expert – You need to a policy and procedure manual. It’s an important tool once the business begins to grow.
10. Contacts – You need to build a data base of supportive industry contacts. One of the best sources of contacts is the Canadian Society of Association Executives. (CSAE) Membership in an organization that supports your industry is the key to success!  Organizations and associations are also a wealth of information and contacts.

 Donna Messer is an author, speaker and journalist. She is an entrepreneur and has launched several profitable businesses.  She knows who you need to know. Today, she is known as the CRO (Chief Relationship Officer) for ConnectUs International. Her role is to share resources, and build relationships that produce measurable results for clients around the world. To learn more about ConnectUs – www.connectuscanada.com

 GlobeScan Incorporated is an international opinion research consultancy, providing global organizations with evidence-based insight to help set strategy and shape communications.  GlobeScan conducts research in over 90 countries. Established in 1987, the company is an independent, management-owned company with offices in Toronto, London, San Francisco, and Washington DC. www.GlobeScan.com.

Read Full Post »

Real Entrepreneurs are at the Helm of This New Magazine

Real Entrepreneurs are at the Helm of This New Magazine

Donna Messer, a resident of Oakville, and an entrepreneur for over 25 years was the kick off speaker for a new publication, called TorontoEntrepreneurs Magazine. The publication launched on Saturday, May 7^th at theTorontoInternationalCenter where Marc Belaiche, also an entrepreneur and the publisher of the new magazine, coordinated this very successful conference.

Over 2,000 people lined up from 7:00 a.m. to be the first to pick up a complimentary copy of the magazine and to hear first hand what being an entrepreneur really means.

The eager crowd was presented with a diverse line-up of fabulous speakers, each of whom took the crowd on their own very personal journey of entrepreneurship. From Robert Herjavec the “Friendly Dragon” on the Dragons’ Den to Yousuf Khatib and Real Michaud from World Financial Group, the audience learned how they handled the trials and transformations of entrepreneurship. It was a learning experience for everyone and after learning how to build relationships from Donna Messer, everyone was anxious to put into practice what they learned.

The magazine, with Donna Messer as the Managing Editor and kick off speaker proved that entrepreneurship is not only alive and well, it’s thriving!

Prime Minister Stephen Harper declared 2011 “The Year of the Entrepreneur” acknowledging that entrepreneurs are the backbone ofCanada’s economy.  

Recent statistics show that demographics for entrepreneurship is changing; today entrepreneurs are all ages, all cultures and in all areas of expertise.

It appears that TorontoEntrepreneurs Magazine is a publication that is in the right place at the right time, it’s up-beat, positive, current and packed with information that can be immediately used.

Real entrepreneurs are at the helm of this new magazine; to subscribe or send your comments on entrepreneurship editor@TorontoEntrepreneurs.ca  

For a copy of the magazine or to reach Donna Messer, Managing Editor of TorontoEntrepreneurs Magazine – call 905-337-9578. To reach Marc Belaiche, Publisher call 905-566-5627

Read Full Post »

International Networking Day – It was a day we won’t soon forget!

 

 

Donna & Joanna with an amazing cake celebrating 30 years of networking!

International Networking Day – February 8^th, 2011

I promised myself that I would write a blog on the events surrounding International Networking Day, and I’ve been so busy responding to emails from all of the wonderful men and women who were at the event, I haven’t had time! Many of you took pictures with me and the Networking Cake – I hope you all enjoyed the day and the cake! Joanna Parris is an old friend and was able to send me the shot I’ve included in this email.

I first want to thank Jennifer Beale and the team that made the event possible. Next I want to thank Dr. Ivan Misner for taking the time to create International Networking Week.  To Christel and Cindy – your presentation was terrific and really showed the audience how different we can be. Are we fast or slow, task or people oriented? It was an easy way for all of us to learn to respect our differences and to recognize we all need each others strengths.

I know I can’t mention everyone who was at the event, but I really would like to! I saw so many old friends – you all know who you are, please keep in touch.  I made plenty of new friends, and to all of you – please keep in touch.

Networking is not just showing up and exchanging business cards, it’s really about finding your common ground with each person you meet. It’s establishing a rapport that truly makes each of you want to stay in touch. The networking process is simple – first build rapport, then exchange relevant and timely information, only then can you offer to help to each other.  Make sure that the help you offer, is a gift that can be measured. 

Today, I would like to offer you my gift – it is some of the resources I share that are relevant, timely and measurable!

Numbers 1 and 3 will be of interest to anyone who wants to sit on a government board. Number 2 is for anyone who doesn’t know what they want when it comes to a board position. Number 4 is for anyone in transition. Number 5 is a great way to keep in touch.  Number 6 is for anyone who needs a mentor or wants to become an entrepreneur!

1. Public Appointments Secretariat - A list of current and future opening on boards – http://www.pas.gov.on.ca  Recommend that you contact your MPP and inform them that you are interested in or have become a member of any specific board.
2. Boardmatch – A good site for anyone looking for a board position – http://www.boardmatch.org Susan Dunne – Altruvest – 416-597-2293 sdunne@altruvest.org
3. Governor in Council – Appointments – http://bit.ly/g1P4nX Contact Federal MP and advise of your interest.
4. Lee Koren – Senior Recruiter – specializes in resumes, mock interview, cover letters – 905-338-5520 http://bselected.wordpress.com/
5. SendOutCards - for a gift account walk through with Rebecca Follows. – http://sendoutcards.com/89806 or call 905-617-2778
6. ConnectUs Career & Business Café – A mentoring program for executives in transition, entrepreneurs and those seeking to become self employed  http://www.connectuscanada.com/power_networking.html

Watch for my next blog – it will be all about an exciting new magazine launching in the spring and a conference that you will all want to attend!  Circle May 7^th, 2011 on your calendar!

Read Full Post »

North Middlesex -They say it takes a village to raise a child

North Middlesex -They say it takes a village to raise a child

They say it takes a village to raise a child, the problem is, that there aren’t many villages left in Ontario………….

I had the privilege to travel to North Middlesex, a small community about an hour outside London. I travelled by train and was picked up at the station by two “villagers”. Their role was to show me what North Middlesex has to offer tourists. They took me on a tour of a number of small villages where residents still help to raise the children.

In a few brief hours, I was able to enjoy a home cooked meal and meet with local government officials. I had the chance to stop and admire charming village shops, where the proprietors took the time to share a little of their history with me.

I stopped, shopped and fell in love with a community called North Middlesex.

I was quick to learn that this quaint and welcoming community not only loves their kids, they love to volunteer, and they do this on a regular basis for all of the local events that occur each year.

2010 was a sesquicentennial year for North Middlesex, and to celebrate their 150 birthday everyone got involved. I was asked to come to the community and to help keep that spirit and excitement alive.

I was invited to facilitate an evening event where everyone enjoyed “Beef on a Bun” supplied by the local legion. The hall was full of community-minded people, all whom were there to see what I could suggest that would bring more visitors to their charming villages.

I began the evening by asking if there were any service clubs in attendance, and there were. I asked if there were any municipal government officials in the room, and there were. And I asked if there was anyone in the room who hadn’t been actively involved in the celebrations around the 150 birthday and there were NONE!

This was a room full of volunteers, dedicated men and women who want to see visitors flocking to their events in the coming months.

I met Quilters and their spouses – and I quickly found out that there is a group of Dutch Quilters coming to North Middlesex this spring. The Quilts of the Netherlands will be in Ailsa Craig from May 23 – 28^th, 2011. I suggested that using Social Media would help raise awareness and bring lots of interested visitors. I’m pleased that they have a website that I can direct you to! www.ailsacraigquiltfestival.org Quilting is almost a lost art – there will be over 120 quilts in the exhibit. I’m making a point of returning to North Middlesex in May to see some of those quilts!

The Lions Club was another service club in attendance and they shared a little bit about themselves. I learned that they have donated over $50,000 locally. I am a foster mom with Dog Guides of Canada, and I know that the Lions Club is an active sponsor for this worthy charity,  what I didn’t know was how extensive their youth programs are. I’m glad to see they’ve got a website! http://www.e-clubhouse.org/sites/ailsacraig/index.php This is another opportunity for me and social media to share stories about the Lions Club in North Middlesex!

I found out that the Optimist Club was also represented and I asked that they share their creed with everyone in the room – I share it with you today.

The Optimist Creed

Promise Yourself

To be so strong that nothing can disturb your peace of mind.

To talk health, happiness and prosperity to every person you meet.

To make all your friends feel that there is something in them.

To look at the sunny side of everything and make your optimism come true.

To think only of the best, to work only for the best, and to expect only the best.

To be just as enthusiastic about the success of others as you are about your own.

To forget the mistakes of the past and press on to the greater achievements of the future.

To wear a cheerful countenance at all times and give every living creature you meet a smile.

To give so much time to the improvement of yourself that you have no time to criticize others.

To be too large for worry, too noble for anger, too strong for fear, and too happy to permit the presence of trouble.

***

If you want to know more about North Middlesex, they have a Cardboard Boat Race, where entire families pitch in to build the winning boat! They have Turtle Races, where one of the turtles was called “Sir Loin” – a noble entry and obviously a winner! 

I’ve promised I’d interview some of the business owners and help them reach you through social media.

I’m going back to North Middlesex, and when I do, I’m going to offer a training program to anyone who wants to put North Middlesex on the map for tourists everywhere!

I’m looking to reconnect with the merchants, the residents, the local government and the service clubs to help raise awareness for this wonderful community. When they say it takes a village to raise a child, I’ve found some of those villages, and you just have to visit them and see for yourself!

North Middlesex, Proud Heritage, Bright Futures and it’s all because they areWorking Together!  www.northmiddlesex.on.ca

Read Full Post »

Volunteer Work Can Open Career Doors

The article below appeared in the Toronto Star on January 18th, 2011. It was written by Tracy Hanes and when she called me, she asked me about “Changing Priorities”. I immediately thought of how volunteering has become one of the most important pieces of the puzzle when it comes to finding that perfect career.

Tolu and I have been together as Mentor and Protegee, and as friends for the past 3 years.  I’m proud of her accomplishments and I know that without the relationship we built, the doors to her perfect career would not have opened. 

I encourage everyone to consider volunteering and to use a systematic process to determine where the best fit may be.  

Thanks Tracy for the great article!  Thanks Tolu and Lee Koren for the agreeing to share your insight and experience with Tracy.

Thanks to all of the people who participated in the Leads, Needs and Good Deeds event!  I’m going to host another one soon!

 

Volunteer Work Can Open Career Doors

                                                                                  

Tracy Hanes Special to the Star

 ”When you learn it’s about what you can do for others, they return the good deed.” Tolulope Olutunfese, food scientist and recent immigrant                       

             “People forgot how good it feels to give back. They are so used to dipping into their pockets.” Donna Messer, Networking Expert.

When Tolulope Olutunfese, her husband and young daughter arrived in Burlington from Nigeria in October 2007, she was optimistic about a better life. But even though she held a bachelor’s degree in food science and had work experience in that field, her job search proved futile.

“It was tough to find work and it was overwhelming,” she recalls.

Through the Mentoring Partnership, a program of the Toronto Immigrant Employment Council delivered by Sheridan College, she was assigned a mentor. She was paired with Donna Messer, a well-known networking expert and president of Connect Us Canada, an Oakville-based company.

Messer is on the board of the Women in Food Industry Management Association (WFIM) and arranged for Olutunfese to volunteer there. About the same time, Olutunfese accepted a job “out of desperation” working in the refrigerated area of a meat processing company. The working environment wasn’t ideal for her and she wasn’t using her full knowledge and skills.

“I’d sent out my resume to a lot of places but I didn’t understand the barriers,” she says. “I was qualified but had no Canadian work experience. When I met Donna, she introduced me to people in the field that I wouldn’t have had the opportunity to meet otherwise.”

Messer taught her to change her priorities: instead of focusing on her own needs and what others could do for her, Messer urged her to see what she could do for others.

“When you learn it’s about what you can do for others, they return the good deed. In volunteering with WIFM, I got to know people well, they got to know me and became willing to provide references,” she says. “No matter where you are from or from what culture, you really do have some things in common.”

Her confidence soared as she realized she had something to offer.

Through her new contacts, Olutunfese landed a job working in research and product development for Fruition, a company that supplies fruit fillings to Tim Hortons and other companies.

She is still involved with WIFM (she recently wrote an article on food allergies for members) and says volunteering opened doors that wouldn’t have otherwise. “Volunteering gives an opportunity for people to know about you and then they become willing to go out on a limb for you.”

The key to success for individuals, companies and organizations is to shift their thinking from “me” to “we” says Messer.

She was invited to speak to a law firm in Toronto that raises $800,000 per year for the United Way about how to make their canvassing more successful. Instead of leaving a pledge form on people’s desks, Messer suggested canvassers get to know a bit about their intended donors.

“For instance, in one cubicle was a photo of a girl and a dog. I’d leave a dog biscuit with the form,” she says. “Another cubicle had a photo of a girl in a ballet costume. I found out that another employee could get tickets to the ballet and suggested they give them to that person. Making people feel important doesn’t cost anything.”

She is a board member of United Way of Oakville, which is facing fundraising challenges, like many non-profit organizations these days.

Messer organized a Leads, Needs and Good Deeds networking workshop that brought together 150 of her contacts (including individuals and representatives from businesses and associations) to exchange leads, offer help to others and share good deeds.

Attendees brought items or services to raffle and, in return, made several new connections. All proceeds went to United Way of Oakville.

“The most important thing is that people forgot how good it feels to give back. They are so used to dipping into their pockets,” says Messer. “People want it to come from within, not just from their pocketbooks.”

Lee Koren, who attended the event, met Messer after she was downsized from her Toronto recruiting job.

“I had networks of people I knew and businesses I worked with, but Donna really opened my eyes about networking. Networking’s not just the people you know, but people you don’t know. It’s not ‘what can you do for me’, but ‘what can I do for you’.”

Koren started volunteering her time to help people in transition, using her knowledge about what hiring managers are usually looking for.

At the same time, she started her own recruiting company, Selection Strategy, and has started writing blogs for others (she also works part-time as a recruiter for Ian Martin Recruitment Services).

“I am not only helping so many people, I am helping myself as well,” Koren says. “I keep networking and making connections. It takes years of connections to build your business.”

Messer says transitions between jobs can be scary but they also offer huge opportunities to learn new things and get involved.  “It’s important to think laterally, and always think in terms of we, not me.

Read Full Post »

What is Does a “Sense of Community” Mean Today?

What is Does a “Sense of Community” Mean Today?

Think about it a little. When you got off work as a young adult, you would probably go home, call some friends and get together to enjoy a cup of tea, a movie, a game of scrabble or to just talk. You all lived in the same community, so getting together was simple.

What’s happening to this generation?

They get home and instead of calling friends, they type in their user name and pass code and log on to Facebook. Is our sense of community, that face to face connection being lost? 

The argument that the community is dying is a common one. Older generations see pot luck suppers, church groups and community centers as their community. Today’s young people are saying their communities are still very much alive and well; they’re simply changing.

People gathering is still around, what’s changing is the format in which today’s generation does it. They no longer get together physically and talk about their day. Today, everyone logs on and says, ‘Hey, what’s happening?’”

As a sign of just how imbedded social networking has become; Mark Zuckerberg has recently been named “Time’s Person of the Year”. http://bit.ly/hrkDLn

Zuckerberg is the founder of Facebook and succeeded in ushering in this new way to connect to community; this new way stretches far beyond a conventional, physical location, today’s community has taken new heights, it’s now on a digital and global scale.

Despite concerns, experts say this new community is actually a fairly healthy and beneficial alternative. A study done at Carnegie Mellon University found that greater social networking site activity is associated with increased social capital and reduced loneliness. Today, a strong Facebook network is a predictor of social well-being in the real world.

People still need community, it’s just that the perception has changed; today it’s online, where people can jump in and out of networks. But statistics show there are still a lot of benefits to those networks.

How can those of us from past generations learn from and utilize this new community?

Face-to-face communication involves commonly understood facial expressions and tones, but when the same conversations are put online, they’re stripped of those personal touches, causing communication breakdowns. The computer has no expression.

We have to adapt to this “new neighborhood”. We can learn to better express ourselves; using emoticons, symbols representing expressions and feelings. Local colleges are developing web rules called netiquette to reduce online communication mishaps. We might want to enroll!

As we exist online more and more, we will develop more skills to be able to communicate how we want to communicate. It’s really relationship building 101 for the on line community.

If you’re not maximizing your on line presence, you just might be missing out on some great new friends. This new virtual community hasn’t replaced my existing face to face one; it’s simply given me a whole new perspective in the art of effecting networking!  See you on Facebook and LinkedIn!

Read Full Post »

The Little Brown Bag – My Gift to you at Christmas

 The Little Brown Bag – My Gift to you at Christmas

This is the story of a little boy and a little brown bag.

 When my grandson was in junior school he came home with a little brown paper bag.

His eyes were shining and he jumping up and down with excitement, he couldn’t wait to share the contents of that little brown bag with me.

My grandson wasn’t a quiet and shy little guy; he was what teachers may have called “disruptive”. If you asked him for words to describe himself – he would come up with words like “troublemaker; uncooperative; noisy and a problem”. Not a very positive group of words for a young boy. 

Where did he get those words? They came from the people in his life. His teachers; the kids who reflected the teacher’s words; and the people he came in contact with day after day. Imagine how he must have felt.

His teacher must have heard about the “negative image” this little guy had of himself and she was determined to try and “right the wrong”.  She gave the kids the chance to do an interactive writing exercise.  

The class was small and she had everyone sit in a circle. She passed each child a small mirror and asked them to look at themselves and say something positive about their reflection. They had to write that word down, then, she asked each child to write another positive word about each of the children sitting in the circle. They were instructed to drop those words into the little brown paper bags that had each child’s name written on it.

At the end of the day, each child picked up their little brown bag with all the words that described them. My grandson raced home that day to share what his school mates had written on those pieces of paper.

He dumped out the contents of the little brown bag and the words swirled around the table………words like “Happy, Smiley, Helpful, Brave and Nice” The words quickly settled on the table for both of us to consider. My grandson looked at me and with a huge smile on his face he said, “They like me Nanny, they don’t see the bad me, they see the good me!

I hugged him and realized that we all have two parts to who we are. And it’s often the negative part that we dwell on. 

It’s been years, but my grandson still has that little brown paper bag with the words tucked carefully inside, and sometimes when he’s down – he dumps it out and remembers that he is liked and he has the good words prove it!

We all need a mirror and a little brown bag occasionally.  During this holiday season, take time to see the good in all of us.

Merry Christmas Everyone!

Donna Messer is an author, speaker and trainer. She brings both the mirror and the little brown bags to many of her workshops!  For more information go to www.connectuscanada.com

Read Full Post »

A Project Management Institute Event – Where Project Managers Speak Out!

A Project Management Institute Event Where Project Managers Speak Out!

I often ask my audience to provide me with feedback from an event – the words below are from men and women, all of whom are problem solvers. they work as Project Managers in a wide variety of sectors.

I am honoured to be able to share their words with those of you who read my blog. Got a problem? Chances are the PMI has a solution! I recommend you check out the PMI at www.pmi.org for a local Ontario Chapter – http://search.pmi.org/?q=Ontario+

On November 20^th 2010 Donna Messer facilitated a networking session for a group of project managers at a PMI sponsored continuing education event.  Facilitated barely describes what we experienced.  A few volunteers offered their very positive feedback: 

“It’s not what you know, but who you know. This old adage came to life again for me during an enlightening workshop.  Not only her delivery style was entertaining but also deeply reflective on how we should approach people with the purpose of helping and seeking help.  My key takeaway was that networking is not about exchanging presentation cards.  It is truly about finding common ground where everybody interacts and benefits from others’ experiences and knowledge.”

- Salvaldor Segura Ortega, HR Integrated Services Team at IBM

“I liked the excellent style of delivery including audience interaction, humor and meaningful content.  The entire presentation did not bore us and productively engaged the diverse audience. The list of web site resources Donna provided was fabulous. Overall, Donna hit a home run with her message, ’What goes around comes around!’ We need more Donna’ in today’s world.”

-Shyama Sunderaswara, a Toronto based project manager and entrepreneur

“The process described in the class was very simple and it was great that we had the opportunity to practice it, so we know how it works in real-time.  People were able to realize untapped opportunities that had nothing to do with employment and a lot to do with expanding one’s network.”

-Carla Lewis, IT Project Manager at The College of Family Physicians of Canada

“I found Donna to be a very engaging and effective speaker. She has a very good command of the Networking topic. Her process is simple to understand and follow. In a way it is less about networking and more about relationship building which is natural. The outcome is a network of relationships and hopefully support system in case of need.”

            -Hamza Qazi, an IT Project Manager with the Ministry of Health & Long-term Care

“Donna is known as the Queen of Networking, but in reality she is so much more. Her presentation made me reflect on three key phrases, a) we not me, b) not what we do, but who we are, and c) what can I do to help you?  In a room full of project managers, it’s easy to say, “I’m a project manager.” That doesn’t begin to say who we are or help us to make a connection. Donna is a master at identifying the strengths in individuals and in helping us express what we can contribute. As a group, by spending a Saturday morning with Donna, we opened ourselves to opportunities, abundance, and new relationships.”

            -Kathryn Pottruff, Pottruff Consulting Inc.

Read Full Post »

Me to We” – That’s the message “Leads, Needs and Good Deeds” brought to the audience!

“Me to We” – That’s the message “Leads, Needs and Good Deeds” brought to the audience!   The message I received loud and clear at the Leads, Needs and Good Deeds event was all about the Power of Relationships. The people in the room were business owners, entrepreneurs, financial experts, healthcare professionals, recruiters, and not for profit organizations, all people willing to share who they knew. I talked briefly about turning the mindset in the room from “Me to We”, and that is exactly what they did!   The networking and relationship building that began with this event MUST continue! The message was inspiring and motivating. People came from everywhere. John Huard, came from Pembroke. He volunteers on the streets of Toronto each year in December – his main objective is to make sure young kids living on the street, get into a safe house, get food, shelter, perhaps reconnect with their parents, or in some cases find work.   The ConnectUs Career and Business Café that was introduced at the event was very busy, Lee Koren, our resident expert was on hand to answer any relevant questions. The Café is an incubator for anyone in career transition or in start up mode with a new business.     There was a buzz in the room, and it was great to watch as everyone in attendance as they tried to meet as many people as possible. Everyone did their best to find “common ground” and I know they will soon turn that first meeting into a relationship that will result in business development. Below is the best way to measure the results of the event.

Maximize Your Leads, Needs and Good Deeds   Mentorship – Find a mentor – find someone who can help you grow simply by spending time with them.    Boards and Volunteering – Consider donating your time to a good cause. By joining one of these groups you can create new bonds and that could help your business or your personal growth.   Alliances/Partners/collaborations – Relationships mean that both sides benefit. Join forces with others and open yourself to new markets and revenue streams.   Networking – This is the single most important and measurable way to grow. Using ConnectUs and our systematic process works! Networking is about developing relationships, it’s being “We centered, not Me focused”. It’s about taking time to learn about others and sharing what you learn.     “We” Team – Don’t own a business? You still need to be part of team! Share your expertise; it’s great to have a 3rd party referral. I invite you to be part of a “Success Team” – this is a ConnectUs driven, mastermind group – where you network with inspiring people, you create a goal and everyone on your team assists, inspires and motivates you to think and reach beyond your comfort zone. Check out the ConnectUs Career & Business Café – it’s both an incubator and an idea factory!   Donna

Read Full Post »