International Internet Marketing Summit!
Here is a fantastic offer to attend a workshop to help your business with super savings and value. Consider a $850 value for only $199 and over 400% return on investment. WSI will be displaying at Mr. Bob's networking event at Barrie's South Shore and will be avaliable to answer any questions you may have. Limited space avaliable, register today for WSI's IM Summit. See your personal "Mr. Bob's Network" promo code for great savings.
For more information and to register Click Here.
· Has your business been affected by the current state of the economy?
· Wondering how other companies are cutting back on their marketing spend?
· They aren't cutting back on Internet advertising spend. That's for sure.
WSI, the world’s leading provider of Internet marketing solutions, is holding an Internet Marketing Summit on November 26, 2008 at the Toronto Congress Center. This event is aimed toward helping local business owners achieve results through online marketing during economic turmoil.
Mr. Bob with Shane Serra and Allan Hitch, WSI have partnered together to help all Mr. Bob’s Network members to increase sales and decrease costs using leading-edge marketing strategies!
When you register using your personal “Mr. Bob’s Network” promo code; WSI6Y6
You can attend this informative workshop for only $199, as opposed to the standard fee of $399.
Do not miss out, Register Today to Canada’s first Internet Marketing Summit.
Attendance Package Includes:
Leading Internet trends and business strategies
Search Engine Power Search Tool - $149
WSI Internet marketing analysis - $599
Experts' Guide to Internet Marketing DVD - $99
Certification of participation
Food and Beverage is Included
Total Value = $850 (over 400% ROI!)
Thursday, November 13, 2008
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
Toastmasters PresentsFrom Speaker to Trainer
Learn how to:
• Be a good facilitator
• Write training objectives
• Select effective training methods
• Present Case Studies
• Create a lesson Plan
• Evaluate the results
When: November 12, 2008. 7-9:30 PM
Where: Seminar Room, GBBEC, 24 Maple St., Barrie
Cost: $5.00
Trainer: Jean McAllister, DTM
Past District Governor
RSVP required to ensure everyone
gets a participant's manual.
Register by calling 705.726.4211
or send an email to
lrice@yesican.info
REVISED
REVISED
Directions:
The Greater Barrie Business Enterprise Center's Seminar Room is located at 24
Maple Street, Barrie above the Bus Terminal on the 2nd floor. Enter through the
door with the sign Dr. Neimen Dentist above it and come to the 2nd floor, turn
right and it's the second door on your right. There is also an elevator.
Parking is available across the street and is FREE after 6 p.m.
To find exact directions from your starting point to this venue, please do not
hesitate to use www.mapquest.ca
• Be a good facilitator
• Write training objectives
• Select effective training methods
• Present Case Studies
• Create a lesson Plan
• Evaluate the results
When: November 12, 2008. 7-9:30 PM
Where: Seminar Room, GBBEC, 24 Maple St., Barrie
Cost: $5.00
Trainer: Jean McAllister, DTM
Past District Governor
RSVP required to ensure everyone
gets a participant's manual.
Register by calling 705.726.4211
or send an email to
lrice@yesican.info
REVISED
REVISED
Directions:
The Greater Barrie Business Enterprise Center's Seminar Room is located at 24
Maple Street, Barrie above the Bus Terminal on the 2nd floor. Enter through the
door with the sign Dr. Neimen Dentist above it and come to the 2nd floor, turn
right and it's the second door on your right. There is also an elevator.
Parking is available across the street and is FREE after 6 p.m.
To find exact directions from your starting point to this venue, please do not
hesitate to use www.mapquest.ca
Sunday, November 9, 2008
November Newsletter form Terri Plaxton-SmithGreater Barrie Business Enterprise Centre Terri Plaxton-SmithGreater Barrie Business Enterprise Centre
News From Greater Barrie Business Enterprise Centre
Terri Plaxton-SmithGreater Barrie Business Enterprise Centre
Connect For Success
In This Issue
What's New at the GBBEC
Special Offer from RBC
Around Town
Tip of the Month
Workshops
Join the Entrepreneur's Club!
Coaches Corner
Business of the Month
Advice from the Experts
What You Have to Say
Quick Links
The Greater Barrie Business Enterprise Centre
Ontario Business Connects
Ministry of Small Business and Consumer Services
Ontario Women's Directorate
Personal Tax Planning
Planning for Tomorrow
Resource Guide for Business Immigrants to Ontario
The City of Barrie
Canada Business Service Centres
Canada's Community Access Program
Canada Franchise Directory
GD Sourcing Research & Retrieval
Industry Canada's Business and Consumer Site
Standards Council of Canada
Statistics Canada
Around Town
Social Networking
Tools for Business
Choose from either
Session One or
Session Two
Session 1
Wed, Nov 5th 7:00 to 8:30 p.m.Angus Ross Room,
Barrie Library Session 2
Mon, Dec 8th 7:00 to 8:30 p.m.SuiteWorks,
92 Caplan Dr
To Register call
726-1010
`````````````````````````````````
DO NOT CALL!
The Canadian version of the Telemarketers Do Not Call List is now in effect.
REGISTER - Do Not Call
```````````````````````````````````
Spend an Evening with our Experts
November 20th
5 - 7 P.M.
For Established Businesses
Serious Entrepreneurs Only
Get the information you need to take your business to the next level
This month lawyer Zarah Walpole discusses Contract Law
Find out if you qualify to become a member of the Entrepreneur's Club today.
Apply now and receive your invitation to attend our next meeting FREE! Call 720-2445
```````````````````````````````````
Downtown Barrie's 2008 Ornament
Now available - be sure to get the latest edition for your collection.
All proceeds raised will be used for future projects in the Downtown area.
Each ornament is $15
Gift Sets are $89.99 - which includes all 7 ornaments and gift boxGift Boxes are $20 (without ornaments)
Phone (705) 734-1414Fax (705) 734-1227Email: info@downtownbarrie.ca
www.downtownbarrie.ca
```````````````````````````````````
VOLUNTEER RECRUITMENT
The City of Barrie is seeking the next group of volunteers for the extensive Business Retention & Expansion Project that we have undertaken
We need approximately 40 more volunteers to meet our goal!
Please contact
Stephanie Ward
Economic Strategy and Development Department 705-739-4220 ext. 5036
HAVE AN EVENT THAT YOU WOULD LIKE TO SEE ADVERTISED HERE?
Dear Bob,
Welcome to our monthlynewsletter.
The Greater Barrie Business Enterprise Centre (GBBEC) is one of 46 Enterprise Centres across the province funded by the Provincial Ministry of Small Business & Consumer Services to provide assistance and support to small businesses.
We can help take your business to the next level!
What's New
Spend an Evening with our Experts
On November 20th you could spend an educational and fun evening with our team of experts. Get the information you need to take your business to the next level from a whole team of business professionals.
This month lawyer Zarah Walpole and HR professional Lotte Struwing join the team. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from the best! Find out if you qualify to become a member of the Entrepreneur's Club today. Apply now and receive your invitation to attend our next meeting FREE! Call 720-2445
GBBEC welcomes new Director Corporate Strategy and Economic Development
As many of you know, former Economic Development Department Director, Robert Brindley recently left his post with the City of Barrie to take a position in St. Mary's Ontario. Hany Kirolos has taken on the vacated post and the GBBEC is thrilled! Hany has been an ardent supporter of our Centre for many years and we know he will be a genuine asset for the community.
According to his Facebook profile, Hany "is a well respected professional that is highly recommended for establishing, developing and leveraging international business and government contacts around the world. He has demonstrated and calculated success on behalf of many Fortune 50 companies."
Local entrepreneurs may recognize him from his recent work as an educator with Georgian College's Business & Management Studies Program.
Partnering with RBC for your Business Success
This month we were fortunate to be invited to visit 5 RBC Royal Bank locations in the City, to meet and greet their business clients, introduce them to our services including the Entrepreneur's Club and Bridges to Better Business, and to answer their business questions. If you would like to have us visit your organization or group for a consultation, site visit, or presentation, please call 720-2445 or email terri@barriebusinesscentre.ca
RBC Reinforces their Support with a Cheque to the GBBEC
RBC recently presented a cheque to the Greater Barrie Business Enterprise Centre in the amount of $3500 to support our many services for the small businesses in our community. This is the 7th year that RBC has provided monetary support to our Centre, and we are very thankful. They also consistently provide volunteers to assist with youth programs such as Summer Company and Business Plan Challenge.
Bridges to Better Business a Success!
Mayor Dave Aspden joined the Ministry of Small Business & Consumer Services (MSBCS) and the Canada Ontario Business Service Centre (COBSC) in welcoming local entrepreneurs and small business owners to the Greater Barrie Business Enterprise Centre's 7th annual Bridges to Better Business Small Business Conference on October 23rd at Barrie's ANAF.
Bridges participants were entertained, informed and educated by speakers Brett Barr and Doug Jernigan and break-out facilitators Michael Woodbeck, Lindsey Fair and Scott Gingrich.
If you were among the many participants who attended the days events, we hope you completed a feedback form so that we can continue to provide the information that you find useful. If you did not, please take the time now to request and complete the feedback form. Thank you.
Special thanks are extended to our partners for helping to make our event so successful - the City of Barrie, MSBCS, COBSC, and the Simcoe County Training Board, and sponsors - Tourism Barrie, Barrie Public Library, Greater Barrie Chamber of Commerce, RBC Royal Bank, UPS Minet's Pt Rd, Staples, Meridian Credit Union, Barrie Advance, Business Times, Business Development Bank, Rock 95 and Rogers TV.
_________________________________________
High School Business Plan Competition
On November 8th, highschool Business Plan Competition finalists from across the Province will gather at four separate regional banquets to celebrate the regional and provincial winners for 2008.
Representing the Greater Barrie area are: Amy Williams and Vanessa Williams of Eastview
Secondary School for their plan, Wacky Willows Summer Camp. We wish them luck!
And once again, we are ramping up for the 2009 Business Plan Competition. We have already begun to take our presentations into area highschools. All students are eligible to enter, regardless of their program choices. Deadline for submissions is May 25th. For more information or to arrange a visit please contact our office at 720-2445.
As always, sponsors are welcome. If you would like to donate prizes for the winning students or make a cash or in-kind donation for the awards banquet in June, please contact Terri to request a sponsorship package at terri@barriebusinesscentre.ca
_________________________________________
Limited Time Offers for Your Business and Personal Banking Needs from RBC®! Special incentives for your business banking needs are available now, only at the RBC Royal Bank branch at 400 & Essa Road, 241 Essa Road, Barrie. (705-725-7867) > Open an RBC Business Essentials Fixed-Fee Account® or a Royal Business Professional Account and get $100 deposited into your account, plus a free Davis + Henderson* Cheque Essentials Kit ($130 value)**.> More offers are available for your business banking. Stop in and ask for details. We also have a special offer for new clients for your personal banking.> $150 Visa* gift card - yours FREE!**> Open a new Signature No Limit Banking® account before December 31, 2008 and transfer your payroll by February 15, 2009. You'll get a $150 Visa gift card in the New Year.
** New business and personal clients only. Certain restrictions, terms and conditions apply.These are limited time offers available only until December 31, 2008. Please visit your participating RBC branch for complete terms and conditions. ® Registered trademarks of Royal Bank of Canada. RBC and Royal Bank are registered trademarks of Royal Bank of Canada. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.*Registered trademark of Visa International Service Association. Used under licence.
______________________________________________________________
Social Networking Tools for your Business Choose from either Session One or Session Two
Session 1 ~ Wednesday, November 5th 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Angus Ross Room, Barrie Public Library OR Session 2 ~ Monday, December 8th 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. SuiteWorks, 92 Caplan Drive
Fad or phenomenon, love them or hate them, social networking tools are here to stay and growing in popularity. The Internet continues to evolve and new technologies come along that quickly eclipse those that we may have just become comfortable with. Email marketing and bland web sites are often being ignored by savvy consumers as they embrace the myriad of social networking tools. If you have a business and are unfamiliar with or curious about social networking tools then you will want to attend one of the Social Networking Tools for You Business sessions being offered by Anne Dorsey, Barrie Public Library Business Librarian at Barrie Public Library or SuiteWorks. These sessions will cover Facebook, YouTube, blogs, wikis, podcasts and more. You do not require any specialized knowledge or technical skills to attend - just a willingness to learn something new that can benefit your business.
Registration information for all sessions:There is no fee for this session but you must register for this programme. Register by email or by phone at 728-1010 Ext. 7014. Please indicate the session you will be attending and provide your name, telephone number and number of attendees. ___________________________________________________________
Tip of the Month
Think Big ... Dare to Dream
When I stare into the beautiful brown eyes of my 7 week old grandson Lucas, I can't help but wonder what life will bring him, and what he will bring to the lives of all of us who love him. It seems so simple and everything so possible when there is nothing yet written on the pages of his life. But unbeknownst to him, life will throw a few curves and some of them will have a profound effect on the man he will grow up to be - positively and negatively. How we teach him to dream, hold onto those dreams and how to react to life's challenges and opportunities will ultimately determine what his life will look like.
Success is not determined merely by winning at the game of Acquisitions or Power. More importantly, it is about how we make a positive difference in the world around us, how we will be remembered, how happy we are, and how happy we make others. It comes from a feeling of accomplishment - that we have done good!
Because of this, it is important to teach Lucas not only that he is special and can do anything he wants to, but also that everything he does should be done with respect for the world and the people around him, for they are all special too. We need to teach him that he needs to see the big picture, not just his tiny world, for all of our actions impact much more than just our own lives. He needs to be encouraged to dream the impossible and to know that he can make it possible. He needs to learn that because unfair things exist, that he should work hard to make them fair, that he is tougher than he thinks, kinder than he thinks, smarter than he thinks and able to overcome all obstacles.
When I look at him I am filled with pride and wonder, fear and anticipation, and hope. They are the same feelings that I have for the many new business owners that I meet daily - those that have yet to write on the slate of who they will be and how they will succeed. They don't know, and all I can do is encourage them to dream big, plan well and not to give up! I give them the tools to help their dreams come true.
Whether you are just starting your business or have been working in it for years, perhaps it's time to re-assess the dream and empower yourself to live it fully. It's harder when you've been impacted by life's challenges, sometimes beaten up by them, to keep the dream alive or let it grow, but it's not impossible. You only need to remind yourself that you are special, that you are tougher than you think, smarter than you think and able to overcome all obstacles in the pursuit of that dream.
Think big ... dream well!
Terri Plaxton Smith
Greater Barrie Business Enterprise Centre
To book a a one-on-one consultation with Terri, please email Nancy at : reception@barriebusinesscentre.ca
"Connect for Success" Workshops that Work
Monthly Brainstorming Sessions
1:00 to 3:00 p.m.Next Meeting: Nov 11, 2008
Searching for solutions, creative ideas or just another ear to bounce your thoughts off of? Then this informal brainstorming get-together is for you. Join us as we share marketing challenges, successes and curiosities.
Two heads are better than one - and the more the merrier! No Charge!
Pre-registration is a must for these FREE 2 hour sessions.
Call 720-2445 and inquire about this great opportunity.
Entrepreneur's Club
By Invitation Only
Are you looking for assistance to take your business to the next level? Would you like to have a team of Experts working with you, providing you Tips and offering Advice?
Then Join the Club, the Entrepreneur's Club!
Membership has its Perks!
For your FREE invitation
Call 720-2445 and find out if you qualify today!!
Coaches Corner
Communicate for Success
How well do you communicate? Exceptional communication skills are a definite must have to be successful in any enterprise. Communication is more than just saying what you mean. Effective communication also involves listening to what is said and in many cases what is not said.Great communication skills are required:
To sell your product or service to your clients
To get that line of credit at the bank
To encourage your team to jump on board with your new project
To explain your company policy to an irate customer
To balance your busy family life with a thriving business As a Coach, I get to work with many levels of a company from the maxed out entrepreneur to the mid-level manager sending out meeting minutes that no one wants to read. There are many exercises I use to get clients to improve and simplify their communication.Yes, you can improve. What would better communication skills do for your business? In most cases it increases efficiency dramatically and over time translates to increased productivity and a healthier bottom line. If you are not sure how well you are communicating, look at the results. Remember if you keep doing the same thing, you will most likely get the same results. © Awesome Coaching Enterprises 2008888-944-5338 or 705.444.5448. Email info@awesomecoaching.com Web www.awesomecoaching.com.
Coach Jane Schnurr coaches business leaders and individuals to increase their performance and effectiveness for extraordinary results in business and life.
Business of the Month
Mortgage Intelligence
Find out how a simple "mortgage check-up" can help you. A single call may be all the care you need.
It's important to protect yourself against market conditions. But how do you know you have the right mortgage if you haven't seen what's possible?Simply call us today for a "mortgage check-up" and you'll be better prepared.705.720.1001 or 1.888.500.1841
39 Collier Street, Ste. 300Barrie ON L4M 1G5
Email Gary MegerVisit our Website
From the Experts
Marketing & Communications
Running scared 'cause a recession's on its way?
We started our business in 1982, in the midst of a hard recession. Since then, we've weathered two more recessions. Each time, our business, and our clients' businesses not only survived, but thrived.
We all thrived because smart businesses buck the normal response to a business downturn. Instead of reducing their marketing expenditures, they took a positive view, and increased them. Each of those clients came through the recession stronger than theircompetition. Most of them saw increases in their businesses, not decreases. While their competitors tried to survive by cutting costs, our clients thrived by investing in the market.
The tip in all this? Go against the flow. If your competitors are hunkering down and cutting their marketing investments, it's a golden opportunity to increase yours. You even get a bigger bang for your buck, due to the lack of competitive clutter. Remember: You can't save you way to success.Keith Thirgood, Creative DirectorCapstone Communications Group905-472-2330
marketingtip1@capstonecomm.com_________________________________________________________________
Financial
Tax Perks for Students!
During these uncertain economic times most of us are looking a little closer at our finances and cash flow. Here are some tips to help you along.
Create an emergency fund. If you aren't positioned for six to eight months of "safety cash", now is the time to put that in place.
How are your finances? Now is the time to review your cash flow, personal balance sheet and budget and get on the right side of debt management - more assets than liabilities.
Cash is King: If you are sitting on excess cash be ready to do two things (a) pay down bad debt-credit cards, non-deductible debt next (mortgages). Then get ready to invest back into the market at "sale prices" when the time is right.
Irene ByrneBookkeeping and Tax for Small BusinessBarrie (705) 812-2002Angus (705) 424-8980
www.irenebyrne.ca
Your Say
Cyndie de Silva says:
Hi Ms. Terri,
Thank you very much for going out of your way to help me. As always your encouragement keeps me going.
Your experienced input is greatly appreciated.
The printer has confirmed the delivery date (of my new children's book - The Quest )will be the 25th of November. The Barrie Library is very interested in assisting with the launch
Traditionally we light an oil lamp for the launch, and I certainly will be honored with your presence.
Thanks,Cyndie
___________________________________________________________________________Do you have something to say that we could all benefit from? If you would like to share your tips, advice, or expertise with our clients by contributing to this newsletter, please send an email to newsletter@barriebusinesscentre.ca by 4 P.M. Thursdays, the last week of each month. Inclusion will be at the sole discretion of the GBBEC, dependent on suitability, space availability and the number of contributions received. This is not an advertorial or advertising spot, but rather an opportunity to share valuable words of wisdom or announce your upcoming events. Of course you will be given credit for the submission with a link to your website if available. We reserve the right to include your submissions in subsequent newsletters in addition to or instead of inclusion in the following week's issue.
How Can We Assist You?
One-on-one consultations
Seminars/Workshops
Seminar and Board Room Rentals (ASK ABOUT OUR GREAT RATES!)
Access to a computer workstation with internet access
Start up information
Assistance with writing a business plan or marketing plan
OTHER ... Tell us what you need .. if we can't provide it, we will find out who can!
See you at the Centre!
For more information visit our website at: www.barriebusinesscentre.ca
Ask about our GREAT RATES on seminar room AND board room rentals
Now with kitchen access!
Contact Information phone: (705) 720-2445
email: reception@barriebusinesscentre.ca
Terri Plaxton-SmithGreater Barrie Business Enterprise Centre
Forward email
This email was sent to mrbob@mrbob.ca by terri@barriebusinesscentre.ca.
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Greater Barrie Business Enterprise Centre | 24 Maple Ave., Suite 202 | Barrie | Ontario | L4M 4Y8 | Canada
Terri Plaxton-SmithGreater Barrie Business Enterprise Centre
Connect For Success
In This Issue
What's New at the GBBEC
Special Offer from RBC
Around Town
Tip of the Month
Workshops
Join the Entrepreneur's Club!
Coaches Corner
Business of the Month
Advice from the Experts
What You Have to Say
Quick Links
The Greater Barrie Business Enterprise Centre
Ontario Business Connects
Ministry of Small Business and Consumer Services
Ontario Women's Directorate
Personal Tax Planning
Planning for Tomorrow
Resource Guide for Business Immigrants to Ontario
The City of Barrie
Canada Business Service Centres
Canada's Community Access Program
Canada Franchise Directory
GD Sourcing Research & Retrieval
Industry Canada's Business and Consumer Site
Standards Council of Canada
Statistics Canada
Around Town
Social Networking
Tools for Business
Choose from either
Session One or
Session Two
Session 1
Wed, Nov 5th 7:00 to 8:30 p.m.Angus Ross Room,
Barrie Library Session 2
Mon, Dec 8th 7:00 to 8:30 p.m.SuiteWorks,
92 Caplan Dr
To Register call
726-1010
`````````````````````````````````
DO NOT CALL!
The Canadian version of the Telemarketers Do Not Call List is now in effect.
REGISTER - Do Not Call
```````````````````````````````````
Spend an Evening with our Experts
November 20th
5 - 7 P.M.
For Established Businesses
Serious Entrepreneurs Only
Get the information you need to take your business to the next level
This month lawyer Zarah Walpole discusses Contract Law
Find out if you qualify to become a member of the Entrepreneur's Club today.
Apply now and receive your invitation to attend our next meeting FREE! Call 720-2445
```````````````````````````````````
Downtown Barrie's 2008 Ornament
Now available - be sure to get the latest edition for your collection.
All proceeds raised will be used for future projects in the Downtown area.
Each ornament is $15
Gift Sets are $89.99 - which includes all 7 ornaments and gift boxGift Boxes are $20 (without ornaments)
Phone (705) 734-1414Fax (705) 734-1227Email: info@downtownbarrie.ca
www.downtownbarrie.ca
```````````````````````````````````
VOLUNTEER RECRUITMENT
The City of Barrie is seeking the next group of volunteers for the extensive Business Retention & Expansion Project that we have undertaken
We need approximately 40 more volunteers to meet our goal!
Please contact
Stephanie Ward
Economic Strategy and Development Department 705-739-4220 ext. 5036
HAVE AN EVENT THAT YOU WOULD LIKE TO SEE ADVERTISED HERE?
Dear Bob,
Welcome to our monthlynewsletter.
The Greater Barrie Business Enterprise Centre (GBBEC) is one of 46 Enterprise Centres across the province funded by the Provincial Ministry of Small Business & Consumer Services to provide assistance and support to small businesses.
We can help take your business to the next level!
What's New
Spend an Evening with our Experts
On November 20th you could spend an educational and fun evening with our team of experts. Get the information you need to take your business to the next level from a whole team of business professionals.
This month lawyer Zarah Walpole and HR professional Lotte Struwing join the team. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from the best! Find out if you qualify to become a member of the Entrepreneur's Club today. Apply now and receive your invitation to attend our next meeting FREE! Call 720-2445
GBBEC welcomes new Director Corporate Strategy and Economic Development
As many of you know, former Economic Development Department Director, Robert Brindley recently left his post with the City of Barrie to take a position in St. Mary's Ontario. Hany Kirolos has taken on the vacated post and the GBBEC is thrilled! Hany has been an ardent supporter of our Centre for many years and we know he will be a genuine asset for the community.
According to his Facebook profile, Hany "is a well respected professional that is highly recommended for establishing, developing and leveraging international business and government contacts around the world. He has demonstrated and calculated success on behalf of many Fortune 50 companies."
Local entrepreneurs may recognize him from his recent work as an educator with Georgian College's Business & Management Studies Program.
Partnering with RBC for your Business Success
This month we were fortunate to be invited to visit 5 RBC Royal Bank locations in the City, to meet and greet their business clients, introduce them to our services including the Entrepreneur's Club and Bridges to Better Business, and to answer their business questions. If you would like to have us visit your organization or group for a consultation, site visit, or presentation, please call 720-2445 or email terri@barriebusinesscentre.ca
RBC Reinforces their Support with a Cheque to the GBBEC
RBC recently presented a cheque to the Greater Barrie Business Enterprise Centre in the amount of $3500 to support our many services for the small businesses in our community. This is the 7th year that RBC has provided monetary support to our Centre, and we are very thankful. They also consistently provide volunteers to assist with youth programs such as Summer Company and Business Plan Challenge.
Bridges to Better Business a Success!
Mayor Dave Aspden joined the Ministry of Small Business & Consumer Services (MSBCS) and the Canada Ontario Business Service Centre (COBSC) in welcoming local entrepreneurs and small business owners to the Greater Barrie Business Enterprise Centre's 7th annual Bridges to Better Business Small Business Conference on October 23rd at Barrie's ANAF.
Bridges participants were entertained, informed and educated by speakers Brett Barr and Doug Jernigan and break-out facilitators Michael Woodbeck, Lindsey Fair and Scott Gingrich.
If you were among the many participants who attended the days events, we hope you completed a feedback form so that we can continue to provide the information that you find useful. If you did not, please take the time now to request and complete the feedback form. Thank you.
Special thanks are extended to our partners for helping to make our event so successful - the City of Barrie, MSBCS, COBSC, and the Simcoe County Training Board, and sponsors - Tourism Barrie, Barrie Public Library, Greater Barrie Chamber of Commerce, RBC Royal Bank, UPS Minet's Pt Rd, Staples, Meridian Credit Union, Barrie Advance, Business Times, Business Development Bank, Rock 95 and Rogers TV.
_________________________________________
High School Business Plan Competition
On November 8th, highschool Business Plan Competition finalists from across the Province will gather at four separate regional banquets to celebrate the regional and provincial winners for 2008.
Representing the Greater Barrie area are: Amy Williams and Vanessa Williams of Eastview
Secondary School for their plan, Wacky Willows Summer Camp. We wish them luck!
And once again, we are ramping up for the 2009 Business Plan Competition. We have already begun to take our presentations into area highschools. All students are eligible to enter, regardless of their program choices. Deadline for submissions is May 25th. For more information or to arrange a visit please contact our office at 720-2445.
As always, sponsors are welcome. If you would like to donate prizes for the winning students or make a cash or in-kind donation for the awards banquet in June, please contact Terri to request a sponsorship package at terri@barriebusinesscentre.ca
_________________________________________
Limited Time Offers for Your Business and Personal Banking Needs from RBC®! Special incentives for your business banking needs are available now, only at the RBC Royal Bank branch at 400 & Essa Road, 241 Essa Road, Barrie. (705-725-7867) > Open an RBC Business Essentials Fixed-Fee Account® or a Royal Business Professional Account and get $100 deposited into your account, plus a free Davis + Henderson* Cheque Essentials Kit ($130 value)**.> More offers are available for your business banking. Stop in and ask for details. We also have a special offer for new clients for your personal banking.> $150 Visa* gift card - yours FREE!**> Open a new Signature No Limit Banking® account before December 31, 2008 and transfer your payroll by February 15, 2009. You'll get a $150 Visa gift card in the New Year.
** New business and personal clients only. Certain restrictions, terms and conditions apply.These are limited time offers available only until December 31, 2008. Please visit your participating RBC branch for complete terms and conditions. ® Registered trademarks of Royal Bank of Canada. RBC and Royal Bank are registered trademarks of Royal Bank of Canada. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.*Registered trademark of Visa International Service Association. Used under licence.
______________________________________________________________
Social Networking Tools for your Business Choose from either Session One or Session Two
Session 1 ~ Wednesday, November 5th 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Angus Ross Room, Barrie Public Library OR Session 2 ~ Monday, December 8th 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. SuiteWorks, 92 Caplan Drive
Fad or phenomenon, love them or hate them, social networking tools are here to stay and growing in popularity. The Internet continues to evolve and new technologies come along that quickly eclipse those that we may have just become comfortable with. Email marketing and bland web sites are often being ignored by savvy consumers as they embrace the myriad of social networking tools. If you have a business and are unfamiliar with or curious about social networking tools then you will want to attend one of the Social Networking Tools for You Business sessions being offered by Anne Dorsey, Barrie Public Library Business Librarian at Barrie Public Library or SuiteWorks. These sessions will cover Facebook, YouTube, blogs, wikis, podcasts and more. You do not require any specialized knowledge or technical skills to attend - just a willingness to learn something new that can benefit your business.
Registration information for all sessions:There is no fee for this session but you must register for this programme. Register by email or by phone at 728-1010 Ext. 7014. Please indicate the session you will be attending and provide your name, telephone number and number of attendees. ___________________________________________________________
Tip of the Month
Think Big ... Dare to Dream
When I stare into the beautiful brown eyes of my 7 week old grandson Lucas, I can't help but wonder what life will bring him, and what he will bring to the lives of all of us who love him. It seems so simple and everything so possible when there is nothing yet written on the pages of his life. But unbeknownst to him, life will throw a few curves and some of them will have a profound effect on the man he will grow up to be - positively and negatively. How we teach him to dream, hold onto those dreams and how to react to life's challenges and opportunities will ultimately determine what his life will look like.
Success is not determined merely by winning at the game of Acquisitions or Power. More importantly, it is about how we make a positive difference in the world around us, how we will be remembered, how happy we are, and how happy we make others. It comes from a feeling of accomplishment - that we have done good!
Because of this, it is important to teach Lucas not only that he is special and can do anything he wants to, but also that everything he does should be done with respect for the world and the people around him, for they are all special too. We need to teach him that he needs to see the big picture, not just his tiny world, for all of our actions impact much more than just our own lives. He needs to be encouraged to dream the impossible and to know that he can make it possible. He needs to learn that because unfair things exist, that he should work hard to make them fair, that he is tougher than he thinks, kinder than he thinks, smarter than he thinks and able to overcome all obstacles.
When I look at him I am filled with pride and wonder, fear and anticipation, and hope. They are the same feelings that I have for the many new business owners that I meet daily - those that have yet to write on the slate of who they will be and how they will succeed. They don't know, and all I can do is encourage them to dream big, plan well and not to give up! I give them the tools to help their dreams come true.
Whether you are just starting your business or have been working in it for years, perhaps it's time to re-assess the dream and empower yourself to live it fully. It's harder when you've been impacted by life's challenges, sometimes beaten up by them, to keep the dream alive or let it grow, but it's not impossible. You only need to remind yourself that you are special, that you are tougher than you think, smarter than you think and able to overcome all obstacles in the pursuit of that dream.
Think big ... dream well!
Terri Plaxton Smith
Greater Barrie Business Enterprise Centre
To book a a one-on-one consultation with Terri, please email Nancy at : reception@barriebusinesscentre.ca
"Connect for Success" Workshops that Work
Monthly Brainstorming Sessions
1:00 to 3:00 p.m.Next Meeting: Nov 11, 2008
Searching for solutions, creative ideas or just another ear to bounce your thoughts off of? Then this informal brainstorming get-together is for you. Join us as we share marketing challenges, successes and curiosities.
Two heads are better than one - and the more the merrier! No Charge!
Pre-registration is a must for these FREE 2 hour sessions.
Call 720-2445 and inquire about this great opportunity.
Entrepreneur's Club
By Invitation Only
Are you looking for assistance to take your business to the next level? Would you like to have a team of Experts working with you, providing you Tips and offering Advice?
Then Join the Club, the Entrepreneur's Club!
Membership has its Perks!
For your FREE invitation
Call 720-2445 and find out if you qualify today!!
Coaches Corner
Communicate for Success
How well do you communicate? Exceptional communication skills are a definite must have to be successful in any enterprise. Communication is more than just saying what you mean. Effective communication also involves listening to what is said and in many cases what is not said.Great communication skills are required:
To sell your product or service to your clients
To get that line of credit at the bank
To encourage your team to jump on board with your new project
To explain your company policy to an irate customer
To balance your busy family life with a thriving business As a Coach, I get to work with many levels of a company from the maxed out entrepreneur to the mid-level manager sending out meeting minutes that no one wants to read. There are many exercises I use to get clients to improve and simplify their communication.Yes, you can improve. What would better communication skills do for your business? In most cases it increases efficiency dramatically and over time translates to increased productivity and a healthier bottom line. If you are not sure how well you are communicating, look at the results. Remember if you keep doing the same thing, you will most likely get the same results. © Awesome Coaching Enterprises 2008888-944-5338 or 705.444.5448. Email info@awesomecoaching.com Web www.awesomecoaching.com.
Coach Jane Schnurr coaches business leaders and individuals to increase their performance and effectiveness for extraordinary results in business and life.
Business of the Month
Mortgage Intelligence
Find out how a simple "mortgage check-up" can help you. A single call may be all the care you need.
It's important to protect yourself against market conditions. But how do you know you have the right mortgage if you haven't seen what's possible?Simply call us today for a "mortgage check-up" and you'll be better prepared.705.720.1001 or 1.888.500.1841
39 Collier Street, Ste. 300Barrie ON L4M 1G5
Email Gary MegerVisit our Website
From the Experts
Marketing & Communications
Running scared 'cause a recession's on its way?
We started our business in 1982, in the midst of a hard recession. Since then, we've weathered two more recessions. Each time, our business, and our clients' businesses not only survived, but thrived.
We all thrived because smart businesses buck the normal response to a business downturn. Instead of reducing their marketing expenditures, they took a positive view, and increased them. Each of those clients came through the recession stronger than theircompetition. Most of them saw increases in their businesses, not decreases. While their competitors tried to survive by cutting costs, our clients thrived by investing in the market.
The tip in all this? Go against the flow. If your competitors are hunkering down and cutting their marketing investments, it's a golden opportunity to increase yours. You even get a bigger bang for your buck, due to the lack of competitive clutter. Remember: You can't save you way to success.Keith Thirgood, Creative DirectorCapstone Communications Group905-472-2330
marketingtip1@capstonecomm.com_________________________________________________________________
Financial
Tax Perks for Students!
During these uncertain economic times most of us are looking a little closer at our finances and cash flow. Here are some tips to help you along.
Create an emergency fund. If you aren't positioned for six to eight months of "safety cash", now is the time to put that in place.
How are your finances? Now is the time to review your cash flow, personal balance sheet and budget and get on the right side of debt management - more assets than liabilities.
Cash is King: If you are sitting on excess cash be ready to do two things (a) pay down bad debt-credit cards, non-deductible debt next (mortgages). Then get ready to invest back into the market at "sale prices" when the time is right.
Irene ByrneBookkeeping and Tax for Small BusinessBarrie (705) 812-2002Angus (705) 424-8980
www.irenebyrne.ca
Your Say
Cyndie de Silva says:
Hi Ms. Terri,
Thank you very much for going out of your way to help me. As always your encouragement keeps me going.
Your experienced input is greatly appreciated.
The printer has confirmed the delivery date (of my new children's book - The Quest )will be the 25th of November. The Barrie Library is very interested in assisting with the launch
Traditionally we light an oil lamp for the launch, and I certainly will be honored with your presence.
Thanks,Cyndie
___________________________________________________________________________Do you have something to say that we could all benefit from? If you would like to share your tips, advice, or expertise with our clients by contributing to this newsletter, please send an email to newsletter@barriebusinesscentre.ca by 4 P.M. Thursdays, the last week of each month. Inclusion will be at the sole discretion of the GBBEC, dependent on suitability, space availability and the number of contributions received. This is not an advertorial or advertising spot, but rather an opportunity to share valuable words of wisdom or announce your upcoming events. Of course you will be given credit for the submission with a link to your website if available. We reserve the right to include your submissions in subsequent newsletters in addition to or instead of inclusion in the following week's issue.
How Can We Assist You?
One-on-one consultations
Seminars/Workshops
Seminar and Board Room Rentals (ASK ABOUT OUR GREAT RATES!)
Access to a computer workstation with internet access
Start up information
Assistance with writing a business plan or marketing plan
OTHER ... Tell us what you need .. if we can't provide it, we will find out who can!
See you at the Centre!
For more information visit our website at: www.barriebusinesscentre.ca
Ask about our GREAT RATES on seminar room AND board room rentals
Now with kitchen access!
Contact Information phone: (705) 720-2445
email: reception@barriebusinesscentre.ca
Terri Plaxton-SmithGreater Barrie Business Enterprise Centre
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Greater Barrie Business Enterprise Centre | 24 Maple Ave., Suite 202 | Barrie | Ontario | L4M 4Y8 | Canada
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
Mr. Bob www.mrbob.ca/bob asks What message are you communicating to your prospects, clients and community?
What message are you communicating to your prospects, clients and community?
An associate said "I went on Google and searched for 'small business accountant Barrie' and there were none on the top few pages." What's going! Don't you think that small business accountants would be talking about small business solutions?
Is it time for a reality check? Over my many years, I have met thousands of small business owners. When I ask them what they do, inevitably I get a standard answer. Their response is "this is what I do..." and they try to list everything. They talk about the features and usually don't ask why I am asking the question.
Reality Check #1 - Ask yourself, if you were looking for a small business accountant in Barrie, what information would you want to know. Our question is, what as an accountant are you performing for small business owners; ie. results testimonials and experience.
Example: Many business owners believe that they do everything and they don't want to miss capturing everybody. Become a specialist in one or two areas and tell stories about your successes and your results. These stories will be conveyed by word-of-mouth by all that heard you and your staff.
Reality Check #2 - Take out your business card and take a good look at it. Realize that the person you are giving it to is going back to their office. In a day or two they will be reviewing all their contacts. Ask yourself - does my card communicate that contacting me would be of benefit? Having reviewed thousands of business cards I know that the majority cards communicate the importance of their business, name, address etc., Could yours communicate a real benefit?
Example: My business card reads: Buy Mr. Bob Lunch, Right now people are looking for what you're selling and you're missing them... For the cost of lunch, I'll show you how to add these people to your bottom line.
Reality Check #3 - Take all your promotional material, advertising, web material and sales material and spread them out so you can see everything. Now ask yourself - what message are you conveying? Now put yourself in your clients' and prospects' shoes and ask yourself - why should I buy from you? Are we really offering results that would improve our clients lives?
Example: For a small business owner with a limited marketing budget, we offer a complete system for one year, 365 days, at less than it costs for one small ad in a publication.
How would you like a free third party look at these areas? Buy Mr. Bob Lunch or go to www.mrbob.ca/bob to see other marketing options. Click on the Marketing Wizard for more in depth analysis.
Homework
What as a business owners are you performing for small business owners -results, testimonials and experience?
Ask yourself does your business card communicate that contacting you would be of benefit.
Have we fallen into a competitive trap? Are you really offering results that would improve your clients lives?
An associate said "I went on Google and searched for 'small business accountant Barrie' and there were none on the top few pages." What's going! Don't you think that small business accountants would be talking about small business solutions?
Is it time for a reality check? Over my many years, I have met thousands of small business owners. When I ask them what they do, inevitably I get a standard answer. Their response is "this is what I do..." and they try to list everything. They talk about the features and usually don't ask why I am asking the question.
Reality Check #1 - Ask yourself, if you were looking for a small business accountant in Barrie, what information would you want to know. Our question is, what as an accountant are you performing for small business owners; ie. results testimonials and experience.
Example: Many business owners believe that they do everything and they don't want to miss capturing everybody. Become a specialist in one or two areas and tell stories about your successes and your results. These stories will be conveyed by word-of-mouth by all that heard you and your staff.
Reality Check #2 - Take out your business card and take a good look at it. Realize that the person you are giving it to is going back to their office. In a day or two they will be reviewing all their contacts. Ask yourself - does my card communicate that contacting me would be of benefit? Having reviewed thousands of business cards I know that the majority cards communicate the importance of their business, name, address etc., Could yours communicate a real benefit?
Example: My business card reads: Buy Mr. Bob Lunch, Right now people are looking for what you're selling and you're missing them... For the cost of lunch, I'll show you how to add these people to your bottom line.
Reality Check #3 - Take all your promotional material, advertising, web material and sales material and spread them out so you can see everything. Now ask yourself - what message are you conveying? Now put yourself in your clients' and prospects' shoes and ask yourself - why should I buy from you? Are we really offering results that would improve our clients lives?
Example: For a small business owner with a limited marketing budget, we offer a complete system for one year, 365 days, at less than it costs for one small ad in a publication.
How would you like a free third party look at these areas? Buy Mr. Bob Lunch or go to www.mrbob.ca/bob to see other marketing options. Click on the Marketing Wizard for more in depth analysis.
Homework
What as a business owners are you performing for small business owners -results, testimonials and experience?
Ask yourself does your business card communicate that contacting you would be of benefit.
Have we fallen into a competitive trap? Are you really offering results that would improve your clients lives?
Monday, October 27, 2008
Weigh Loss Challengs
IT’S A FACT that 23 percent of all adults in Canada are OBESE! We challenge YOU to become one of the “BIGGEST losers” in Simcoe County . Let’s join together to reverse this obesity trend.
This contest will be held in Barrie at The Good Shepherd Lutheran Church at 220 Steel Street and begins Monday November 3rd 2008. The contest is based on percentage of body weight lost. Cash prizes will be awarded to the participants who have lost the biggest percentage of weight.
The 12 week program advises proper nutrition, food choices and encourages exercise. Each person will receive weekly one-on-one coaching. The cost is $29.00 for the entire 12 week program. All money will be paid out in cash and prizes to the winners. Specific rules will be in place to keep everyone consistant. Fail to weigh in? pay a $5.00 fee as well as a $1.00 per pound gained fine. These fees will be added to the cash pay-out.
Each week, participants will weigh-in and consult with a coach who will help you along the way offering various options to help you reach your ideal weight and body composition. The program encourages participants to eat a healthy level of protein and calories each day and teaches the benefit of good nutrition and exercise. The previous contests ended with an average weight loss of over 19 pounds and over 33 inches per person, with winnings of $250.00 - $650.00 for the winners.
If you are interested in becoming part of the 12 week course.Challenge, you can pre-register by calling James Sier 800-759-4042. We accept cash, check or credit card over a secure server. Learn how to eat & stay healthy with our fast paced lifestyles. Receive a free Metabolism test and much more.
Every Monday Starting November 3rd Offering a Am & Pm Sessions
Am-Class runs from 11:00am-12:00pm & the Pm – Class run from 8:00pm – 9:00pm
Please! Preregister before November 3rd to secure a spot!
This contest will be held in Barrie at The Good Shepherd Lutheran Church at 220 Steel Street and begins Monday November 3rd 2008. The contest is based on percentage of body weight lost. Cash prizes will be awarded to the participants who have lost the biggest percentage of weight.
The 12 week program advises proper nutrition, food choices and encourages exercise. Each person will receive weekly one-on-one coaching. The cost is $29.00 for the entire 12 week program. All money will be paid out in cash and prizes to the winners. Specific rules will be in place to keep everyone consistant. Fail to weigh in? pay a $5.00 fee as well as a $1.00 per pound gained fine. These fees will be added to the cash pay-out.
Each week, participants will weigh-in and consult with a coach who will help you along the way offering various options to help you reach your ideal weight and body composition. The program encourages participants to eat a healthy level of protein and calories each day and teaches the benefit of good nutrition and exercise. The previous contests ended with an average weight loss of over 19 pounds and over 33 inches per person, with winnings of $250.00 - $650.00 for the winners.
If you are interested in becoming part of the 12 week course.Challenge, you can pre-register by calling James Sier 800-759-4042. We accept cash, check or credit card over a secure server. Learn how to eat & stay healthy with our fast paced lifestyles. Receive a free Metabolism test and much more.
Every Monday Starting November 3rd Offering a Am & Pm Sessions
Am-Class runs from 11:00am-12:00pm & the Pm – Class run from 8:00pm – 9:00pm
Please! Preregister before November 3rd to secure a spot!
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Advertisng investments really work
Mr. Bob had a visit from a small business owner. She wanted to build her business and had budgeted another $2,000 for advertising. She wanted guidance on how best to promote her business.
Mr. Bob asked the business owner what she had done in the past, and she replied that she had spent $2,000 on advertising. Mr. Bob asked if the advertising had worked.
“What do you mean, did it work? When you buy advertising there are no guarantees. You place an ad and hope that it works. It is just part of doing business,” was her reply.
“Well, let’s try and work out what results you got from the advertising. Let’s measure your advertising success. How many clients do you have and how much revenue do they generate?” The owner responded that she had 39 clients, each of whom paid her $45.00 a month or approximately $600.00 a year. To Mr. Bob’s next question, “Out of those 39 clients, how many became clients as a result of your $2,000 of advertising?” the owner replied that the advertising had brought one new client to her.
“So why do you think advertising is the way build your business”? Asked Mr. Bob. “ You have 39 customers, of whom only one came directly as a result of advertising. Where did the other 38 clients come from?” She replied that they had come from friends, family, word of mouth and referrals.
“Well, then,” said Mr. Bob said, “Let’s look at how best to build your business. Your greatest success in gaining new customers comes by word of mouth referrals. What do you think would happen if you developed an incentive program for giving you referrals? For example, if one of your customers gave you a referral, you could acknowledge that referral and show your appreciation by giving your customer a gift -- flowers, a dinner out, a free cleaning up to the value of $45, or if the referral generated a larger contract, you could give a larger gift. What do you think would be the result of that type of advertising?”
“I would get lots of new customers,” she said.
For more information go to www.mrbob/bob or call (705) 721-0727
Homework - Who drives your business; your customers or your marketing?
In summary:
Does your advertising work?
Is advertising the method to build your business?
Ask yourself, what approach gets your best clients
Identify and act on the strategies that make sense, not nonsense
To subscribe to this newsletter e-mail Mr. Bob at mrbob@mrbob.ca and check out our past newsletters at http://mrbob.ca/newsarchives/index.htm
Mr. Bob asked the business owner what she had done in the past, and she replied that she had spent $2,000 on advertising. Mr. Bob asked if the advertising had worked.
“What do you mean, did it work? When you buy advertising there are no guarantees. You place an ad and hope that it works. It is just part of doing business,” was her reply.
“Well, let’s try and work out what results you got from the advertising. Let’s measure your advertising success. How many clients do you have and how much revenue do they generate?” The owner responded that she had 39 clients, each of whom paid her $45.00 a month or approximately $600.00 a year. To Mr. Bob’s next question, “Out of those 39 clients, how many became clients as a result of your $2,000 of advertising?” the owner replied that the advertising had brought one new client to her.
“So why do you think advertising is the way build your business”? Asked Mr. Bob. “ You have 39 customers, of whom only one came directly as a result of advertising. Where did the other 38 clients come from?” She replied that they had come from friends, family, word of mouth and referrals.
“Well, then,” said Mr. Bob said, “Let’s look at how best to build your business. Your greatest success in gaining new customers comes by word of mouth referrals. What do you think would happen if you developed an incentive program for giving you referrals? For example, if one of your customers gave you a referral, you could acknowledge that referral and show your appreciation by giving your customer a gift -- flowers, a dinner out, a free cleaning up to the value of $45, or if the referral generated a larger contract, you could give a larger gift. What do you think would be the result of that type of advertising?”
“I would get lots of new customers,” she said.
For more information go to www.mrbob/bob or call (705) 721-0727
Homework - Who drives your business; your customers or your marketing?
In summary:
Does your advertising work?
Is advertising the method to build your business?
Ask yourself, what approach gets your best clients
Identify and act on the strategies that make sense, not nonsense
To subscribe to this newsletter e-mail Mr. Bob at mrbob@mrbob.ca and check out our past newsletters at http://mrbob.ca/newsarchives/index.htm
Monday, October 6, 2008
Does This House Make Me Look Fat?
Does This House Make Me Look Fat?
It's an age-old question: "Does this dress make me look fat?" or "Do these jeans make me look fat?" Patient husbands, fathers, brothers, even sons have sighed and replied in the negative (even when they really felt otherwise) in an effort to bolster the self-esteem of the woman in question.
Now, with the rise in intergenerational households (the old 'kids and elders' under one roof sandwich) and the accumulation of clothing, shoes, books, music, and other collectibles which each member brings into the household the question truly has become 'Does this house make me look fat?'
Sadly, the reality is that the house may be making you fat!
How is that possible, you ask? The clutter is one aspect most people are acutely aware of as a contributing factor. What many people don't know is that the energy fields in their homes can also contribute to health issues including weight gain.
As a Feng Shui consultant, I always ask my clients if there are any health concerns or issues affecting anyone in the household in advance of my visit. Often the answer is yes, and my analysis of their home shows me why this is the case.
Feng Shui (pronounced fung shoy) has been practiced in China for thousands of years and is the art and science of mapping the energy patterns in a building, whether your home or office. A thorough analysis of the space is made and written recommendations and solutions are provided which allow the homeowner to improve the quality and circulation of ch'i, or life energy.
Energy blockages throughout the home can contribute to health issues, as can the improper location of beds and desks. The location of your stove and even the colours on your walls can all contribute to adding pounds to you and your family members as each year passes.
Let me show you how your home can help you lose weight.
Patti Smith is The Decor Doctor, providing Professional Organizing, Feng Shui consulting, and Staging services to residential, corporate and commercial clients in Barrie, Angus, Innisfil, Orangeville and Toronto. For more information please visit www.thedecordoctor.ca.
It's an age-old question: "Does this dress make me look fat?" or "Do these jeans make me look fat?" Patient husbands, fathers, brothers, even sons have sighed and replied in the negative (even when they really felt otherwise) in an effort to bolster the self-esteem of the woman in question.
Now, with the rise in intergenerational households (the old 'kids and elders' under one roof sandwich) and the accumulation of clothing, shoes, books, music, and other collectibles which each member brings into the household the question truly has become 'Does this house make me look fat?'
Sadly, the reality is that the house may be making you fat!
How is that possible, you ask? The clutter is one aspect most people are acutely aware of as a contributing factor. What many people don't know is that the energy fields in their homes can also contribute to health issues including weight gain.
As a Feng Shui consultant, I always ask my clients if there are any health concerns or issues affecting anyone in the household in advance of my visit. Often the answer is yes, and my analysis of their home shows me why this is the case.
Feng Shui (pronounced fung shoy) has been practiced in China for thousands of years and is the art and science of mapping the energy patterns in a building, whether your home or office. A thorough analysis of the space is made and written recommendations and solutions are provided which allow the homeowner to improve the quality and circulation of ch'i, or life energy.
Energy blockages throughout the home can contribute to health issues, as can the improper location of beds and desks. The location of your stove and even the colours on your walls can all contribute to adding pounds to you and your family members as each year passes.
Let me show you how your home can help you lose weight.
Patti Smith is The Decor Doctor, providing Professional Organizing, Feng Shui consulting, and Staging services to residential, corporate and commercial clients in Barrie, Angus, Innisfil, Orangeville and Toronto. For more information please visit www.thedecordoctor.ca.
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