Hit Pause with Christopher Woods
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Create This Mixology! 24
In the Community:
Relief in Dominica WM Magazine October 2015
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CONTENTS Editorial
Our Letter to you our Readers
Learning Curve
How to Conduct Market Research
Brave New World
Pop-Up Shop
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The Business of Health
14
Financial Tips
16
Health and Entrepreneurship Balance
Gone Digital On Point
Get A Business Mentor
Must Have Gadgets
Style for the Business Traveller
What’s Trending No Holds Barred Media Etiquette
The Wonder of the Handheld
Forget the Naysayers!
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Press Table and why it can change your media coverage!
Message From the Editor Hello readers and thanks for joining us for another edition of WM Magazine. I’ll let you get on to the exciting content we have for you this month soon, but first, I want to touch briefly on a something that I think we all struggle with from time to time. Whatever field we’re in, at times it can feel as though everything is going wrong. We’re not getting that promotion we want, or maybe the new service or product we just launched isn’t doing quite as well as we would have hoped. In these situations, it’s easy to throw in the towel and give up. Or, fold up all together and start something new, without even considering what went wrong in the first place. Don’t do either of these things. Often, just when we feel all is lost, there’s a breakthrough that changes the course of our progress forever. Work to better understand your brand, the business you’re in, or the field you wish to enter. Learn as much as you can about new trends, ideas, and progress made by others in the field. When we put in the time and do this, we can approach WM Magazine October 2015
obstacles with a more objective eye, which in turn allows us to solve problems more efficiently. WM Magazine aims to assist with this however we can, and that’s why regular columns like Brand New World, Gone Digital, Trending and Learning Curve, among others, exist. These columns all support the idea of promoting good mass media and business practices, relationships and trends. Approach October with a new attitude, one that inspires and encourages progress. Aim for your best results and watch success happen naturally. Jackie Jones Editor Ashlee Cox Design Editor Jonathan Norgrove Design Consultant
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Advertise with us
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The LearningCurve:
How to Conduct Market Research Starting a business? Haven’t done the market research? Start over. The bottom-line is that market research is a necessary part of creating a successful business and can save you time, money and a lot of stress if it’s done correctly the first time round. First off let’s explore the types of market research. Wait what? There are more than one? Yup, and knowing how to execute them is a great way to get your business off to a good start.
your competitors into consideration. How do I gather this information? Use surveys and questionnaires (online works best in today’s market), face-toface or telephone interviews, and focus groups consisting of a sample of potential customers or clients, in order to get their direct feedback. Make sure your questions are focused and easy to understand. Here are a few you can consider: What price do you con-
sider appropriate for the product or service? What factors do you take into account when purchasing this product or service? Where would you suggest improvement? What do you like or dislike about the products or services currently on the market?
Primary Research
The purpose of this kind of research is to gather data by analysing current sales and the usefulness of existing practices. It also takes the plans of WM Magazine October 2015
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Qualitative methods on the other hand,
often target a small sample size. They help to enhance quantitative data collection, as you’ll be able to not only pinpoint issues, but use interview methods to learn about customers’ beliefs, opinions and values. Now we collect Next up . . . m, refusing to rely on just data Secondary Reweb resources for your All this research means data collection, and exsearch that you’ll have to colpanding your surveying This allows you to easily lect data as in the end, no net outside of the range identify competitors, target segments and establish small business can hope to of people you know, your do well without first unmarket research will be standards for your own derstanding its products, solid and your business products or services, by services and of course, will be in a better place for examining already pubcustomers. it. lished data. Target segQuantitative data ments are those people collection requires who fall into your target demographic, for example, a large sample size and those who exhibit partic- sheds light on statistically Have burning quesular behavioural patterns, significant differences, by tions about mass using mathematical anal- media and business? fall into a predetermined age group, or live a certain ysis. An example of this is Check out our Learnfound in your web analyt- ing Curve page each lifestyle. month for answers. As your brain tries to wrap ics. Simply check out the information there (availitself around all this new able in Google’s suite of information, here’s some tools) and you’re already more that will probably make what’s been already a step ahead in figuring said, a bit easier to under- out what works and what doesn’t for your company. stand.
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Pop Up Shop Pop goes the weasel. Well, maybe if the weasel had a store, as one of the buzzwords for the last few years has been everything pop-up. From pop-up restaurants and salons, to shops and gift centres, the culture of the pop-up shop has grabbed hold and seems intent on keeping its footing in the world of physical marketing.
marketing budget and can advertise and reach a large audience at short notice, it’s advisable that you start planing your pop-up early. Identify objectives and create a budget, both things that will save you time and Why do they work? money, while increasing the Pop-ups are a smart and effectiveness of your popfun way to generate a new up. The timeframe needed customer base, by exposing to plan a successful pop-up your products to individuals will be determined by the who might have never even type of business, however, heard of your brand before. it should be at least a few At the same time, existing months prior to the event. customers can not only be patrons at your pop-up, but Is my backyard a can bring along others to good location? experience all you have to offer in an atmosphere out- The importance of choosing side your usual parameters. the right location for your pop-up cannot be stressed enough. This decision can How do I start? literally make or break your Even if you have a sizeable initiative.
WM Magazine October 2015
Here are some of the things to consider when choosing a location: Do
market research in the area you’re considering, it’s entirely possible that those in the financial district will be in no way interested in your popup art gallery in that setting. Have there been pop-ups in the area before and were they successful? A high foot traffic area is ideal, especially if its shopping foot traffic, as this way you don’t have to drive traffic yourself. However, remember that you still have to consider what kind of traffic it is. Example: is it a sneakers-only mall where you want to have a pop-up sock shop – which could
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work – or, are you selling taco shells?
What about branding?
If you’re going to have a pop-up event, correct branding is a must. This isn’t just referring to which products you choose to display, but the theme, décor and lighting are all crucial elements that will pinpoint your brand experience, and allow customers to immediately understand your brand identity.
It’s all over, now what?
Take a step back and review the results. See what worked and what didn’t. If you This depends entirely on you were able to take customand what your desires are er information, follow-up for your pop-up initiative. with these individuals and Brands that already have a consider giveaways or dislarge customer-base and ex- counts for those who passed tensive marketing reach, can through while you were often pop-up for a day or popped-up. weekend and see incredible results. Smaller brands can consider a longer time-period, endorsed by various marketing methods. If this is not possible and your budget does not allow for large marketing campaigns, focus your pop-up endeavour on a particular product or service and push that as efficiently as possible to new and existing customers.
How long should I be popped-up?
Are you a new entrepreneur? Then you’re in the right place! The Brave New World page features advice on how to better understand and interact with the media, find interesting ways to promote your businesses and brands and, best practices for ensuring continued success. Look out for new tips each month.
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CHRIS WOODS WM Magazine October 2015
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What it takes to be Chris Woods a videographer Sitting down, a nervous smile ghosts his lips and The action and excitement of getting the story he confesses that he’s nerkeep Christopher Woods vous, especially as he is accustomed to being on in the journalistic game. the other side of the interviewing coin. The young videographer recently sat down with WM He tells us that when he Magazine (WMM) and refirst started working at the vealed all the thrills, spills Caribbean Broadcasting and spontaneous scoops that Corporation (CBC) in have kept him occupied for Barbados eighteen years the last fifteen years. ago, he was the driver and assistant for another vidAs he walks into the venue eographer. Three years for the interview Chris is later, he was wielding the all rippling muscles, broad camera himself and regrin and of course, is toting cording all the action. his video-recorder. He is wrapped in good spirits and “The best thing about it an approachable aura. was that it was on the job
experience, so I didn’t have to go to train like at the community college or anything like that. It was on the job training, there and then,” he explained. Asked what he most liked about the job, he said that it was the fact that every day presented new opportunities. “It is really nice, you don’t get to do the same thing every day. You could have a press conference…another could be a fire, sometimes it may be (that) somebody got killed. It is an exciting job!”
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everything exposed. I remember when the video actually came back to (the television station) I remember people were asking, “Who was the camera man who took that footage? He ain’t got no heart!” he recounted. Chris added that even the police who came to view the footage were just as put off as the others in the newsroom by the graphicness. However, he assured WMM that that this scene and the others he’s covered, do not actually creep into his dreams at night.
As a videographer, he has
dos, and inspired chills.
Chris has seen his share of violence and its had the gruelling task of “When I got there, I was aftermath in his quest to filming several truly horriexcited because I was alert the public to what ble murders and accidents. now getting into (media is happening in BarbaChris divulges on this topvideography) and that dos, and said that when it ic, saying that he wouldn’t morning, the person had comes to law enforcement, want to put murder as a already been cut up relent- “I would like the police to ‘top experience’. Neverlessly. Almost every part understand the role that theless, he described one of the person’s body had media plays and know that of his first jobs which just been cut (and) you could we all have to work togethhappened to be a murder have seen the bone and er. They have their job, on his home island BarbaPage 12 WM Magazine October 2015
we have ours and I think sometimes they come with too much aggression towards the media, even when you try to explain who you are,” he said.
aged to get the shots he needed and the footage was aired that night.
He explained that he was angered by the actions of the policemen because Giving an example, he those with cell phones cited an incident that hap- who were taking photos, pened years ago that still were probably going to left a bitter taste in his share them over social mouth. “There was a guy media without the correct that drowned at Browne’s information to accompany Beach a couple of years them, while he, an official ago and when I got there representative of the meabout five minutes afterdia, was being prohibited wards, I heard that the to do his job. body had washed up. So Moving onto less gory I’m excited that it is actu- and troublesome assignally happening now. So I’m ments, Chris explained actually running towards that the job had actually the area and then I could allowed him the opporsee hundreds of people tunity to travel to many around there with cell parts of the world and to phones taking pictures,” see plenty of things. “I he recalled. “As an official have been as far as Spain, photographer from the to cover the two fellas who media coming in now, I had sailed across the Atsaw this guard pointing, lantic in the little canoe. I showing me to the police went to Tenner reef to get and then the police turned the start of that race, and around, put his hand up then came back to Barin the air and asked me, bados to get the ending. ‘Where (you) going? You Almost a month or so later can’t get no shot of this’.” I covered the West Indies Despite further attempts getting awards in Birmingat prevention, Chris man- ham England,” he said.
He’s travelled throughout the Caribbean covering the Heads of Government summit with Barbadian Prime Minsters, and has also been to Canada, where he covered sports events. A lover of action, Chris’ video recorder is never too far away and to end our interview, he shared another incidence where he was the first at the scene of a burning building. “When we got there, the house burst out into flames. I actually caught that on camera with the actual flame bursting out. That is what I like. People wanted to know how we got there so fast, but we were in the area and I have my own personal camera, so I normally catch these things because I always have a camera on me,” he said.
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Health & Entrepreneurship Balance “It is not surprising that entrepreneurs have health issues!” Entrepreneurs are basically
the hardest working employee and the most demanding employer all rolled into one person! If you really stopped and thought about it, they are also the ones who are more likely to treat our bodies horribly in exchange for success. We are always on! Working long, unsociable hours, taking little sleep, barely fuelling our bodies at times and when we finally do, it’s with less than healthy food-all just so we can get back to our work. Is this healthy? Is this really our idea of success? What happens when our bodWM Magazine October 2015
ies break down? And believe us, they eventually will if we keep crazy and very stressful lifestyle up! So what should we do? The ironic thing is that heath and entrepreneurship must be synonymous, they must be taken to heart and to head together. Simply put, if we are not healthy, then our businesses are not healthy or successful. When we succumb to the various issues that can and will plague us by not taking care of ourselves, we also destroy all that we spent so much time and sacrificed so much for in the process. And that makes no sense at all.
What makes it even more ridiculous is that we already know what to do to get on the healthy track-, we have heard it from just about every source known to man- however, there seems to be some inability on our part to really take that too-freely advice seriously. So how can we be healthy and still put in the time and resources necessary to get our ventures up and running? We need to ensure that our bodies are functioning in harmony, that we provide it with all the things that we are currently depriving ourselves of, such as clean, sustainable nutrition and habitual physical activity. This goes a long way
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towards being successful in both health and business. Ensure that you keep yourself hydrated throughout the day, so keep room temperature water with you and really plan what you will need to eat and snack on. Eat soon after you have awoken, actually set eating times and stick to them, really chew your food and increase your consumption of fruits and vegetables. Sleep allows the body to relax, rejuvenate and improves cognitive processes. We can chain ourselves to our tasks, from working on proposals, updating our social media and looking over accounts, but it is super important to get out and
exercise! The truth is that sitting for extended periods of time at the computer, expending mental energy without any physical activity to balance not only makes it hard to sleep at night, it also increases the risk of depression, cancer, diabetes and heart disease. As entrepreneurs, just as we work towards keeping our ventures afloat, we must ensure that we do not become so overwhelmed that we forsake our health. Make being healthy and successful your choice!
Yoga is for everyone Exciting all level yoga classes available locally! Join us for class at The ArtSplash Centre, Hastings 10-11am $25 Follow us on FB and Instagram for our other up coming classes, including outdoor classes and yoga for dancers! Special group and private rates also availiable. Email: mindfulmovement246@gmail.com Yoga is possible for anybody who really wants it. - Sri K. Pattabhi Jois
Jasmine Evelyn, RYT 200h
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FINANCIAL TIPS
GE T A
One of the best pieces
I know you are all frownof advice we could give to ing at that last statement, any entrepreneur, is to find so allow me to explain. a great business mentor. As an entrepreneur your Yes, we know that the idea is new, creative and focus for the entrepreneur needed, but the struggle and even the new startfiguring out how to get it ups is all about funding, off the ground and how to however, when it comes to do so without going into value, the mentor trumps pocket. The thing with the funding. new ventures is that they WM Magazine October 2015
have not been done before, they are by their definition new- it may be a new twist on an old idea, or it could be a wholly new idea, the problem is that when it comes down to it, the resources and funding required are not easily known not accessible. So what do we do? Page 16
Our instinct is to source that funding, source those resources, get the project moving as quickly as possible. And then the question of ‘how’ will rear it’s ugly, confusing head. A business mentor is the answer. Mentors can help the entrepreneur to shape and make a great impact on everything from strategic partnerships, product strategy, sales, marketing and even recruiting the best employees. Think of a mentor as a great sounding board. They had been there, seen it and done it all before. They have already the made the mistakes and achieved the successes, so why re-invent the wheel? Why not benefit from the wisdom of those gone before, learn the lay of the land and give your venture the push of knowledge and guidance that it deserves as well as the emotional support that you deserve. Entrepreneurs do not know all, they have to
learn it usually by trial and error, and this is not something that will change because you have a mentor, but hopefully it will mean less trial and more successes. Mentors can come with a plethora of benefits to the young entrepreneur that in the end will translate to not only monetary benefits, but advice that will stand you in good stead as you and your company progresses. Your mentor should be an experienced businessperson, who is not trying to sell you on anything, but is willing to actually guide you along and see you blossom. Such people are
likely to have an extensive social network and can offer you access to senior decision makers, additionally , you may have the chance to be introduced to that network and make the needed connections. When you find this paragon of knowledge and experience, remember that they are also a person, so treat them to lunch, a coffee, build on the foundation of your relationship and make sure that your personalities and values also line up. You are the only one who know what you are looking for, so get out there and find that business mentor.
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WM Magazine October 2015
GONE DIGITAL Technology is life for the entrepreneur!
It does not matter what sector or industry your unique brand of entrepre-
neurship falls under, the simple fact is that in this world, technology is to the entrepreneur, as bees are to nectar. If you are to have at least a fighting chance in this business world, then you need to be able to connect with others, access relevant and helpful apps and you have to be able to do this on a variety of mobile gadgets. Here are a few of the gadgets that any entrepreneur must have!
Mophie Power Station Well guess what, the future is now! There is not a phone or a tab let that does not attempt to fail us when we need them the most,- almost ANYONE remember when the Gameboy finally happily flashing the low battery sign in our faces. brought out their power-packs and for years after, For the entrepreneur on the go, the Mophie Perwe wanted everything to have it’s own power-pack? Station is nothing short of WM Magazine October 2015
a God-send. It is beautifully capable of charging any power hungry USB charged device while on the go and will for sure be a life saver, with it’s boast of a high-output battery with charging speeds of 500mA, 1A, or 2.1A depending on what device you have connected.
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Bamboo Wacom Stylus
ers we also need a smooth tool for highlighting, handDON’T get us wrong, writing and even sketching. the finger is our first For those who also want choice when we interto show off their style and act with our tablets as enjoy smudge free navigawell, however, even we tion, then this stylus with at WM Magazine, have it’s unique and responsive to agree that a stylus can carbon fibre nib, is the one change how we interact for you! with our devices. We are creative people and like artists and design-
Livescribe Echo Smartpen
The Seagate 7
WHEN we are on the go,
we want to be sure that our information is not only safely with us, but that it is easily mobile, just as we are.
the micro-USB connector, THIS could easily be the that also plays the dual role only pen you will ever care of charging the pen. The about and/ or need. This storage holds up to 400 or unique tool will not only 800 hours of recorded audio allow you to record and play depending on the model back audio while you are and includes an OLED distaking notes- super helpful play that makes it easy to in meetings or when think- navigate the smartpen apps. ing creative thoughts aloudbut it also allows you to save and share these interactive notes to all your devices, via At just 7mm thick, Seagate calls its new seven the slimmest 500GB USB 3.0 hard drive available. Consumers of the hard drive are calling it ‘a must have’ especially for anyone travelling, as it slips into any bag for easy mobility. It is as ‘light as a feather’. The portable 500GB of capacity is not only sourced
with innovative materials, but it has significant advancements in mechanical design technology, infact the manufacturing process guarantees a super thin steel enclosure that make it not only elegant but rugged.
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Waterway M for all your We are a fu service com media servi From Socia Editing, Me consultants respective fi
WM Magazine October 2015
Waterway M : www. wate E-mail: Con : Wat : @W : Wa
Media is the best management company r mass media needs! ully customisable, efficient and professional mpany, that specialises in a variety of mass ices. al Media Management, Graphic Design, edia Relations, PR and much more, our s have lived, breathed and excelled in their ields & are always ready for new challenges.
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MIXOLOGISTS are starting a revolution. The terms ‘bartender’ and ‘mixologist’ are often used interchangeably, but is there a difference in titles? Is mixologist just a fancy term for bartender and if so, why all the fuss? To get to the bottom of this, we tracked down three professional Barbadian mixologists to find out what the term actually meant and what they did. Getting the ball rolling was David Barker, winner of the Art Wars 2014 competition, held in Barbados, who responded to our question with one of his own: “What is a chef and what is a cook? The difference that segregates a mixologist from a regular bartender, is that a bartender would give you your standard drinks (while) a mixologist creates. He comes up with ideas, and we aren’t talking about the concept of putting a little bit of sugar and spice and everything nice in it, there is a thought process behind it,” he lot more than most people realise.According to him, the said. profession requires underBarker explained that being a standing the ingredients available and how they can be used mixologist was a level above effectively. “I could put pinea bartender and involved a apple juice inside of a contain-
CREATE THIS: Presenting the Mixologists
WM Magazine October 2015
er, but have I chosen the right pineapple? Have I gone to the supplier, have I met with that farmer, do I know how the produce is being used? Is it is a sweet pineapple (or) a tart pineapple? All of these ques-
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tions are asked when coming up with just one fruit or one product.” Likening the profession to an artist showcasing a piece, or the unveiling of a sculpture, he added that there are various types of mixologists. “You have a party mixologist that does not have to touch cash, he has to set up a bar and push out drinks based on the menu items that the patrons may want or, people may ask you to create some cocktails and give you the list of ingredients and you have to do inventory and everything concerning that party. Then you have your bartender that works (in) hotels and restaurants. He may be a mixologist, he might not be in charge of the bar which is sometimes a funny thing.” For private functions, a mixologist’s job can get a little trickier, “That person (has to) look for every single environment (for example) making sure you have a water source,” among other things like ensuring there are rubber mats on the floor to prevent back pain and eliminating the need to stretch by elevating ice. To Be A Successful Mixologist, Barker believes that to be a successful mixologist, one has to have a hunger and pas-
sion for learning, while being able to step outside the box. “With anything that we are doing in this world we need to pay attention, practice and realise that you aren’t going to get anything from sitting down and talking about it. You (have to) get up when you feel sleepy, get up when you don’t feel like getting up, and get it done. This world has no place for the weak, none at all, and if you don’t have the hunger to get it done, to progress yourself to make yourself better, to research, to buy the materials, to buy the products, you won’t get anything.”
Culinary Revolution To many mixologists, being able to create a new cocktail and a new experience for clients, equates to a culinary revolution. “I flambé stuff and the cooking technique is what helps me to elevate my mixology techniques, because you could always take a syrup, take some juice, put a little rum in it and cook it on the stove. That is fine, but when you come to the point that you are thinking about temperature control . . . if
I am going to toast that product, If I am going to flambé that product and then make a puree, if I am going to use the item, or if I am going to use a different product to bring out the flavours – that is being a mixologist,” Barker shared. Accomplished mixologist Gina Dupal, noted that to her mixology meant being a chef who made liquid food. She said that in the business there were drinks being made out of pumpkins, spices and just about any flavour you could think of and it’s not just about the drinks either. In her view, the profession requires being able to quickly shift gears in order to ensure the customer enjoys their time at the bar. “You have to be a psychiatrist, a psychologist, a lawyer, a doctor, a friend. Coming to a bar and seeing somebody with a welcoming face and knowing that you can sit there and be comfortable and have a good time.” She explained that it’s not just about mixing drinks, but about entertaining people. Dameain Williams, another stalwart in the profession, concurred with the assessments of his peers. For him mixology is something he enjoys, would never give up and he has a genuine thirst for knowledge in the area. “I love
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Captions: [Title Pic: Mixologist, Dameain Williams showcasing a unique cocktail. (left) Mixologist David Barker is super passionate about his craft. Below, Mixologist Gina Dupral makes her own syrup infusions and unique cocktails!
what I do and I am not going to fall to criticism, I do get it sometimes – why does he have to wear a hat and a bow tie to match the hat? I’ve heard it all, but it is not going to phase me. I like differences and that is where I am geared towards, creating a difference for your event,” he said. Continuing, he put the art of mixology in a tasty nutshell: “I am not just going to give you a drink, I’m going to give you knowledge and I am going to give you the experience. That is what I am about, that is what my mixology is about, that is what my skills behind the bar are about.”
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Community Spotlight: Relief in Dominica TROPICAL Storm Erika left devastation in her wake as she ravished the Caribbean country of Dominica on August 26 – August 27, 2015. With loss of life, extensive flooding, substantial environmental, infrastructure, and property damage and loss across the island, it is one of the worst disasters a country in the region has experienced in recent years. Dominica’s neighbours within the Caribbean were eager to deliver aid, and provided helicopters, medical assistance, telecommunication engineers, and financial aid, closely added to by nurses and doctors from Cuba, and man-power and essential supplies from Venezuela. Light started to shine a little brighter, as communities, organisations, companies WM Magazine October 2015
and individuals, started to get onboard with the relief efforts, in hopes of helping Dominicans recover from this weather-driven blow. One of the groups that has sprung up since the storm, is the Dominica Disaster Relief Committee. Originally created by members of the Dominican community in the island of St. Thomas, who were ready and willing to send aid to their countrymen, this growing organization has now expanded to the islands of St. Croix and St. John. Chairwoman of the Committee is Loreen Bannis Roberts, who explained that the various groups and organisations have come under one umbrella, to make getting aid to that country a simpler task. “The group has people representing them around the territory and we
have one collection point. It’s easier because we do it as one team.” Support has also been coming in across the seas, literally. Many have used boats to reach the island in order to distribute supplies and send aid. One of these was Digicel St. Lucia, who directly following the storm’s passing, contracted a fleet of boats to deliver water, food, toiletries, cleaning agents and clothing to the affected island. They then extended the boats’ stay in Dominica in order to help with the Dominican Red Cross’ need to access communities they were not able to by road. Additionally, under the themed campaign, “Digicel Helping Hands” the telecommunications company has been encouraging residents of St. Lucia to con-
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tribute to the relief efforts through texting donations, and the staff and management of the company continue to actively contribute. There are many other relief attempts being made, with one using ‘compassionate crowdfunding’ YouCaring to raise funds. ‘Compassionate crowdfunding is free online fundraising pioneered by YouCaring to support humanitarian causes and bring kindness and community to those in need’. Organiser of this crowdfunding ‘Dominica Disaster Relief ’ campaign Ashley Richards, for the Red Cross of Dominica, has set a target of $20,000 USD on the site and as of late September, had raised just shy of half that goal. Many are contributing whatever they can to this cause, where
contribution amounts are up to the giver. This method allows for an easy way to help this devastated island and for spreading the word through social media to those across the world. At the start of October, the campaign had just under two months left to reach its desired goal. Athletes also lent their support in the form of a charity cricket match at Kensington Oval on the island of Barbados, on September 27. It featured cricketing legend Trinidadian Brian Lara and other Caribbean celeb athletes including, sprint star Yohan Blake and footballer Dwight Yorke. President of the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) Whycliffe ‘Dave’ Cameron, said that all proceeds from the match
would be donated to the Dominica Emergency Relief Fund. He explained that they were, “Using the power and contribution of cricket, so that the recovery efforts underway in Dominica can continue and life can steadily be restored to normal.” Over in the USA, the recently concluded 21st year of Caribfest, which lasted September 23 – 26 and was organized by the Caribbean Students Organization at Midwestern State University, added to the growing donations. Proceeds from the year’s activities went in part to benefit the Dominica Relief Efforts. Dominica has been dealt a hard blow and the island and its residents are still in desperate need of help. For more information on how you can lend your support,
visit: http://dominicarelief. com The WM Magazine Community Spotlight page features national, regional and international organisations, NGOs, charities, companies, individuals and others, doing their part to better their communities.
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“Fashion is just one of the aspects of being fashionable. Write that down”. (Van Wilder quote).
W
hen packing for a business trip there are many things to think about. However, the steps to getting it right are pretty simple, so put that apprehension aside and let’s jump in.
ping, consider a fullsize hangar bag with room for your suits (for men especially), or an upright suitcase. Women can opt for a carry-on-sized rolling bag that you can attach your handbag to. If you can’t afford The luggage you brand name luggage choose will depend on don’t worry about it, the length of stay. For standard black, brown short trips a carry-on or dark blue suitcases should do the trick, but can do just fine, as long for extended journeys, as they are aesthetor those that take you ically pleasing as in country or state-hopthe end, appearances
count. It’s important to note that while you should try not to have checked luggage, if you do, make sure you have additional clothing in your carry-on just in case.
The Luggage
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The Clothes
Make sure you pack layers and your garments should all coordinate. This way you can mix and match a variety of outfits during your travel time. For females, thin knits make suitcases light, and are easily paired with stylish jackets. Footwear should be a triple threat: comfortable, functional and fashionable. Oh and ladies, wear your bulkiest shoes on the plane instead of packing them. For men, consider plain, dark jackets in medium-weight worsted wool, as it will not only go with most shirts and trousers, but will also show up the least wrinkles and travel creases. To be on the safe side, consider bringing two jackets, one dressier and the other sportier. Outside of pants that go with suits, consider wool or cotton slacks, as these are less bulky than
jeans for packing purposes and more stylish for business-related activities.
steamer, breath mints and all necessary documents.
The Stuff
The Extras
Some of these things you may think go without saying, but can be easy to forget if you’re rushing while packing. Items to consider and remember to pack include: business cards, antibacterial gel, toiletries, a pre-made name badge, eReader or tablet, pencil, pen and pad, laptop, travel hair-dryer, mini-umbrella, travel clothes
Ladies if you’re into manicures, be sure to get a gel manicure before you leave so you don’t have to worry about your nails while away. Additionally, hair must be properly styled before heading out on your business trip. Men should also remember this and ensure that haircuts are neat and facial hair is in check.
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WM Magazine October 2015
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WM Magazine October 2015
Many of you are probably reading this from a smartphone or tablet. An unsurprising thing as the future of tech with regard to social media, is pointing towards handheld devices as the major means of correspondence for people all over the world. Amazing apps are changing the way we view social media, services and the world around us, making a multitude of new services available with just a few clicks. For example, WeChat, a popular free call and text app in China, has integrated the profiles of major celebrities and brands to its subscription list, which allows users to not only follow updates from friends and favourite celebrities, but they can also book reservations at upscale restaurants, donate to UNICEF and receive special mobile-only VIP “cards” for use at large WM Magazine October 2015
department stores. For the first time ever, March 2015 revealed that the four leading mobile messaging apps in the world, had amassed the same amount of users as the four top social networking platforms. To emphasize, that’s Whatsapp, Facebook Mes-
millions of computer-only users. Mull on that for a moment. This means that no matter how we might try to spin it or get away from it, handheld devices and the social media juggernaut of apps that come along with
“Amazing apps are changing the
way we view social media, services and the world around us, making a multitude of new services
”
available with just a few clicks senger, Viber and WeChat, with 2.125 billion active monthly users – those who accessed the apps at least once in a 30-day period and all are mobile users. This is compared to the same number of users of Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn, numbers that also include
them, are going nowhere soon and it’s up to brands to take advantage of their benefits. The amazing impact of bringing products directly to customers via messaging apps has taken hold, with some, like Snapchat’s Discover function, launching with multiple Page 36
international publications. This app’s new function launched with great acclaim and there are plans for expansion.
So how are mobile apps catching up to the social media networking platforms we’ve all grown accustomed to?
Mobile apps allow users to call and text long distance connections without paying long-distance fees and, they are able to exist in a world where favourite services, brands and publications are merged into personalized packages, that are easily accessible from anywhere in the world. It’s honestly surprising that this trend didn’t catch on even sooner.
“
Each brand will require a different strategy, one that best focuses on increasing brand awareness, while delivering what the target audi-
”
ence wants
We like navigating social media to be as easy as possible and mobile apps make connecting with those things most important to us as simple as swiping left. It is therefore up to brands to figure out how to make this continually growing trend work for them. Each brand will require a different strategy, one that best focuses on increasing brand awareness, while delivering what the target audience wants. When these two things are achieved, brands can be on their way to reaping the rewards in a new handheld world.
What’s trending in the world of mass media and business? Stay locked to this page each month to find out!
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No Holds Barred: Forget the Naysayers! When it comes to
entrepreneurship, there will be those who will not see your vision and there will be those who simply do not care to. It is important to know, identify, and define the two. Entrepreneurship is not simply creating a new startup, it is quite literWM Magazine October 2015
ally launching something that is creatively unique. It is tough and you have to sink your teeth into your venture and never let go. However, as social creatures we tend to need support from those around us. We need affirmation that we are doing the right thing and let’s face it, not many people are thrilled
when you say you will be an ‘entrepreneur’. There are many reasons for this: 1) Not many of us were reared and educated to be entrepreneurs. In fact, depending on where you are raised in the world, the focus is on being good leader-employees. Even though we know that there Page 38
must be employers and employees, the majority of us are put in the class of employees. 2) Entrepreneurship is a risky business! Until you’re properly underway, you have little idea what resources and capital you’re really going to need. You only have information based on your research and you have to be able to break that down into something that will turn a profit in a reasonable time.
off the ground. You have to know the difference between those who have good intentions even if they are not as informed on the salient points of your venture, and those who legitimately have no good thoughts towards you at all. Thing is, we are human first and everything else after, so things that others may think shouldn’t bug you, will, and betrayal can be a tough blow if you thought an individual was in your corner. Yet, naysayers have their uses. They’re one of the things that can allow us to firm our chins and exercise our brains to allow our ventures to be glowing successes. This doesn’t mean we work hard just to stick it to them, it’s just a very In light of all of this, nice bonus. there’s no time for those If you take the who will come whispering course of the in your ears, “You can’t entrepreneur, you do this.” Or worse, those will have to toughwho seem to be supporten your hide. ive, but constantly ask for You cannot fall at the first, updates on a project they thirtieth or one thouknow will take at least six sandth obstacle. That’s not months to properly get how this works.
If you lose faith in your product, how can others invest in it? Simply put, they can’t and shouldn’t. So prioritise, decide what is important and what you need to react to. All other things can wait if they are not that important. As always, keep focused, creative and locked onto this mag!
Want No Holds Barred information for the rising entrepreneur? We tell it like it is to help you succeed in business. Look out for this page in future issues!
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Dear WMM, Is a press table really that important? I have seen journalists writing notes without one and they seemed just fine. Also, I’m not sure I will even have the room for a press table. Is it really important to have that table or is it optional? Jane, Communications Officer
WM Magazine October 2015
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Dear Jane, The press table is very important. If you are going to invite the press to any event, you should ensure that you have made necessary provisions for them. When you invite these journalists and photographers, you are asking them to come to your function and work. You would not invite a chef to work in your kitchen without a stove, so a press table is just as essential.
at the very back of the room, but can be along the side, as long as it is facing the podium or stage. It also doesn’t have to be one table. It should be in a designated area for the press, so should also offer flexibility for them to be able to move around and or leave, if they need to. The chairs provided should of course reflect the number of media personnel that will be attending the event.
What we recommend, is for you to factor in For the media, this a media table during table allows them to your event planning know that you were stages. To ensure that thinking of them and all goes well at the believe it or not, it gives them an impres- function, have the sion of your event and press table ‘Reserved’ how they will cover it. and ensure that your ushers or attendants are vigilant, so that The media table like media parking, is a sign when media representatives arrive, they can of respect and underbe shown to the table standing, something that should be thought and set up accordingly. of and executed propNote: For many media erly. This means that the table should not be representatives, one
of the daunting tasks is arriving to an event only to realise that they have to battle with the audience in order to do the job they were sent to do. The media is there to promote and share your event with a ready audience, as such, consideration must be taken to ensure they are well looked after. Have questions? We’ve got answers! Send your media etiquette questions www.waterway-media.com and find out more about the ways you and the media can better work together.
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WM Magazine October 2015