• One hundred and thirty nine thousand new businesses start up every year.
• Failure rates for small businesses in Canada are high for the first three years and decline over time.
• Seventy per cent of small businesses that enter the marketplace survive for one full year; half survive for three years.
• Twenty five per cent of small businesses are still operating after nine years.
• The top three reasons people start a business are – to leave the corporate rat race, to make a living after graduating or immigrating to Canada, to make a living between jobs or to start a business over 55.
• Entrepreneurs get their ideas by copying or modifying an existing idea, building a business from their hobby, experiencing an "a-ha" moment, being inspired by someone else's experience or market research.
• Ideas for new businesses are borne out of an untapped market, an invention, the desire to improve on an existing idea, changes in technology and changes in social trends (i.e. environmentalism).
Source: Staples Business Depot.
www.newscanada.com
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
Changing the world, one click at a time
For non-profit organizations working to create awareness for their cause, social media tools like Facebook and Twitter have become invaluable. Forward-thinking charities have embraced these tools as a means of engaging with their supporters and of winning over new ones.
As a firm believer in the value of social media, the Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada has taken this philosophy to heart. “This is a new approach to communication for non-profit organizations,” says Ken Mayhew, chief development officer at the MS Society of Canada. “Interactivity and participation is what makes this unique. It truly is a new frontier of communications.”
The power of social media is far-reaching, and the gains for non-profits go beyond monetary. While the tools can be effective ways to raise funds, they also contribute to a cause in their ability to educate the public, raise awareness, create excitement, and incite participation. To this end, the Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada has successfully launched blogs to promote its fundraising campaigns and special events like the RONA MS Bike Tours, maintaining pages on Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube. Supporters can easily share links with friends and family, gather pledges, and report on their training progress.
Many view social media's non-intrusive approach as one of its best features. “Social networking sites deliver a message without requiring a donation or anything in return,” says Mayhew. “Supporters are able to inform others about a cause that is meaningful to them. If even a small percentage of the people who receive this message donate, join a fan page, or get involved in some other way, they have made a valuable contribution to the cause.”
Looking to the future, the potential of social media appears to be infinite. Perhaps the most exciting aspect of the technology is that it equalizes the communications playing field. “We no longer have to wait for mass media like newspapers and radio stations to publish news,” says Mayhew. “Now we can participate in the process and have our opinions heard in reaction to that news.” For people who choose to give back to a cause that just might mean playing a part in changing the world, one click at a time.
More information about the RONA MS Bike Tours can be found online at www.msbiketours.com. You can follow the RONA MS Bike Tours online at www.gearingup.ca, www.twitter.com/msbiketours, or join the RONA MS Bike Tour Facebook Fan page at www.facebook.com.
Source: www.newscanada.com
As a firm believer in the value of social media, the Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada has taken this philosophy to heart. “This is a new approach to communication for non-profit organizations,” says Ken Mayhew, chief development officer at the MS Society of Canada. “Interactivity and participation is what makes this unique. It truly is a new frontier of communications.”
The power of social media is far-reaching, and the gains for non-profits go beyond monetary. While the tools can be effective ways to raise funds, they also contribute to a cause in their ability to educate the public, raise awareness, create excitement, and incite participation. To this end, the Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada has successfully launched blogs to promote its fundraising campaigns and special events like the RONA MS Bike Tours, maintaining pages on Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube. Supporters can easily share links with friends and family, gather pledges, and report on their training progress.
Many view social media's non-intrusive approach as one of its best features. “Social networking sites deliver a message without requiring a donation or anything in return,” says Mayhew. “Supporters are able to inform others about a cause that is meaningful to them. If even a small percentage of the people who receive this message donate, join a fan page, or get involved in some other way, they have made a valuable contribution to the cause.”
Looking to the future, the potential of social media appears to be infinite. Perhaps the most exciting aspect of the technology is that it equalizes the communications playing field. “We no longer have to wait for mass media like newspapers and radio stations to publish news,” says Mayhew. “Now we can participate in the process and have our opinions heard in reaction to that news.” For people who choose to give back to a cause that just might mean playing a part in changing the world, one click at a time.
More information about the RONA MS Bike Tours can be found online at www.msbiketours.com. You can follow the RONA MS Bike Tours online at www.gearingup.ca, www.twitter.com/msbiketours, or join the RONA MS Bike Tour Facebook Fan page at www.facebook.com.
Source: www.newscanada.com
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
Survey shows employees' stress dependent on region
(NC)—According to the 2009 Desjardins Financial Security National Health Survey, Canadian employees are showing signs of mental distress related to the current difficult economic times.
An average of 30 per cent of Canadian employees are experiencing anxiety, losing sleep, and/or suffering from headaches, muscle aches and other physical tension—symptoms which often precede more serious problems. However, higher-than-average results from different parts of the country are more alarming.
For example, results from Ontario and British Columbia were higher than the national average in all three symptoms. But, results from the Maritimes, Quebec and the Prairies registered less than the average. When respondents were asked if they were paying more attention to their personal finances since the start of the recession, 83 per cent of Canadians said yes. However, the average was much higher in Ontario, the Prairies and British Columbia.
Employees' relationship to work
Respondents were also asked several questions about their work situations since the start of the recession. About 43 per cent of Canadian employees said they are worried about losing their jobs. These results were significantly higher in Ontario, where 55 per cent are concerned about job losses.
When asked about reduced work productivity and increased time off work, the national average was 29 and 20 per cent respectively. Ontario and British Columbia both showed significantly higher results in reduced productivity (34 and 31 per cent), and the Prairies registered the highest percentage of time off work (23 per cent). More than a quarter of Canadian employees said that they were less engaged at work. All the regions except for British Columbia (34 per cent) were on par with the Canadian average.
How employers can help their staff
While employees have certain responsibilities in managing their mental health at work, there are steps that an employer can take to help their staff during the current economic storm:
• Communicate with your staff regularly. As a manager, stay visible and approachable. This visibility can quash the rumour mill and alleviate fear.
• Urge employees to look at what they can control by having group meetings to cultivate creativity new ideas and find solutions.
• Create a positive picture. Replace fear with hope. Reward innovation and brainstorm new ideas.
• Identify employees who are not coping well. Meet with them privately and ask if there is a way you can help them cope.
• Be supportive. Showing empathy and providing a listening ear can help staff feel less anxious and isolated.
• Boost morale by heading off unacceptable behaviour and remind employees that their individual behaviour will collectively help the company to thrive.
• Provide employee assistance programs. This is not the time to eliminate EAP services. Support offered by EAP is a long term investment for the mental health of employees.
More information on the Desjardins Financial Security Health is Cool survey is available online at www.healthiscool.ca.
Source: www.newscanada.com
An average of 30 per cent of Canadian employees are experiencing anxiety, losing sleep, and/or suffering from headaches, muscle aches and other physical tension—symptoms which often precede more serious problems. However, higher-than-average results from different parts of the country are more alarming.
For example, results from Ontario and British Columbia were higher than the national average in all three symptoms. But, results from the Maritimes, Quebec and the Prairies registered less than the average. When respondents were asked if they were paying more attention to their personal finances since the start of the recession, 83 per cent of Canadians said yes. However, the average was much higher in Ontario, the Prairies and British Columbia.
Employees' relationship to work
Respondents were also asked several questions about their work situations since the start of the recession. About 43 per cent of Canadian employees said they are worried about losing their jobs. These results were significantly higher in Ontario, where 55 per cent are concerned about job losses.
When asked about reduced work productivity and increased time off work, the national average was 29 and 20 per cent respectively. Ontario and British Columbia both showed significantly higher results in reduced productivity (34 and 31 per cent), and the Prairies registered the highest percentage of time off work (23 per cent). More than a quarter of Canadian employees said that they were less engaged at work. All the regions except for British Columbia (34 per cent) were on par with the Canadian average.
How employers can help their staff
While employees have certain responsibilities in managing their mental health at work, there are steps that an employer can take to help their staff during the current economic storm:
• Communicate with your staff regularly. As a manager, stay visible and approachable. This visibility can quash the rumour mill and alleviate fear.
• Urge employees to look at what they can control by having group meetings to cultivate creativity new ideas and find solutions.
• Create a positive picture. Replace fear with hope. Reward innovation and brainstorm new ideas.
• Identify employees who are not coping well. Meet with them privately and ask if there is a way you can help them cope.
• Be supportive. Showing empathy and providing a listening ear can help staff feel less anxious and isolated.
• Boost morale by heading off unacceptable behaviour and remind employees that their individual behaviour will collectively help the company to thrive.
• Provide employee assistance programs. This is not the time to eliminate EAP services. Support offered by EAP is a long term investment for the mental health of employees.
More information on the Desjardins Financial Security Health is Cool survey is available online at www.healthiscool.ca.
Source: www.newscanada.com
Monday, July 13, 2009
Surviving the recession: timely tips for employees
(NC)—They're stressed, anxious, worried about their jobs. Many Canadian employees are showing these and other signs of mental distress. According to the first results of the Desjardins Financial Security National Health Survey, a significant number of workers in Canada feel they have lost control of their lives as the economic recession grinds on, as unemployment numbers rise and as financial security appears to be evaporating.
The study found that one-third of those surveyed say they are more stressed now than a year ago. About 30 per cent of employees across Canada are experiencing anxiety, losing sleep, and/or suffering from headaches, muscle aches and other physical tension—symptoms which often precede more serious problems. Among their worries, three of the most stressful aspects of their lives are associated with their employment—money, workload and job security. Employees appear to be working longer hours, and 54 per cent feel the current recession is having an impact on their work/life balance. As well, 43 per cent are now concerned about losing their jobs. According to Michele Nowski, director of disability claims and disability management with Desjardins Financial Security, this uncertainty is creating an increasingly stressed-out workplace.
"When employees experience increased stress in their lives and work, this tends to result in increased presenteeism and absenteeism." said Nowski. “Employees and employers can work together to create a mentally healthy workplace that will typically have fewer disability claims, less absenteeism and better productivity."
Here are some useful tips to help employees weather the current economic times:
• Prepare yourself for a job search when job security is a worry. Take responsibility and focus on the things you can control.
• Conduct your own skills inventory by asking friends and family to identify your strengths. Make your own list of skills and attributes you have accrued at your present job and previous ones.
• Potential job loss can get you thinking about career opportunities you have always wished to explore. Research career paths of interest and determine their required skill sets.
• Stay connected to your world outside work.
• Don't buy into the low morale at your office. Avoid the rumour mill. Stay detached from gossip and negative thinking, and focus on your own accomplishments and goals.
• Cultivate your hobbies and interests. Now is the time to lift your mood by exploring the passions and interests that make you happy.
• Seek out your friends. Share each other's insights. Friends can offer support, comfort and humour.
• Don't avoid the company supports. Take advantage of your company's Employee Assistance Program.
• Take care of yourself. Don't drop your exercise program because you are too stressed.
• Exercise, sleep and good eating habits still comprise some of our best measures at combating mental health issues such as anger, depression, stress and anxiety.
More information on the Desjardins Financial Security Health is Cool survey is available online at www.healthiscool.ca.
Source: www.newscanada.com
The study found that one-third of those surveyed say they are more stressed now than a year ago. About 30 per cent of employees across Canada are experiencing anxiety, losing sleep, and/or suffering from headaches, muscle aches and other physical tension—symptoms which often precede more serious problems. Among their worries, three of the most stressful aspects of their lives are associated with their employment—money, workload and job security. Employees appear to be working longer hours, and 54 per cent feel the current recession is having an impact on their work/life balance. As well, 43 per cent are now concerned about losing their jobs. According to Michele Nowski, director of disability claims and disability management with Desjardins Financial Security, this uncertainty is creating an increasingly stressed-out workplace.
"When employees experience increased stress in their lives and work, this tends to result in increased presenteeism and absenteeism." said Nowski. “Employees and employers can work together to create a mentally healthy workplace that will typically have fewer disability claims, less absenteeism and better productivity."
Here are some useful tips to help employees weather the current economic times:
• Prepare yourself for a job search when job security is a worry. Take responsibility and focus on the things you can control.
• Conduct your own skills inventory by asking friends and family to identify your strengths. Make your own list of skills and attributes you have accrued at your present job and previous ones.
• Potential job loss can get you thinking about career opportunities you have always wished to explore. Research career paths of interest and determine their required skill sets.
• Stay connected to your world outside work.
• Don't buy into the low morale at your office. Avoid the rumour mill. Stay detached from gossip and negative thinking, and focus on your own accomplishments and goals.
• Cultivate your hobbies and interests. Now is the time to lift your mood by exploring the passions and interests that make you happy.
• Seek out your friends. Share each other's insights. Friends can offer support, comfort and humour.
• Don't avoid the company supports. Take advantage of your company's Employee Assistance Program.
• Take care of yourself. Don't drop your exercise program because you are too stressed.
• Exercise, sleep and good eating habits still comprise some of our best measures at combating mental health issues such as anger, depression, stress and anxiety.
More information on the Desjardins Financial Security Health is Cool survey is available online at www.healthiscool.ca.
Source: www.newscanada.com
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