Small business week 2016

Sharon Bond Kekuli Cafe Coffee House, British Columbia

Measure up!

Shape your future.

MONDAY, OCTOBER 17, 2016

SMALL BUSINESS MONTH • PAGE 3

Small and medium-sized businesses are the cornerstone of the Canadian economy.

BDC Small Business Week takes place Oct. 16–22.

This year’s theme: Measure Up, Shape Your Future Small business is big business in Canada.

Small business accounts for 99.7 per cent of all Canadian companies and employ more than 90 per cent of private sector workers.

At the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC), we believe this contribution deserves to be celebrated. We also believe entrepreneurs need support in building successful, innovative businesses. BDC Small Business Week activities provide an opportunity to celebrate, develop new skills, make new contacts and plan for new opportunities.

About BDC Small Business Week For 37 years, the Business Development Bank of Canada has organized BDC Small Business Week in recognition of the contributions and achievements of Canada’s entrepreneurs. Events held during the week bring entrepreneurs together at conferences, luncheons and trade fairs across the country where they have the opportunity to learn, network and enjoy themselves in the company of their peers.

BDC Small Business Week 2016 takes place October 16–22 under the theme, Measure Up, Shape Your Future.

Is your company as efficient as it can be? Do you know how your business compares with the best in your industry? Answering these questions could give you an edge on the competition.

As part of BDC Small Business Week 2016, we are inviting Canadian entrepreneurs to measure up and discover their true potential. Benchmarking your performance against other companies in your industry is the first step in your productivity journey. This is why we are launching Canada’s first ever business productivity benchmarking tool. This free online tool will allow you to compare your productivity levels to those of other companies in your sector and help you discover how you can improve your performance.

History of BDC Small Business Week BDC Small Business Week is a Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) trademark whose origins date back to 1979 when BDC business centres in British Columbia’s Lower Fraser Valley pooled their resources to organize a week of activities for entrepreneurs.

This first event, and the one that followed in 1980, were so successful that BDC officially launched BDC Small Business Week across Canada in 1981. The initiative was quickly adopted by Canada’s business community. In 2015, close to 300 activities across Canada attracted around 10,000 business people to BDC Small Business Week. This BDC flagship event celebrates entrepreneurship at the local, provincial and national levels.

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Small Business B.C., the province’s premier resource for entrepreneurs, and TD Bank Group will host MyBizDay Thompson Okanagan on Wednesday, Oct. 19, at The Laurel Packinghouse in Kelowna.

The MyBizDay Series brings free workshops, exhibits and networking to entrepreneurs and small business owners in the Thompson Okanagan, Northern BC, Metro Vancouver and Vancouver Island.

“Small businesses are critical to the economic health of every community in B.C. and we are delighted to partner with TD Bank Group to help strengthen small business across B.C.,” said George Hunter, CEO, Small Business B.C. “The MyBizDay Series events help entrepreneurs learn from successful local business owners and discover the tools and resources paramount to achieving long-term success.”

Coinciding with the 10th anniversary of Small Business Month, an occasion celebrated each October to recognize the important contributions of small businesses to the economy and our local communities, MyBizDay Thompson Okanagan will help entrepreneurs discover resources and programs available to help them startup and grow. This year’s topics include: Market Research: Find Data That Works for You – Presented by Small Business B.C.

Financing and Start-Up Money: Presented by TD Bank Group.

Protecting Your Small Business: Presented by TruShield Insurance.

Introduction to TaxSense for Your Business: Presented by Loren, Nancke & Company, CPAs. Getting Your Business Ahead in International Trade: Presented by UPS Canada.

For more information about for MyBiz-Day Thompson Okanagan, visit sbbc.co/mbdok16.

“One of the most exciting aspects of our partnership with Small Business B.C. is getting to take part in MyBizDay,” said Tony O Brien, Executive Vice President, TruShield Insurance.

“We love getting the chance to talk and work directly with entrepreneurs. It not only gives us the chance to share our expert insurance advice, but also to better understand their business needs.”

“MyBizDay Series events are an excellent forum for entrepreneurs to network and learn about new ways to grow their business,” said Coralee Oakes, the provincial minister of Small Business, Red Tape Reduction and Liquor Distribution.

“October is Small Business Month in B.C., an excellent opportunity to highlight the importance of the small businesses sector to our economy and our communities, and to take advantage of the resources available to entrepreneurs at Small Business B.C.”

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PAGE 4 • THE DAILY COURIER

MONDAY, OCTOBER 17, 2016

Entrepreneurs: Spread the word about your business

T

oday’s entrepreneurs face an uphill battle when starting their businesses.

Whereas the competition in business has always been stiff, many trailblazers of yesteryear typically competed against only other locally owned businesses.

But thanks to the Internet, businesses are now competing on a national, if not global, stage, making it harder than ever for businesspersons to draw attention to their products and services. According to one survey, roughly 66 per cent of small businesses will survive their first two years. While that number should calm the nerves of entrepreneurs familiar with a widely circulated statistic that 8 out of 10 small businesses fail, it’s important to note that the five-year survival rate of establishments opened between 1994 and 2010 was just about 50 percent.

A 50 percent chance to be in business five years after opening is certainly better than a 20 per cent chance, but a 50/50 shot at being in business five years from now is unlikely to excite many prospective business MetroMedia owners.

Opening a new business? Get online and start spreading the word.

When starting out, small business owners must find ways to make their presence felt in Blogging about your business and posting con- ucts and services. When creating content, make crowded marketplaces. Though the following tent to that blog that’s easily shared is another sure it can be easily shared through Facebook and strategies might take time and some trial and er- effective way to spread the word about your prod- other social media platforms. Such content can go ror before a business starts to draw some attention, small business owners can greatly increase their chances of being successful by committing to marketing.

Start early Entrepreneurs need not wait until the doors of their businesses open to start spreading the word.

In fact, waiting until the doors open may be too late. Take to social media sites, particularly the ones your target customer base is most likely to use, and establish a profile of your business. Update your business status at least once per week as you draw closer to your grand opening.

Start blogging

from being seen by one potential customer to being seen by hundreds in a matter of minutes.

Encourage reviews Few modern consumers make a purchase without first reading some online product reviews. A recent survey found that 77 percent of people take the time to read reviews of a product or service before making an online purchase.

Small business owners can use that to their advantage by encouraging customers to review their products and services. In addition, before opening your business, contact locally based bloggers and offer them the chance to review your products as a means to spreading buzz before opening your doors.

Seek help from family and friends Friends and family members are wonderful assets for small business owners. Ask friends and family to spread the word about your business via social media and traditional word of mouth. Many of your friends and family are no doubt proud of you for going out on your own, so expect them to be enthusiastic when asked to help spread the word.

Small business owners face a big challenge in getting their businesses off the ground. But there

How to build a strong and professional network Networking is often seen as a means to further one’s career, but developing a group of professional contacts can also be a great way for professionals to stay abreast of the trends in their particular fields.

Networking also can benefit small businesses as they look to connect with vendors that can help them grow their businesses.

A strong professional network is not built overnight, and many professionals spend years nurturing relationships with people in their networks. Individuals and business owners can take several approaches when building professional networks they will rely on for years to come.

Ask around Some individuals may hesitate to seek networking advice out of fear of appearing opportunistic.

But successful professionals understand the need to network, so your colleagues will likely be glad to offer referrals if they’re in a position to do so.

When receiving a referral, ask if you can use the person’s name, which should help you establish a connection during the introductory process.

Resist the idea that using a colleague’s name when meeting a professional you hope to work with is something sinister, as the name will only help you with the introduction.

Once the introduction has been made, it’s up to

you to do the rest.

Get active in your industry Referrals are not the only way to develop professional contacts. Being active in your industry by joining professional organizations and attending seminars and other industry events is a great way to expand your network.

Volunteer to work with professional organiza-

tions when possible or offer to host information sessions or workshops at your business.

Reconnect with your college or university Another great way to build a professional network is to reconnect with your college or university.

When meeting people affiliated with your alma

mater, the ice has already been broken in a sense, as the college or university is essentially a builtin connection. You also won’t have to worry about the awkwardness that might come when meeting a professional contact with whom you have less in common.

Alumni organizations and local chapters can introduce you to people who earned your degree at your school, and many people love to help out their fellow alumni.

Employ social media Social media is not just for kids. In fact, social media is a great way for professionals to make and maintain professional contacts. LinkedIn, for example, makes it easy to connect with fellow professionals who are looking to do the same.

Twitter can be used to promote professional events such as seminars or workshops you are working with.

These platforms can be used to grow your network quickly and easily, but be sure to vet each person you connect with to make sure you are affiliating yourself with the right people.

Building a strong professional network takes patience and hard work. But the right network can pay dividends for years to come.

— MetroMedia

MONDAY, OCTOBER 17, 2016

SMALL BUSINESS MONTH • PAGE 5

Buying a business: How to prepare for the unexpected Opportunities are growing as baby boomers exit, but you have to be careful

W

ith so many baby boomer entrepreneurs heading for retirement, it’s a great time to be in the market for a business. But if you want to buy a business, it’s crucial to be well prepared and take the right steps.

For example, one of the most commonly overlooked factors in buying a business is the amount of time it can take to finalize the transaction.

“These deals take longer than you expect to put together,” says Matt Price, Managing Director of Growth and Transition Capital at the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC). “Usually a home is the biggest purchase of your life, but for many entrepreneurs, a business is the biggest purchase. It could take a year or longer from when you start discussions to closing the transaction.”

Buyers also may not be prepared for what Price calls the “soft” issues. These include how well the culture of the company you’re acquiring will fit with your approach and how long the seller will stay on and what role he or she will play.

Buyers avoid tough conversations “Buyers tend to avoid these difficult discussions, but that’s the worst thing you can do. Be candid about how the buyer and seller’s relationship is going to work during the transition and afterward.”

Financing the acquisition is, obviously, another key factor in a transition. A change of ownership often leads to an increase in a company’s debt and a corresponding decrease in profitability due to interest payments and other expenses.

This can lead to a period of tight finances after the transaction and even a liquidity crisis.

“The majority of businesses don’t hit their financial forecasts in the first year,” Price says.

“You want a flexible financing structure so if you do hit bumps, you’re going to be fine.”

A financing package will typically include your contribution as the buyer, a loan from a financial institution secured on the assets of the company and financing provided by the seller, often referred to as vendor financing.

Aim for flexible financing Many entrepreneurs also use mezzanine financing to round out the package. Mezzanine financing is a hybrid of debt and equity that isn’t secured by specific company assets but instead is based on historic and expected cash flows of the company.

One of the strengths of mezzanine financing is flexible repayment terms that can help ensure your business has enough cash on hand during the often challenging period after the purchase.

MetroMedia

If you’re looking at buying an existing business, don’t be afraid to ask tough questions before making a purchase agreement.

“The financing mix can really affect your rate of return on the acquisition and how much risk you are taking on,” Price notes.

Due diligence and careful thinking helped chartered accountant Barry Wood with his acquisition of Ontario Excavac, an excavation and utility service company. He looked at more than 60 businesses before making his purchase.

Consider all your options He says it’s just as important to consider your options when it comes to financing the deal.

“Do you have contacts for debt financing?”

Wood asks. “In contemplating buying, will you be able to provide all the equity financing your-

self or will you need partners? Who might those partners be? Will their objectives match yours from business plans to exit strategy and timing?”

Wood adds it’s important to think about your long-term plans for your business.

“What will be your own exit strategy? What is the expected time frame for holding the company?

This will have impacts on your business strategy and investment decisions.”

Lessons learned Dig deep: Buyers need to go beyond financial statements to ask such questions as: Why is the owner selling? How diversified is its customer base? Is the industry or geographic region head-

ing for difficulty?

Be patient: Look at several different companies and get to know them. With so many baby boomers heading for the exits, it’s a buyer’s market, or will be in the next few years.

Think fit: Watch out for clashing cultures between your existing business and the one you’re buying. Culture dissonance can sink your acquisition.

Price it right: Look at what businesses are selling for in your industry and region and hold out for a fair price—it’s a critical factor in how profitable your purchase turns out to be.

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PAGE 6 • THE DAILY COURIER

MONDAY, OCTOBER 17, 2016

5 ways to recession-proof your business Diversification and financial management are key strategies

T

he recession of 2008-09 may have occurred nearly a decade ago, but it’s still a painful memory for many entrepreneurs. More recently, the decline in oil prices has caused a slowdown in producing regions that has hurt business owners.

Unfortunately, economic downturns are a fact of life when you’re running a business. But there are steps you can take now to prepare your business to weather a storm and emerge even stronger.

“Entrepreneurs often know they should be prepared for tough times, but they don’t always take the necessary steps,” says Tom Corner, an economist at the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC).

Here are five ways you can recession-proof your company.

1. Grow your customer base It’s hard to overemphasize the importance of increasing the number of customers you have.

According to a BDC study, nearly one in six wellestablished businesses had encountered financial difficulty because of losing a single client.

“Very often, businesses are not prepared to deal with the unexpected loss of their biggest client or contract,” says Corner, who authored the study.

2. Focus on your finances Solid financial management is vital for ensuring your company is ready to weather an economic downturn. Entrepreneurs need to have early

planning and market research. warning systems to let them know when BDC, Export Development Canada and trouble is brewing, says BDC Business the Trade Commissioner Service are among Consultant Alka Sood. the organizations you can turn to for ad“The numbers tell you the truth about vice and services. your business and you need to embrace 5. Stress-test your business them,” says Sood, who works with busiAs the last recession proved, some cirness owners to improve their financial cumstances simply can’t be foreseen. management skills.

That’s why it’s important to run through She recommends that entrepreneurs set various scenarios now, including how up a cash flow planner. To do so, use a you’d handle a sharp drop in sales. spreadsheet to record projected revenues While you’re at it, look at different criand expenses for the next 13 weeks and sis and disaster scenarios and put continthen update it each week. This allows you gency plans in place to deal with them. to get a handle on when payments from “Look at things like: What happens if customers are expected versus when supour input prices rise because of the weakpliers must be paid. You can then plan for MetroMedia periods of tight cash flow, coming projects Looking to grow your business? International expansion er dollar,” Corner says. “What if key peois a great way to diversify. ple in your business were all of a sudden and financing needs.

Sood also recommends you set up a financial “Our research showed that having a range of unable to come to work because of illness or a natdashboard, showing four or five key performance product and service lines can be an important form ural disaster? Unexpected developments can derail businesses. ” indicators on the financial health of your busi- of diversification,” Corner says.

4. Expand internationally Lessons learned ness.

International expansion is another great way to Innovation counts: Successful businesses of3. Offer new products, services It’s easy for business owners to get comfort- diversify your business. If your sales dip in fer new products and services often and quickly able with the products or services that have been Canada, you may be able to make up the short- adopt new technology.

Get help: Networking, hiring consultants and successful for them in the past. However, broad- fall in markets with stronger growth. ening your line-up may be the key to surviving “Exporting opens up a lot of opportunities,” setting up an advisory board are ways successful Corner says. “Canada has cultural and economic businesses get external advice. during the next recession.

Map it out: Developing a strategic plan with In fact, you may not even have to come up with ties with the U.S. and Western Europe, and our something completely new. Instead, you might be small and mid-sized businesses can often be very specific targets will help to keep your business on able to repurpose your products for another mar- successful there. Those markets, in turn, can be track even as economic conditions change.

Master financial management: Keeping tabs ket, Corner says. For example, manufactured prod- a launching pad to higher growth emerging maron your finances allows you to plan better, see ucts used in the oil and gas sector could be effec- kets.”

But international expansion requires careful trouble brewing and react quickly. tive in other areas with just a few changes.

MONDAY, OCTOBER 17, 2016

SMALL BUSINESS MONTH • PAGE 7

How to improve your company’s productivity and boost profits Start by benchmarking your company’s performance against the competition

H

ow does your business compare to the competition? Are you more or less efficient? Do you have higher costs?

These are important questions because they are directly linked to how profitable your company is and how healthy it will be over the long term.

But, surprisingly, few entrepreneurs have the answers.

The solution is to measure your performance in key areas and benchmark it against other companies in your industry.

Benchmarking is a simple and effective way to get a snapshot of how you’re doing in terms of productivity, cost control and other areas. Once you know where your business stands, you can start improving and reaping the benefits on the bottom line.

Measuring helps you manage “You can’t manage what you don’t measure, and you don’t know where you stand if you don’t compare to others,” says Jorge Henao, a consultant at the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) who advises entrepreneurs on operational efficiency. “How do you know how well you’re doing or what you could be doing better if you don’t benchmark your performance?”

Benchmarking involves choosing performance measures you can use to compare yourself against other companies. Some will be specific to your industry. For example, a restaurant might track revenues per table. A warehousing business could follow costs per square foot.

Other measures are more general, such as sales per employee or productivity per hour worked.

One key productivity measure used by BDC consultants is the Value Creation Index, which allows them to benchmark how much value a company adds per hour worked by employees.

Results can be an eye-opener The results can be a revelation for entrepreneurs.

With the help of a BDC consultant, Thomas Schluep pursued a benchmarking exercise at his company Entra-Matic, a door manufacturer in the Montreal suburb of Mascouche.

“It was an eye-opener. It helped me see very quickly where we were and how we could bring ourselves up to industry standards,” says Schluep, executive vice president at the company. “We found a lot of room for improvement.”

The results helped convince Schluep to invest in more productive machinery. The benchmarking exercise also helped rally employees behind an operational efficiency drive. With the help of the consultant, the company identified bottlenecks and wasted effort in its operations.

MetroMedia

There are many ways to measure how your company is doing. One way is to look up industry data, then compare your results against industry data.

The efforts quickly paid off. Sales shot up 30 to 40 per cent in the first five months after the exercise, Schluep says.

“We increased output and quality, while keeping the same number of people,” Schluep says. “It’s been a tremendous motivator for our team.”

Benchmarking is a starting point Benchmarking also had another benefit.

It helped show Schluep potential gains if he were to invest in operational improvements. That gave him confidence to initiate plans to expand to a larger facility.

Henao emphasizes that benchmarking isn’t an end in itself: “It’s a starting point to target processes or activities that don’t add value for your company.”

He advises entrepreneurs to use benchmarking data to carefully assess their operations and identify wasted efforts. Examples can include idle machines, overproduction, unnecessary operations

or work, excess inventory, inefficient workspace layout and inadequate employee training.

Not a one-shot exercise “You get used to doing things in a certain way and it’s not easy to see activities that don’t add value,” Henao says. “That’s why benchmarking is so important.”

It’s also not just a one-shot exercise. Businesses should regularly review their performance data and adopt a continuous improvement culture,

Henao says.

That’s what Schluep now does at Entra-Matic. “The tools help keep us on track,” he says. “We regularly look at the indicators and think about how we can improve.

“It has led to a cultural change in our company.”

3 steps to benchmark your business Benchmarking your business involves these three key steps.

Choose performance measure: Pick metrics that are relevant to your business. These can be a combination of industry-specific measures and general productivity or financial metrics.

Compare against industry data: Look up industry data, then compare your results against industry data.

Use the results to improve: Use the results to analyze your operations to see where you can eliminate waste—whatever doesn’t add value for your customers. Regularly monitor your data to make continual improvements.

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PAGE 8 • THE DAILY COURIER

MONDAY, OCTOBER 17, 2016

How to get the most out of a business coach A willingness to change is essential for entrepreneurs

Y

ou may be wondering whether hiring a business coach will be worth your time and money. After all, you’ve gotten this far in your business with your own know-how, ambition and hard work.

The answer is that many entrepreneurs find a business coach provides them with invaluable advice to overcome particularly tough problems or take their company to the next level.

But to achieve those kinds of benefits, it’s important to not only find a great coach, but to also go into the relationship with the right mindset, says veteran business coach Ken Hossack.

“The right mindset involves being prepared to change,” says Hossack, a former entrepreneur who has successfully coached dozens of business owners for the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC). “You have to be prepared to do the heavy lifting that may be required to make changes. If a person doesn’t have that mindset, they’re not going to get the full value out of the coach.”

Look at weaknesses honestly Entrepreneurs need to be able to look at their business practices as well as their own personal strengths and weaknesses in an honest light. No entrepreneur can master all the different areas of running a business.

“You may be very well-organized and have perfect financial management, but your sales and marketing is terrible,” Hossack says “It’s the coach's job to identify those weak areas and help you overcome them.”

Hossack says it’s important to have a structured approach to coaching. This should begin with an assessment from your coach as to how your business is currently performing in various

MetroMedia

A business coach can provide invaluable guidance to small business owners by finding your strengths and weaknesses.

areas such as finance, operations and human resources.

You should then agree on what steps are necessary to address your most pressing concerns as well as an action plan with time-bound goals.

Hossack holds 10 face-to-face meetings with an entrepreneur during a three- to four-month mandate.

During these sessions, he works with the busi-

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ness owner to improve his or her management skills and achieve the action plan goals.

Knowledge transferred to entrepreneur “There is a significant transfer of knowledge,” he says. “It’s almost like going back to school.”

One entrepreneur who has enjoyed huge benefits from working with a coach is David Van Stralen, president of Louet North America. Van

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Stralen, whose company is a wholesale distributor of knitting, spinning, and weaving equipment, has successfully worked with Hossack several times.

“The definition of insanity is continuing to do the same thing over and over again and expecting to get different results,” Van Stralen says.

“We were doing a lot of that. We were having struggles. Ken came in and listened and asked questions and we started talking about the problems I was having. We started prioritizing them.”

Improved control With his coach’s guidance, Van Stralen was able to implement several strategies, including securing advance orders from wholesale customers.

“It allowed me to manage inventory better than I have in the past,” he says.

That and other changes have paid big dividends and helped position the company for growth, Van Stralen says. “We’re poised to have our best, most profitable year in our company’s history.”

Lessons learned Be honest: It can be hard for business owners to reveal areas of weakness. Being transparent from the get-go will help you get the most benefit from the experience.

Have realistic expectations: Business coaching can help you be more successful—but it won’t make you a millionaire overnight. You’ll still have to be willing to invest time and energy into your company.

Understand the coach’s role: The coach is there to pass on knowledge and recommendations, not make decisions or run the business for you.

Be open to an ongoing relationship: A successful business coaching engagement will put you in good stead to advance your business. But you may wish to return to coaching periodically as your business grows and becomes more complex.

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MONDAY, OCTOBER 17, 2016

SMALL BUSINESS MONTH • PAGE 9

Ideas for how to grow your business G

etting a startup off the ground is a considerable and rewarding achievement. But once a business has achieved a certain level of success, business owners often find themselves wondering what to do next.

Growing a business may not prove as challenging as turning it from a startup into a successful enterprise, but business owners often agonize over the best way to grow their businesses. The following are a few ideas to grow your business so you can build on your initial success.

Open a new location Physical expansion is often the first idea that comes into business owners' minds when they are thinking about how to grow their businesses.

But physical expansion is not always the best way to grow a business. Before deciding to open a second location, consider consumer trends to determine if your company has staying power, and economic trends to determine if the economy is healthy enough to support both your initial location and any additional locations you plan to open.

Another thing to consider before opening a new location is your management style. If that style is very hands-on, then who will manage your new location, or your existing one if you plan to oversee things at the new store? Physical expansion can be good for business, but it's often most successful when business owners have a solid management team already in place, which allows owners to spend time at both locations.

Diversify your offerings The Small Business Administration notes that diversifying is a strong growth strategy, providing multiple streams of income that can help business owners survive the slower months when sales tend to dip. Businesses known for a particular product may want to offer complementary products or services or import or export others’ products.

Startups often credit loyal customer bases when citing their reasons for surviving their first few years, and such customer bases already trust your brand. Expanding that brand to include complementary products or services is a logical next step to grow your business and build on the credibility you worked so hard to achieve.

Develop an app Many of today's successful startups had web sites even before they opened the doors to their more traditional brick-and-mortar stores.

While a strong Web presence is essential for many of today's businesses, business owners can now go one step further and create their own smartphone or tablet app. Such apps can allow customers to peruse your offerings, place orders on-the-go and perform a host of other tasks related to your business without using a computer.

An app can introduce your business to a whole new crop of potential customers, whether they live around the corner from your store or halfway around the globe. Upon introducing the app, expect some technical glitches and solicit user responses so you can quickly update the app and make it more user-friendly if need be.

Form alliances Rather than diversifying their product offerings, some business owners have found it's easier and more profitable to form an alliance with other businesses who already sell complementary products. Such an alliance can be good for both businesses, as each can expand its customer base without the kind of effort it takes to open a new location or the cost of producing new products. Other businesses already have lists of prospective customers who may need your products, and vice versa.

Alliances can be the most effective and quickest ways to grow a business, not to mention the MetroMedia Successful business owners can grow their businesses in a variety of ways. least expensive and time-consuming.

Boost energy at the office Maintaining energy throughout the workday can sometimes be difficult. For busy professionals, compromised energy levels can be especially problematic, causing workers to fall behind and maybe even forcing them to work extra hours just to catch up.

While infrequent days of low energy should not pose too great a threat, working professionals who routinely find their energy levels sagging by the end of the workday might want to take certain steps to boost their energy and ensure their productivity doesn’t wane.

• Make sure you’re getting enough sleep. Failing to get adequate sleep can have an adverse impact on your career.

According to the Division of Sleep Medicine at Harvard Medical School, failure to get enough sleep, even for just one night, can impair a person’s ability to function by affecting his or her ability to focus and access high-level cognitive functions.

A panel of experts from sleep, anatomy and physiology, as

well as pediatrics, neurology, gerontology and gynecology in 2015 recommended adults between the ages of 26 and 64 get between seven and nine hours of sleep per night. Make a concerted effort to get more sleep if you’re falling short of those recommended guidelines.

• Eat a productivity-friendly lunch. If afternoons are when your productivity really starts to drop off, it might be time to reconsider what you eat for lunch. The body, which converts the foods we eat into glucose that energizes our brains and promotes alertness, processes different types of foods differently.

So the food you eat for lunch may affect your energy levels for the rest of the day. For example, eating pasta provides a quick burst of energy because pasta releases glucose quickly. But that burst is often followed by a noticeable downturn in energy levels sparked by fading glucose levels that make it difficult for the brain to focus. In contrast, fruits and vegetables aid in the production of dopamine, a neurotransmitter that helps the brain stay motivated and engaged. Including some fruits and vegeta-

MISSION CREEK DENTAL

bles in your lunch or snacks may just lead to a more productive workday.

• Squeeze in a midday workout. Numerous studies show the many benefits to daily exercise, but professionals may not know that exercise can help improve their productivity at the office. A 2005 study in England asked 200 workers to answer questions regarding their productivity on days when they exercised at lunchtime and days when they did not exercise. Sixty percent said their job performance, including their ability to meet deadlines and manage their time, improved by a considerable amount on the days when they exercised.

• Limit caffeine consumption. According to the Mayo Clinic, consuming more than 500 to 600 milligrams of caffeine per day can contribute to insomnia and lead to feelings of nervousness, restlessness and irritability, among others. While that afternoon cup of coffee might provide an immediate jolt, it could be contributing to sleeping problems that will affect your productivity in the days to come.

Dr. Daniel Kim, DDS

We welcome new patients to our new office, in the heart of Pandosy Village. Our goal is to make your experience with us as pleasant and convenient as possible. We have an area adjacent to our lovely reception room dedicated to children, we offer reserved patient parking right next to the building, the elevator opens directly into the clinic, each operatory has expansive windows to highlight the beautiful views of our Valley and we have state of the art equipment to help you with all your dental needs.

Our dental team has worked together for many years and we do our best to get to know every patient and demonstrate excellent patient care. We are proud of the relationships and trust we have developed over the years with our valued patients.

Dr. Kim offers a wide range of dental services, from complicated wisdom tooth extractions and full aesthetic make-overs to happy visits for children getting their first tooth.

You are invited to visit our Family and Aesthetic Dental Clinic at 575 Osprey Avenue and see for yourself what our clinic has to offer.

Visit our website www.missioncreekdental.com or call 250-869-4138

PAGE 10 • THE DAILY COURIER

MONDAY, OCTOBER 17, 2016

How to make your office more eco-friendly 4 easy tips on how to go green at work

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hen adopting more eco-friendly lifestyles, it can be easy for men and women to overlook their offices.

While drivers can drive in ways that conserve fuel and homeowners can take steps to reduce their energy consumption at home, few people may give as much thought to making their offices more friendly to the environment. But there are many environmentally friendly practices that business owners and their employees can adopt around the office.

Turn computers off at quitting time Frequently turning computers on and off can produce small surges of energy each time the computer is turned on. But the U.S. Department of Energy notes that this energy surge pales in comparison to the energy consumed when computers are left on for long periods of time.

When going home for the day or leaving your desk for more than 20 minutes, whether it’s during lunch hour or to attend a meeting, turn your monitor off. If you expect to be away from your computer for more than two hours, turn both the computer and the monitor off. Employers who make these suggestions to their employees may reduce their office energy consumption and save money along the way.

Recycle old equipment Advancements in technology now occur at a breakneck pace, so the equipment businesses use today may very well be obsolete tomorrow.

Businesses that want to be more eco-friendly should recycle rather than discard old equipment.

Simply throwing equipment away might even be illegal depending on where an office is located.

Some electronics contain mercury, lead or arsenic, hazardous materials that can do significant damage

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One way to go green at the office is to stop printing documents and create PDFs to either email them or show them to coworkers or prospective clients.

Great part-time jobs for retirees Upon retiring, many newly minted retirees find themselves looking for ways to fill their free time. Hobbies may not take up too much time, and travel can stretch retirees’ budgets.

One way that retirees can make great use of their free time and make a little extra money is to find part-time employment.

Part-time jobs can help retirees maintain their connections with their communities, whether it’s their professional community or the community in which they live, while also providing a sense of purpose. Retirees interesting in finding part-time work may want to consider the following jobs.

• Consulting work: Many retirees have long résumés, and that experience is still valuable even after retirement. Consulting firms often hire experienced businesspeople on a project or contract basis, which can be great opportunities for retirees to fill their time and make sizable amounts of money without having to commit to long-term employment.

to the environment when not properly disposed of.

Some retailers, including the office supply chain Staples, accept old equipment for recycling at their stores at no charge to business owners.

If equipment is still functional but somewhat outdated, look into donating it to local organizations in need.

Cut back on printing Printing documents used to be the most effective way to share them with coworkers and clients.

But nowadays printing is one of the least efficient and least eco-friendly ways to share documents.

Instead of printing documents to show coworkers, create PDFs and email the PDFs instead.

And rather than mailing contracts to prospective clients, email contracts that accept e-signatures, ultimately storing the contracts on your file server rather than in a dusty old filing cabinet.

Develop telecommuting policies In analyzing North American data from 20052014, GlobalWorkplaceAnalytics.com found the population of regular work-at-home non-self-employed persons grew by 103 percent between 2005 and 2014.

Working from home is often seen as employee-friendly, but it also can benefit employers and the environment. When employees work from home, their employers need not purchase or lease as much office space, saving them substantial amounts of money. In addition, working from home cuts down on the number of commuters driving to work, decreasing fuel consumption and vehicle emissions.

Employers who cannot allow employees to work from home full-time can still help the environment and their employees by allowing workers to work from home one or two days a week.

Offices are not always eco-friendly, but there are several ways to make office life more efficient and environmentally friendly.

• Sports teams: Retirees who live in cities with • Teaching: Retirees can also put their professports teams may be able to find work with their fasional experience to work in the classroom. Inquire vorite franchise. Sports franchises often rely on about teaching opportunities at a nearby univerretirees to staff in-game positions like ushers and sity or even the local high school. Such opportuconcessions employees, and some may even hire nities may only be available on a volunteer basis, retirees to greet fans. While the pay might not be but some might pay part-time salaries or small great, such positions are ideal for retirees who stipends. happen to be big sports fans.

Either way, many retirees find that working with • Crafts: Retirees with a love of crafting can turn young people helps them stay young, and passtheir hobby into income. For example, Etsy.com ing on lessons learned to younger generations makes it easy for creative entrepreneurs to post can provide a strong sense of purpose.

Part-time consultant • Seasonal work: Seasonal work is another work may be just what their creations and sell them to buyers all over the globe. Sellers often dictate how quickly they can great way for retirees to fill their time and make a retirees are looking make and ship products, so retirees need not feel little extra money along the way. Come the holi- for to fill their time day season, retirees should have no trouble find- and earn extra money. worried about being rushed.

Many retirees still work even after calling it a caing seasonal retail work at their local malls or shopreer, and opportunities abound for people looking ping centers. In warmer months, retirees may find seasonal employment at area beaches, golf courses or parks. to fill their time and make a little extra money along the way.

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MONDAY, OCTOBER 17, 2016

SMALL BUSINESS MONTH • PAGE 11

How shopping locally can help you and your community A vibrant, local economy is dependent on local buyers

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oday’s consumers have more shopping options at their disposal than they did in years past. Though the internet may put the world at one’s fingertips, more and more shoppers are discovering that buying locally makes for a superior shopping experience.

The benefits associated with shopping locally are many, and the following are just a few reasons why shoppers may want to look no further than their own communities when planning their next shopping excursions.

Keeps money in local economy Locally-owned businesses often put a larger share of their revenue back into their communities. Small business owners may be more inclined to employ local residents, giving more people in the community solid employment.

Business owners may reach out and support other neighborhood efforts, such as fundraising initiatives for charities and schools. By shopping at local stores, you have a hand in supporting these efforts as well.

Save money When factoring in travel time and the cost of fuel, shopping locally makes more sense than driving to a faraway mall.

In addition, repeat customers who establish a rapport with a local business owner may find that such owners are more inclined to price match or work with loyal customers to find lower prices through suppliers.

Diversify your home and lifestyle Shoppers who prefer more unique styles may find local businesses cater to their needs better than large chain stores.

Larger retailers offer the same products to customers regardless of where those customers live, so a person in Ontario may be decorating his or her home with the same furnishings as a person

New pet policies at work make employees happier Employers continually try new tactics to improve employee morale. A new concept has truly gone to the dogs ... and even the cats.

People love their pets.They’re willing to dress them up in fancy clothes, spend money for elaborate spa grooming packages and even take them along on vacations. Recognizing that pets are important members of many homes, some companies are providing for animal day care, while others have an open-door policy when it comes to bringing pets to work.

One might think that opening the workplace to pets would create a veritable zoo with a ca-

MetroMedia

Shopping local has many advantages, including supporting your local economy.

in British Columbia. However, local shops tend to produce more unique items that are not available nationwide.

Promote entrepreneurship Small businesses are an essential element to the country’s economic growth.

By shopping locally, consumers are showing their support for this important segment of the national economy.

Help establish local pride Independent shops contribute to the fabric of a community and what makes it special and unique.

Tourists and other visitors will be much more inclined to remember a local shop rather than a big chain in a particular neighborhood.

When travelers want to get a feel for a community, they seek out small, local stores that are much more likely to stock a high percentage of

locally-sourced goods.

Attract other businesses Private and public sector businesses tend to gravitate around anchor stores. Should a local store be successful, banks, restaurants, salons, and other businesses may move in as well.

Shopping locally benefits consumers in various ways, many of which contribute to a healthy local economy.

cophony of meows and barks. But companies like California-based Autodesk say that this isn’t the case. Many pets are very well behaved, preferring to snooze under desks or flirt with passersby. The company has loose rules in place, including barring overzealous barkers.

And if an animal has too many accidents indoors, he or she has to leave.

While these pet-friendly programs benefit the dogs, cats, lizards, and even the occasional snake that may spend time in the office, such programs can also benefit employees.

The American Humane Association says that pet-friendly policies can be a boon to employers and employees alike.

• Research indicates that animals can help individuals naturally reduce stress.

• Having pets nearby can keep employees calm and help them adapt better to unforeseen challenges.

• Pets generally induce feelings of happiness.

Therefore an office environment where pets are allowed may benefit from improved morale.

• Happier employees often perform better.

• Animals help spark conversation and camaraderie among employees.

• Taking dogs for brief bathroom breaks during the day enables employees to get some exercise, see a change of scenery and return to the workplace refreshed.

• Knowing that one doesn’t have to rush home to let a dog out can offer peace of mind and enable an employee to stay later to finish up a project without distraction.

Bringing in an office mascot or enabling employees to bring in pets from home can have many advantages. It is important, however, to follow guidelines so the experiment works.

• Talk to other pet-friendly firms for advice.

• Be sure to create a pet-friendly environment, free from potential hazards.

• Set ground rules for pets, their owners and fellow employees.

• Have a test run, such as a Take Your Dog to Work Day, before instituting a pet policy.

• Educate employees on how to interact with the animals.

Becoming a pet-friendly place of work can be an asset to employers looking to offer employees benefits in lieu of pay increases in a tough economy.

It seems like yesterday that we opened as a gardening gift shop in the Mission. Thirteen years later, we still carry great gardening gift essentials and much more. Local jewelry, fragrances from The Thymes and Lampe Berger make great gifts.

Find your sense of style with fashion lines such as Neon Buddha, PJ Salvage, Black Swan, Katherine Barclay and more.

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PAGE 12 • THE DAILY COURIER

MONDAY, OCTOBER 17, 2016

Things you’ll need to start a small business Being a business owner can be fun, yet challenging

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any people dream of owning their own businesses, while some business owners find that necessity is the mother of invention when it comes to their careers.

In a volatile economy, sometimes it’s best to create a job when finding one proves too difficult.

But starting a business is a considerable undertaking, and there’s no guarantee of success. However, here are a few pointers for men and women thinking of starting their own businesses.

Understand your market Once an idea is born, research economic conditions, competitors and the customers you will be serving. You have to figure out if there’s room for your business, and how you can provide something the market currently lacks. Conduct handson research and peruse official government data so you can see how the market for your industry is faring. This information can provide an accurate portrayal of what you are getting yourself into.

Write a business plan Business plans help prospective business owners explain their businesses. As a rule of thumb, business plans should include company descriptions, market analyses (what you learned in your research), clear rundowns of organizational structures, details of what you will sell, marketing strategies, and information on funding the business to eventually realize a profit. Business plans will be needed to attract potential investors, including lenders.

Gather your financial resources Funding is one of the most important elements when starting a business. Every business — large or small — has start-up costs. These include registering the business name, printing business cards and getting a website or phone line.

Improve cyber security at work and home The internet plays an integral role in many people’s daily lives. The number of internet users has increased from 738 million in 2000 to 3.2 billion in 2015, according to a recent report from the International Telecommunication Union.

While spending time online has become second nature, it’s important that users remember to prioritize security when spending time online.

Both Google and McAfee estimate that there are roughly 2,000 cyber attacks a day around the world. This costs the global economy around $460 billion per year. Many people and businesses think they may be doing enough to safeguard against attacks, but they may not be as safe as they could be.

MetroMedia

In today’s volatile economic times, being your own boss can be rewarding. However, starting a small business isn’t an easy undertaking.You need to do your homework, starting by writing a business plan.

Expect scores of business expenses, even if you are working out of your house at the beginning.

If you cannot fund these start-up costs on your own, you will need loans from financial institutions or private investors. In some instances, the government may offer assistance. Prospective business owners may also be eligible for grants from the public and private sectors.

Consider getting a mentor A mentor has been where you are before and can guide you along the process. Starting a business can be stressful, and this person will not only offer guidance, but emotional support as well.

Get a good team Successful businesses often assemble great staffs. Qualified, ready-to-work individuals can

help businesses thrive. Devote as much time as is necessary to assemble a great staff. You can do this on your own through referrals or by relying on staffing agencies that specialize in placing talent.

While starting a business is a popular dream and a daunting task, it can be made easier with some simple know-how and support.

Sophisticated hackers can steal data and extort money from vulnerable organizations and individuals. The following are some ways individuals and organizations can safeguard their networks from cyber criminals.

• Employ anti-virus software.

Rely on anti-virus software to safeguard against computer viruses and spyware. Keep such software up-to-date as well. Remember to download and install updates as they become available. If you think you’ll forget to do so, activate the software’s auto-update feature.

• Exercise caution with email.

Do not open emails from unknown senders.

Also, be suspicious of unexpected emails that contain attachments, whether you know the sender or not. Employees clicking on email attachments they believe are from trusted sources is “the No. 1 threat for organizations,” says Proofpoint’s Gary Steele, a secure email specialist.

• Go beyond the firewall.

Security breaches are inevitable, warn technology experts, so attention needs to be shifted from just securing main firewalls to developing a lot of smaller roadblocks around data that can’t afford to be lost. This involves signing each bit of digital information with a unique code that can stonewall potential hackers.

Smaller breaches are easier to manage in businesses because hackers will not take down an entire company. Consult an IT security firm for this type of protection.

• Use off-site protection.

Regularly back up your computer data and consider keeping some of it off-site.This makes it easier to retrieve and restore data in the event of a breach.

• Keep passwords protected.

Never share passwords with others and change passwords frequently. When selecting passwords, choose hard-to-guess ones that

have at least eight characters. Use a mix of letters, cases, numbers and symbols to make passwords harder to crack.

• Use the highest level of security.

For applications that connect to the Internet such as browsers, social media, email clients, etc., use the highest level of security setting that will still offer the functionality you need.

• Be aware of mobile threats, too.

Many firms enable employees to use their own mobile devices to access company information. IT professionals cannot monitor security settings on mobile devices, and it’s best to restrict access to very secure data when accessed remotely.

Cyber security has become a concern for large and small businesses, as well as individuals who rely heavily on the Internet. But there are some simple and effective ways to protect networks and personal devices from cyber criminals.

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MONDAY, OCTOBER 17, 2016

SMALL BUSINESS MONTH • PAGE 13

Celebrate local businesses in the Okanagan Buying local produces a trickle-down effect

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wning a business is the goal of many would-be entrepreneurs. Being your own boss has certain perks, including making your own hours and not having to report to anyone but yourself.

But owning a business is a lot of work, especially for new business owners trying to get their businesses off the ground. According to Bloomberg, eight out of 10 entrepreneurs who start businesses fail within 18 months of opening their doors. One small business association indicates the numbers are not so dire, saying 30 percent of new businesses fail in the first two years of operation; 50 percent during the first five years; and 66 percent during the first 10.

Local businesses face an uphill battle to survive, but there are many things residents can do to support these valuable additions to their communities.

Shop locally Shopping locally not only supports local businesses, but it also contributes to the local economy. Shopping locally keeps money in the community, which can benefit everyone. Shopping locally produces a trickle-down effect, as local businesses that are thriving may patronize other local businesses, and so on. This, in turn, helps grow other businesses in the community, making it a nicer place to live and work.

Spread the word Word-of-mouth advertising is effective. A respected member of the community who shares a good experience with a local business may propel others to patronize the business. Speak up when you feel a business owner has provided an exceptional level of service. Recommend a company to friends and neighbors.

MetroMedia

Small businesses benefit communities by boosting the local economy.

You also may want to review a business via online rating websites such as Yelp or Angie’s List.

Attend grand openings Each community is unique, and often the vibe of a community is defined by the businesses that call that community home. Attend grand openings to show you are invested in the quality and vitality of your community.

Supporting a charity can benefit small businesses Small businesses are continually seeking ways to compete in ever-competitive markets. While they often fill a niche not easily met by larger corporations, small businesses sometimes find it difficult to gain traction in a community and fully showcase all they have to offer. Getting more involved in their communities, including working collaboratively with nonprofit organizations, can provide the boost small businesses need to connect with their communities.

Many large companies boast programs that promote social responsibility and community involvement, and it can be a smart move for small businesses as well. There are plenty of ways small businesses can get involved with local charities.

• Find a good match. Consider working with a charity that has a connection to your business so that there is a common

When others see a local business doing well, area residents may be more inclined to shop there as well.

Apply for work Another way to support a local business is to work for one. Small local businesses employ millions of people across the country, and many foster great working environments.

purpose. For example, a pet groomer may want to work with an animal welfare organization. Service-related businesses, such as law firms or accounting firms, can assist groups that offer services and business counseling to needy families.

Landscapers may find a good fit with an environmental protection charity.

• Donate goods or services. Charitable organizations are always in need of more money to fund their efforts, but small businesses can contribute in other ways as well. Businesses can donate supplies and services, such as a printing firm offering to print business cards or brochures for the charity.

Business owners and their employees can volunteer their time, which can be a great way for employees to connect outside of the office and boost morale in the process.

• Support a fundraising event. A highly visible way to support a charity is to host or support a fundraising activity. Small businesses can offer to collect donations at their offices or stores. Warehouse spaces can be used to store supplies, while

In addition, small businesses are known for their customer service, and employees often become experts in their products and services because of the hands-on experience they gain while working for small businesses.

Supporting and celebrating local businesses can instill a sense of community pride and benefit the local economy in a myriad of ways.

other venues may be ideal spots for dances, walks or charity dinners. Businesses can ask that the charity mention the sponsorship in event advertisements and marketing.

• Financial donations can make ‘cents.’ Giving to charity is a way to increase tax deductions and reduce annual tax bills.

Small businesses can work with their financial officers or accountants to develop a budget for charitable giving.

• Obtain meaningful exposure to influential people. Working with established nonprofits can help provide a connection to influential people in the community and beyond.The more exposure a business can get, the more access it has to networking opportunities. In addition, more contacts can increase wordof-mouth marketing that increases your customer base and improves your standing in the community.

Supporting local charities can benefit small businesses in various ways. Small business owners can explore the various charitable opportunities at their disposal in an effort to connect with their communities and grow their businesses.

PAGE 14 • THE DAILY COURIER

MONDAY, OCTOBER 17, 2016

Factors to consider when planning a home office Save time and money by working from home

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s technology has made working remotely easier, more and more professionals are working from home.

Working from home can help working parents save money on childcare costs and help all workers avoid rush hour traffic jams and the costs of commuting to and from the office.

The right working environment is essential for men and women who work from home. An environment that’s conducive to work can help people increase their productivity and make their employers more likely to allow more employees to work from home.

Professionals who are new to working from home may find it takes some time before they can create the perfect working environment, but the following are a few factors to consider when planning a home office.

Space One of the disadvantages to working from home is that remote workers don’t have access to the same level of equipment as in the main office, such as color copiers or scanners. If you want to include even scaled-down versions of MetroMedia such equipment in your office, you will When working from home, items to consider including proper lighting and eliminating distractions. need ample space.

In addition, less spacious home offices can feel your home that gets lots of sunlight during the planning a home office. While wireless internet too tight and enclosed, making workers uncom- day. Many professionals who work remotely do has made internet dead zones less problematic, fortable and less enthusiastic about working every so from the basements of their homes, which can certain areas or rooms in your home may still be day. Pick a spot in your home that affords room make it difficult to rely on natural light. If the touch-and-go with regard to internet connectivifor your equipment and the ability to move around basement is the only location in your home that ty. Such areas should be avoided when choosing so you don’t feel cramped throughout the work- can fit a home office, look for lighting sources a room for your home office, as it can be difficult day. that replicate daylight so you are not working in to remain productive if your connection to your dark quarters. Speak with your physician about office’s external server is routinely compromised.

Lighting Lighting is another factor remote workers must how to arrange lighting to reduce eyestrain caused Find an area where the wireless connection is always strong. consider when they’re planning their home of- by staring at a computer.

Distractions Connectivity fices. Natural light can provide an energetic boost Connectivity also must be considered when While your home might be empty for much of and improve your mood, so choose a room in

the day, you don’t want to be distracted when the kids come home from school or when your spouse or roommate arrives home from work. Avoid putting your home office too close to popular hangout areas in your home, such as the kitchen and the living room. Instead, choose a room where you have lots of privacy so you can focus on your work and won’t be routinely interrupted.

Working from home can pay numerous dividends, but professionals who telework must put careful thought into the rooms or areas of their homes where they plan to work.

How to export to the United States: Start by getting focused Think of the country as many different markets

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ith a population of more than 300 million people and a 20 per cent share of the global economy, the United States is by far the richest market in the world. It’s no wonder that many Canadian business owners want a piece of the action for their business.

However, many Canadian companies have found over the years that geographic proximity and a familiar language and culture are no guarantee of success south of the border.

The term “U.S. market” doesn’t accurately reflect the country’s economic reality. The United States is in fact made up of several smaller markets that vary tremendously one from the other.

Rather than attempting to conquer the entire, vast nation, it’s best to focus on a particular region to optimize your company’s chance of export success.

“You shouldn’t tackle the whole market at the beginning because it’s just too big,” says Carl Gravel, Director of International Expansion at the Business Development Bank of Canada

(BDC). “It’s like doing business in many different countries.”

Consider regional differences It’s not only regional differences in demographics, consumer tastes, economic makeup and geography that can affect your business’s export success. There are also variations in laws, regulations and logistical factors to consider.

“There are so many things to understand in each and every state: The business culture, the incentives to invest there and the regulations,” Gravel says.

Export Development Canada (EDC) breaks down the United States into 12 regions, each with its own export opportunities. It’s important to understand which of these areas offer the best chance of success for your business.

“Chicago in itself is a market,” Gravel notes.

“For small to medium enterprises, Chicago or New York or Seattle is probably already a big enough market.”

Research and planning are a must It all means you have to do plenty of market research and planning before launching your U.S. venture. Many Canadian companies fail because

they go with inadequate financial resources, a lack of understanding of the market they’re targeting and products that are not clearly enough differentiated from those already available.

Elana Rosenfeld, CEO of Kicking Horse Coffee, says her company has discovered how important it is to be well-prepared and take a regional approach to entering the U.S. market.

“The first time we went into the U.S., we were not very strategic about it, and we learned very quickly how different the U.S. market is from the Canadian market,” Ms. Rosenfeld says.

“Going back a second time, we went with the West Coast region because it has such a strong coffee culture,” she says. “It was a great market to get our foot in the door.”

Made local connections Once Kicking Horse identified its target region, the company hired a regional sales manager and made it a priority to reach out to local partners.

“It’s a good idea to get as much help from as many local partners as you can,” Rosenfeld says.

“Talk to your retailers, brokers, and distributors.

Ask them questions and get their advice before you go in.”

For Kicking Horse, the step-by-step entry to the U.S. has proved successful. “The U.S. market is a huge area of growth for us,” Rosenfeld says.

Lessons learned Be prepared to be patient—This is a long-term project. It can take several years to become profitable in a new market. So make sure you’re ready both financially and emotionally.

Be aware of the competition—The U.S. market is the most competitive in the world. Study market trends and adapt your products accordingly.

Be present—Visit your target markets regularly and speak to partners, customers and industry contacts. Consider hiring local representatives.

Be strategic—Develop a strategic plan for your venture including a budget, marketing plan, pricing strategy and overall action plan before entering the U.S. Be open to outside help—BDC, EDC and the Trade Commissioner Service can help you with advice, contacts and other services.

Local chambers of commerce and trade associations in the U.S. can also provide valuable resources.

MONDAY, OCTOBER 17, 2016

SMALL BUSINESS MONTH • PAGE 15

How to avoid distractions when working from home

T

elecommuting has made great strides over the last decade. And as more people work from home, more people need to find ways to be productive outside of the office environment. That productivity may hinge on avoiding distractions.

Many people telecommute in an attempt to make their lives easier and more affordable.

Working from home carries with it a number of benefits, but also quite a few challenges.

Some people who work from home find it more difficult to separate work life from home life, and distractions in the latter can sabotage the former.

Recognizing your biggest distractions and remedying them can lead to more productivity and better job performance.

Children One of the more popular reasons employees work from home is to be more available for child care. Telecommuting gives working parents a schedule that is flexible enough to meet work deadlines while also being able to pick the kids up from school or to attend school-related functions and extracurricular activities.

Telecommuting also allows new mothers to nurse longer or stay home with infants for a longer period of time. However, the same reasons people work from home also can prove to be the biggest distractions. Imagine being several paragraphs into a report when the baby wakes up from a nap and demands to be fed. Conference calls can be disrupted by a child who needs homework help or a toddler who needs the channel changed on the television.

However, telecommuters should set specific times of the day when they use social media and restrict usage to only these times.

This way, they can more fully immerse themselves in work.

This may involve shutting off instant messaging services or logging off personal email until the workday is through.

Friendly interruptions MetroMedia Friends and family Working at home offers many benefits, but it also comes with many members may not unchallenges. derstand that telecomSome trial and error may be required to devel- muting is the same as working. Phone calls or op a system in which you can work effectively and texts answered at all hours of the day can be disbe able to pull away to handle child-related is- tracting. Working from home does not give friends or family unlimited access to you, so dissues. courage unexpected visits or phone calls. Others Social media Social media connects people to the world should understand that they must respect your around them. Smartphones and tablets enable peo- work hours, whether those hours are being spent ple to check their email, update their status and at home or in an office.

Dedicated workspace tweet messages at a moment's notice. Working from home affords unrestricted access to social It can be difficult to take telecommuting seriousmedia sites and other forms of communication ly if your work area is a folding table and a lapthat may not be so readily accessible in a tradition- top stuck in the corner of the living room. Others in the household may infringe on your workspace, al working environment.

It can be tempting for you to constantly click and daily life can produce many distractions. It is over to Instagram or LinkedIn during the day. best to have an area specifically dedicated to work,

and this area should be closed off to others who won't need you during the day (children should be able to reach you in case of emergency). Your work desk shouldn't be a place that the children do their homework.

Try to set up your desk in an area that doesn't get much foot traffic or inspire you to daydream.

If you are close to a television or facing an open window, you may spend too many hours gazing aimlessly instead of focused on the tasks at hand.

Very often you can be your own worst enemy when it comes to distractions. Buckling down and paying attention requires effort.

Know your limits Taking breaks from time to time can quell boredom and refresh your level of concentration.

Periodically step away from your desk to grab a snack or drink, just like you would at the office.

Go outdoors for a few minutes and breathe some fresh air. These tactics can keep your head clear.

Resolve problems before starting Attempt to handle any concerns or tasks related to your personal life before you start your work for the day. Otherwise, you may be focused on tackling one problem when your mind should be on something else. While home and work issues will inevitably cross paths, do not use work hours to pay bills, schedule medical appointments or run house errands.

Reducing distractions is a key to telecommuting successfully. As more companies recognize the benefits of allowing employees to work from home, workers should step up to the challenge with dedication and focus.

Fall’s newest styles. Now in store.

Take advantage of outstanding introductory offers on the all-new 2017 C-Class Coupe.

2017 C 300 4MATIC Coupe TOTAL PRICE: $51,354* Finance rate

Lease rate

Lease payment

60 months

45 months

$5,197 down

2.9%** 3.9%** $468** *Taxes extra.

© 2016 Mercedes-Benz Canada Inc. 2017 C 300 4MATIC Coupe with optional Premium Package ($3,400), Sport Package ($2,000), Active LED High Performance Lighting System ($350) and 19" AMG Wheels ($500) shown above, Total Price $57,604. Lease and finance offers based on the 2017 C 300 4MATIC Coupe are available only through Mercedes-Benz Financial Services on approved credit for a limited time. *Total price of $51,354 for advertised vehicle includes MSRP plus all applicable dealer fees. **Lease example based on $468 per month for 45 months with a down payment or equivalent trade of $5,197. Freight/PDI of $2,495, dealer admin fee of $595, air-conditioning levy of $100, EHF tires, filters, batteries of $25, and PPSA of $39.30 are due at signing. First month’s payment plus security deposit of $500 and applicable taxes due at lease inception. MSRP starting at $48,100.

Lease APR of 3.9% applies. Total obligation is $29,972. 18,000 km/year allowance ($0.20/km for excess kilometres applies). **Finance example is based on a 60-month term and a finance APR of 2.9% and an MSRP of $48,100. Freight/PDI of $2,495, dealer admin fee of $595, air-conditioning levy of $100, EHF tires, filters, batteries of $25, and PPSA of $39.30 are due at signing. First month’s payment and applicable taxes due at finance inception. Monthly payment is $776 (excluding taxes) with $4,800 down payment. Cost of borrowing is $3,267 for a total obligation of $54,582. Vehicle license, insurance, registration, and taxes are extra. Dealer may lease or finance for less. Offers may change without notice and cannot be combined with any other offers. See your authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer for details or call the Mercedes-Benz Customer Relations Centre at 1-800-387-0100. Offers end October 31, 2016.

Fashionable shoes for everyone… even people with orthotics.

Okanagan Business Now offering many new lines of comfortable shoes.

There is a long celebrated tradition for shoes in the Marenbach family.

Erhard’s parents had a shoe store in Germany. With his specialty training in Germany as a “Meister- (Master)” Orthopedic Shoemaker, Erhard knows all about feet.

Erhard’s Orthopedics has been serving the Okanagan Valley and beyond since 1999. Their specialty is in custom-made orthotics/ braces and orthopedic shoes.

All custom made products are designed and handcrafted on the premises.

They have now extended their shoe selection to include even more comfortable, fashionable shoes suitable not only for people with orthotics, but for everyone who loves quality and comfort.

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With great brands like Semler (Germany), Berkemann (Germany), Fidelio (Austria), Joya (Switzerland) and many others there has never been a better time to visit Erhard’s.

You will find Erhard’s Orthopedics at #2 – 1551 Sutherland Ave. Give them a call at

250-762-6228 or check them out online at www.erhards-orthotics.com