Work & Wealth April 2013

SAGICOR

Work & Wealth

EDITOR’S NOTE

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ith each succeeding age come dynamic changes, challenges and opportunities in the world of business, from all perspectives.

For the entrepreneur/business owner, staying on top of developments and wherever possible, guiding market forces are key.

Essentially, building and growing wealth tends to be the primary focus. After all that’s the reason for being in business.

On the part of the worker, the focus is much the same, though perhaps not for all the same reasons.

Most aspire to live a happy and fulfilling life, with all the trappings of success.

Work & Wealth, the newest of the Nation Publishing Co. Limited’s publications, is designed to highlight, celebrate, inspire and inform career-minded individuals.

In this magazine we will share inspiring success stories, celebrate the achievements of those at the top of their game and inform on the many issues of concern to today’s professionals.

Mindful of the prevailing concerns in Barbados today, our first issue examines topics such as investment options, the intelligent use of debt and the impact of inflation on investment.

You will also find suggestions on maintaining job security by upgrading your skill sets. We also share tips for those preparing for work after retirement.

Success is the reward of hard work. Rod Weatherhead can attest to this. Read how from an early age he learnt this lesson and more, working his way from the bottom up in the family’s businesses, while stressing the importance of balance in enjoying a fulfilling career and social life.

Are you one of those who can’t imagine survival, far less building a new and successful business after job loss? Well prepare to be inspired by the story of a young man who started the journey and hasn’t looked back.

Also, share in the experience of a creative entrepreneur who combined her talent and acumen to build a fledgling enterprise.

All this and more in your Work & Wealth magazine.

We would love to hear from you, so feel free to drop us a line or call to share your views and thoughts on what you would like to see in future editions. Enjoy.

Lyle Jones

EDITOR

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CO N T E N T S

6

Lay-Off Proves Fruitful

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Charting Your Growth Path

10 Spreading Risk The Best Investment Option 12 Investing & Inflation An Unhappy Couple 14 The Intelligent Use Of Debt 20 Dream Works With Shells

Cover Story

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Success Earned Rod Weatherhead’s Climb To The Top

22 Dressing Right Says It All

27 Working On Your Retirement

24 Coffee Anyone?

28 Business Flying The Smart Way

25 Healthy Eating Helps At Work 26 Words Of Inspiration Publisher: Vivian-Anne Gittens Editor: Lyle Jones Advertising Manager: Paulette Jones Writers: Cheryl Harewood, Lyle Jones, Anmarie Bailey Photography: Kenmore Bynoe, Rawle Culbard, Morissa Linsday Design/Layout: Paul Bailey – Imageworx Advertising Executives: Kelly Johnally – Tel: (246)430-5519 Email: kellyjohnally@nationnews.com Rohnelle Primus – Tel: (246) 430-5579 Email: rohnelleprimus@nationnews.com Printers: Printweb Caribbean Ltd (246) 434-6719

30 ‘A Simpler Life’… Seriously?

Work & Wealth is produced by The Nation Publishing Co. Limited; a subsidiary of The Nation Corporation, which is a member of the One Caribbean Media Limited (OCM) group of companies.

For general info email: work&wealth@ nationnews.com. Every effort has been made to ensure that the information contained within this magazine is accurate, however, The Nation Publishing Co. Limited cannot be held responsible for any consequences that may arise from any errors or omissions. This publication cannot be copied in whole or part without the explicit permission of the publisher.

Work & Wealth

Ronald Moore enjoys the fruits of his labour.

Lay-off

By Cheryl Harewood

proves

fruitful At the age of 25 Ronald Moore purchased three acres of land because he wanted to provide a place for his future family – playground and all. Today, that land has become his means of survival – pulling in substantial income and helping him to establish himself as a successful, self-employed businessman and an astute farmer.

by Cheryl Harewood

I

t is true to say that when Moore entered the business world in 1993 as a part-time employee at Sandy Lane Hotel, and before later working as a sales representative and a business development coordinator for a leading wholesale and retail company, this former Alleyne School and Barbados Community College student had no plans whatsoever of becoming a grower of fruits and vegetables. But the saying that necessity is the mother of invention proved to be true for Moore, who studied 6

building and civil engineering along with human resources.

Almost as though he could see into the future, Moore had started to irrigate his land two months before he got the news on April 31, 2010, that he was being laid off from his office job. Long before in 2003, he had started to put the necessary structures in place without foreseeing that someday, farming would become his full-time job.

On the morning of May 1, 2010, at exactly 6:30 a.m., exchanged his slick

office attire, though not one to wear ties as they felt restrictive, for a pair of jeans and a T-shirt to enter the farming arena.

He has since reaped more than he bargained for.

His company Eternity Inc. has become a flourishing business, employing one full-time employee and expanding as the months pass. This St Michael entrepreneur readily admits that entering farming was like a prophesy come true but not one he first heeded.

He recalled: “A guy came to do

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carpentry at my home one day and told me my land was good for farming.

He said it was enclosed, there was a good water supply and I was already in sales.”

Thirty-eight-year-old Moore added: “A friend of his knew the ins and outs of farming and suggested I put in a first crop of tomatoes.

“On my first day as a farmer, we were picking our first set of tomatoes.

They were selling green for $2.00 per pound at the time. When I saw the potential of a farming business, I said I would give it a try.

“It was easy as this friend knew persons who would buy and resell.

Soon after, I branched out into supermarkets and other places.”

With his wife abroad studying to become an attorney and two young daughters to take care of, Moore’s whole life and schedules have now changed. Between getting his girls off to school and picking them back up on evenings, he juggles his time with farming and supplying produce to supermarkets and other outlets.

Spending time with his girls is precious to him. That’s why when he made the decision not to return to an office environment or for that matter an employee, he had the best interest of his family at heart.

“One of my first priorities is being a father or rather a daddy because there is a difference. I was quick to recognize that by working from home, I would be more accessible to my family. My wife was studying and the girls were getting bigger. They needed more attention and I made the decision not to return to the corporate world. I put my ego and career aside.”

Moore believes there is no middle ground when it comes to farming.

“You are either in or out. No person can be successful in farming and be half way in. It’s not possible. There are too many variables and many things can happen. The water can go off, the land not prepared on time, pests become a worry, seedlings can be affected by fungus, too much or too little rain or sun April 2013

Work & Wealth

CAREER

“ I have a unique opportunity to create my own legacy from the road less travelled.

What I previously made as my net salary I now pay as bank loans, but you have to put in the work. It does not drop out of the sky.”

Believing there is no middle ground when it comes to farming, Ronald Moore has dug into his new career.

and if you do get a good crop there is the possibility that when you reach the market the price may not correspond with the investment and labour you’ve put in.

“Some farmers also have to deal with praedial larceny,” Moore contended.

He also sees farmers as resilient people.

“Farmers who have stuck with the industry year in and year out are resilient.

In fact, a friend once said farming produces two types of people: those who are aggressive or those who are humble.

“My friend advised me to remain humble and I have taken his advice.

I came into farming a total novice and not quite three years later, I have continuously harvested, though not all at the same time, beans, sweet and hot peppers, beets, cucumbers, squash, tomatoes and a few other crops.”

Moore said being an entrepreneur calls for working long, hard hours, but “at the end of the day, you are doing it for yourself”.

Does he miss the office setting?

“I do not miss it. I’m happy doing what I do and what I am doing is more financially beneficial. I have a unique opportunity to create my own legacy from the road less travelled. What I previously made as my net salary I now pay as bank loans, but you have to put in the work. It does not drop out of the sky,” he disclosed.

“It’s not easy. There are the good days and the not so good days. What makes you stand out is your desire to achieve an attitude of excellence.

“Each day I come out into a serene, relaxing environment some people would pay big bucks to have. Those who knew me at school or otherwise never thought I would enter this vocation, but I perform for an audience of one – that’s God. “At the end of the day when your eulogy is read, it hardly speaks about the type of work you did.

“It’s true that like everybody else I love the good life: and I can enjoy a good bottle of wine and steak in the comfort of my home without having to live life extravagantly.”

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Work & Wealth

Improving your knowledge and skills may open doors to bigger and better things, such as promotion in your current job, or employment opportunities elsewhere. (Picture compliments the Cave Hill School Of Business)

Charting your growth path S

ome employees demand salary increases from their bosses.

Others upgrade their skills and in the process not only receive raises, but promotions as well.

Undoubtedly, we live in a fastchanging world, and there are many careers which offer opportunities for skills improvement and promotion.

These, however, are often based on the structure and size of the company.

While some employees are fortunate to jump from one job to another within the same organization, others may never be promoted.

Why? It may be that you are valued as the ideal person for your role and, since you perform it at such high efficiency, no one else in the organization can fit into your shoes. Although this may seem of some merit, it is still wise to improve on your knowledge and skills.

You may open doors to bigger and better things in the process.

Yet, improving one’s skills, either 8

in your current field or branching into another, is an extremely wise thing to do in this competitive age. After all, what is current today may be obsolete three years from now. For that reason alone, it is important to know how to improve yourself. You must dare to make yourself obsolete and move on to greater things.

According to one writer: “I once read that when a Sony team on one floor launched a product, another team at another floor was already working on a new version of the product. And yet another team was working on an even newer version of it.

That’s a company that works hard to make itself obsolete.”

Imagine, if in this world of new technology, we were still using the typewriter instead of the computer, the rotary telephone instead of a touchscreen phone, igniting the oven to warm our food instead of using the microwave and waiting to correspond via sent cables.

These examples, although a bit extreme, illustrate the importance of upgrading your skills. Failure to upgrade could result in your being left behind by those who do.

Living in the Internet age is a great blessing because there are abundant sources of information available.

Therefore, in addition to attending an in-office or classroom seminar or course to upgrade your skills, you must first possess the desire to learn.

With resources being so readily available, the eagerness to learn makes the biggest difference between those who thrive and those who don’t.

If you don’t constantly upgrade yourself, you may find that the world has moved beyond you.

Another important thing to consider is that you shouldn’t just upgrade your current skills. Instead, explore new areas to learn. What if your area of expertise became irrelevant, is there a skill that could be in high demand a few years from now? Don’t just be a specialist, be versatile.

Upgrading your mindset is another important key to success, but could be very difficult for many. That’s because people tend to see the world the way they are accustomed to.

For example, instead of looking at yourself as an employee, see yourself as an employer or as a company.

Envision yourself branching off into a different field and equip yourself with the necessary skills to make this possible.

Remember that your progress is your responsibility and that to upgrade your mindset, you first need to admit that the world changes. The world in which you live today did not work the same way as it did ten years ago. Likewise, you should not expect that the world ten years from now will work the same way as it does today. Admitting this will make it easier for you to see the need to improve your skills which have become obsolete and slow you down.

To improve yourself will mean constantly moving beyond your comfort zone. It may be challenging but you can do it.

Work & Wealth

Spreadingrisk

by Anmarie Bailey

T

the best investment option

wo ways money can work are having money earn money and buying something that increases in value.

In the first instance someone pays you to use your money for a period of time, yielding your money invested plus interest. Stocks in a company can pay dividends to shareholders, meaning the company pays you a portion of its earnings on a regular basis, thus money is making an income.

The second way money can work is when investors become the owner of something hoped to increase in value over time.

In Barbados, there are three basic investment options available: stocks or 10

For most, saving and smart investing are the only ways to attain financial security; investing simply means, making your money work for you. shares, bonds/fixed income securities and mutual funds.

As there is no one-size-fits-all solution, a balanced investment portfolio is essential and should include a combination of options.

Several factors dictate a portfolio: the individual’s available time frame for investing, income needs, and the size of

the investment. Investing can be done with the assistance of a financial advisor who is equipped to assess the investor’s needs, the impacting factors and to provide the guidance necessary to build an appropriate investment portfolio.

Stocks are one option. Stocks or shares give stock owners “a piece of a company”. The value of stock rises or falls depending on the profits and losses of that company. Stock owners can benefit either by receiving dividends from the company or by capital appreciation, which is an increase in the company’s share price.

Stocks are good long-term investment options and can yield earnings to the stock owner that exceed

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the initial investment, these increase in stock prices may be due to: expected profitability, projected cash flows and economic conditions.

The downside is that companies do not always make a profit and are not obligated to pay dividends, therefore, investors cannot rely on a predictable cash distribution and any negative changes could result in a drop in the price of a stock and a loss to the investor.

In Barbados, one factor must be considered: due to the limited number of investors, it is often difficult to sell stocks when an investor wishes to cash in and investors often have to sharply reduce the price to attract buyers.

Bonds/fixed income securities are another option and are generally perceived to be less risky than stocks.

Bonds produce a steady stream of income to an investor over a specific period of time and the full amount invested is repaid on the maturity date.

They can be described as an IOU that a company (or a government) gives to investors in return for the money they lend it.

These securities have a specific maturity date and pay a stated interest rate, sometimes fixed and sometimes variable, linked to another benchmark such as the prime interest rate. The entity promises to repay the principal amount at maturity as well as the interest payments over the entire period.

This is a popular investment option for retirees as they yield a regular income that can be counted on.

This type of investing is predictable and the generally higher demand from investors makes it easier to sell, should an investor need cash.

If the bond carries an attractive interest rate, it is possible that the investor may be able to sell at a premium, earning more than initially invested.

However, despite these clear benefits, bond investing is not without risk. Companies and governments can default on their bonds, as the regional and international examples of Jamaica, St Kitts & Nevis, Grenada, and Greece have demonstrated.

April 2013

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The main benefit of a mutual fund is that investors get the opportunity to invest in a diversified pool of assets with even a relatively small investment.

In addition, bond investing is subject to inflation, for example, if an investor purchases a 20-year bond with a fixed four per cent coupon and inflation is running at two per cent, the net purchasing power of the money they receive from the bond is two per cent.

However, if inflation rises to five per cent over the 20-year holding period, the purchasing power of that same payment drops to negative one per cent, meaning you actually lose ground with a fixed income investment when inflation rises.

The final option available in Barbados is mutual funds. This is where investors’ money is pooled with the purpose of investing in stocks, bonds or other securities to attain an overall investment objective. Investors can typically choose whether they want to invest in a stock or bond, mutual fund or a balanced fund which includes both stocks and bonds.

The main benefit of a mutual fund is that investors get the opportunity to invest in a diversified pool of assets with even a relatively small investment.

Assets are generally managed by a team of professionals and the aim of a wellrun fund is to “ensure as much upside … mitigating as much risk as possible”.

Mutual funds are also attractive as they allow investors to quickly get in or

out of a fund with little hindrances on redemption.

While attractive, mutual funds incur costs that may lessen their appeal. Some mutual funds have a sales fee, which is typically a percentage of the amount invested, while some have redemption fees which are typically a percentage of the amount redeemed. All mutual funds have investment management and administration fees and investors are advised to carefully review all information on fees and expenses when selecting a mutual fund.

The experts recommend: “Save more than you spend; invest some of your savings and watch them grow; pay down debt; set aside emergency funds just in case you experience any of life’s major challenges; diversify your income stream, if possible, by seeking additional sources of income.”

Information provided by experts from Royal Fidelity Merchant Bank & Trust (Barbados) Ltd. 11

Work & Wealth

Investing Inflation an unhappy couple and

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hen it comes to inflation, the question on many investors’ minds is: How will it affect my investments? This is an especially important issue for people living on a fixed income, such as retirees.

The impact of inflation on your portfolio depends on the type of securities you hold. If you invest only in stocks, worrying about inflation shouldn’t keep you up at night. Over the long run, a company’s revenue and earnings should increase at the same pace as inflation.

The exception to this is stagflation. The combination of a bad economy with an increase in costs is bad for stocks. Also, a company is in the same situation as a consumer – the more cash it carries, the more its purchasing power decreases with increases in inflation.

The main problem with stocks and inflation is that a company’s returns tend to be overstated. In times of high inflation a company may look like it’s prospering when, really, inflation is the reason behind the growth. When analyzing financial statements, it’s also important to remember that inflation can wreak havoc on earnings depending on what technique the company is using to value inventory.

Fixed-income investors are the hardest hit by inflation.

Suppose that a year ago you invested $1 000 in a treasury bill with a ten per cent yield. Now that you are about to collect the $1 100 owed to you, is your $100 (ten per cent) return real?

Of course not! Assuming inflation was positive for the year, your purchasing power has fallen and, therefore, so has your real return. We have to take into account the chunk inflation has taken out of your return. If inflation was four per cent then your return is really six per cent.

This example highlights the difference between nominal interest rates and real interest rates.

The nominal interest rate is the growth rate of your money, while the real interest rate is the growth of your purchasing power. In other words, the real rate of interest is the nominal rate reduced by the rate of inflation. In this example, the nominal rate is ten per cent and the real rate is six per cent. (ten per cent minus four per cent is six per cent).

As an investor, you must look at your real rate of return.

Unfortunately, investors often look only at the nominal return and forget about their purchasing power altogether. There are securities that offer investors the guarantee that returns will not be eaten up by inflation. These include treasury notes or bonds.

Here are some points to remember: • • • • • • • •

Inflation is a sustained increase in the general level of prices for goods and services When inflation goes up, there is a decline in the purchasing power of money Variations on inflation include deflation, hyperinflation and stagflation.

Two theories as to the cause of inflation are demand-pull inflation and cost-push inflation.

When there is unanticipated inflation, creditors lose, people on a fixed-income lose, costs go up, uncertainty reduces spending and exporters are not as competitive.

In the long term, stocks are good protection against inflation.

Inflation is a serious problem for fixed income investors. It is important to understand the difference between nominal interest rates and real interest rates.

Inflation-indexed securities offer protection against inflation but offer low returns.

Article made available by Investopedia, a premiere resource for investing education, personal łnance, market analysis and free trading simulators.

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Work & Wealth

The Intelligent Use of Debt A

fter several years of economic recession, many Barbadians are finding themselves deeper in debt and are relying more on credit to fund their lifestyles.

Financing debt can quickly get consumers into difficult situations, but there are instances where debt can be used positively. More and more, we can distinguish between bad debt and good debt.

“Debt is not necessarily a bad thing. In fact, there are several circumstances where successful management of a loan will actually put you in a better overall financial position,” said Jacqueline Ferdinand, branch manger at Scotiabank Warrens.

“The key to success is meticulous and strategic management of finances with the help of a trusted financial advisor.”

Good debt vs Bad debt Good debt is debt that improves your financial standing and includes things you really need. It is never a good idea to completely wipe out your financial reserves to make a purchase. Where debt makes sense, such as a mortgage, only take a loan for which you can afford the monthly payments. If your debt load will be greater than your monthly income then you simply cannot afford the purchase.

Bad debt consists of debt you’ve taken out for items you want but can’t afford (for example, the luxury cruise). It is important to avoid debts that carry high interest rates. Instead, save towards an item rather than running up a credit card.

Ultimately, it comes down to making decisions that give you flexibility while keeping you in good financial standing.

Here are some steps that financial institutions offer to assist with debt management and start you on the road to a secure financial future.

• REDUCE UNNECESSARY EXPENSES. Simply tracking every expense for the next month will give you a precise picture of where your money goes. An analysis of each item will inform where you need to cut costs and where you can realize savings.

Likewise, avoid impulse purchases or splurges that you can’t afford. Instead of incurring debt to go on a vacation or to make an expensive purchase, plan ahead by creating a fund and contributing to it each month.

Getting ahead of a bad debt position requires a clear understanding of your economic status and meticulous management of daily spending. The first step on the road to financial freedom is to visit your banking institution to meet with an experienced financial advisor.

A seasoned advisor can help you structure a plan that works best for you and offer solutions that you may not have otherwise considered. The type of plan you eventually develop depends on your level of debt, your level of discipline, and your plans for the future.

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• ELIMINATE OR REDUCE BAD DEBT. If you are carrying high-interest debt, and have some money set aside in a low-interest savings vehicle, it makes sense to use some of those savings to pay down the debt.

• RESTRUCTURE DEBT / DEBT CONSOLIDATION. Consolidating your debt is another smart debt management strategy. Consider a line of credit to consolidate your outstanding debt at a lower overall rate. Not only will you save on interest charges but it will also be easier to keep tabs on your finances.

If you have a mortgage, contact your mortgage company to see if you can refinance. Refinancing your mortgage should result in a lower monthly payment and increased cash flow.

Transfer high interest balances on your credit cards to lower promotional rate cards and you can save on interest rates for the promotional period and pay off the debt faster.

Article provided with the compliments of Scotiabank.

Work & Wealth

“Be passionate and love what you do.

Dream big and chase your dreams.

Don’t worry about falling down, it’s a part of the process of learning.”

by Cheryl Harewood

A

t age 13 he started working in one of his father’s multiple businesses, but it was no desk job for Rod Weatherhead. He washed hired vehicles, pumped gas at the service station, cleaned storerooms, painted and worked at any of the family’s companies.

So if individuals believe that as the son of businessman and hotelier Bernie Weatherhead, Rod grew up with a silver spoon in his mouth, they are wrong.

“In the outside world people have a different impression about me,” a shy-looking Rod said, while sitting in his mother’s art gallery surrounded by many of her paintings. “My father always expects blood, sweat and tears from me and my brother Alfredo. He expects more from us because we are his family.”

Today, Rod is managing director of Hotel Operations for the Sun Group – a group of over 30 companies. For this 34-year-old, it means straddling the operations of Sugar Cane Club Hotel, Savannah Beach Hotel, Worthing Court Apartment Hotel and Time-Out Hotel.

Rod wants the world to know that his climb to success was not without lots of sweat and sacrifices.

Surrounded by great staff and having the support of his father, his mother Marilda, Alfredo and extended family members, Rod knows that challenges along his path have always been stepping stones to future successes.

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Success earned

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Work & Wealth

CAREER A man of many talents, Rod Weatherhead counts dirt biking among the many past times he enjoys.

April 2013

He remembers how his dad would give him an allowance when he returned home after his first year at university and advised him that when it was gone, he must find himself at work within one of the companies. His allowance was always gone within days.

“That was my development,” he confessed.

“I worked at Sandridge Hotel, Drive-A-Matic Car Rental and the Texaco service station in Holetown – all of which were owned by my dad. I even conducted Island Safari tours at the age of 16.

“Whatever needed to be done I did.

I would paint the hotel, work in the bar – do anything! My brother and I had to work and understand the value of money.”

Educated at St Winifred’s School, Mapp’s College and Florida International University where he earned his Bachelor’s degree in business administration, Rod had no real goal on completion of his studies other than returning to one of the family-owned companies.

An open door at Johnson Stables & Garage proved to be the right entrance for young Rod. “We had just bought Johnson Stables & Garage in 2002 and the company needed management. I was appointed operations manager at the age of 23, working under Allan Banfield, the chief executive officer. We had to upgrade the entire fleet and make provision for new vans, taxis and buses.

“It was an unfamiliar and challenging environment for us but four years after taking it over, Johnson Stables became a profitable business,” Rod disclosed.

He vacated his post at Johnson Stables in 2007, to manage Sandridge Beach Hotel. At last, he believed, he had found his niche.

“I enjoyed going into the hotel sector even though it was a more demanding field for me. [At that time] Sandridge was preparing to close its doors and I had the task of shutting down the hotel, while making plans to open Sugar Cane Club — all in the same year.

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Work & Wealth

Spending lots of quality time with his girlfriend Ariana and the people they love most rates highly with Rod.

“I had the benefit of an exceptional team, many of whom had worked for us for more than 20-plus years.”

Describing the 45-room Sugar Cane Club as the group’s pride and joy, Rod admitted to feeling right at home there.

“I had already experienced working in the hotel environment and felt right at home dealing with the personnel and guests, ” he said.

Taking over this property in 2008, in the middle of a worldwide recession was not easy, but Rod’s commitment, vision and the support of a dedicated staff paid off.

In fact, his relationship with staff has always been unique, and he is quick to say: “If you speak to any member of staff I’ve employed, they would tell you they feel I am a part of them. There is nothing I would ask them to do that I won’t do myself. I’ve had to do the cooking, serving, cleaning and gardening – anything really!”

After five years at Sugar Cane Club, Rod forsook that post in December 2012 to manage the Sun Group’s four hotels.

He admits that his new role of envisioning the direction of four distinctive hotels is demanding. His business schedule now involves attending weekly corporate meetings and official functions; working on branding, marketing, developing the internal structure of each property and getting involved in the overall group of companies at a higher level.

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There is always time for a little rough-housing with his two dogs.

“I am now working more closely with my dad to prepare for the future. Alfredo has already worked closely with him, while I have spent most time in the hotel sector.

“We as a family have to give directions concerning the future of the companies, and so far we’ve learnt everything we know from our dad.”

Work aside, Rod, who is an ardent surfer, finds time each day for fun, frolic, friends and exercise. Lots of quality time is also spent with girlfriend Ariana.

“We enjoy spending time together and with the people we love the most, our friends and family.”

“In fact,” he quipped, “She completes me and has been great support in all areas of my life.”

Still relatively young and moving further up in the business world, Rod advises young entrepreneurs to create a balance between business, personal life and relationships.

“Be passionate and love what you do. Dream big and chase your dreams.

Don’t worry about falling down, it’s a part of the process of learning. The best part is getting back up. Be fair, firm, honest and committed and don’t be afraid to do any job, too little or too big. Most importantly, have fun doing it!”

Work & Wealth

Inspired by the beauty of sea shells, Juliette Lindo has used her creative talents to craft a successful business.

Dream works with shells

Pictures by Kenmore Bynoe.

by Cheryl Harewood

N

ot many people are given the opportunity to have their cake and eat it too. However, businesswoman, wife and visual arts teacher Juliette Lindo is one of the few who has.

A teacher by profession, Lindo is also managing director of Dream Works Inc. – a company which manufactures and wholesales ceramic products and sea shells, specializes in souvenir gift items and shell-made decorative items for the home.

She started her entrepreneurship journey in 1993 from her then modest home at Pilgrim Place, Christ Church, later opening a shop at Pelican Village, where she operated for four years. However, the necessity to eliminate overhead costs led her to close the Pelican Village Craft Centre and set up business in Haggatt Hall, St Michael.

It is from this location that the talented and creative Lindo produces some of her most exotic creations – muted-toned trinket boxes

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A sampling of the products for which Juliette Lindo is known.

with a sand-textured finish in a variety of designs, a wide assortment of mirrors beautifully decorated with sea shells, souvenir gift items . . . and more.

From her teenage years at secondary school, she cherished the dream of being a visual arts teacher and using her talent in and outside of the classroom – a dream which has been realized.

After completing her secondary education, she entered the Barbados Community College to complete A’ Level studies, but later opted to pursue an associate degree in art education and later a Bachelor’s in fine arts.

In 1993, she started what would become a 13-year teaching assignment at the Grantley Adams Memorial School.

By 1994, still bitten by the business bug, she set up her sea shell business and assigned herself to working on evenings and weekends.

With added support from family – especially her parents Dan and Marva Reid — Lindo has successfully turned her fascination for sea shells into a profitable business.

“I was always fascinated with the different facets of the sea shells. In fact, I got started in the business by experimenting with shells which I would April 2013

“I was always fascinated with the different facets of the sea shells. In fact, I got started in the business by experimenting with shells which I would pick up from the beach.” pick up from the beach, adding different items such as sand, leather, wire, fabrics and glass,” she disclosed.

“I think my fascination with shells came naturally because they have a beauty of their own,” Lindo noted.

Today, she is known primarily for her

decorative mirrors, for cutting glass into various shapes, her shell wall hangings, choice lamps using conch shells, shell souvenirs, palm tree souvenirs and dolphins designs. These are sold at varying retail shops across the island.

Diversity presented itself when the opportunity came to extend her product line by producing ceramics – primarily vases and trinket boxes.

Lindo explained: “I got into ceramics because I previously took stock from a young lady for my shop at Pelican. When she went into jewellery making instead, I purchased the ceramic business and added this to what I was already producing.”

This now 41-year-old, who formerly represented Barbados in competitive chess and was president of the Barbados Ladies Chess Association at one time, is happy that she has followed her dream and established her company, while fashioning young minds to become entrepreneurs.

“Teaching gives me the opportunity to help children who are interested in entrepreneurship. In light of not having children of my own, I see those whom I teach as my children especially those preparing for CXCs,” the Alexandra School teacher stressed.

While entrepreneurship has had its challenges for Lindo, there have also been added delights.

Having sought Government’s permission in 1994 to operate a business, Lindo received significant assistance from the Youth Entrepreneurship Scheme, Barbados Youth and Business Trust, Barbados Investment Development Corporation, Michael Callender of Fund Access and the Barbados Manufacturers’ Association’s executive director Bobbi McKay. Lindo is currently looking forward to creating her own brand and taking her company regional and international.

Meanwhile, she continues to live by the precept, if you can dream it, through Christ you can attain it. She intends to keep dreaming as she expands her business.

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Work & Wealth

Dressing

right

says it all How much attention do you pay to how you dress for work?

Since your appearance can lend to credibility, how you dress for your job will ultimately reflect how you feel about it.

We’ve always heard the saying, there is a time and place for everything — and there is!

You wouldn’t go to a construction site in your favourite four-inch stilettos, would you? You’ll go in a hard hat because it’s appropriate for the situation. Likewise, you wouldn’t want to turn up for work in your Sunday best, or dress down so much that it’s hard to tell if you’re going on a shopping trip in The City, or taking out the trash.

Dressing for the office has never been an easy task for many people.

Following the tips should help keep you on track:

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FOR THE GIRLS TREAT YOUR HAIR Whether you are male or female, it is necessary to wear well groomed hair at the office. Your hair is one of the first things people notice about your appearance. There is a time and place for everything and turning up for work with blue and yellow hair will not impress the boss. Leave bright hair colours for the weekend.

Men should also always make sure that their beard is well cropped.

NAILS We’re living in the era of properly manicured nails, with both women and men are taking nail care seriously.

Ladies, also bear in mind that chipped nail polish on the job shows a lack of professionalism. You do not have to wear long nails to impress, but at least keep them looking clean and attractive.

DRESS TO IMPRESS, NOT DISTRACT Avoid the plunging necklines, short and tight-fitting clothes, headbands, too much jewellery and too much make-up.

YOUR SHOES SAY A LOT ABOUT YOU Your shoes don’t have to be four-inch stilettos, they need to be office appropriate and comfortable. Men usually do not have a problem in this area, but women sometimes choose style and fashion over comfort.

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FOR THE GUYS WATCH THE SCENTS Some individuals believe they should wear strong scents to keep smelling nice all day.

This is wrong! There is nothing more annoying than having to labour through the day within range of a colleague whose perfume or cologne is too strong.

What is more annoying than wearing strong scents is not using an underarm deodorant or antiperspirant. We all need to.

ALWAYS DRESS FOR THE TASK AT HAND If you’re a civil engineer headed for a construction site, jeans, a cotton shirt and work boots are fine, but such attire is hardly appropriate when making a formal presentation to executives from whom you’re hoping to secure a new contract.

NEW KID ON THE BLOCK If you are starting a new job, remember you’re being sized up all the time. Little things count.

How you dress will tell the boss how you see yourself and how you approach the job.

Some people overlook this basic point, flub it and wonder why a promising opportunity turned sour. You want to be noticed for the quality of your work, not the horrible miscalculation of what you choose as office attire.

STICK TO THE DRESS CODE Always stick to your company’s dress code and try not to take extra liberties. For instance, if you have business casual as the office dress code, don’t stretch the look too far by turning up for work in a T-shirt, faded jeans and running shoes. In fact, you should only wear jeans when management says you can. Even then, they should be in a good condition.

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Work & Wealth

Coffee Anyone?

I

ts dispensing machines are a feature many a business house in Barbados these days, and if you’re seeking a cafe whose raison d’être is serving this much desired brew, a casual browse through the local yellow pages provides a range of locations across the island specializing in serving the many varieties of coffee available.

Whether their preference is one of the exotic flavours or the pure stuff, employers and staff seem to know the magical benefit that comes from drinking coffee. In addition, countless people unashamedly admit they require a cup to get themselves in a productive state of mind.

In fact, the communal coffee pot plays an integral role in workplaces in much the same way that coffee machines do, in some instances providing employees and members of the public with their favourite flavoured cup.

Undeniably, it is not unusual for employees to gather around in the early hours of a workday with cups of hot, fresh coffee to put them in the productive mood, or grant then extra energy for a long afternoon.

Surveys carried out in the United States indicate that about 100 million Americans drink at least one cup of coffee a day, with the average daily number of cups being three.

If the number of coffee establishments operating in Barbados is anything to go by, there’s no questioning its popularity here as well.

Coffee consumption in the office has several benefits. The caffeine in a single cup acts as a mild stimulant capable of making workers feel more energetic, raising their mood and reducing stress.

In addition to giving a boost of energy, coffee is a good source of vitamins and minerals which are needed for the body to stay fit and healthy. Coffee is also said to be a good pain reliever, with anti-inflammatory properties which calms down headaches and helps those having an asthma attack.

Drinking coffee at the office is often a social experience, especially when employees take their breaks together and enjoy conversations while filling up. In fact, some business 24

Coffee is a good source of vitamins and minerals, which are needed for the body to stay fit and healthy.

Coffee is also said to be a good pain reliever, with antiinflammatory properties which calms down headaches and provide for those under asthma attack. owners are of the view that as long as coffee is available in the office, productivity will be higher.

For those of you who from time to time feel a sudden bout of depression, drinking coffee can lift your mood and make you feel happier.

Did you know that coffee is also good at fighting cavities?

It is said to carry a compound with anti-adhesive properties that protects your teeth. In addition, due to its antioxidant properties, coffee lowers the risk of certain diseases such as diabetes and Alzheimer’s – especially when people drink coffee early in their lives.

While coffee boosts our concentration and attention span, we also need to know the downside of drinking coffee. One cup can keep you going for up to eight hours. This makes it easy for you to put your body in overdrive without realizing it.

Excessive amounts can stain the teeth because of the strong colouring coffee produces.

Since consuming caffeine increases the risk of some women developing cysts in their breasts, such people can never truly enjoy the wonderful taste of coffee. Sad, isn’t it?

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Healthy eating helps

at work Get plenty of rest, eat well and exercise!

I

’m sure your doctor has preached this to you time and time again. How many of us, however, take heed?

Sleep is essential to our day-to-day productivity. If you’ve just spent the entire night watching your favourite sport on television or playing around with your computer when you should be sleeping, you won’t do very well at work the next day.

What you eat is even more important than how much sleep you get – although, in some instances, the former can affect the latter.

Most of us have a pretty good idea of what healthy eating is: lots of fruits and vegetables and not too much fat and sugar.

However, when it comes to actually doing this, we may have to admit that we don’t follow these health rules.

Buying the right foods in today’s climate – especially when you’re on a tight budget can be quite challenging.

However, with proper planning and a little bit of creativity, April 2013

you can maintain a healthy diet that is budget friendly and good on the tummy.

There are steps you can take.

For instance, buy fresh fruits and vegetables. Fresh produce is much more affordable and healthier than the pre-cut and canned varieties.

Sugar, salt and other preservatives are added to fruits and vegetables that have been canned to improve taste and prolong shelf life. Yes, you have to do more prep work if you buy fresh produce, but it can save you money and you’ll be able to get more nutrients.

Eating less meat is another choice. Most people eat more meat than they need, which often results in obesity. Meats are delicious but very pricey and not to mention loaded with saturated fat. We need to eat protein every day, but we don’t need to consume meat every day. There are other options for protein intake than the standard meats you’re used to.

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Work & Wealth

Wordsof

Inspiration What is the best business advice a mentor has ever given you?

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“Make sure that whatever decisions you make, you will be comfortable enough to have a clear conscience and be able to put your head down on your pillow and sleep at night. I was given this advice by founder of KPMG in Barbados, Ken Hewitt.”

“I try to live by the following sayings instilled in me by my parents: Never start something you do not intend to finish.

When the going gets tough, keep going!

The secret to success is preparation, hard work and learning from mistakes.”

Carol Nicholls, Managing Partner and Partner, Audit Advisory Services, KPMG

Charlene Wilkin-Zephirin, Manager Community Relations, Paloma Charitable Trust

“I’ve spent several years in the travel and tourism industry. My mantra is the same now as it was then — to always put God first.

Whenever challenged, I was encouraged to stay focused on the matter at hand.

It always worked and still does.”

“Be positive. Always look at and take the positive out of every situation.”

Marva Mayock, Operations and Administration Manager, Vuemont Barbados

Mark Estwick, Financial Controller, Bougainvillea and Sand Acres Resort

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5

ways to maintain value HIGHLIGHT PROFESSIONAL AND PERSONAL EXPERIENCE:

Among the key areas in which a retiree can add value in the office is in the training and mentoring young employees.

Working on your retirement W

hile retirement is something most people look forward to, there are those who dread the thought of leaving the workforce.

Perhaps some who fall into this category have not successfully planned for their retirement and fear they would not make it without a monthly salary.

There are also those who are so in love with the world of work, they fear being separated from it.

For countless others, retirement paints another picture. They dream of relaxing, immersing themselves in their hobbies, travelling, moving into smaller homes and enjoying their days of leisure.

There is yet another group of people whose retirement plans may include starting a brand new career, perhaps as their own boss, with another company or with their former company.

With young people bombarding companies each day in search of jobs, working pass your retirement could be a challenge.

However, if you’re one of those individuals hoping to put off your retirement, you must put the necessary machinery in place well in advance by discussing career plans with your employer.

April 2013

When updating your resumé or interviewing for a job, think about your experience in terms of both work-related and life skills. Whether you have strong leadership skills or the wherewithal to weather a tough economy, use your age to your advantage and play up the strengths that come with having more years under your belt.

STAY CURRENT:

Workers of all ages are going back to school to increase their marketability. Attending seminars and workshops or taking formal courses is a great way to keep your skills up-to-date. These can come in handy during an interview.

FIND NEW WAYS TO BENEFIT THE COMPANY:

If you’re looking to stay with your current company beyond retirement, offer new ways to contribute to its programmes. For instance, perhaps you can offer to help train new employees.

USE YOUR NETWORK:

Being in the workforce for an extended time gives you the advantage of a broad professional network. Whether online or offline, reach out to former colleagues, vendors, clients and so on, to see where opportunities may arise

CONSIDER PART-TIME OR FREELANCE WORK:

Fifty-two per cent of workers age 60-plus say they’ll most likely work part-time once retired. If that’s you, check your options, using the Internet, employment agencies and other resources for part-time, freelance or temporary work

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Work & Wealth

Business Flying THE SMART WAY

by Cheryl Harewood

S

uddenly you’ve been welcomed into the travelling club.

Not the frequent flyers’ club, although that will soon become a reality, but into the business travellers club, which means air travel has become a part of your job.

Maybe you’ve already been on a few business trips and concluded it’s not as thrilling as some said it would be.

There are busy airports, delayed flights, time constraints, limited sleeping hours, visas to secure, immunization shots to take, weather reports to follow, living out of suitcases, separation from loved ones and you’ve realized that that dinner you were looking forward to was nothing more than a business meeting.

Oh yes! Business travel is not the icing on the cake, so no one should envy you. It’s lots of responsibility, with just a few added perks; like savouring mouth-watering cuisine and visiting new cities, even if you never get a chance to see the sights, swim in the hotel’s pool, or hang out on some white-sand, exotic beach.

Those things aside, sometimes just getting away from the everyday agenda at the office is worth it all but business is business.

So if you’re now entering the world of business travel, don’t keep your head in the clouds. There are rules to follow and we’ve listed nine for you:

1. STAY CONNECTED Whether you Skype, tweet, text, blog or just rely on e-mail (most hotels offer free Wi-Fi), staying in touch is a top priority. Remaining accessible to your colleagues is important to keeping them updated about business or personal issues related to your trip.

Keeping in touch with your spouse and other relatives is also important.

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2. SYNCHRONIZE YOUR CALENDAR You’ll probably take calls and set appointments while away, and the easiest way to keep track is to use the calendar on your phone or even your laptop. You will avoid finding yourself double-booked or absent from an important meeting.

3. PROTECT YOUR DATA Constantly being away from your office places greater emphasis on making sure important data is not lost or compromised. Maintain a regular back-up of critical data on a memory stick. As a security measure, you should also consider resources such as Google Docs and renting Cloud space to keep you running in double quick time if your laptop is stolen or crashes.

4. TRAVEL LIGHT To avoid baggage checks or an additional charge at the airline counter, travel light. Pack essentials in one carry-on bag about the size of a backpack. This gives you the freedom to avoid queues at baggage reclaim and reduces the amount of time getting in and out of the airport.

5. HEALTHY EATING A major challenge whilst travelling on business is maintaining a healthy eating regime, especially with all the fast food options available. Regular consumption of high calorie food that is low in nutrients will take its toll on your health and mental agility.

To avoid this, stock up on fruits and nuts.

6. ALCOHOL CONSUMPTION Take a rain check on your visit to the bar at the airport or hotel.

Alcohol consumption prior to or during a flight has an even stronger effect at altitude. Drink lots of water to stay hydrated.

7. TRAVEL WARDROBE Minimize your time (before actual travel), by devoting a section of your closet to travel-only clothes that are clean and ready to go, probably a range of business suits in neutral shades. This makes it easy to mix and match and eliminates the stress of last minute packing.

8. REST AND RELAXATION Relax and rest, This is always challenging when away from the comfort of your own bed and surroundings, but get as much sleep as possible. You’ll be fresh and rested by morning for the day’s meeting or travel.

9. TRACKING EXPENSES Entering the value of your receipts under business and personal expenditure each day will allow you to quickly produce any information required without having to trawl through a pile of receipts at the end of a trip or when submitting an expenses claim.

Think smart and travel smart. Bon voyage!

April 2013

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Work & Wealth

‘A simpler life’…

seriously?

by Lyle Jones

“A LIFE COMPANION FOR A SIMPLER LIFE.” That’s how J.K. Shin, president of Samsung’s Mobile Communications Division, described the Galaxy S4 at its unveiling in New York. According to Shin, the capabilities of the new phone represent innovations “which literally helps people live every day”.

And that’s no idle boast. I’ve had one professional confess that her smartphone is part of her, going with her everywhere. It provides entertainment, real-time connectivity with friends whether via voice or messaging, facilitates her online research, wakes her up, even reminds her of important engagements.

Ever improving technologies and apps empower these gadgets to perform such a range of tasks that today’s business professional might even be tempted to ponder the value of having a real life assistant. If only smart phones could make a cup of coffee.

For those of you not convinced here’s a sampling of what these apps can do to make your life a lot easier.

PLANNING A TRIP Many of the popular travel websites such as tripadvisor.com and hotels.com have free smartphone apps and mobileenabled websites that allow you to plan the perfect trip from your mobile device. With the hotels .com app you can find and book your hotel, access reservations, you name it.

Airlines offer free apps that allow you to check in, access a mobile boarding pass, keep track of your baggage and view your mileage account.

STAYING IN TOUCH Want to take a bite out of high calling rates while overseas?

A web/WiFi app such as Skype or FaceTime can provide the cheapest way to call home. Though Skype calls are only free when you are contacting other Skype users, it’s relatively inexpensive to call a non-Skype number. FaceTime is a good choice for a family of Apple users.

ACCESS FUNDS FROM WHEREVER Banking is not a problem either. Many banks and credit card companies have their own apps, so you can check your balance, transfer funds and pay bills wherever in the world you might be.

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. . . “apps” empower these gadgets to perform such a range of tasks that today’s business professional might even be tempted to ponder the value of having a real life assistant.

WATCHING THE KIDS? NO PROBLEM If you’re a parent, you would probably be happy for the app that allows you to see everything your children do on their smartphones. The Android apps are called Protect Me if You Can and Catch Me if You Can. You can also track your children’s whereabouts with the GPS in the phones.

The app can even monitor phone calls, text messages and photos taken.

ENDLESS POSSIBILITIES When you factor in the utility of applications such as Google Maps, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Pandora, Netflix, You Tube, and the Kindle app for the iPhone and Android smartphones), it’s hard to imagine getting lost, loosing connectivity, or suffering from lack of entertainment.

And if that’s not enough, there’s the Dropbox app which handles your capacity worries by allowing you to easily store and access your content through The Cloud. You can even set the app to automatically upload new photos and videos taken on your phone every time you open it. I guess you could say the sky’s the limit.

“A life companion for a simpler life”? Maybe the smartphone, aptly equipped, could be regarded as an enabling “life companion”, but considering all the stuff these phones enable you to do, you might become so consumed doing everything the apps facilitate that the “simpler life” might very well escape you.

Perhaps they’ll develop an app to give you back your life.

info@aubmed.org www.aubmed.org