Wealth Magazine i30 by Wealth Magazine Ja #1 Business Publication

MESSAGES

Message from the Office of the Prime Minister The creators of Wealth Magazine have a deep understanding of the importance of investments and entrepreneurship in growing Jamaicaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s economy. Your magazine is an important medium to educate, inspire and empower young persons to create viable business ideas which will contribute to Jamaicaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s economic development. It is commendable that you not only provide young, aspiring entrepreneurs with business ideas but you also provide examples and precepts from other successful entrepreneurs to help their business ideas flourish. This is why we view the Magazine as a significant catalyst in the Governmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s thrust for economic growth and job creation. We are most grateful for the contributions Wealth Magazine makes in engendering a spirit and culture of entrepreneurship and investment. Your deep love and commitment to your country is greatly appreciated. I commend the founders of the Magazine for their ingenuity and creativity in delivering a magazine of this nature and calibre. As you celebrate seven years, we wish you every success in all your endeavours. May your business continue to grow from strength to strength. Most Hon. Andrew Michael Holness, ON, MP Prime Minister

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MESSAGES

Message from the Ministry of Industry, Commerce, Agriculture & Fisheries

Congratulations to the Wealth Magazine team on the occasion of your 7th anniversary. It is noteworthy that in this relatively short period of time, the magazine has made such a significant impact on Jamaicans, many of whom had been desirous for a high quality local publication. During these past seven years, Wealth Magazine has brought to the attention of readers important news and features relating to business and investment. The publication has been, and continues to be, an important resource to the Government, private sector, academia, young people, and the wider Jamaican public. Both in content and finish, Wealth Magazine is a world-class product, and for many, has become an indispensable part of the Jamaican media landscape. The Wealth Magazine founders, Garth Walker and Leighton Davis, along with the other members of the team must be commended for their dedication and commitment in putting out a first-rate magazine. I congratulate you on your 7th anniversary and express my best wishes for your continued success in this and other endeavours. Continue to inspire us, to motivate our young people, to share your unbounded optimism, and to play your role, through Wealth Magazine, in educating, shaping and enriching the lives of Jamaicans, both young and old. I wish you all the best for the future. Hon. Karl Samuda Minister of Industry, Commerce, Agriculture & Fisheries

MESSAGES

Message from the Jamaica Manufacturersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Association

Wealth Magazine, the flagship publication of Creative Media and Events, has established itself as a fierce advocate for entrepreneurial initiatives, wealth creation and also wealth management. The paucity of information that supports activities of this kind is striking, and as the first lifestyle and business publication in Jamaica, the values espoused in the magazine are truly commendable. It is with this background that the Jamaica Manufacturersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Association (JMA) with immense pleasure congratulates Wealth Magazine and its conceptualisers on its 7th anniversary edition. Throughout the years, it has narrated the achievements of those individuals with the drive and tenacity to succeed despite challenges in an ultra-competitive business environment. It has demonstrated that overcoming challenges are the hallmark of great entrepreneurs and has highlighted the essence of timing in seizing the right opportunities. These messages are closely aligned with the principles of the JMA and we are proud to have them reflected in Wealth Magazine. As an Association, we have long supported manufacturing entities in navigating difficulties, and have consistently advocated for an enabling environment to support the growth of businesses. Wealth Magazine continues to be reminiscent of a quality Jamaican product. Through our partnerships, we have underscored the importance of the manufacturing sector in creating developmental opportunities. We look forward to future collaborations and once again, congratulations on this successful venture. Metry Seaga President, Jamaica Manufacturersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Association Ltd.

MESSAGES

Message from the Private Sector Organisation of Jamaica The Private Sector Organisation of Jamaica (PSOJ) is pleased to congratulate Wealth Magazine on its 7th anniversary. In its years of publication, it has become the go-to magazine for young people who aspire to become successful business leaders. It is important that enough examples be provided for those who seek to make their mark in the business community, and the PSOJ is proud of Wealth Magazine for providing one of the most consistent examples through its high-quality features on successful Jamaican businesses and their principals. The regular, consistent focus on purely Jamaican efforts will surely go a long way in inspiring others to take the leap, join the business world and achieve their dreams. This will ultimately lead to the economic growth and development that we as a country are so anxious to see materialise. Wealth Magazineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s continued existence in the Jamaican magazine landscape and ongoing success with its expanding subscription base, is also proof that despite popular belief, our literary arena is alive and well, and receptive to entrepreneurial efforts. Once again, The PSOJ congratulates Wealth Magazine on its 7th anniversary, and we look forward to its continued growth and success. WILLIAM MAHFOOD PRESIDENT THE PRIVATE SECTOR ORGANISATION OF JAMAICA

MESSAGES

Message from the Hon. Lascelles Chin, OD, CD, JP Congratulations Wealth Magazine on seven amazing years of creating a medium that bridges the divide between corporate Jamaica and the people we serve. Wealth Magazine always provides an interesting read as it shares insight and best practices of Jamaicaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most successful businesses and entrepreneurs. Having gone through the struggle of establishing a local business, I fully appreciate the vigour, determination and drive it takes to start, develop and grow an entity. The wealth of knowledge provided in each publication is an excellent guide to entrepreneurial aspirants from persons who have walked the road before them. I encourage the Wealth Magazine team to continue the wonderful work as you mold young minds to be the next great achievers. I toast the success of Wealth Magazineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s seven years of business and eagerly anticipate another seven years of outstanding achievement. The Hon. Lascelles Chin, OD, CD, JP Executive Chairman and Founder of LASCO Affiliated Companies

The Editor’s Survey

apoleon Hill said, “Whatever the mind can conceive and believe, it can achieve.” This is true for Wealth Magazine as it proudly celebrates its 7th anniversary with this distinctive and remarkable issue! Congratulations!

As a lawyer and journalist, I must admit that running this publication has been one of the most unique and fulfilling experiences of my life and I would like to thank all of our extraordinary contributors, readers and designers for that. In tribute to our 7-year anniversary, we dedicated a special section to listing some of our Top-7 favourite things, including the Top 7 Most Interesting Articles Ever Published in Wealth Magazine, Top 7 Influential women under 50, Top7 Best Restaurants in Jamaica and more. We believe that not only will this make for fantastic reading, but that it is a great way to celebrate all that is denoted by Wealth Magazine. So much work went into making this publication exceptional. We ensured that not only did we look back, but that we looked forward as well. We do not claim to have all the answers that will get our country out of this economic mire, however, we are confident that we are playing our part by highlighting, encouraging and motivating entrepreneurs. In line with this actuality, our anniversary issue features interviews with prominent local entrepreneurs and innovators such as the CEO of Hawkeye Security Ltd Ricky Mahfood, and popular chef/caterer, Stephen Hamilton. We chose this publication date, appropriately,

after the General Election, so that we could use the opportunity to discuss the business aspect of it. The election process is not just about selecting our country’s leaders, although that is most pertinent; it is also, undoubtedly about putting forward a business plan that works best for the Jamaican people. The article, ‘The Plan That Won an Election’ by Kalilah Reynolds discusses the Jamaica Labour Party’s financial plan and compares it to that of the People’s National Party’s. The aim of the article is to give the reader a better understanding of Jamaica’s economy along with expounding practical reasons as to why the Jamaica Labour Party managed to win the election. In addition, we feature articles that encourage readers to find their niche if they wish, for their business ventures to be successful. As always, we intend to spread the knowledge of how businesses work to the average Jamaican and to inspire entrepreneurship. As we look forward to the future, we hope that you will continue to support local businesses, including ours, in order to grow our country’s economy, which in turn, will improve the quality of life for every single Jamaican. We appreciate your continued support and we are happy to have you as a reader. Thank you!

Sashakay Fairclough Editor

/wealthmagja

Managing Editors Leighton Davis Garth Walker Editor in Chief Sashakay Fairclough Sales Executives Diana Buchanan Gregg Smith Layout Artist Conroy Green Cover Design Conroy Green Printed in Jamaica By The Herald Printers Special thanks to: Our writers, advertisers, readers, partners, family, friends and the CME Team.

Wealth Magazine

For further information on Wealth Magazine, contact: Creative Media and Events 80 Lady Musgrave Road Kingston 5, Jamaica W.I. Tel: 876.648.6420, 876.754.2076 Fax: 876.754.2070 info@cmeja.com

Publisher Garth Walker & Leighton Davis

www.wealthmagja.com

@wealthmagazine

/wealthmagazinejamaica

Wealth Magazine accepts no responsibility for unsolicited material. This material may not be reproduced, displayed, modified or distributed without the express prior written permission from the publishers.

Publishers’ Note

e are in awe that we are now celebrating our monumental seventh anniversary. For us, this is surreal. In such a short time, Wealth Magazine has grown from a simple idea into an award-winning publication and we could not be more proud and humbled. A lot of hard work and sacrifices were made to get us to this point and we are grateful for all the support we have received over the years. To every editor, writer, advertiser and contributor who has been involved in this publication over the past seven years, we want to say, 'Thank you' from the bottom of our hearts. Jamaica’s economic health is at stake and we know that we cannot accomplish greatness without the leadership of assiduous visionaries. This is why we feature entrepreneurs and business leaders. We aim to continue to encourage and educate people about the importance of creating wealth. Our team focused on the number 7 for a section of the magazine as a representation of the commemoration. Sit back enjoy and let us know your thoughts on this issue and the interesting retrospective articles featured for each of the 7 years. Thank you for your support.

Contributors Sashakay Fairclough Sashakay Fairclough Barrister-at-law and Editor for Wealth Magazine

Laura Tanna

has authored the books Baugh: Jamaica’s Master Potter and Folk Tales and Oral Histories with DVD and CD versions as well as the CD Maroon Storyteller. She does interviews and writes on art, culture and travel for various publications.

Victoria Munro

Victoria Munro is co-founder (along with husband Dave Block) of Make-it-Fly® LLC, a company dedicated to creating success for small-business owners through creatively designed programs and tools.

Beverley Thompson

Beverley Thompson is a B2B/B2C Consultant Sales Strategist and a 2015 Stevie Award Winner

Yanique W.A. Grant Customer Service Strategist Professional Training and Occupational Services Inc. 1840 Coral Way, 4th Floor, Miami FL 33145

Dennis Brooks

Online Editor at Nationwide News Network and Co-Host of Nationwide at Five

Kalilah Reynolds

Online Editor at Nationwide News Network and Co-Host of Nationwide at Five

Garth Walker Managing Editor

Leighton Davis Managing Editor

Contents Table of

18 20 22 24 26 30 32 34 36 38 50 54

56 62 64 70 74 76 78 84 90 92 96 98 104 108 112

Innovation

The 5 Golden Rules of Growing a Business in 2016 Need More Hours in Your Day? Technology Breakthrough Product and Technology - SEEC Understanding the Benefits of LTE Services Feature

Interview with Chef Stephen Hamilton Rick Mahfood- The Hawkeye Experience Finance 4 Economic Benefits of the North-South Highway on your Business Brand Your Business to Be Heard Above the Crowd Key Account Management Cold War; Cola War: A Modern Take on the Age-Old Tussle Between Pepsi and Coke Top 7s Top 7 Influential Women under 50 Fine Dining in Top-7 Best Restaurants in Jamaica Top 7 Most Economically Viable Degrees in Jamaica Top 7 Business Ideas for 2016 Many Moods of Lascelles Chin Putting Manufacturing into Perspective How to Find a Job in a Gloomy Labour Market Are Jamaican Entrepreneurs Happy Jamaica Will Be Ready For Vision 2030 by Year 2070 Weed 101 Entrepreneurship “Budding Entrepreneurs” Woman & Wealth: Savings Goals in Your 20s and 30s Woman & Wealth: Savings Goals in Your 40s and 50s Lifestyle Corporate Mingle The 5 Minute Workout The Miami River District Career

How Better Customer Service Should Be in Your Plans for 2016 Successful Networking’s Secret Ingredient

7th Anniversary Edition | 2016

Cover Story 42

Ayanna Kirton Marketing Manager JAMAICA YELLOW PAGES

1. Tell us about your current position

I am the marketing manager for Jamaica Yellow Pages. My responsibilities include developing, implementing and executing marketing plans in order to attract potential customers and retain existing ones.

2. What motivated you to choose this field?

I consider myself to be a creative person. There really isn’t another area like marketing in the world of business that enables me to really access my full potential.

3. Does social media play an important role in your job?

Social media plays a significant role in my job. I am responsible for determining the nature of the content we share with our fans and followers on a daily basis. It is an excellent way to maintain contact with the young demographic who are the future entrepreneurs, CEOs and CMOs.

4. Tell us something about you that not a lot of people would know.

Some TV commercials make me cry.

5. Use 5 adjectives to describe yourself

1. Kind 2. Impatient 3. Artistic 4. Empathetic 5. Tenacious

6. Where do you see yourself in Five years?

In Five years I see myself working towards owning my own business so that I can spend more time with my family.

7. Do you have any advice for young business professionals?

You can’t become a great marketer overnight. Try to learn more about the field through the resources available around you whether they are free or for a fee. It’s also smart to be open to opportunities even if you won’t be paid for your efforts because the rewards can be reaped in the future in the form of making contacts, getting exposure or even landing future employment.

INNOVATION

The

Golden Rules of Growing

Business in 2016 By: Sashakay Fairclough

1. Learn from your mistakes

4. Ensure existing customers are happy

2. Invest in more advertising and promotion

5. Enjoy what you are doing

There is nothing to be ashamed of so use them to help you grow personally and professionally. Bill Gates, one of the wealthiest men in the world, said “It’s fine to celebrate success but it is more important to heed the lessons of failure.” If you allow your mistakes to control your outlook, it is unlikely that your business will grow. Be optimistic.

In order to grow your business and keep it afloat, your customers need to be satisfied. This will increase the chances of that person returning to your establishment and may result in them telling others about your services. This will in turn equal more customers and more profit.

This is an innovative way to increase your clientele. Combining The best way to be truly dedicated to your it with promotions will create the incentive needed for people to company is to be passionate. Passion comes from visit. enjoying your craft. Do not make money your sole motivator. Tony Hsieh, the founder of Zappos said, “Have fun, the game is a lot more enjoyable 3. Networking when you’re trying to do more than just make John D. Rockefeller said, “If you want to succeed, you should money.” Billionaire Donald Trump also understands strike out new paths, rather than travel worn paths of attempted the importance of loving what you do. He said, success.” Networking is a great way to grow your business. Meet “Money was never motivation for me except as a with other entrepreneurs and discuss ideas. This can pave the way to keep score. The real excitement is playing way for new business partners, customers and even create new, the game.” interesting direction for your company

INNOVATION

Need More Hours

in Your Day? There is a Solution!

f you want more hours in your day, more days in your week, you’re not alone. This is the biggest complaint we hear from entrepreneurs. There is a solution. Of course, we can and should maximie our time, become more efficient, automate and delegate, but this alone won’t resolve the time deficiency crisis. As small business owners, we must balance the many aspects of running a business-marketing, sales, keeping up with customer demands, industry trends and the latest technologies, etc. -with family and friends. The fact that we don’t have to answer to anyone else for how we use our time adds to the challenge. On top of that, we’re constantly barraged with a seemingly endless array of opportunities and new idea-many of them worthwhile, even valuable. There

by Victoria Munro

are more wonderful things to do, to see, to buy- more ways to spend our time, energy and money than resources allow. You simply can’t do it all. If you’re to accomplish your dream and look back in the future without regret, you must identify what’s truly important to you, clarify your vision, keep a laser-like focus on your goal, avoid tempting distractions along the way, and keep on course. Define what you want your business and your life to look like three years from now. Think big, but be realistic or you’ll add more stress. Working backwards from there, ask yourself what you’ll need to achieve in the next two years to get there, then what will you need to have in place 12 months from now? Six months from now? Three months from now?

View requests for your time, energy and money through this filter. Say “no” to distractions, busywork and opportunities that won’t move you towards your goal. Take time out daily, even if it’s five minutes, just to think-focus on your goal, how it will look and feel when you’ve achieved it. Are there better ways to reach it? Hang a picture of it on the wall where you spend the most time. Prioritise your tasks in light of this. Define daily the one most important task that will move you forward towards your goal. There really are enough hours in the daybut only if you define what’s important to you. You’ll need to spell out your vision, keep a laser focus and be choosy about how you spend your time. Only then will you begin to get time on your side.

TECHNOLOGY

Breakthrough Product & Technology Seec ANDROID APP

By: Sashakay Fairclough

he latest innovation to hit the local mobile phone application (app) sector is ‘Seec’. This is an acronym for Search Everything Everywhere in Cities.

This one-of-a-kind app, which will soon be featured in the Caribbean region, is as ingenious as its name suggests. The main purpose of it is to allow users to search for information on businesses and services in Jamaica’s major cities and towns. Its rich local data, coupled with its easy search capabilities equip users with the ability to discover exactly what they are looking for with contextually relevant results. Apart from providing locations and general business and service information, the easy-to-use app provides daily foreign exchange rate updates, locations of ATMs nearby, movie theatre locations and show times for cinemas across Jamaica, news and much more. It is meticulously built front to back in order to provide businesses with powerful tools to help them get listed on the system, which will ultimately position them for greater sales and recognition. In June 2014, Seec launched a public validation Beta to test its technology and product acceptance rate. The organic response was unfathomable with over 5,000 downloads, hundreds of positive comments and the highest ratings in its category. This result encouraged the co-founders to execute a rollout. Its co-founders are Mathematics and Actuarial majors with broad global expertise, understanding and engineering experience. This is evident with the responsiveness and uptime of Seec as it continues to function, almost flawlessly. They are now raising funds to build the company and have received significant pre commitments. They have indicated that both the public acceptance and value to businesses provide them with several scalable revenue models, which they intend to deploy a few at a time. The future of technology and innovation in Jamaica and the region is bright. Seec is currently available on Android, with iOS coming soon and may be downloaded from the Google playstore. For queries about the product or to get in touch, they may be contacted at info@sifistudios.com

TECHNOLOGY

LTE

UNDERSTANDING THE BENEFITS OF

SERVICES By: Ayesha Creary

arriers around the world have upgraded—or are in the process of upgrading—their networks to boast new technology. There has been a great deal of interest since new telecoms licensee, Symbiote Investments trading as Caricel, announced that they would be launching the first ever 4G LTE service in Jamaica. But what is this new technology and why do we need it? It is important that everyone understands that the benefits of 4G LTE extend beyond speed.

LTE, short for Long Term Evolution, is the next big thing. It’s a part of the fourth generation (4G) of mobile technology. This standard is not just focused on improving download speed, but has been designed to improve upload speed. It supports a theoretical peak upload limit of 50 Mbps, orders of magnitude faster than 3G considering some of the definitions of mobile broadband guarantee a miniscule minimum speed of only 256 Kbps.

It is true that 4G networks can be around 10 times faster than 3G networks so speed is a real benefit, however that is not all! Focusing exclusively on speed misses some of the more subtle, but more important benefits. With LTE, individuals will be able to upload and download, stream videos or music and essentially do anything on the web using their mobile phones and tablets almost as fast as if they were on a broadband connection. LTEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s faster upload and download speed will give application developers more options for creating better user experiences on mobile devices for gaming, banking, socialising, shopping, watching videos and more via the web or apps. Whereas previous versions of cellular networks were mostly circuit switched, LTE is all Internet Protocol (IP). This represents a huge shift in the architecture of mobile networks. Apart from speed, these are the added benefits:

Better audio quality

Circuit-switched networks only offer narrowband communications, which is why older phones sound like tin cans when you talk on them. With 4G, service providers can offer wideband audio services, which, when compared to the older services, sound far, far better.

Communication beyond voice

LTE is an all-IP system, it has to turn voice calls into digital data, and send them over the network as voice-over-IP (now often called voice-over-LTE, or VoLTE). With an IP-based network, true unified communications and collaboration become possible. Collaboration tools on mobile devices and things like presence, chat, and web meetings become common features that are part of the communications ecosystem. Video, likewise becomes more important, so expect to see more video meetings and conferences.

Network administration

An IP network is much less expensive for the service provider to run on a day-to-day basis compared to legacy networks. With circuit switching, once a call is established, the circuit stays in place whether someone is talking or not. IP networks are far more dynamic and share resources more efficiently. Once customers experience the difference in audio, video and network quality they will never want to go back to narrowband again.

FEATURE

Stephen Hamilton

Chef

By Sashakay Fairclough

s a young boy growing up in Kingston, esteemed caterer Stephen Hamilton always knew he wanted to be a chef/caterer. He proudly recalls cooking rice and peas at just 13 years old to rave reviews from his mother and even volunteering at his school’s canteen. During the course of his Hospitality and Tourism Management degree at the University of Technology (UTech), Hamilton continued to volunteer at various establishments, including the Grand Palladium Hotel in Lucea, Hanover and the Altamont Court Hotel in New Kingston in order to work on his craft. He even cooked for the UTech rugby team.

Though the 27-year-old began cooking professionally in 2008, his notoriety increased after he won the ‘Grace One Pot’ competition in 2011. He went on to achieve considerable success in several other competitions, including creating the best egg recipe for CB Chicken that same year and winning the Best Lionfish competition in Negril for the Caribbean Culinary Network in 2012. “I beat over 200 people, most of the others used one hour to cook their lion fish, but I cooked three in exactly that time.” Stints on television programmes such as CVM at Sunrise and TVJ’s Smile Jamaica have cemented his stature as one of Jamaica’s brightest and most creative caterers. His reputation

supersedes him as his impressive portfolio boasts several celebrity clients, including Usain Bolt, Leader of the opposition Portia Simpson Miller and popular dancehall superstar Shaggy, who used Hamilton as a caterer when he was shooting a video for his hit song ‘You Girl’ with International R&B Icon Neyo in 2013. He is an assiduous individual who shows no sign of slowing down, regardless of how much he has accomplished.

“I catered to 78 weddings last year and became the first caterer to sponsor a Miss Jamaica Universe in the pageant’s history. I sponsored Sharlene Radlein, and of course, she won!” The history maker has a remarkable way of turning ordinary, everyday food items into luxurious delicacies. “I use food people take for granted and turn it into something exquisite and exotic, for example I take

Chef Stephen Hamilton 27

cassava and combine it with curry and egg. I then make the most delicious curry egg casserole.” Once his dreams were finally realised, he established the famous ‘Eskay Catering’ which was registered in 2012. He has 114 full and part-time employees. His favourite dish to prepare is guava time-infused pork chops spewed with cane juice. It is a representation of not only his predilection for pork, but for preparing it in distinctive ways which make it ineluctable for diners. He incorporates his favourite ingredient, the parsley, into the vast majority of his dishes. “As a herb, it is rich in texture and can be added to anything,” Hamilton indicates. Surprisingly, the caterer lists Burger King and KFC as the restaurants where he has his best dining experiences. He divulges that the set standard ensures that the food is always the same. This prevents disappointment on the part of the customers as the taste never changes, even if the chefs do.

He enjoys life as a caterer and marvels at the alluring places he has had the opportunity to visit. One of his favourites is a woman’s back yard which he describes as paradise. “She had a stream running through her house and there were chairs in the water. It was magnificent. All the male employees wore cargo pants which was uniformed and made them stand out.” In terms of new developments, Hamilton wants to have his own reality show. “I want to have a culinary show on TV where about 12 chefs compete for a grand prize. Hopefully it will happen this year or next.” He also dreams of compiling his own recipe book and to do more with his consultancy company known as Eskay Consultancy. It is currently under the umbrella of Eskay Catering, but he hopes to bring it out on its own. All these developments will come together to form Eskay Group of Companies.

Hamilton in contemplative mood

FEATURE

Ricky Mahfood

The Hawkeye Experience

hen businessman Richard Mahfood started Hawkeye Security Ltd 28 years ago, in February 1988, he could not have imagined that it would have grown into the extremely successful, islandwide enterprise that it has become. Wealth Magazine spoke with the dynamic owner to find out the secret to his immense prosperity.

1. Can you give us some background as to why you started a security company? What are the services offered?

In 1985, my brother Mark Mahfood started a security company called Ranger Security. It was a company that just offered security guards. We discussed electronic security at the end of 1987 and Hawkeye was born in February 1988. The items/services we offer include panic alarms, intrusion detection and smoke detection systems, gate automation/barriers, and many others. 30

2. What has been your greatest milestone thus far? When I reflect on where we are coming from I feel very proud; when we started out, we only had a handful of employees, now we have about 1,800 of them and over 10,000 customers.

3. What values/philosophies define your company? As a Christian, my values are founded and driven by my faith, so honesty and integrity are pertinent. I also think it is important to develop relationships with staff and customers. We aim to do what we say we will do and even if we make mistakes we accept responsibility. Honesty and integrity are always paramount in our personalised service.

4. Thinking of your consumers (current and prospective), what, if any, security issues keep you up at night? Not delivering on what we promise, which is to keep customers safe and secure. We invest in the best systems and train our staff as best as we possibly can, but I always wonder if there is anything we can do better. I am always looking to improve.

5. What distinguishes your services from those of the competition? What are the unique selling points/special features or characteristics? We set ourselves apart by the quality of service we deliver, so staff selection is carefully done. In fact, we spend over $20 million a year just on training our staff. We also place a high value on the quality of the products we import. We buy products from all over the world and do proper research and testing before we take each one on board. We are unique because we provide a diverse mix of products and services. For example, guarding and CCTV. We even updated our monitoring software to allow us to monitor our response time and we believe we offer the fastest response time in the industry.

6. The Security Industry has become a high tech, dynamic world to operate in, What new and exciting things can we expect to see over the next decade from the industry and from Hawkeye? There will be a significant increase in video surveillance and smart video solution. This will reduce the need for guards and will also reduce the security cost to customers. We now offer the option for people to put cameras on their smart phones so even if they are not home, or at their place of business, they can still see what is going on there.

7. What importance do regular and new customers have for you and how do you achieve customer loyalty? In my opinion, customer loyalty is earned through excellent service delivery, not promotions or pricing. If they receive the service that they pay for, then they will stay. We like to get feedback from our customers.

8. Are there national/international activities? In what regions/countries are you active? What plans for expansion are there? We are going to be stepping out into another place within the next few months so keep an eye out.

9. Is there anything else you would like to share with our readers? I want to acknowledge the Hawkeye staff for their hard work and commitment over the years. When it comes to our customers, some have been with us from February 1988. We appreciate them all. Finally, I would like to give God thanks for the growth and success of the company.

FINANCE

North 4 Economic Benefits of the

South

Highway on your Business

By: Sashakay Fairclough

he new toll fees have finally been implemented and while most company directors have begun worrying about the ways the exorbitant fees will affect their businesses, quite a few are still optimistic that it will not dissuade travellers.

Below are 4 ways in which toll roads have proven benefitial to businesses.

Research has shown that toll roads generally have a positive impact on businesses rather than a negative one, no matter how purportedly high the rate is.

No time is wasted in traffic and the smoothly paved roads ensure an expeditious journey. Traffic congestion and long travel distances have always been an economic market failure so

1. The most encouraging factor for toll road users is that they are able to save.

the toll road will allow for an increase in users who travel to do their shopping or other errands so businesses in the North and South will gain more clients/customers.

2. Toll users save money.

Though they are required to pay a fee they spend less on gas and general wear and tear on their vehicles. This means that they will have more to spend or invest when they reach their destinations.

3. When it comes to business owners, toll roads have an extremely positive impact on productivity and economic vitality.

According to a report from the U.C. Berkeley Institute for Transportation, businesses do not only lose productivity, but they also face major costs by simply sitting in traffic. This can result in missed shipments and deliveries, plus higher operating figures.

4. Toll roads result in greater safety for travellers. Apart from the preservation of life, in particular that of employees and potential consumers, the secure environment safeguards equipment and products being hauled for companies. Directors worry less when their drivers take the toll road because of this fact.

FINANCE

Brand Your Business to

BeAbove Heard the Crowd! By Victoria Munro

xperts tell us that we’re exposed to more than 5,000 marketing messages every day. Your clients and prospects are on marketing overload, and getting your message heard above the crowd can be a challenge. Branding your company can help you do just that, and to survive and thrive in today’s competitive marketplace you need to be heard! Contrary to what you might have heard, branding doesn’t have to cost a fortune. Large corporations certainly spend millions of dollars to brand products. However, entrepreneurs and consultants, willing to invest the time and effort, can brand their services and products affordably.

Branding Basics: What is Branding Anyway?

Branding encompasses the entire “feel” associated with your company. It’s expressed in your every communication: the way the phone is answered, the look of your printed materials and website and how you network in the community. It’s your company’s reputation within your particular marketplace. It’s an implied promise made to your customers that helps build trust, confidence and loyalty. 34

For a small business, the brand is inextricably linked to the owner. It represents your values, expertise and personality. To some degree, it will take on your personality.

Branding Benefits Branding your business: - Enables you to attract the right clients by reaching them with a relevant message that speaks directly to their need; - Communicates a clear and consistent message that builds credibility and trust. - Helps to develop strong, loyal relationships between you and your target customers, and - Gives a competitive edge that helps customers and prospects to easily remember your services and products when they have a need When a company’s printed materials, website and signage send a consistent message with similar text, graphics and colours, it conveys a solid, professional image. It provides the level of

comfort a potential client may need to do business with that company. Check to see if you are communicating a mixed or confusing message that might undermine your credibility and professionalism. Perhaps use a focus group to give you objective feedback.

Pick your differentiator. Stand for one thing that sets you apart: that single unique quality that gives you a competitive advantage – your unique selling proposition. You probably do many things well, but you can’t effectively communicate a laundry list of strengths.

Seven Steps to Brand Your Business: 1. You are the key, so before you begin, it’s essential to review

Warning: You can’t brand “excellent products” or “good service.” Your customers automatically expect this.

what is really important to you and your business. Understanding your core values personally and as a business is an essential foundation.

Identify your target market. Select a specific market niche. When you want as many customers as possible, cutting out the larger market to concentrate on one small segment can appear to defy logic. However, the narrower your niche, the more effectively you’ll be able to communicate your message.

3. Learn everything you can about your clients’ businesses. Understand the challenges they face, and their greatest needs and desires that your services or products meet. 4. Know your market. Know your competitors, their strengths

and weaknesses, what they are known for, what they claim to do best. Identify your position – where you fit within that market.

With the above information in mind, write your Branding Proposition. Keep it simple, and make sure it’s easy to understand. You must captivate your audience immediately with a relevant and compelling message that includes your logo. In studies, people shown text with graphics remembered more than when shown text alone.

Consistently communicate your message across every medium you use – print, web and telephone contact. Ensure that employees, clients and strategic partners understand and can explain your brand.

FINANCE

Key Account Management

Is it about selling products or solving business problems?

s your company selling at the right margins? Are your sales executives product pushers or problem solvers? What’s the cost per sale? Do they talk price first and always need to sell at a discount? These are questions every business leader has to answer about the sales organisation. Have you ever seen a situation where sales people fulfil orders for the same client over an extended period and never stop to understand the strategic direction and priorities of the client, the issues they have to confront daily, or even engaging at the senior leadership level? Sadly, this is a very common practice. This approach to sales not only prevents your business from reaching its revenue potential, but it also denies some clients the opportunity to contemplate the different options (with your company) that could bring increased value. Very often, it’s not what you sell, but how you sell – sales executives must raise the standard of conversation and engage at the strategic level. This could be the single differentiator between you and the competitor. At the end of the day, people buy from people they know and trust. I will share with you some tips that will help your key account managers utilise one aspect of the client-focused sales engagement process that is guaranteed to deliver results:

Demonstrate you know what drives your customer business - It shows you understand the big picture 36

by Beverley Thompson

Whether it be the car wash, the restaurant, the chemical manufacturer, or the blue chip company, they share the same objectives. They all want to make money at the lowest cost, do it efficiently and grow and protect their customer base. Put another way – grow revenues and market share, lower operational costs and increase efficiency. Most decisions are prioritised around these pillars. With this in mind, can you visualise the opportunity cost (for your sales organisation) of not resolving business issues? You must be able to uncover what’s critical to the survival of your client, connect the dots and create the opportunity for your product to be prioritised as part of the overall plan to lower operational costs. Have your key account managers earned the right to speak to the C-Suite? Can they engage a CEO or VP on business goals without talking about products? Do you think that this is even possible? Or, are they talking to implementers at the operational level only. All CEOs I speak with, welcome refreshing thought provoking conversations that help to fine-tune their own ideas. Remember they have the burden of the organisation on their shoulders. Take for example, the inventory manager of a medium-sized company rescheduled your meeting with him at least three times before. He suddenly calls you back to explain that he needs a roadmap that will demonstrate an ROI that will help them save production costs in the next two years, while increasing accountability and efficiency. (What product have we spoken of so far?) You earned this new development because

you researched the company and used your relationships to get a conversation with the CEO over coffee and he found your insights valuable. You connected with what was important to that CEO. He then reprioritised his inventory managers’ focus because he sees where implementing your scalable solution matched the mandate from the Board, to cut cost by 20 per cent in the next two years. That’s exactly what the Board wants to hear. What’s better, talking to middle managers only or including CEOs in the conversation as well?

However, they must be solid questions that seek to understand who, what, how, whys among other things. Here are a few openers to get a good view of any situation:

Ask great questions – This is where the money is made

Listen keenly for clues. Things you need to know more about – this expands yours and the client’s view of the situation and/or solution:

Are your brochures the centrepiece for client meetings? It should not be, because the buyer’s journey is not defined by a company’s internal sales process anymore. Also, features and benefits conversations are long gone. Today’s consumers are mobile, digitally driven, socially connected and empowered. Buyers are learning, comparing and doing peer reviews in the social space long before they engage a provider. This is a recommendation-based sales economy. After a buyer has read all the reviews about a product, what difference will the sales executive make? The sales consultant uses insight selling to remove clutter, bring clarity and help the buyer put all the pieces together to match his/her unique situation. The consultant is the expert that has seen so many implementations in different types of businesses that they expand the client’s view of the solution. They use skilled questioning techniques to make a difference. The good old adage of open-ended questioning still holds true.

•• •• •• ••

•• •• •• •• ••

What’s driving the need to do this now? Who has the best understanding of how this fits into strategy? Why is this not progressing as planned? How does this affect your customers?

Can you tell me more about …….? What’s the impact if this is not resolved in the medium term? Can you quantify the impact of late deliveries? Have you ever thought about ……..? What if you were to…….?

Questions such as these help to shape the context in which the solution is to be considered and cause the customer to feel confident that you have a good grasp of their environment. When you genuinely stimulate thought-provoking customer centred conversations, your customer will always seek your opinion before they make important moves. That could also include getting your opinion about what should be included in the next request for proposal they are thinking of doing. When you occupy the mindshare of your customer, exceeding sales targets is not a concern.

FINANCE

Cold War; Cola War:

A Modern Take on the Age Old Tussle Between Pepsi and Coke

o ahead; admit it. At some point in your life, whether as a child, youth or adult, you’ve not only debated which was better, you tried to do one of those blind taste tests! That’s right. You reading this magazine have been drawn in at some point to this dialectic struggle between the two global powerhouses of the effervescent cola drink world. For over a century, workers representing both companies – regardless of the country they were operating in – have woken up every morning and gone to work knowing full well that the other party was their main competitor in the market. The Coca-Cola Company was established over 130 years, while the Pepsi-Cola Company, as it was originally referred, has been in business for just under 120 years. This is a war that has done well for both companies. It’s one that has driven each to greater levels of productivity and profitability. It’s been somewhat of a ‘happy battleground’ that has served to make both Coke and Pepsi better companies globally.

By: Dennis Brooks

This dynamic is true of the fight for dominance in the Jamaican drinks market as well. At one time or another, both Pepsi and Coca-Cola can claim bragging rights in the jockeying for pride of place in the Jamaican Cola drink market. And yet, the question must still be asked as to which of the two is currently ruling the roost.

A Lesson in Consistency

Today, the market is much more competitive, with both companies fiercely defending their market share. However, this was not always the case. For some time, Coca-Cola was treated like the wandering orphan seeking a foster home. That search came to an end in 2010 when the Wisynco Group assumed control of the bottling and distribution. Wisynco Chairman, William Mahfood, believes that it was a lack of stability that caused the Coca-Cola brand to flounder in the past, causing it to not realise its potential. “One of the biggest challenges Coke had here in Jamaica was a lack of continuity. They had many different bottlers going back over 40 years. At one point, Carreras may

have been the bottler… there was a Dominican Republic firm, they sold the franchise back to Coca-Cola (the parent company in USA) itself. Coke established its own operation here. That didn’t do well so they sold the business to Facey Commodity. He didn’t do well with it so he sold it to a Puerto Rican group who had the franchise in Trinidad and that is who we bought it from,” Mahfood explains. While Wisynco assumed full control of Coke in 2010, their relationship with the product began a decade ago, since they began distribution of the product in 2006. At the time, there was no doubt in Mahfood’s mind about who ‘ruled the roost’ in the Jamaican Cola market. “At the time in 2006 I don’t think Coke had five percent of the Cola category. That’s how strong Pepsi was,” he said. Mahfood insists that the constant changes took a toll on both the CocaCola brand as well as the integrity of the product itself. “Because of so many changes - in ownership, the bottler and distribution – the lack of consistency of supply was a real problem. A lot of customers were upset with the brand just because it was so inconsistent.” In order to claw a space in the market, which was almost completely dominated by Pepsi at the time, Wisynco sought to restore customer confidence in availability. Once that was done, the task turned to branding amongst a younger demographic. “A lot of the focus groups that were done found that Coke was not a youthful brand, but Pepsi was a very youthful and engaging brand,” Mahfood reveals. Determined to knock Pepsi off its perch, Wisynco went aggressively after the youth market by making the product available in schools as well as areas and events at which teens and other youths could be engaged. By branding the product as hip and youthful, Coke has been able to claw back significant market share. Among those activities were the successful World Cup Trophy Tour ahead of the Brazil World Cup in 2014 as well as the extremely successful ‘Share a Coke’ global campaign, where persons got their personalised bottle. “In the last 10 years, coming from having less than 5 per cent of market – although Pepsi probably still has the greater market share – we have brought it back really close to where it’s almost neck-and-neck. Today, over the last year and a half, the Jamaican Coca-Cola market is the fastest growing in the world,” he shares.

Pepsi’s Incredible Staying Power

By Mahfood’s own admission, Pepsi hasn’t been sitting around twiddling it’s thumbs for the last few decades. The incredible work of the brand throughout the years has been manifested in its ability to maintain dominance in spite of, not just Coca Cola, but the ‘also ran’ colas as well. When Wealth Magazine caught up with trade market manager at Pepsi Jamaica, Ricardo Skyers, he suggested that Pepsi’s staying power in the Jamaican market is down to the ability of the company to tap into the creative energy of the Jamaican culture throughout the years. “Our continued dominance is attributed to a strong local market strategy based into the global guideline, but executed with all the relevant attributes Jamaicans love, that is the music, food et cetera. In other words, Pepsi’s strategy always surrounds the Jamaican values,” he says.

While admitting that Coke has made significant gains in the last 10 years, the folks at Pepsi appear to be supremely confident in their product quality and the loyalty of their consumers. As in the global competition, Pepsi Jamaica knows the battle for market share has always been and will always be tough. “This market is very challenging and very competitive. The categories we operate have been segmented with lots of new initiatives. On the Pepsi side, we brought innovations in energy, flavour and CSD. The competition is strong, but the quality of the products and investment behind distribution, marketing and trade marketing have been big factors that allow us to enjoy leadership in all categories. Our competitor has also been executing trade activities around price,” Skyers is careful to note. In the 1990s and early 2000s, Pepsi seemed to have a much more aggressive marketing strategy. The brand seemed omnipresent (rightly or wrongly). Some would suggest that the company is much less visible in recent years. However, Ricardo Skyers says the company remains bullish in the market and says 2016 is actually proving to be quite a busy year. “Pepsi’s platform this year is one of the strongest we have been able to execute in the Jamaican market. We started the year with the most popular emoji campaign and for summer we are coming with an exciting music platform that will enhance our brands and increase brand indicators and establish our image amongst Jamaicans.” One of the most obvious areas in which Pepsi and Coke have sought to duke it out in recent years is in the area of large corporate contracts. William Mahfood is quite proud of the fact that Wisynco has secured contracts for their beverages in several of the island’s large fast food and hotel chains. Yet again, Pepsi remains resilient in this regard as well. “In the competitive market we operate, we will continue to add value to all segment including restaurants and hotels. Recently, we signed several new contracts, like with the Marriott Hotel in Kingston. In restaurants, we continue to achieve growth and we have the majority of the QSR in Jamaica; for example, KFC and Tastee. We continue to negotiate with big players to provide the world-class service that our Jamaican market deserve,” Skyers emphasised. Coca-Cola, under the stewardship of Wisynco, can take considerable kudos for clawing back so much of a market that Pepsi has ruled for so long. Once upon a time, it could be said that ‘Jamaica is Pepsi country’, given that Pepsi was such a dominant force in all the major fast food chains, schools, shops and preferred watering holes. But the dynamics have changed. The cola landscape has shifted. Coca-Cola has closed the massive gap between itself and its ‘beloved enemy’. Pepsi Jamaica is insistent that it will not roll over and play dead. The red side’s resurgence in the market has been a wake-up call for the blue side of the market too. Pepsi continues to wear its crown, even if the shine has dimmed somewhat. Whatever is your preference; whichever side you take in this age old fight for supremacy, this ‘cold war’ between two of the world’s most exciting cold beverage brands isn’t ending any-time soon. In Jamaica, bottles have been made smaller, in order to appeal to different market segments, and creative strategies are being fine-tuned even as you turn the pages of this magazine. The competition remains fierce and the profit margins are constantly being monitored. One thing is for certain, neither of these two giants of the Jamaican cola drink market is backing down any-time soon.

COVER STORY

By: Kalilah Reynolds

“To help our economy grow and help you take care of your families, we will get rid of personal income tax for everyone who earns JA$1.5 million or less.” – JLP Leader Andrew Holness announcing the party’s Ten Point Plan in a national broadcast on February 3, 2016. 42

t was less than a month to go before the February 25 General Election, and the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) needed something big. Opinion polls were showing the People’s National Party (PNP) with a lead of up to five percentage points. The governing administration was banking on their stewardship of the economy, having passed 10 consecutive IMF tests under the leadership of then Finance Minister Dr. Peter Phillips. Growth—although small—was beginning to return to the economy, and business and consumer confidence was at the highest ever recorded in the 15 years the survey had been conducted. The PNP administration was promising 100,000 jobs through the establishment of Special Economic Zones, Business Processing Outsourcing (BPOs), and other areas. The JLP needed to come hard. And they did. The Ten Point Plan was a game changer, which many believe swung the election in their favour, winning critical votes for a party that ended up winning by the skin of its teeth—a one seat majority in Parliament. Although the Ten Point Plan included other ideas like creating a Ministry of Economic Growth and Job Creation, and reforming the National Housing Trust (NHT), it was the $1.5 million plan that immediately caught the nation’s attention and imagination. “What would you do with an extra $18,000 a month?” asked the JLP in glitzy television ads promoting the plan. For a nation in which the average monthly income is only about $55,000, the answer is, “a lot”. Of course, the $18,000 was not for everybody. Only those earning close to $1.5 million a year would receive that amount once their income taxes were abolished; others

would get less, and those who did not pay income tax at all would obviously get nothing back. Meanwhile, taxes would actually be increased for those earning more than $5 million a year. With 118,000 voters falling within the JLP’s targeted bracket for income tax relief, the party likely reckoned this would be enough to tip them over the edge, and it also did not hurt if others erroneously thought they too would benefit. The promise became even more attractive with then JLP spokesman on Finance, Audley Shaw’s declaration that the tax break would come into effect as early as April 1, 2016. The JLP was tapping into people’s natural self-interest, offering immediate cash in their pockets, as opposed to the PNP’s strategy of focusing on macro-economic policy, which may have seemed aloof to the average voter, and the ruling party’s obsession with the JLP leader’s mansion. The JLP won the popular vote by a margin of only 3,237 votes – 436,976 to the PNP’s 433,735 in an election marred by voter turnout of only 48 per cent.

Not a Perfect Plan

Despite its virtues and mass appeal, the $1.5 million tax plan was not perfect. The PNP claimed it would cost the country some $30bn to implement, and said it would derail their progress under the IMF programme. The JLP countered that it would cost less than half those estimates, about $12.5 bn, and would be revenue neutral, meaning they would not have to raise additional taxes to compensate for the loss in revenues.

Hon. Audley Shaw (left) Minister of Finance, in discussion with Prime Minister Andre Holness. 43

Prime Minister Andrew Michael Holness (left) greeted by Governor General Sir Patrick Allen at the swearing in ceremony for the Prime Minister

Their proposal was to reallocate funds from the Special Consumption Tax (SCT) on petrol, which was being used to finance an insurance policy to protect against high oil prices, also called an oil hedge, to pay for the bulk of the tax break. They were also banking on a multiplier effect they claimed would be created by increased spending in the economy once Jamaicans had more money in their pockets, as well as greater revenues from better collection of General Consumption Tax (GCT). However, the PNP also pointed to anomalies within the then Opposition’s three-tier tax plan. Under the JLP’s proposed system, those earning just above the $1.5 million threshold, up to about $1.8 million, would be at a disadvantage. This group of people would still pay 25 per cent of their salaries in income tax, and would therefore take home less money than people who on paper earn less than they do. The PNP claimed it would result in situations where some junior employees would be making more than their supervisors. They also said it would be a disincentive to promotion, as workers would prefer to stay in the lower tax bracket in order to benefit from the income tax exemption. The JLP was never able to adequately respond to these concerns, except to say that they would smooth things out after the election. Still, many voters either ignored or

overlooked these issues, and elected the JLP to form the next Government. Shortly after taking office, and just days before the new Finance Minister’s self-imposed April 1 deadline, Audley Shaw delivered the first indication that the government’s signature tax plan may not be as easy to implement as originally imagined. Speaking at a forum hosted by the Private Sector Organisation of Jamaica (PSOJ), the minister indicated that funds collected from the SCT, which should have been set aside in a sub-account of the Consolidated Fund for the oil hedge, had actually not been set aside, but had been consumed by the larger Consolidated Fund for general budgetary matters. “You will recall we had suggested that part of the payback for the $1.5-million tax break would be use of the tax on fuel — that was supposed to be a special fund that was set aside, couldn’t be touched. Well, now that we are at the National Heroes Circle, among other things I’ve found that the oil hedge was not set aside. That is already accounted for in the Consolidated Fund. As it turns out now, it’s not set aside at all. So in other words, it’s not available as part of the solution to financing the tax break,” Shaw revealed. The SCT represented the bulk of the funds—some $9.5

billion—on which the new government was depending to finance the $12.5 billion plan. However, the Finance Minister said the administration was already working on Plan B, even if it meant delaying implementation, yet making it retroactive to April. He said a revamped plan would be revealed during his Budget presentation to Parliament on May 12.

The New Plan: 1.5+

The Finance Minister’s opening of the Budget debate was one of the most highly anticipated in recent political history, with all eyes on Shaw, waiting for word of “the 1.5”. The government’s new plan was markedly different from the one presented on the campaign trail. “We’re going to phase it in. We will do this in two phases, by first going to a Personal Income Tax threshold of $1,000,275 effective July 1, 2016, and then we will phase in to a Personal Income Tax threshold of $1.5 million effective April 1, 2017,” Minister Shaw announced to great applause in Gordon House, adding that the redesigned plan would now benefit over 250,000 people. However, Shaw also announced an accompanying $13.8 billion tax package, including an additional $7 per litre SCT on gasoline, and an increase in departure tax. Critics said the JLP had broken its promise to remove income taxes without raising other taxes, and was effectively increasing the tax burden on other Jamaicans who would not benefit from the raising of the income tax threshold. They also zoomed in on the new July 1 implementation date, a three-month delay. As outlined by Minister Shaw, the IMF also had a significant impact on the redesigned plan, particularly in the administration’s decision to raise consumption taxes. “We also took under serious advisement what the IMF had to say about the plan. They were concerned with ensuring that any plan addresses the issues of fairness, equity … and that the revenue loss would be replaced by recurring revenues. We consider the IMF’s input into the design of the tax plan to be immensely important and we took on board and incorporated into the tax plan everything the IMF required,” Shaw explained. Many interpreted that to mean that with just a year to go under the IMF’s Extended Fund Facility (EFF), the multilateral would not have endorsed the income tax plan without the accompanying revenue measures, despite the JLP’s promise that this would not have been necessary.

First Payday

The true impact of the 1.5 will be determined in the coming months, beginning as early as the end of July when PAYE wage earners will get up to $8,489 more in their pockets following the first payday under the new system. The administration anticipates this will have a stimulating effect on the economy, as people increase spending and consumption with their newly acquired income. Already, the Planning Institute of Jamaica (PIOJ) is projecting 2 per cent economic growth for the current economic year, better than the country has experienced in several years. With the new administration’s determination to multiply that growth to an average of 5 per cent within four years, the JLP hopes “the 1.5” will indeed be the catalyst that gets the country on the path to prosperity.

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Mariame McIntosh Robinson President and CEO First Global Bank

Mariame McIntosh Robinson is the President and CEO of First Global Bank. The Harvard and Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) graduate and Rhodes Scholar was appointed to the position on February 1, 2016. Prior to that, she was a Partner at Portland Private Equity. She has worked for global consulting firms and has advised CEOs of Fortune 500 companies. Outside her professional life, Mrs. Robinson actively participates in a Charity called TEACH Jamaica, an educational NGO she founded with other Rhodes Scholars which is concerned with the provision of quality education for Jamaicaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s underprivileged young people.

Sheree Martin

Senior Vice-President JPS

Sheree Martin is the current Senior Vice-President of Customer and Corporate Services at Jamaica Public Service Company (JPS). She started the job on January 1, 2014. Prior to joining JPS, she was the General Manager - Customer Service and Innovation at National Commercial Bank (NCB), where she was responsible for improving the bankâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s customer service offerings. Spending the bulk of her career in banking, her NCB posts included: General Manager; Assistant General Manager; Marketing and Service Delivery; Corporate Communications; Manager, Personal Banking ; and Manager, Employee Relations.

Tina Myers-Matalon

Marketing Director Restaurants of Jamaica

As Marketing Director Restaurants of Jamaica, the operators of KFC and Pizza Hut, Mrs. Matalon is as well known in Jamaica as the restaurants themselves. Her marketing skills are the main reason why the likes of KFC remains one of the top fast food outlets on the island. She doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t stop and her reputation for hard work precedes her. She is a brand builder and socialite; the perfect combination for the perfect marketing director.

Novia McDonald Whyte

Senior Associate lifestyle editor Jamaica Observer

Novia McDonald Whyte has been the Senior Associate Lifestyle Editor at the Jamaica Observer for nearly two decades. She joined the Jamaican Observer in 1997 and is an expert on fashion, food and lifestyle in general. She was conferred with an Order of Distinction in 2014 which she received it for her service to journalism and innovation in the creation of two Observer events, Take Style Out and The Food Awards.

Lisa Hanna

Member Of Parliament (MP)

The Miss Jamaica World 1993 is a member of the Peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s National Party and the MP for South East St. Ann, an area she has represented since 2007. As the youngest woman to be elected to the Jamaican Parliament, Miss Hanna was Minister of Youth and Culture from 2012 to 2016. She holds a bachelor and masters degrees in Communication from the University of the West Indies and continues to make strides in Jamaica. She is well admired and is as influential as they come.

Yaneek Page

Producer Innovators & Director Future Services international ltd.

As creator and executive producer of the popular television show, “The Innovators”, she has a passion for business. The show promotes entrepreneurship development. Ms. Page is also the founder and Managing Director of Future Services International Limited (FSIL). It is a company that provides funding for civil legal disputes. She has received several awards; for example, in the United States she received an award for Enterprising Woman of the Year (2015) and Female Business Leader of the Year (2013). In Jamaica, she received The Gleaner/PSOJ 50 Under Fifty Awards in 2012. Mrs. Audrey Tugwell Henry is the current Senior General Manager

Audrey Tugwell Henry Senior General Manager, NCB Retail Banking Division

of National Commercial Bank’s Retail Banking Division. She joined NCB in June 2008 and prior to that, she was the General Manager in Retail and Electronic Banking at the Bank of Nova Scotia Jamaica Limited. She attained her MBA at the University of the West Indies and is on the Board of NCB Remittances Services (U.K. Ltd), NCB Insurance Company Limited and J.E.T.S Ltd.

Best in Jamaica 1. Scotchies in Montego Bay, Kingston and Mammee Bay One of the most popular jerk joint in Jamaica. With three prime locations, the ambiance and delicious food will keep you coming back for more. Try their jerk pork. It’s delicious!

2. Rick’s Café in Negril, Westmoreland Whether you want to dive off a 35 ft cliff or indulge in mouthwatering burgers, Rick’s Café is a must visit location in Negril. The view and ambiance combined with one of a kind meals make this place one of the best restaurants in the country. Try their Jerk Chicken and Waffles.

4. The Verandah at Trident Hotel, Portland The beautiful scenery at this hotel will distract you from the delicious meals, for a moment anyway. The choices on the menu will make your head spin, but everything is absolutely scrumptious. My favourite is the herb crusted beef tenderloin with any of their specially made cocktails

5. Pier 1 in Montego Bay Well known for its brilliant service, great food and live music, Pier 1 is one of the most popular open air seafood restaurants in Jamaica. Try their flame grilled lobster tail or coconut crusted shrimp.

3. Ocean’s 11 Watering Hole in Ocho Rios, St Ann Tucked away towards the back of Island Village in Ocho Rios, this secret spot has some of the best food on the North Coast. Visit on a Tuesday or Friday night for karaoke. This is what Ocean’s 11 is best known for. Try their seafood, especially the steamed fish.

6. EITS Café in Irish Town, St Andrew Located above Irish Town, in the Blue Mountains this idealistic spot became popular because of the impeccable view, its delectable food and affordable prices. If you want a real taste of Jamaica and Europe, you have to visit this prime location. Try their barrel roasted chicken or beer batter jumbo shrimp.

7. Ribbiz Ultra Lounge One of the hottest spots in Kingston, with the best atmosphere. If you want to hang out with friends and watch sports or just have fun, this is the place! It caters to everyone and the pleasant staff will keep you going back. I absolutely adore the jerk pork burger, or when I fancy a change, I tuck into their famous curry goat wontons. 54

Most Economically

Viable Degrees in Jamaica

1. Medicine

Think about it, you get the opportunity to help people while making money. Medicine is one of those careers where it actually takes a while to make a lot of money, especially during your residency. However, full practice does have its perks particularly for those with specialties in areas such as neurology and cardiology.

2. Dentistry

Although the degree takes more than 5 years to attain, it is one of the highest paying in the country. A lot of teeth are needed though, which puts most people off but there is always pediatric dentistry, which is treating young children. Working long hours is a disadvantage but there are great job prospects because everyone needs dental care and the ability to be your own boss is a lot easier in this profession than some others.

3. Civil Engineering

Engineering has taken over. These degree holders are needed not just in Jamaica but all over the world. 56

By Sashakay Fairclough

It deals with design, construction and maintenance of things in the environment such as buildings, roads and bridges. The salaries are medium to high in Jamaica, but engineers are among the top degree earners in places like the United Kingdom, the United States, China and Canada. The opportunities for growth means that some engineers make millions of dollars per year. It may be hard work, but it definitely pays off.

4. Chemical Engineering

This is one of the most difficult degree programmes, to get into, but it is one of the few that has a medium to high salary range straight out of university. It is an intellectually stimulating job, but has hazardous working conditions. Being a chemical engineer allows for travel to different countries such as China and the Middle East, but one disadvantage is that the profession is on the decline in places like the United States because of the general decline of the manufacturing industry.

5. Computer Science

Software developers, web developers, business analysts and project managers usually find it easier to attain employment in this job market. Moreover, the salary is well above average and there is always the potential for growth.

6. Mathematics

This subject is in demand not just when it comes to the education sector, but also in the finance world. Math degrees, although notoriously difficult, open a world of opportunities in Jamaica and overseas. Math graduates

usually work as business analysts, banking consultants, actuarial analysts and a number of other well-paying jobs.

7. Master of Business Administration (MBA)

This is a popular but useful graduate degree, especially if the holder ventures into areas such as finance and real estate. Holders of MBAs are usually paid more than the average master’s degree possessors and they have better career opportunities.

Least Economically Viable Degrees in Jamaica

1. Psychology

One of the most popular degrees in this country, with one of the highest unemployment rate. In fact, in the United States, only 25 per cent of Psychology degree holders actually work as psychologists. It is not a very difficult programme to get into, and some years ago there was prestige attached to it. Not anymore, unfortunately. Psychology has been deemed one of the worst degrees of the 21st century. It requires years of schooling and endless certifications in order to attain a degree that is virtually useless unless you are one of the few at the top of the profession, which you certainly won’t be as a graduate stuck sending out hundreds of applications per day. Best Advice: If you want to be a doctor, study medicine, if you want to be a counselor get certified. However, if you already have a psychology degree, you can consider getting a job in mental health. Your skills and acquired knowledge will be useful in that area, also, you can consider becoming a social worker, physiotherapist, research assistant or a psychology teacher.

2. Law

Does this one surprise you? The legal industry is saturated everywhere and Jamaica is no exception. Law schools are aware of the extreme difficulties in attaining employment, but are still churning out hundreds of lawyers per year. The few employed by larger firms are usually underpaid for the work they do and a large number sit at home unemployed. There are however some brave souls who try to open their own practice. This is becoming harder to do each year as the competition is making it difficult to get clients. If you do manage to get clients, you 58

have to consider if they will be able to pay you. Many cannot, but because of the competition, fees have to be constantly reduced. Persons are encouraged by the rich 1 per cent of lawyers they see on television, but are not aware that most are struggling, especially the recent graduates. This is especially difficult because most leave university with crippling debt so they have to seek other jobs in order to repay them. It is so problematic that a few law schools in the United States and the United Kingdom have been sued because their graduates were unable to secure employment years after graduating. Best Advice: Don’t study law in the first place, you can thank me later. Moreover, it is too expensive to use as a career to launch you into something else. If you are a brilliant person who wants to have an impact on society while making money, there are a few other careers that you can venture into. Do your research and speak to professionals in various areas. Do not join an industry that is already overflowing and appears to be a sinking ship just for the prestige it once had. If you are already a lawyer and you are doing well, then congratulations; however, if you are finding things difficult, you can venture into other professions such as dispute resolution, government politics, banking and finance and entrepreneurship.

3. Architecture

Constructing buildings and homes sound interesting, it probably is, but the fact is many architecture graduates have an extremely difficult time finding work. It is not just in Jamaica, unfortunately; architecture was listed on the “Hard Times” report published by Georgetown University, as the degree with the highest unemployment

rate compared to everything else. In fact, the levels of unemployment shown are far greater than that of persons who only have high school diplomas. If architects are fortunate enough to find jobs, they do not make much money especially in the first few years and are required to work very long hours. It is not worth the amount of money spent and the many years required to complete the degree. Best Advice: Switch to civil engineering while you still can; it is one of the highest paying professions. The engineers are in demand and are rarely out of work no matter which country they live in. On the other hand, if you are already an architect, take pride in the fact that it is an interesting profession that allows you to be creative. You can also venture into other professions such as building surveyor, university lecturer or production engineer.

4. Media and Communication

Apart from the fact that most of the jobs in this area are low paid, it is unlikely to lead to an actual career in broadcasting because of how saturated the industry is. It is one of the most popular majors at the University of the West Indies and is usually chosen by people who are not exactly sure what they want to do in the future. In my opinion, that’s a lot of money to spend on ‘uncertainty’. Best Advice: You have to be determined in order to succeed in this competitive area. Your skills will be useful in areas such as magazine journalism, event organising and as an information officer. These are areas that are in demand in Jamaica, but bear in mind that the competition is stiff. Do internships and work placements in order to build your resume and increase your portfolio. Don’t be easily detracted or you simply will not make it in this industry.

5. Fine Arts

A 3-year full-time degree programme that is not very useful in the Western World, and even less useful in Jamaica. Although it is an easy course to get into, the unemployment rate for graduates is very high. It is usually pursued by students with a creative side, who are not really sure what they wish to do in life. Degrees are too expensive for that. Do not pursue something unless you intend to work in that field or unless the degree will be useful in your dream career. Best Advice: You would have developed invaluable creative skills so put them to good use. This means that you can apply for jobs as an art teacher, a museum curator or just

become an artist. Being an artist is not easy because not many Jamaicans invest in art so try to market your pieces overseas as well.

6. Accounting

Accountants are important, we all know that, however, it is one of those industries that have become saturated in this country. It is highly competitive because of this. Employers lower salaries paid to accountants, especially the younger ones and although they have more job opportunities than most others, the large number of people make it too competitive. The future of this profession doesn’t look too bright as universities continue to churn out new graduates and older, more skilled persons continue to practice long after the retirement age. Best Advice: If you already have an accounting degree, a lot has to be done in order to stand out from the crowd. Make sure you are as up to date as possible with the new technology; for example, SAP, one of the leading accounting softwares in the world. Work for free if need be in order to improve your experience as that is a necessity with most employers. If you are a high school graduate considering accounting, it is best and cheaper to pursue the ACCA or CPA designations rather than a degree. They are cheaper and take a shorter time to complete. Plus, these qualifications are recognised in both the Unites States, Caribbean and other places.

7. Education

This may work abroad as there are teacher shortages in various countries, however, it in another saturated industry in Jamaica. When I graduated high school, a large number of students decided to study for a Bachelor’s Degree in Education. Most are unemployed now or have found work in areas that do not require degrees. The sad truth is, there are far too many teachers in Jamaica and simply not enough schools. There is also not enough funding in that area so teachers in public schools are grossly underpaid. Best Advice: I hate to do this as I always seek to encourage young professionals to remain in Jamaica and help to build it. However, if you already have an education degree and you are among the large number who are unemployed you can apply for teaching jobs in Europe, Canada or the United States. If you are lucky enough to be accepted, don’t forget to give back to Jamaica whenever you can. Do your part to help in the development of our country, whether you are at home or abroad.

1. Motivational Speaking/Career Coaching

Nothing beats having the opportunity to motivate others, especially in Jamaica where self-motivation is lacking. It pays well depending on your clientele and is an area that is not yet saturated so you are bound to stand out.

5. Tutor/Essay Writer

It’s no secret that Jamaicans love to party and although there are a lot of event planning companies around, there is more than enough work for everyone. If your business is organised and decently run, you are sure to survive and even thrive in this industry.

Students always need help and good, affordable tutors are hard to find. Market your services and advertise it properly. Set a good rate either per hour or based on the number of words you write in the essay. It’s a great way to make extra money, or if you want to do it full time, you can get creative by opening your own company and even hiring other tutors to work for you.

3. Home-based Food Services

6. Brew your own Beer

2. Event Planning

It’s annoying how very few places in Jamaica deliver. A lot of companies complain and say it is because of the rising cost of food and the rent that they have to pay for their business places. It is a much better idea to cook at your house and deliver the food. You will save on the cost of renting a business plus it’s easy to promote your services online.

4. Cleaning Company

A lot of Jamaicans lead very busy lives and can hardly find the time to do their own cleaning.

A mobile cleaning company that is properly advertised is perfect for those people. Make it affordable and uncomplicated and expand to all 14 parishes

You can go online and easily learn how. There is a website called mrbeer.com where you can then personalise your flavour and market it yourself. Also think outside the box and sell them to your local stores. Who knows, in the next few years your beer may be more popular than Red Stripe or Guinness combined.

7. Fashion Designing/Jewellery Making

This is a great way to earn money while making a name for yourself. Advertise your designs and open up a store once you can afford it. Make sure they are unique and give them a brand name.

Jeffery Azan of Select and Start Global one of our panelist for the evening.

Anne Martin Cosmetics with a selection of items from their store

Our local designers showcasing their creations to the audience in attendance

Corporate Chic fashion pieces for various work related occasions

Persons in attendance had their attention grabbed by our designers showcasing Our local designers showcasing their creations to the audience in attendance

Corporate Chic fashion pieces for various work related occasions

One of our designers for the evening Alcina Lewis of San-Cees Designs

Giveaways and more giveaways from Adam and Eve Day Spa. Spa Brand Ambassdor Denyque and Managing Director Kimisha Walker.

Corporate Chic fashion pieces for various work related occasions

Patrons posing for the lens. Photo including our Managing Director Mr Leighton Davis (right)

Designer piece from one of our local designer.

Giveaways and more giveaways from Adam and Eve Day Spa. Spa Brand Ambassdor Denyque and Managing Director Kimisha Walker.

Tanice Morrision guest performer for the evening

One of our designers for the evening Alcina Lewis of San-Cees Designs

Blak Tie DJ keeping the crowd entertain throughout the evening.

Giveaways and more giveaways from Adam and Eve Day Spa. Spa Brand Ambassdor Denyque and Spa Manager Nyoka

LIFESTYLE

ecause we live in the busiest time in history, how can we go about accomplishing all that is set out before us AND incorporate the exercise we all know is crucial to our physical well-being?

Introducing, “The 5 Minute Workout Plan”

The popular opinion when it comes to burning fat, is that we must increase our cardio, cardio, cardio. Allow me however, to introduce some additional proven concepts that may free you from some of the limitations of cardiovascular exercise and, if you’re like me, from some of the boredom as well. The first is this: muscle burns fat. Muscle is metabolically active, which means simply that muscle increases your metabolism. The fact is the more muscle you have, the faster you will burn calories, even at rest and therefore reduce your body fat percentage, i.e. burn fat. Some other benefits of muscle include: increased stamina and endurance, allowing you to sustain your workouts and gain the benefits therein; prevent or reduce injury, as with more muscle we increase our agility; and of course we can’t forget the aesthetics. Muscle, while it 98

weighs more than fat, actually is smaller in size pound for pound. This means with more muscle we achieve a leaner appearance and quite frankly, our clothes fit better! The second concept is Plyometric exercise. According to NASM Essentials of Personal Fitness Training, Plyometric Training, also known as jump or reactive training, is a form of exercise that uses explosive movements such as bounding, hopping and jumping to develop muscular power. Basically what it does is allow you to use your own body weight to shape and develop your muscles, while keeping your heart rate elevated so that you can burn fat as well. Traditionally used by athletes to increase power and improve performance, Plyometric Training is finding its way into many weight loss and fitness programmes. In order to adopt the moves using correct form and to limit your risk of injury, you need to have proper joint stability, and your range of motion should not be limited. In addition, the jumping motions require a strong core to enable you to balance well. Some plyometric exercises mimic a functional movement and so depending on your job and lifestyle, you may find after using Plyometric training for a while, you have increased strength and power in performing your day-to-day activities.

The third concept is a different type of cardio called High Intensity Interval Training or HIIT for short. It is this type of cardiovascular exercise that I most enjoy and recommend to all my clients in lieu of the traditional steady-state cardio. HIIT is performing a high intensity exercise immediately followed by a medium to low intensity exercise. This is one interval and is typically repeated 6-10 times to complete the circuit. The goal of HIIT is to increase and decrease your heart rate incrementally, thereby increasing your metabolism to burn calories not just during your workout, but for up to 24-48 hours afterward. The 5 Minute Workout Plan will help you burn fat and increase your physical fitness by incorporating strength training to build muscle with Plyometric exercises to elevate your heart rate and shape your body. The plan is then structured in a way to reap the benefits of HIIT. You will want to have a stopwatch or clock with a second hand to time yourself as you move from one exercise to the next. The 5 minute workout 30 seconds jumping jacks 10 switch lunges 10 push ups 30 seconds knee highs 10 pop squats 10 dips 30 seconds fake jump rope 10 burpees 60 second plank You will begin by warming up with 30 seconds of jumping jacks and then move right into switch lunges.

Switch Lunge

A switch lunge begins in the lunge position, right leg forward bent at the knee, with the left leg in the rear also bent at the knee. In one swift movement, jump up high switching legs in the air so that the left leg lands in front and the right leg lands in the rear, both bent at the knees. Then jump high again to repeat. This is one repetition. 10 Switch Lunges should take approximately 45 seconds to complete depending on your activity level, so you can increase or decrease the number of reps as needed to stay within 45 seconds. The next exercise is push-ups and it will drop your heart rate to give you a chance to recover somewhat before elevating it once again during the following exercise. You will perform 10 push-ups, which can be modified by placing your knees on the floor if necessary. This exercise should take about 20 seconds however, feel free to increase or decrease the number of reps to stay within the time allotted. These three exercises count as your first set.

Pop Squats When you have completed your first set, you will move straight into the second set by performing 30 seconds of knee highs (or if you prefer, high knees) on the spot followed immediately by 10 pop squats. A pop squat begins in the squat position, feet shoulder width apart with weight in the heels, knees bent while lowering the buttocks to the floor as if you are sitting in a chair. Then with a swift movement jump as high as you can in the air, landing once again in the squat position. It is very important that you remember to land in the squat position to protect your knees from injury.

Dips

The final set of this programme begins with 30 seconds “fake jump rope”. If you have the space to use an actual jump rope, then by all means use one. However, if you don’t, simply mimic the actions by jumping on the spot, feet together, for 30 seconds. Without any rest, you will move straight into one of my favourite exercises by performing 10 burpees. Starting in a crouch position with both palms on the floor, knees bent fully, shoot your legs straight out behind you until you are in the push up position. Then in a similar swift motion bring them back in to the crouch position and then jump as high as you can landing back in the starting position.

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The third exercise in this set will once again lower your heart rate. You will perform 10 dips, which should take about 15 seconds to complete. Using a sturdy chair or ledge, position your palms along the edge of the chair or ledge, keeping your legs straight in front and your back parallel to the chair or wall. Then lower your buttocks to the floor keeping your elbows pointed directly behind you, then bring your body back to the starting position.

Burpees

Plank

The final exercise in your workout is a 60 second plank. This will work your core muscles and will once again lower your heart rate. Lying face down on the floor, propping yourself up on your elbows, lift your body off the floor so than only your elbows, forearms and toes are touching the floor. Keep your body suspended in a straight line from shoulders to ankles for 60 seconds, or for as long as you can. If you feel you have to stop before 60 seconds have elapsed, take a quick pause and then go right back into it until the time is up.

At the end of the three sets, take an extra minute or two to cool down by taking a few deep breaths and of course, donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget to stretch the muscles you worked: legs, glutes, arms, shoulders, back and abs. This workout only takes five minutes, but you can burn up to 50 calories depending on your current weight and activity level. Therefore, repeating the circuit 3-5 times per day can burn up to 250 calories per day. If you couple this 5 Minute Workout Plan with a healthy diet, adequate sleep each night of 7-9 hours and drink plenty water, you should be able to see the results of your efforts in pounds lost and/or increased physical fitness. Also, please consult your doctor before beginning this or any other weight loss/fitness programme.

LIFESTYLE

The

Miami River District By: Laura Tanna

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Photos contributed by Laura Tanna

emember 35 years ago when Coconut Grove, renowned as the first settlement of Caribbean blacks, Bahamians who came to work on the Peacock Inn in the 1880s, was considered avant garde? And Little Havana was considered exotic? Miami keeps evolving so rapidly. No sooner had South Beach become too commercialised than Wynwood gathered notice as an art and design hub which soon joined with Edgewater neighbourhood to become Midtown. Brickell, Miami’s financial district, doubled in population over the last 10 years becoming home to 80,000 people not only working, but living there with glamourous restaurants on Biscayne Bay rivaling South Beach as the hottest spot in Miami. So what’s next if you’re thinking ahead? Let me introduce you to the Miami River District which sports three of the best seafood restaurants in Miami/ Dade. We’re talking fresh seafood as at least two of them have their own fishing boats and should you have your own boat, you can pull right up to the dock to enter the restaurants. Garcia’s is the oldest, and looks it inside. Started by Cuban refugees whose business had been confiscated by Castro’s Communist government, the Garcia brothers arrived in Miami in 1964 and by 1966 had established a fresh fish market and processing plant. For the last 48 years, Garcia’s Seafood Grille & Fish Market at 398 N.W. North River Drive has been a favourite for casual dining by the river with a popular bar. Nothing beats watching a huge cargo ship passing right by you with tug boats fighting to keep it in check.

The newest, glitziest restaurant opened just a year and a half ago. Seaspice & Modern Garden two doors over at 422 N.W. North River Drive requires reservations, can get very crowded at nights and costs more for the pleasure of dining riverside in air conditioned splendour or in the beautifully lit outdoor garden area. With 220 feet of dockside for private boats to moor this attracts a tonier crowd and provides valet parking. My favourite lies between the two at 404 N.W. North River Drive. Casablanca Fish Market/Seafood Bar & Grill also provides valet parking, but the ambiance in this smaller restaurant is friendlier and the adjustable awnings on the outside decks allow one to sit right by the river, feel the breeze, but block out the sun or rain on intemperate days. And the food! I was going to order the Casablanca Signature Lobster stuffed with crab meat, shrimp, and scallop béchamel, but instead tried the Lobster and Shrimp Pasta. For the first time in my life I understood the difference between frozen shrimp and fresh shrimp. It was delicious and the portions so large I left half the pasta. My friends had Paella and Seafood Zarzuela washed down with excellent Venetian Pinot Grigio. We all vowed we would be back. These restaurants are just across the 8th Avenue bridge going north, then turning directly right onto North River Drive. Don’t miss driving past the restaurants, looking to the left to see the massive Scottish Rite Temple at 471 N.W. 3rd Street and N.W. North River Drive. Completed in 1924 to house all of the Masonic organisations in Miami the building is an astonishing sight!

Seaspice & Modern Garden, photo courtesy of Seaspice

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Photos contributed by Laura Tanna

Entrance to Casablanca Seafood Bar & Grill

On the western side of the Miami River District, over by Miami River’s 17th Avenue bridge, you’ll find Marlin’s Park, opened in March 2012 at the entrance to Little Havana. The futuristic white stucco, silver metal and glass structure rises in a beautiful curve easily visible from nearby 836 Dolphin Expressway which makes gaining access to the baseball park easy. One of our diplomats went up last year especially to see the Marlin’s Japanese pitcher and while the team hasn’t been doing brilliantly, just to attend one game to experience the park’s extravagant interior is worthwhile. The season lasts from April to September. Everyone from the Dodgers, Braves, Tigers, Yankees and more will be coming to Miami. Tickets can be purchased online and Friday nights mean fireworks! Right by 17th Avenue bridge at 1801 South River Drive is delightful Sewell Park, 10 acres of coconut palm clusters, picnic tables with a launching area for kayaks or canoes, this is the last environmentally protected park right on the Miami River where sometimes you can see a manatee, the neighbourhood kids playing soccer or even religious rituals with white robed believers being dipped into the river. Where once a hospital for the criminally insane stood near the park, today River Oaks Marina & Tower and Terrazas Miami rise majestically as upper middle-class condominiums with units starting at US $260,000.

The park was named for Everest George ‘EG’ Sewell, mayor of Miami multiple times between 1927 and his death in 1940. Sewell was the first man to open a store north of the Miami River in March 1896. While some worry about venturing too far north into Allapattah or further north into Liberty City because of the crime rate there, the Civic Center and health district right in the middle of the Miami River District are a buffer zone of security. The health district is the second largest in the United States with renowned Bascom Palmer Eye Institute and Jackson Memorial Hospital featuring in the Miami University health complex. Alexander Hellinger, born in Boston, with a law degree from the University of Miami and President of Leviev Boymelgreen Developers, responsible for the 67-story Marquis building, second tallest in Miami/Dade, believes so much in the Miami River District that where the Mahi Shrine Temple once stood at 1480 N. W. North River Drive, he has plans for River Landing Development Shops & Residences. This $300 million project between 15th and 13th Avenues with 1,500 feet of riverfront park promises to open with retail shops in 2018 and condo residences in early 2019. Check out www. hellingerco.com for further details. He salvaged the statue from the Mahi Temple and promises it pride of place in the park’s green space!

The

Miami River District

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CAREER

How better

Customer Service should be in your plans for 2016 by Yanique W.A. Grant

t’s a New Year – we make New Year resolutions, commitments, promises…..all in the name of being a better you or having a better business. Customer service is an area that many companies leave out of their budgets because the ROI is not immediate. Do we need a strong customer service culture? Is our customers’ feedback important? Why do we need our customers? These are all questions that your leaders and executives must ask on a daily basis. Every company has customers who adore them and customers who buy because there is no other option. Even the best products and services fail on occasion. This is where good customer service closes the gap between a bad or less than desirable experience and a great business. As a business or entrepreneur, if you truly care about your customers and their experiences with your company, customer service should be at the top of your “important things to do list”, and not approached like an afterthought. Customer service should be a high priority strategy for 2016 as a business….some of you reading this would probably say, but why???

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Customers in 2016 are more informed and knowledgeable than before as we are in the Age of Information - everything you need or want is available at the tip of your fingers by accessing the web. YouTube has self-help videos, Facebook allows you to view customer reviews and see products and services, Twitter and Instagram allow you to see trends in customer service for the businesses that you choose to be in a relationship with. If you are in business and want to have more customers, increase revenue and profits, build a strong brand and better relationships customer experience is the key ingredient that you will need for 2016. We compete on everything else in business, however, the one area that can be differentiated is how we treat our internal and external customers. Keeping customers happy isn’t rocket science, however, it does take time and it will cost money, but the return is what keeps you in business. Some key areas that will help you succeed and grow your business exponentially if you commit to great customer service for 2016 include: Continued on page 110

1. Get to know Your Customers - Our customers have

two needs - emotional and intellectual. Emotional, as the name suggests, refers to how customers feel during the customer experience with your team - the things you say and do will have a direct impact on how your customers feel. Their intellectual needs refer to what they want - a problem solved or a request for a new service or product. From your very first interaction with the customer, you must understand what they want and determine if you can provide it. Without knowing exactly what they want, you may try to sell them a product or service that is not properly suited for them. It doesn’t matter how prestigious, coveted, or perfect a product or service is, a Lamborghini Coupe just won’t work for a family of six looking for an SUV. Assisting your customers in choosing the appropriate product or service is easy when you ask the right questions. Get to know them, what they expect, and how they plan to use their purchase.

2. Remember Your Customers - Being personable is a positively good trait for a customer-driven company. People are human beings with feelings and emotions and do not want to feel like transactions and numbers. When your customers provide you with information about them such as their birthday, address and personal preferences - these can help you as a business to connect with your customers more as an individual. There are many great free and paid Customer Relationship Management(CRM) systems that you can use to record this information and set alerts for using. Some of the top CRMs include Salesforce, Infusionsoft, Team Support and Spiceworks. Detailed records allow you and your team to pick up where the conversation was left off and also provides your company with historical information about previous and/or ongoing transactions. Remembering a customer’s name is a precious act, however, also remembering what they ordered two years ago, and if they enjoyed their honeymoon in Paris from when you last spoke can be great starter conversations for long lasting relationships. 3. Empower and Grow Your Team - Your customers are people and your employees are people too. We have all been socialised differently, however, when we work for a company, we should all share the same mission and vision to achieve the goals of the company. Therefore, it is critical that we ensure employees are seasoned annually to the specific behaviours and skills required to be excellent customer service practitioners. It is unfair and unjust to the employee and customer when your employees are placed in positions that require them to solve problems, answer questions and resolve issues that they have not been prepared for either through training or development. This exercise of growing your team through workshops, online development, international conferences, on-the-job experience and crosstraining must be ongoing; in other words, you cannot be the type of company that has customer service as priority in 2014 but in 2015 and 2016 you offer your team no

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development and growth even though you are building out a new product line or a specialised service. customer service is the responsibility of all team members - the way you treat your employees will have a direct impact on how they treat your customers. If your employees are empowered, knowledgable, prepared and happy they will go above and beyond to serve your customers and the business will see a healthy and positive return on investment through their profits.

4. Refer Customers - If another product on the market

suits their need better, refer the customer elsewhere without hesitation. Exceptional customer service includes being a good resource and looking out for your customer’s best interest no matter what. Just because someone may not be the right customer today, doesn’t mean they will not be in the future. Everyone is your customer; from people who purchase your products and services, your suppliers and your employees too. Your employees are one of your greatest sales tools, in other words, if they don’t believe in your mission, vision and brand, how can you expect your customer to do the same? Treat your employees like royalty and make them know you value them as a human being and also their input. In our experience, we have found that some of the best ideas for improvement comes from the employees who have direct contact with your customers. Caring about your customers, future or existing, and treating them right, will foster loyalty that cannot be bought while building relationships that can last a lifetime.

5. Leadership Commitment - All managers, leaders and supervisors should be always on board for the best customer experience your company can ever deliver. Leaders should make themselves accessible to customers using a medium that they can manage. Some examples of connecting with customers could be choosing two hours each day to be available to help customers on the frontline or having an email address that you have direct access to on your website. Leaders and managers should not be on the inside hiding; they should be actively participating in delivering your product or service alongside employees. The visibility will give your customers and employees the support they need. Many leaders have what we call a lot of ‘Lip Service’ they speak words of action and customer service excellence, however, they are never on the ground to actually help and see the operations firsthand. You must show your employees that you are committed and will take action by taking part personally in the journey to create customer loyalty and build a strong customer brand. We challenge companies for 2016 to make ONE improvement when it comes to the customer experience that you are providing - this could be drawing out a new customer support system or creating a new touch point to build the relationship with a new customer or engaging a development and growth plan for your employees to build a strong customer service culture.

CAREER

Successful Networking’s

Secret Ingredient By: Victoria Munro and Dave Block

uccessful businesses are built on relationships because people want to do business with those they know and trust. Attending networking events can be an excellent way to meet, get to know and start building relationships with other business owners. But, to make the most of your time and money invested, you must keep your focus on the other person and have an effective follow-up strategy.

Create a Clear Follow-Up Plan

Instead of randomly collecting lots of business cards at an event and then allowing them to collect dust in piles on your desk, employ a consistent follow-up plan. At an event, look for people you’d like to get to know better. They may be those: •• You feel you really ‘connected’ with •• Who could be great power partners •• You know you can help

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When you meet someone like this, ask him or her for a business card. Then follow up within 48 hours with a personal note or email to set up a second meeting. This meeting can be in person or over the phone. Everyone is busy, so be respectful of their time, and make sure you focus on the other person and his or her interests rather than yourself.

That Second Meeting Is Key

Have a plan for the second meeting. Your goal might include any of the following:

1. Get to know each other better: • • • • • •

Find some things you have in common Discover their interests, passions, hobbies Ask how long they’ve lived here and what brought them to the area Learn about their family Find out how they spend their non-work time and what kind of books they like to read Seek to understand their philosophy and core values

2. Questions to ask about their business or work: • • • • •

What sort of products or services do they provide? Who is their ideal client? Who would make a good power partner for them? Which aspects of the business do they enjoy the most? What is the biggest challenge they face in the business?

3. Find out what needs they have and how you can help them. Perhaps you could: • • • •

Make an introduction Share an idea or offer a suggestion Give a referral or refer someone else to them Recommend a helpful book or pass along an article of interest

The better you know someone and what his or her needs are, the more likely you’ll be able to offer assistance, and build trust as someone who genuinely cares.

The Secret Is Simple

Keep the focus on the other person—it’s all about them, not you. Pay attention, listen as they talk and make mental notes on ways you can help. Never try to sell yourself or your services unless you’re asked. Relationships are built on trust, so make sure you follow through on anything you promise. Keeping in touch with people and nurturing your relationships is a critical aspect of effective networking. Take the initiative to stay in touch. Each email, card or phone call becomes an opportunity to strengthen the relationship, enhance your visibility and better position yourself to help others.

REVIEW

2015 Jaguar XJ A Personal Review

By: Sashakay Fairclough

y cousin and I were ecstatic to be going to Portland. She had visited before, but it was my first time. A family friend, who knew Jamaica better than anyone else decided to take us in his 2015 Jaguar XJ. Below is my personal review of our amazing driving experience.

What were you most excited about, the car or the trip to Portland? Both actually. I had heard many wonderful things about Portland and was happy to be going with my cousin Kenya. She was visiting from the States and it was our first road trip since she arrived. Moreover, we were both excited to take the long trip to Portland in such a beautiful car. It was added pleasure and instant gratification.

Which features on this car stood out to you?

I loved how big and spacious it was. I drove it, sat in the passenger seat and sat in the back and I guarantee you that it can fit a small family comfortably. It has heated seats which is great if you live in a cold country or if you are driving around Jamaica on a particularly cold night. 116

The soft leather interior and folding centre armrest were so comfortable that I fell asleep on the way back from Portland. It is modern in every way and has all the features that make the perfect driving experience.

Did you drive it yourself, and if so, what was that experience like? I did. It has a very powerful engine so it was not the easiest car for me to drive. I prefer small motor vehicles, but what an experience! It was a such smooth ride. I loved it.

Finally, would you buy a Jaguar XJ?

If in some alternate universe I am able to afford such a car, I don’t think I would buy it. I checked online and it costs almost US$100,000; I can’t imagine how much extra it would cost to ship to Jamaica! It’s stunning, but it’s still not my favourite luxury car. My ex boyfriend in London has a Bentley Continental GT and I fell in love with it. I think that is the car I would go for if I am ever able to afford it.

How was Portland?

Magnificent! This trip cemented my view that Jamaica is one of the most beautiful places on earth. Frenchman’s Cove is stunning and we had a delectable dinner at the famous Trident Hotel. I wish I could relive that moment over and over again.

What was your first car and why?

The first car I ever owned was a white Honda Civic, paid for by my parents here in Jamaica. I liked it, but as a first time driver it was not the easiest thing for me to handle so it was scratched up by the time I sold it. I even smashed into something and broke my rear view mirror once. The first car I purchased for myself was a Mercedes Clc 200 when I was living in London. They are quite common over there and are very easy to drive. It was perfect for me because I was a university student and didn’t want anything too over the top. It was quite affordable as well, but I know that in Jamaica those cars would be really expensive. 117

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