Oprah – 1

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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!

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Visibility + Credibility = Profitability

Visibility + Credibility = Profitability

I had the opportunity to be interviewed a couple of weeks ago by Lori Raudnask from Persistence Pays. Lori and I met a few years ago at a Company of Women event in Oakville and Lori kept my business card!

Lori is actively involved with local Chambers of Commerce and other small business groups; and is an incredible networker. She’s a key note speaker, a sales trainer who builds winning teams.

Is it any wonder she decided to use social media and on-line interviewing to expand her reach?

With Lori’s directions, I drove to Hamilton and walked into a store front studio called NewsClipTV.  I was greeted by Pink and Floyd, resident feline mascots for this unique studio. The studio has a set up that made it easy to talk to host Lori, who was an excellent interviewer. The studio and the set up complete with all the whistles and bells is the brainchild of Moe Masoudi who markets under the name BizClipInc.

While the interview was quick and easy, I wasn’t sure what to expect from the final edit. I shook hands with both Lori and Moe, patted Pink and Floyd and headed back to Oakville to await what could be a great way to increase my visibility, which in turn adds to my credibility – and that ultimately will add to my profitability.

Using Google Alerts – (which I recommend to all of my clients), I was “alerted” as soon as the video was posted to the web. I clicked on and watch the show – it was really well edited, and I am delighted to share the segment with you.

Ethical, effective networking happens when there is a win for everyone – in this case – we were all winners!

I got visibility, Lori did a great job of interviewing, and Moe got the chance to show his editing skills.

Check out the interview at NewsClipTV – Donna Messer of ConnectUsCanada.com

I am going to ask you to comment on the content, and if you will, on the editing and the show itself.

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EmPOWERed Women

EmPOWERed Women 

 According to the dictionary – the word “empowered” means - to promote self-actualization, to influence and to inspire. 

There is no doubt in my mind that Ontario Power Generation’s initiative EmPOWERed Women is doing exactly what the dictionary identifies.

I was fortunate to be a keynote speaker at the graduation for women at OPG who were divided into 5 groups identified as Alpha, Beta, Delta, Charlie and Echo. While it might sound like “pilot” talk – and these women were definitely flying high – it is how people in the energy world communicate.

 The day began with a welcome from Colleen Sidford, CIO, Chief Investment Officer, Vice President and Treasurer at OPG. She is also the founder and champion for EmPOWERed Women.

OPG is the province’s publicly owned and largest electricity generator. The EmPOWERed Women program was founded in 2008 to help women across the company maximize their individual and organization potential. It is a leadership development and mentoring program, that really works, and that is speaking from my personal experience at the graduation!

EmPOWERed Women was created to demonstrate a commitment to gender diversity and the advancement of women to encourage and prepare them for leadership.

4 key values are fulfilled within this program:

• Increased career opportunities
• Commitment to gender diversity and equality
• Heightened engagement among all women
• Leveraged leadership capabilities of women

The program is open to all female OPG employees and requires a ½ day commitment each month for 4 months.  There are classes in leadership, networking, career development and mentoring.  Participants graduate with increased poise, grace and confidence, both in their speech and in their demeanor.

For the graduation ceremony, all Managers of program participants as well as the President and CEO Tom Mitchell, attend.

I sat in the front row after delivering my speech and I listened as the Valedictorian for each group from Alpha to Echo shared their experience as a participant in EmPOWERed Women.  They were inspiring, and will be a positive influence on all women within the OPG family.

CEO, Tom Mitchell encouraged all graduates to “Aim High, Diversity and Take Risks.’’ He set the stage by giving his support to the program, now, he stated, it was their turn to have the confidence to “take the stage” and share their experience.

Since OPG is owned by the province, it’s possible that the EmPOWERed Women program can be implemented in other corporations within the Ontario Government.

I was incredibly proud to be part of the celebration and to see and hear just how much each woman was emPOWERed.  I offer my congratulations to all – it made me want to join the OPG family!

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The New Leverage – Everything Old is New Again! Tribes vs Community

The New Leverage – Everything Old is New Again! Tribes vs Community

The definition of a Tribe is a group of people, large or small who are connected to one another, by an innovative leader and an idea. The definition of a Community is a group of dedicated individuals coming together to achieve common goals

I’ve written about leverage before, and in this Blog I’m taking it to the next level. I’m a huge fan of writer, Seth Godin, and his book Tribes, has given me plenty of new food for thought. Not only has he given new meaning to leverage, he has provided the glue that cements my beliefs. I often refer to a sense of community when I want to bring people together. Reading Tribes, really maximizes using ethical leverage to succeed.

In Tribes, Godin creates a number of visuals for his analogies – with a long enough crowbar we can rip nails out of a board. With a long enough teeter-totter we can lift a sumo wrestler. With enough leverage we can change our company, our industry and our world.

How then can we find the best way to “leverage” ourselves? Think about it – today we have social media where we can reach millions with a single “tweet”.

Am I an advocator for using social media and all it entails? You bet! But I don’t do it all myself – I use leverage of “my tribe”.

I’m facilitating a Mentoring/Mastermind Group that is a new tribe, one that will be able to monitor and measure their results because of the leverage they have by using each others strengths.

Again according to Godin, “for a tribe to be effective and create measurable results you need three steps – motivation, connections and leverage.

Since everyone in my network is generating an action plan that is motivating, using connection and leverage that will take them where they want to go, they are now part of a Tribe!

In the “old days” tribes were more localized – today, the web has changed all this, and with all the new technology, it makes it easier to find and nurture geographically dispersed tribes.

Today, I use Blog Talk Radio, Video Interviews, Blogs, Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter to add value to being part of a Tribe.

I’m using social media leverage to help my tribe achieve measurable results.

Ultimately, Tribes is a book about leadership and community, and I found it to be an inspirational read and a roadmap for myself and those who are part of my network.

My favorite quotes on leadership:

“The very nature of leadership is that you’re not doing what’s been done before. If you were, you’d be following, not leading” – from Tribes – page 146

“The Elements of Leadership are quoted below:

Leaders challenge the status quo.  Leaders create a culture around their goal and involve others in their culture.  Leaders have an extraordinary amount of curiosity about the world they’re trying to change.  Leaders use charisma (in a variety of forms) to attract and motivate followers.  Leaders communicate their vision of the future.  Leaders commit to a vision and make decisions based on that commitment.  Leaders connect their followers to one another. – from Tribes – page 126

When change is inevitable, find a leader who challenges what was, and moves you forward to what can be. For those of you who know me – I love the challenges of change and I invite you to become part of my Tribe in 2012.

It promises to be an incredible year for all us! I look forward to helping people in my network achieve their goals.

To my December 17th Tribe – I look forward to seeing your goals become realities! You have been part of the Tribe for 15 days, I will be reconnecting with all of you early in January to see what you have accomplished so far.

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Making “Interns” Work!

I’m very lucky; I have two interns from Abbey Park High School. Both are young, enthusiastic and want to learn more about journalism. As a journalist myself, I was delighted to put Greg Thomson and Justin Harrigan to work. I asked them to write a short piece on the type of device they brought to the office for their on-line communication. Greg brought an iPod and Justin brought a Mac. They completed their first assignment and it’s included below – congratulations to both Greg and Justin, the articles are well written and informative. Watch for their next assignment!

- Donna

iPad 2 a revolutionary device

Suitable for all ages and interests

By Greg Thomson

I’ll admit, I was skeptical at first when the iPad 2 was released. I questioned whether it offered many technological advancements that were overlooked in the first generation. Prior to even picking up the device, I disregarded the fancy, innovative commercials and concluded that the iPad 2 was a larger version of an iPod Touch, which I already owned and had no use for its considerably larger twin.

Little did I know, the iPad 2 is a revolutionary, practical computing device made for people of all ages and interests. Whether you are a middle school student who plays games, such as the popular Angry Birds series or World Series Table Tennis, or a 20-something year old DJ needing a powerful mixing program to make tunes, the iPad is made for you. Hey, even a doctor can view ultra sound images on this portable device.

When my Dell Inspiron laptop crashed after only three years of use (listen up Dell), I moved all my files to the iPad without a hitch. I’m now able to complete all of my word processing and PowerPoint creations directly on the device for essays, school assignments, posters and resumes.

“iPad 2 is a revolutionary, practical computing device made for people of all ages and interests”

Like many other Canadian teens, I am passionate about hockey and cannot go ten feet without being in tune with the latest scores and statistics. There are dozens of Apps, not only for hockey, but almost anything imaginable, including an extensive collection of music and video libraries – all created for efficient and easy use. I’m also able to connect with my friends through Email, Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter and Skype. Now I can never miss a beat and be more informed on a regular basis.

When comparing the first and second generation, I found there to be a tremendous improvement in the screen quality, camera capability and App evolvement. Unlike the newly released Blackberry Playbook, the iPad is more user friendly and provides a more enjoyable experience for the consumer.

Apple has always been a foreword thinker in the world of technology and they didn’t fail to amaze me with the release of the iPad 2. It has made everything that much easier and more efficient, whether I am completing my school work or watching the latest episode of The Office.

Join the revolution.

—

Mac vs. PC

By Justin Harrigan

I had to make the decision between a PC or a Mac computer. At first glance, I didn’t think there was much of a difference because most laptops can perform the exact same functions, and execute identical projects.

Before I even considered buying a new computer, I made sure I knew everything there was to know about both types of laptops before proceeding. I ignored all of the competitive commercials on TV between Mac and PC and, instead went straight to the store and talked to sales associates for both Mac and PC. Even when visiting the store, the environment within Apple was unforgettable. The people in the store were all positive and happy to assist me with my inquiries.

“The battery life on a Mac computer is longer than on a PC computer” 

When comparing the two, I had to review the characteristics of both and determine which was more beneficial for my learning and enjoyment. Making the decision was not an easy one for me.

When I made the decision, I chose a Mac computer for many different reasons. First it’s an “Apple” product; it’s my opinion, this means it is higher quality then other brands. I noticed that with an Apple product the speed had an enormous difference compared to my old laptop. This gives me the cutting edge when it comes to completing homework or social networking.

The battery life on my Mac computer is longer than on a PC. I notice that Macs are inaccessible to all viruses regardless of how you use your computer; this is a major factor when it comes to saving all my school projects without the risk of losing them.

My Mac really has an effect on the way I perform, and I have loved it since the day I purchased it. It does everything I need it to; from playing games to creating Powerpoint presentations. I encourage everyone to buy a Mac computer!

 

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LinkedIn Data Reveals Canadian Men are Savvier Online Professional Networkers Than Women

I was quoted in a media release from LinkedIn this morning and thought I should share the results with you. I personally think women are great on-line networkers!

The definition of a Savvy Networker is -

“A professional with a robust network of trusted business contacts who actively works toward creating new career opportunities for themselves and the people in their network. “

Men are savvier online professional networkers than women Toronto, Canada — June 22, 2011 —

LinkedIn, the world’s largest professional network with more than 100 million members worldwide and more than three million in Canada, today released data on the differences between men and women when it comes to networking professionally online.

To declare a winner in this battle of the sexes argument, LinkedIn developed an online professional networking “savviness” ranking. Globally and in Canada men are savvier online professional networkers than women.

LinkedIn defines online professional networking savviness as a ratio of two things: the ratio of connections that men have to connections that women have and the ratio of male members on LinkedIn to female members.

“Making connections and building solid relationships is crucial to business growth,” said Donna Messer, Canadian networking guru and owner of ConnectUs Communications. “As a businesswoman and entrepreneur, I don’t always have time to meet everyone face to face and networking online using LinkedIn has given me visibility and credibility. I encourage women to consider LinkedIn as a place to find common ground with their business contacts and to build relationships that will ultimately lead to career success.”

That’s not to say women aren’t already teaching men a professional networking lesson or two. “My husband was thinking of going back to school so I introduced him to LinkedIn,” said Alexa Samuels, a retail strategy consultant and LinkedIn member based in Toronto. “I showed him how to use LinkedIn Advanced People Search to find graduates of the program he was applying to and so he could connect with them to get the inside scoop.” LinkedIn’s data got even more interesting when it was sliced by industry.

What you would think would be a female savvy industry (the textiles industry for example) is actually a male savvy industry.

In the shipbuilding and think tank industries, it was the female professionals that were savvier online networkers than the men.

Top Canadian industries where women are savvier online professional networkers than men

1. Alternative medicine 2. Think tanks 3. Shipbuilding 4. Writing and editing 5. Alternative dispute resolution

Top Canadian industries where men are savvier online professional networkers than women

1. Textiles 2. Glass, ceramics & concrete 3. Investment banking 4. Recreational facilities and services 5. Government relations

In Canada, men and women were equally as savvy in the following industries: “architecture & planning,” “furniture,” “market research,” “public safety” and “ranching.”

Download our infographic and get more details on LinkedIn’s battle of the sexes on the LinkedIn Blog: http://lnkd.in/men-vs-women. Press contacts

For press inquiries, please email press@linkedin.com About LinkedIn Founded in 2003, LinkedIn connects the world’s professionals to make them more productive and successful.

With more than 100 million members worldwide, including executives from every Fortune 500 company, LinkedIn is the world’s largest professional network on the Internet. The company has a diversified business model with revenues coming from member subscriptions, marketing solutions and hiring solutions. Headquartered in Silicon Valley, LinkedIn also has offices across North America, as well as throughout Europe and Asia and in India and Australia.

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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

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Leads, Needs and Good Deeds – A Networking Opportunity for Everyone!

 The clock has been turned forward and I saw my first Robin today!  Spring is in the air and that means we’re getting ready to shed those winter blues and get excited about what’s up and coming for all of us.

For me, life this season is going to be both hectic and exciting.  As the Managing Editor of the new publication TorontoEntrepreneurs Magazine, the launch promises to be an incredible experience for everyone who attends.

Over 1,000 tickets have already been sold and we hope to see over 3,000 people in the audience. I’m the kick off speaker, Real Michaud from World Financial Group is next, then it’s Robert Herjavec from the Dragons’ Den. I’m going to do my best to makes sure that everyone at the event makes profitable connections! 

The magazine is all about you, your neighbours and your friends. The writers are knowledgeable and willingly share their resources. The TorontoEntrepreneurs website will be populated with all of the experts you need to know.

For those who know me, you know that  it’s who I know that helps make me successful. I’m sharing all of my resources and I’m asking those resources to be my “resident experts”.  That means you can ask a question and you will get an answer from someone who has been where you are, and knows how to get you to where you want to go.  

Besides launching the magazine, I’m hosting a networking event this month that will guarantee you a host of new colleagues, friends and alliances. The event, called “Leads, Needs and Good Deeds” is happening on April 19^th, at Otellos Banquet Centre in Oakville.

There is a full buffet dinner and for those of you at our last event – you know the food is excellent! Liaison College has promised another dessert extravaganza to top off the meal. 

Everyone who pre-registers will be on the ConnectUs Connector List – this means that you not only meet everyone while in the room, you can follow up with them afterwards!

Our last event had over 175 people attend and we are hoping to top that number on the 19^th!  If you want to learn the art of ethical, effective networking and you want to practice what you learn – register today! 

This event is a networking opportunity for everyone, regardless of your needs - statistics show that networking is the single most effective way to achieve your goals – whatever they may be!

I’ll be facilitating the event, and you know that I will make sure everyone connects. My events mean business where there is always a win for both sides of every introduction. 

Join me, on April 19^th, 2011 at Otellos Banquet Center in Oakville. The cost is only $50.00 per person, payable through PayPal.  A limited number of display tables are available – the cost is $200.00, set up at 5:00 p.m. 

If you want to participate in our ”Good Deed” please donate an item we can showcase on our Prize Table. We will be selling raffle tickets for every item – the funds raised will go directly to Big Brothers, Big Sisters. 

 See you all soon!  You know that I depend on all of you to help me spread the word.

There will be a few lucky people who will get “free tickets” to the magazine launch and they might even get to meet Robert Herjavec of the Dragons’ Den!   

I’m trying to encourage the conference organizers to give me a special price for everyone who comes out to the Leads, Needs and Good Deeds event. It’s look ing good, so watch for my updates.

Donna

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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!

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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

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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.

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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

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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.

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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

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