HALIFAX CHAMBER OF COMMERCE | MAY 2018 | VOLUME 27 ISSUE 5

Halifax Chamber welcomes Cynthia Dorrington as Chair of the Board

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SAFE WORKSPACES CULTIVATING HAPPINESS WONDER WOMEN Help for employers addressing Gratitude at work increases Workshop inspires and sexual harassment Pg 28 productivity Pg 32 challenges Pg 34

Volume 27 • Issue 5 The Chamber is not just for mainstream organizations. 18 Business Voice is published 11 times a year for members of The door is open for all.” the Halifax Chamber of Commerce and Metro Halifax’s business community. Views expressed in Business Voice Chair of the Board, Halifax Chamber of Commerce. are those of the contributors and individual members, Cynthia Dorrington, and are not necessarily endorsed by, or are a policy of, the Halifax Chamber of Commerce.

No part of this publication may be reproduced without written consent of the publisher. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, the publisher cannot be held COVER STORY: responsible for any errors or omissions that may occur.

Please address editorial enquiries and changes to information to: Halifax Chamber of Commerce 100-32 Akerley Boulevard, Dartmouth, Nova Scotia B3B 1N1 Tel: 902-468-7111 MAKING Fax: 902-468-7333 [email protected] www.halifaxchamber.com HISTORY Board of Directors Cynthia Dorrington, Vale & Associates, Chair Halifax Chamber welcomes Margaret Chapman, Corporate Research Associates, Vice Chair Mark Fraser, T4G, Past Chair Cynthia Dorrington Directors Lori Barton, Beaumont Advisors Limited as Chair of the Board Robert Dean, MNP LLP Mark Sidebottom, Nova Scotia Power Inc. Gavin MacDonald, Cox & Palmer Paul Bent, Consultant Saeed El-Darahali, Simply Cast Faten Alshazly, WeUsThem Stefanie MacDonald, Halifax Paper Hearts Captain Paul W. Forget, Maritime Forces Atlantic Richard Butts, Clayton Developments Limited Michele Peveril, Halifax Port Authority Brad Proctor, McInnes Cooper Chamber Staff Patrick Sullivan, President and CEO Nancy M. Conrad, Senior Vice President, Policy 18 Colin J. Bustard, Director of Finance and Administration Becky Davison, Director of Marketing Melissa MacDonald, Communications Specialist

Business Voice is published by The Chronicle Herald, Custom and Community Publishing Department Publisher: Sarah Dennis Vice President, Client Marketing: Jeff Nearing TABLE OF Editor: Denise Surette • [email protected] Layout & Design: Peter Ross Contributing Writers: Jon Tattrie, Erin Elaine Casey, 22 Heather Laura Clarke, David Pretty, Floria Aghdamimehr, CONTENTS: Andrea Forbes-Hurley, Joey Fitzpatrick Customer Relations Specialist: Jennifer MacLean Keeping Sales Executive: Wanda H. Priddle, Karen Publicover 902-426-2811 ext. 1163 Cover Photo: Mike Dembeck 04 Events up with the Copyright 2018 by The Chronicle Herald. All rights reserved. Reproduction of any article, millennials photograph or artwork without expressed written 05 President’s message permission from the publisher is strictly prohibited. 2717 Joseph Howe Drive 06 New & noted Halifax, Nova Scotia B3J 2T2 Tel: 902-426-2811 TheChronicleHerald.ca 11 Members Disclaimer in the news Business Voice magazine makes no warranties of any kind, written or implied, regarding the contents of this magazine 18 Making history and expressly disclaims any warranty regarding the Annie Spratt/Unsplash accuracy or reliability of information contained herein. Halifax Chamber welcomes The views contained in this magazine are those of the writers and advertisers; they do not necessarily reflect Cynthia Dorrington as the views of Business Voice magazine and its publisher Chair of the Board 28 Trends The Chronicle Herald. Publications Mail Agreement No. 40032112 22 Keeping up with 33 Working for you Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to Halifax Chamber of Commerce. the millennials 38 Where are they now: Is your HR team riding the Black Star Group wave of change? SPECIAL FEATURES: 26 Profile: uptreeHR 36 Golfing getaways

BUSINESS VOICE 3 EVENTS

For a full and up-to-date list of our Chamber events, please visit CHAMBER EVENTS www.halifaxchamber.com/events

2019 HALIFAX 12 BUSINESS AWARDS NOMINATIONS NOW OPEN! Networking We will be accepting nominations until Tuesday, September 4th. @ Noon Nominate a deserving business today! Dr. Robert Summerby-Murray DATE: Wednesday, May 23 DATE: Thursday, May 24 TIME: 12 – 1:30 pm TIME: 11:30 am – 1:30 pm LOCATION: Halifax Chamber of Commerce SPONSOR: Saint Mary’s University

DATE: Wednesday, May 2 TIME: 5 – 9 pm LOCATION: DATE: Thursday, June 14, 2018 Halifax Convention Centre HOSTS: Seapoint at Harbour Isle TIME: 11 am – 8 pm PRESENTING SPONSOR: DATE: Thursday, May 10 LOCATION: Brightwood Golf & Country Club Oland Brewery TIME: 4:30 – 6:30 pm LOCATION: 50 Marketplace Drive, Dartmouth THANK YOU TO OUR APRIL SPONSORS:

Outcomes over Optics DATE: Friday, May 18 SPEAKER: Duncan Sinclair, TIME: 12 – 1:30 pm Chair of Deloitte Canada LOCATION: DATE: Wednesday, May 9 Halifax Chamber of Commerce TIME: 11:30 am – 1:30 pm LOCATION: The Westin Hotel SPONSOR: Deloitte

SPEAKER: The Honourable Karen Casey, Minister of Finance & Treasury Board DATE: Wednesday, May 16 DATE: Tuesday, May 15 TIMES: 12 – 1 pm TIME: 11:30 am – 1:30 pm LOCATION: LOCATION: The Westin Hotel Halifax Chamber of Commerce SPONSOR: CPA, Chartered Professional Accountants ARE YOU READY TO RISE TO THE TOP?

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4 MAY 2018 PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE New Chair and a fresh strategic plan Help us welcome our new Chair of the Board @prezhfxchamber

PATRICK SULLIVAN PRESIDENT & CEO

istorically, the May issue of Business HVoice is when we proudly introduce our new Chair of the Board. This issue gives you a chance to get to know them better and what they’re hoping to accom- plish in their time as Chair. This year, we are excited to welcome Cynthia Dor- Mike Dembeck rington, President of Vale & Associates as our Chair of the Board, who will be We’ve been working away at our 2013 –2018 supported by Margaret Chapman, Vice Strategic Plan and will be ready to launch our next President of Corporate Research Associ- ates Inc. as Vice Chair. For those of you plan later this year and I couldn’t think of a better who don’t know Cynthia, you can find out person to lead the charge. Cynthia is a leader, She is more about her in this issue — and learn that we are so happy to have her in this an agent of change and she is capable.” role. She has been on our Board of Direc- tors for a number of years as a Board Member, Chair of HR and Governance — the opportunity and I am sure Chamber time to regroup and refocus keeps your she is also finishing her term as Chair of members will be too. organization relevant and lengthens your the Black Business Initiative (BBI) as she While we are moving towards our lifecycle. We understand your contri- heads into this leadership role as Chair of new Strategic Plan, it might beg the ques- bution to our city and we want you to be the Halifax Chamber. tion of whether it’s time to review your successful, regardless of what success Her year as Chair will include an organization’s plan. Some questions we looks like to your organization. We’re extensive amount of planning and shift- could all stand to ask ourselves include: here to support you. And if you’re looking ing. We’ve been working away at our 2013 – • Who are you as an organization? for more extensive assistance in strategy 2018 Strategic Plan and will be ready to • Do you have a purpose that aligns development, I encourage you to check launch our next plan later this year and I with what you’re focused on? out our member directory. You have peers couldn’t think of a better person to lead • Where do you see your organization within the Chamber membership that the charge. Cynthia is a leader, she is in five years and will your current can help you get there. You don’t have to an agent of change and she is capable. plan get you there? go it alone. Launching a new Strategic Plan takes Once you’ve taken a look at your own tenacity, dedication and hard work. Once It’s important to take the time to strategy, I encourage you to look up for a the planning is done, the Chamber will focus on the business to ensure effective- few minutes and take the opportunity to need to shift our mindset from what we ness. It’s easy to get lost in the day to day meet Cynthia and the Chamber team at now do and begin to align with the new busy work and lose sight of why you’re one of our Chamber events. I hope to see plan to reach our goals. We’re excited for working so hard in the first place. Taking you there.

BUSINESS VOICE 5 NEWSMAKERS NEW & NOTED We welcome our new Chamber members

ACADA - ATLANTIC CANADA AC HUNTER TELLIER BELGRAVE AKOMA FAMILY CENTRE AEROSPACE AND DEFENCE ADAMSON, CHARTERED The Akoma Family Centre is a residen- ASSOCIATION PROFESSIONAL ACCOUNTANTS tial program that provides a safe and ACADA is a collaborative SME-focused AC Hunter Tellier Belgrave Adamson is a nurturing place for children ages three to organization representing the interests full-service CPA firm offering tax, estate 13 with developmental and behavioural of the aerospace, defense and security and financial planning services, as well needs. Many of our children have special industries in Atlantic Canada. ACADA as tax compliance, financial statements, needs, such as being on the Autism is comprised of more than 165 industry financial projections and valuations. We Spectrum. We have developed an inno- members and organizations across also advise owner-managed businesses on vative approach that blends Afri-centric Atlantic Canada. financing, succession planning, computer and trauma-informed care principles. Catherine MacDonald systems and business-related matters. Debbie Carver 1801 Hollis Street, Suite 230 Boyd Hunter 1018 Main Street Halifax, NS 24-260 Brownlow Avenue Dartmouth, NS 902-425-0070 Dartmouth, NS 902-434-0674 [email protected] 902-468-1949 [email protected] www.ac-ada.ca [email protected] www.akoma.ca NOT-FOR-PROFIT GROUPS – www.acgca.ca/members/ac-hunter- NOT-FOR-PROFIT GROUPS – Not-For-Profit Groups tellier-belgrave-adamson Not-For-Profit Groups FINANCE & INSURANCE – Accounting Here is what a cure for cancer could look like.

This is a zebrafish, he hails from the foothills of the Himalayas. And, while quite small, he is mighty. You see, zebrafish like this are being used on a daily basis by Dr. Jason Berman and his team to learn how cancers, and other genetic diseases develop and grow, and how they could respond to possible treatments. Making this little minnow, a very big fish, indeed.

This study, and others like it, are proudly supported by the Dalhousie Medical Research Foundation.

watch the video at DMRF.ca WHERE BREAKTHROUGHS BEGIN

6 MAY 2018 NEWSMAKERS

ANDREA JANZEN Ute Fiedler CANDOUR BUSINESS PROFESSIONAL COACHING Halifax, NS EQUIPMENT A professional leadership coach that 902-209-6109 Atlantic Canada’s leader in office utefi[email protected] believes in abundance. I help my clients printing technology, Candour Business EDUCATION & PROF. to see opportunities, feel ready to take Equipment offers unbiased service on DEVELOPMENT – Prof. Development action and make things happen. I offer all makes and models of office printing my clients a balanced perspective by C&C ACCOUNTING SERVICES devices. As a dealer for Riso Comcolor linking the human side of the business inkjet products, we help businesses save to the bottom line. C&C Accounting Services is owned and money and downtime with high-speed, Andrea Janzen operated by me, Kim Batherson, FCPA, full-colour printing at a fraction of the Halifax, NS FCGA. My specialities include personal cost of traditional technology. 902-293-3770 tax returns and returns for those who Iain Paris [email protected] are self-employed. As a small business Halifax, NS www.andreajanzen.com owner myself, I understand the rigours 902-480-8474 EDUCATION & PROF. involved with bookkeeping and staying [email protected] DEVELOPMENT – Coaching on top of your finances. www.candourcopy.ca Kimberly Batherson BUSINESS & PROF. SERVICES – Dartmouth, NS Office Supplies/Equip. ATLANTIC WINDSHIELD 902-499-9611 DISTRIBUTORS [email protected] CINEPLEX FINANCE & INSURANCE – Trevor Starratt Whether you need a single special event Income Tax Service 16 Borden Avenue space or a multi-city, multi-auditorium Dartmouth, NS meeting venue, we have unique solu- 902-468-1574 CANADA POST COMMERCIAL SALES tions designed to meet your needs. With [email protected] a 50-foot-plus screen, movie theatre www.atlanticwindshield.ca Robin Gilby sound and in-house catering options, TRANSPORTATION – 8087-6175 Almon Street our professional team will ensure Automotive Repair/Parts Halifax, NS that your meeting or screening goes 902-209-7689 smoothly anywhere across Canada. BRITTANY PICKREM – [email protected] Tom Perks BRANDING & DESIGN www.canadapost.ca 190 Chain Lake Drive BUSINESS & PROF. SERVICES – I’m a brand expert and designer and I cre- Halifax, NS Courier/Postal/Mailing ate great visual branding for businesses 902-876-4832 that do good things. With more than a [email protected] CANADIAN PARENTS FOR decade of experience, I have worked with FRENCH - NOVA SCOTIA www.cineplex.com a range of customers from local not-for- EVENTS – Event Facilities profit organizations to businesses across Canadian Parents for French (CPF) is the Canada and the United States. Visit my national network of volunteers which CÓSTAFIT REBOUNDING values French as an integral part of website at www.brittanypickrem.com. CÓSTAFIT Rebounding is a fitness Canada and is dedicated to the promo- Brittany Pickrem studio which uses specialized mini tram- tion and creation of French as a second Halifax, NS polines in group fitness classes. NASA language opportunities for youth. We 902-404-2790 studies proved it is the best exercise for work with the Department of Education, [email protected] the body and uses rebounding to train teacher’s organizations and groups www.brittanypickrem.com and rehabilitate their astronauts. Suitable ADVERTISING, PR & MEDIA – concerned about education, to ensure for young or elderly — and absolute Advertising that there is support for French language beginners to professional athletes. education. BTC CONSULTING Cheryl Denman Rebecca Lancaster 230-250 Baker Drive BTC Consulting is engaged in the areas 8 Flamingo Drive Dartmouth, NS of immigration, culture and lifelong Halifax, NS 902-462-4682 learning. The company’s mission is to 902-453-2048 [email protected] collaborate with governments, NGOs, [email protected] www.costafitrebounding.com www.ns.cpf.ca the private sector and individuals, to tell SPORTS & RECREATION – NOT-FOR-PROFIT GROUPS – a more powerful tale, one which creates Recreation/Sports/Fitness Not-For-Profit Groups a future of possibility from Halifax and all around the world.

BUSINESS VOICE 7 NEWSMAKERS

DARTMOUTH GENERAL GBS TECHNOLOGIES HOSTELLING HOSPITAL FOUNDATION INTERNATIONAL HALIFAX GBS Technologies is Atlantic Canada’s Ensuring humanity in healthcare services all-in-one solution for mobility and Established in Nova Scotia in 1962, as a delivery is a hallmark of the Dartmouth IT. We are the largest Atlantic TELUS hostel accommodation for our guests, General Hospital. Our amazing team dealership and offer our clients a tech our mission is: To unite conscious trav- is supported by generous donors to the “suite” from mobility services, fleet ellers who share a great understanding of DGH Foundation whose financial con- management solutions, VoIP, comput- people, places and cultures, through our tributions helps purchase equipment, ers, servers, managed IT and more! We community of hostels and people and technology and support capital improve- specialize in making your tech simple, curated experiences that foster collective ments so that patients and their families safe and secure. growth and development. HI Halifax? have access to the best care. Ashley Lawrence Now that was cool! Adrienne Malloy 200-3480 Joseph Howe Drive Shane Pizzariello 325 Pleasant Street Halifax, NS 1253 Barrington Street Dartmouth, NS 902-431-1100 Halifax, NS 902-465-8560 [email protected] 902-422-3863 [email protected] www.gbstech.com [email protected] ww.dghfoundation.ca COMPUTERS, IT & TECHNOLOGY – www.hihostels.ca NOT-FOR-PROFIT GROUPS – IT Disaster Recovery TRAVEL & TOURISM – Fundraising Accommodations (General) HALCYON SERVICES INC. FENNELL & ASSOCIATES Halcyon Services Inc. is a local consultancy INSTITUTE OF CORPORATE APPRAISERS LIMITED DIRECTORS - MARITIME CHAPTER with a big footprint. We have customers all Established in 1992, Fennell & Associates over the world who count on us regularly The Institute of Corporate Directors Appraisers Limited is a real estate for their cloud, migration, eDiscovery and is a not for profit national community appraisal and consulting firm, which security needs. Based in Halifax, Halcyon for directors. We’re a member-based services all of Nova Scotia. Its licensed Services Inc. is a global player in the association with more than 12,000 members conduct appraisal and con- Windows Management space. members and 11 chapters. The ICD is sulting assignments for all types of real Cindy MacLennan the only globally recognized director property and for a variety of purposes. Halifax, NS organization in Canada and welcomes The Fennell Appraisers team offers more 902-799-0394 directors, C-suite and senior executives, than 100 years of combined appraisal [email protected] who aspire to serve on a board. experience. www.Halcyonsvc.com Michelle LaVigne Jeffrey Barss COMPUTERS, IT & TECHNOLOGY – Toronto, ON 209-3600 Kempt Road Software Consulting 902-440-7329 Halifax, NS [email protected] 902-453-5051 www.icd.ca [email protected] NOT-FOR-PROFIT GROUPS – www.FennellAppraisers.com Associations/Agencies REAL ESTATE/CONSTRUCTION – Appraisals LAKECITY WORKS Liam O'Rourke 386 Windmill Road Dartmouth, NS Consumer Showcase 902-465-5000 ext. 124 May 10, 2018 - Halifax Forum [email protected] Corner of Windsor & Almon St. - Maritime Hall Entrance 10am–3pm www.lakecityworks.com • See the latest in offi ce product innovation NOT-FOR-PROFIT GROUPS – • fromSee the leading latest vendors in office in product the industry innovation Charitable Organizations • Freefrom admittance leading vendors in the industry • Free admittancelunch and refreshments to all attendees • Free lunchparking and refreshments to all attendees • RSVP Free parking - [email protected]. First 100 RSVP • willRSVP receive - [email protected] a gift bag at the door • More information available www.aopa.ca • More information available www.aopa.ca SomeSome of of the the industry industry leaders leaders you you will will see see : :

8 MAY 2018 NEWSMAKERS

LIFEMARK HEALTH Lifemark is a National Health Care com- pany, which provides integrated health care options, employer services, medical assessments and physical rehabilitation. Using our wide network of health care professionals, customized rehabilitation programs are developed to help clients achieve optimal health, quick recovery from illness, injury and safely return to work or their pre-injury function. Shannon Brown 217-7071 Bayers Road Halifax, NS Take advantage of your 902-425-8484 [email protected] member benefits. www.lifemark.ca HEALTH CARE – Physiotherapy Get preferred rates and coverage that fits your needs. NOCTILUCA CONSULTING Feeling like it's time to shake things up? Noctiluca Consulting helps relationship focused organizations glow through You could * Get more out disruption. We have services that help save big when you combine your of your benefits. businesses create amazing customer member preferred rates experiences and relationships, find won- As a Halifax Chamber of Commerce derful people who are a great fit for their and bundle your home member, you have access to the teams and roles, become clear on their and car insurance. TD Insurance Meloche Monnex program. branding and messaging and become This means you can get preferred insurance more operationally efficient. rates on a wide range of home and car Kath Perry coverage that can be customized Halifax, NS for your needs. 902-802-4682 For over 65 years, TD Insurance has been [email protected] helping Canadians find quality home and www.noctilucaconsulting.com BUSINESS & PROF. SERVICES – car insurance solutions. Consulting (General) Recommended by Feel confident your home and car coverage fits your needs. Get a quote now. NORTH END PARENT RESOURCE CENTRE Charlane Watts HOME | CAR 5475 Uniacke Street Halifax, NS 902-492-0133 [email protected] Get a quote and see www.neprc.org how much you could save! NOT-FOR-PROFIT GROUPS – Call 1-866-296-0888 or,goto Charitable Organizations tdinsurance.com/halifaxchamber

The TD Insurance Meloche Monnex program is underwritten by PRIMMUM INSURANCE COMPANY. It is distributed by Meloche Monnex Insurance and Financial Services Inc. in Quebec and by TD Insurance Direct Agency Inc. in the rest of Canada. Our address: 50 Place Cremazie, Montreal (Quebec) H2P 1B6. Due to provincial legislation, our car and recreational insurance program is not offered in British Columbia, Manitoba or Saskatchewan. *Nationally, 90% of all of our clients who belong to an employer group that have an agreement with us and who insure a home (excluding rentals and condos) and a car on July 31, 2017, saved $455 when compared to the premiums they would have paid without the preferred insurance rate for groups and the multi-product discount. Savings are not guaranteed and may vary based on the client’s profile. Savings vary in each province and may be higher or lower than $455. All trade marks are thepropertyof their respective owners. ® The TD logo and other TD trade-marks are the property of The Toronto-Dominion Bank.

BUSINESS VOICE 9 NEWSMAKERS

ROYER THOMPSON SERVICEMASTER RESTORE WESTDALE PROPERTIES MANAGEMENT & HR Damage to your business from water, CONSULTANTS Westdale is a privately-owned family fire, smoke or mold can mean lost company that has been in real estate Royer Thompson is a well-established revenue and potentially lost customers. for more than 60 years. We are proud management and human resources When disaster strikes, ServiceMaster of our first acquisition — Highfield Park consulting firm specialising in advising Restore is ready to be on-site fast; Residential in Dartmouth — and have private and public-sector clients on providing effective emergency services been part of a number of commercial strategies to capture the full potential to mitigate the damage and minimize and residential endeavours in Halifax of everyone within their organization business interruptions. We bring 65 years over the past two decades. by creating a shared sense of purpose, of experience and expertise to get you Tim Reilly recruiting and cultivating leadership, back to business. Dartmouth, NS as well as fostering an innovative and Sienade Earle 902-461-9429 entrepreneurial spirit. Halifax, NS [email protected] Kim West 902-209-0339 www.westdaleproperties.com 305-1949 Upper Water Street, [email protected] REAL ESTATE/CONSTRUCTION – Purdy's Landing www.servicemaster.ca/en/brands/ Property Management Halifax, NS servicemaster-restore 902-422-2099 INDUSTRIAL & MANUFACTURING – STUDENT MEMBERS [email protected] Restoration Services Drake Hill – www.royerthompson.com Business Management, DAL EDUCATION & PROF. THE FLOATATION CENTRE DEVELOPMENT – Coaching Halifax, NS In a world where our senses are over- 902-292-4165 whelmingly stimulated, The Floatation [email protected] SCANWAY CATERING & CAFÉ Centre Health & Wellness provides Ankur Gupta empowering and holistic services which Travis Thompson – PR, MSVU 1505 Barrington Street help alleviate the effects of stress, anxiety Halifax, NS Halifax, NS and chronic pain in a compassionate 902-240-4013 902-489-1695 and judgement-free space. We are a [email protected] [email protected] springboard for happiness and elevated www.scanwaycatering.ca levels of consciousness! RETIRED MEMBERS RESTAURANTS, FOOD & BEVERAGE – Lindsay MacPhee Ian Ross Catering/Food/Drink 2631 King Street Hubbards, NS Halifax, NS 902-857-3869 SCOTT GANNON 902-453-5628 [email protected] FINANCIAL INC. lindsay@thefloatationcentre.ca We help businesses and their owners www.thefloatationcentre.ca Karl Stuetzel drill down and find money they are HEALTH CARE – Health and Wellness Hammonds Plains, NS losing unknowingly and unnecessarily. 902-580-7012 We show them how to get it back and TRAINING FIRST [email protected] CONSULTING INC. use it to expand their current and future lifestyle in a tax friendly way. Training First Consulting is an accom- Kulvinder Dhillon Scott Gannon plished “Glocal” (Global Locally) com- Halifax, NS 110-230 Brownlow Avenue pany concentrating on multiple levels 902-225-0795 Dartmouth, NS of entrepreneurship. It takes hard work [email protected] 902-478-3226 and there might be challenges in every [email protected] step we take, but by working together FINANCE & INSURANCE – entrepreneurs don’t have to go alone. Financial Planner Their chance of success increases with partnering with us. Are you a new member? Klea Jokic To submit your 50-word description for Fall River, NS New & Noted, login to your Chamber Master 902-441-8805 profile, or email Kayla Whalen, Administrative klea@trainingfirstconsulting.com Assistant at [email protected] www.trainingfirstconsulting.com or 902-468-7111 within the first six months BUSINESS & PROF. SERVICES – of membership. Business Consulting

10 MAY 2018 NEWSMAKERS MEMBERS IN THE NEWS How our members are growing Halifax

CYSTIC FIBROSIS CANADA NAUTEL NAMED ONE OF NORTHWOOD LAUNCHES WELCOMES NEW DARTMOUTH CANADA’S BEST MANAGED PROGRAM USING TECHNOLOGY WALK CHAIR COMPANIES TO ENHANCE RESPITE CARE We are delighted to welcome Christina Nautel has been awarded the prestigious This innovative new program puts smart Brien as the 2018 Dartmouth Walk to Make Canada’s Best Managed Companies tablets in the hands of Northwood’s Cystic Fibrosis History Chair. Christina has designation, which recognizes overall respite clients. Northwood staff are also been volunteering with Cystic Fibrosis business performance and sustained using the tablets as a tool to mentor CCA Canada in both Halifax and Toronto for growth. Canada’s Best Managed Com- students from local colleges on the value the past five years. She is proud to walk for panies is one of the country’s leading of person-centred care. Funding for the everyone impacted by CF, but especially business awards programs, recognizing project came in the form of a grant from for her nephew, Blake. Christina is also Canadian-owned and managed compa- Telus. “We are always looking for ways to a member of Blake’s Believers, one of nies for innovative, world-class business add value to the services we offer,” says Atlantic Canada’s top fundraising teams practices. Nautel, founded in 1969, is Janet Simm, President and CEO of North- and says: “I encourage everyone to walk the world’s largest manufacturer of wood. “We know respite is a service that’s with us at one of our 11 Atlantic Canadian broadcast radio transmitters with more truly beneficial, but we wanted to explore locations and help us end CF.” If you are than 15,000 transmitters deployed in how we could make it more meaningful, interested in joining Christina, visit 177 countries. more stimulating and ultimately more www.cysticfibrosis.ca/walk. enjoyable for each client.”

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BUSINESS VOICE 11 NEWSMAKERS

NOVA SCOTIA SIGNATURE RESORTS WELCOMES NEW SALES MANAGER Digby Pines and Liscombe Lodge are pleased to announce Emily Richards has CAMP TREASURE CHEST: joined their team as Sales Manager. Emily FORGING FRIENDSHIPS, will focus on helping groups plan their GROWING CONFIDENCE AND offsite events. Building on her marketing CREATING MEMORIES and events experience, Emily is looking The Lung Association of Nova Scotia forward to working with local and regional is proud to offer kids with asthma the organizations to make their events mem- opportunity to participate in a summer orable. “I understand the importance of camp adventure that they could not nor- details when it comes to event planning mally experience. Camp Treasure Chest and execution. I look forward to using my provides kids living with asthma access experience and creativity to help clients to trained medical staff who offer support realize their event goals.” The best way and guidance for managing their asthma to reach Emily is through email, at effectively, while enjoying all the perks [email protected]. of a traditional summer camp. For more information, visit ns.lung.ca.

COMFORT SCREEN NOVA SCOTIA FOAM GERRY MILLS RETIRES, WELCOMES LAURA CELEBRATES ISANS WELCOMES NEW CEO MACKENZIE AS INTERIM 25 YEARS JENNIFER WATTS EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Comfort Foam is excited to announce Executive Director Gerry Mills has Laura Mackenzie has been chosen as that 2018 is their 25th year in business. retired after leading ISANS for 30 years. Interim Executive Director of Screen Comfort Foam started in 1993 to dis- With her deep experience and exper- Nova Scotia by its Board of Directors. tribute foam and upholstery supplies to tise, Gerry made a vital contribution to She replaces Erika Beatty, who com- the local upholstery shops throughout immigrant settlement in Nova Scotia and pleted a successful two-year contract Atlantic Canada. Fast-forward 25 years Canada. We thank Gerry for her genu- with the organization in March 2018. and not only do they continue to supply ine caring, dedication and collaborative “Laura brings with her a vast network of foam to the upholstery trade, but also to spirit. We are pleased to announce that international contacts developed through the marine and RV industries, as well as Jennifer Watts became CEO on April 1, her years at Strategic Partners Co-pro- to correctional centres, hospitals, nursing 2018. Jennifer, a former municipal coun- duction Market and recent work with the homes and many other industries. In cillor, joined ISANS as Director of Settle- Canadian Media Producers Association,” 2018, Comfort Foam will be supplying ment and Integration in 2016. She looks says Mike Volpe, Chair of the Board. the hospitality industry with mattresses forward to building on ISANS’ strengths “Our goal is to generate production work and replacement sofa cushions. They are as well as working with newcomers and in Nova Scotia and Laura is uniquely thrilled to continue making life more partners to create a more welcoming and positioned to help us achieve that goal.” comfortable for everyone. inclusive province.

12 MAY 2018 NEWSMAKERS

MENTAL HEALTH FOUNDATION RENOVATION UPDATE FOR THE HAMPTON INN & SUITES – WELCOMES NEW TEAM MEMBER DARTMOUTH CROSSING The Mental Health Foundation is Hampton Inn & Suites - Dartmouth public areas. “Hampton by Hilton hotels happy to share that Mike Brannen has Crossing has recently completed ren- has a rich history in providing guests with come aboard as our new Communica- ovations to its 163-room property. The accommodations that are multi-functional, tions Coordinator. Mike is a graduate two-month, $4 million renovation project, modern, convenient and comfortable,” of both SMU and NSCC, completing an led by New Castle Hotels & Resorts and says Rick Norman, General Manager. For Advanced Diploma in Public Relations Southwest Properties, includes a refresh of more information or to make reservations, in 2016. Mike brings with him a passion all of the guest rooms, meeting spaces and please visit dartmouthhampton.com. for writing, events and social media. He is looking forward to working with the foundation team to raise awareness and tell the stories of the one-in-five Nova Scotians living with mental illness. Together we can change the way people think.

I. H. MATHERS AMALGAMATES THREE DIVISIONS I. H. Mathers recently amalgamated three of its divisions (Atlantic Custom Brokers, Mathers Freight and Mathers Logistics) into Mathers Logistics Ltd. The organization will provide expert, cost-effective marine agency, offshore logistics, cargo handling and ware- housing, freight forwarding, customs brokerage and immigration services to domestic and international clients. “The decision to amalgamate came from our ongoing pursuit of effective and efficient operations and our commitment to providing our clients with enhanced ser- vices,” says Brian Lane, CEO. For more details, visit www.ihmathers.com.

BUSINESS VOICE 13 NEWSMAKERS

KAREN FURNEAUX LAUNCHES LUNCH MADE EASY HER FIRST BOOK Ensuring you have healthy lunch options Karen Furneaux, President of iPromise just became easier. Pete’s Frootique & Performance Inc., launched her fi rst Fine Foods is helping you skip the line book on International Women’s Day with their new app. Lunchtime can be a BLACK STAR GROUP at the Nova Scotia Sport Hall of Fame. rush, so they are off ering online ordering. WELCOMES JULIE CARSON Strong Beauty: Power Up the Champion Just click, pay and pick up. You can even Black Star Group would like to wel- Within is packed full of practices, strat- order for the whole offi ce! Skip the drive- come Julie Carson of Fredericton, New egies and tools, whether you’re leading thru or those microwaveable meals and Brunswick, to the One Number Solu- your team or leading your life. Furneaux choose from their award-winning salads tion™ network. Julie has completed her shares her Olympic journey and defi n- and sandwiches. For more information on onboarding and is ready to change her ing moments along her path. The book meals made easy, visit petes.ca/on-the-go. client’s lives through holistic fi nancial is inspiring and easy-to-implement into planning. She is accepting new clients your life — and is available on amazon.ca. and specializes in families and young professionals. She can be reached at julie@cdsfi nancial.ca. We are accepting applications from advisors who would like to add the One Number Solution™ process to their practice and have room for an additional fi ve advisors in the pro- gram this quarter. To fi nd out more, visit www.onenumbersolutions.com/apply.

MARITIME TRAVEL NAMED PLATINUM CLUB WINNER OF CANADA’S BEST MANAGED COMPANIES PROGRAM DOCCHRISTINE SUCCESSFULLY REBRANDS Maritime Travel has been recognized PAYFORMANCEPOS RECEIVES nationally for excellence in business DocChristine is celebrating a success- FIRSTDATA CANADA’S performance for 2017. The Halifax-based ful rebranding. The new name and logo TOP PARTNER AWARD travel company has been named a represents that DocChristine is balanc- Platinum Club winner of Canada’s Best Members of PayformancePOS were in ing science and nature to guide their Managed Companies. “We owe our con- Toronto recently to accept FirstData Can- clients back to health. Dr. Christine Sauer tinued success in achieving this award ada’s Top Partner award for 2017. This is a German-trained conventional as well to the dedication of our branch teams is the second year in a row that Payfor- as naturopathic physician, dermatologist across the country. Our knowledgeable, mancePOS was recognized against 170 and allergist, working in Halifax as a caring staff on the front lines, together other agents across Canada. Brian Green, Certifi ed Ultimate Performance Health with state-of-the-art technology and President of FirstData Canada presented Coach. She off ers her services to indi- operations, has been instrumental in Ryan O’Leary, President of Payforman- viduals and companies, online and in achieving this designation for so many cePOS and Marco Antico, Vice President person. For more information, visit years,” says Gary Gaudry, President of of FirstData Canada, with the award. www.DocChristine.com. Maritime Travel.

14 MAY 2018 NEWSMAKERS

JUNKERY FIRST JUNK REMOVAL COMPANY IN CANADA TO CHOOSE GREEN FUEL Bullfrog Power is proud to announce that Junkery is the first junk removal company in Canada to choose green fuel for its company. “Junkery is reducing its dependence on fossil fuels and helping transition Canada to renewable energy DRESS FOR SUCCESS TEAMS UP AGAIN sources,” says Anthony Santilli, Vice Pres- Dress for Success Halifax celebrates team from RBC Wealth Management ident of Sales and Marketing at Bullfrog. International Women’s Day in and with worked for a half-day with DFSH to “Sorting, recycling and donating junk style. “The national partnership with improve their working space. Executive has resulted diverting more than 85 per RBC Wealth Management and Talbots Director, Brenda Saunders/Todd, spent cent of materials we collect from landfill,” is making a significant difference in the a half-day with the Talbots team to serve says Ginny Sterling Boddie, co-founder lives of the women we serve in HRM and Talbots customers and express appre- at Junkery. “Supporting green fuel for a we are grateful for their contributions,” ciation for their clothing and financial portion of our fleet is a new and innova- says Julie Wisen, Board President. The campaign. tive way for us to take our commitment to the environment to the next level.” MEMBERS IN THE NEWS

Submit your 100 word write-up and picture at TEN DOLLAR BANK NOTE www.halifaxchamber.com/businessvoice FEATURING VIOLA DESMOND UNVEILED IN HALIFAX *deadline is six weeks from publication date. On March 8, the Bank of Canada unveiled the new $10 bill featuring a portrait of Viola Desmond. It is the first regularly circulating bank note to feature a Canadian woman as a portrait subject and the first vertically oriented note issued by the bank. This note acknowl- edges the past and the continuing efforts towards achieving rights and social jus- tice for all Canadians. It will enter circu- lation in late 2018. Visit www.bankofcan- ada.ca/vertical10 to explore the note’s security features and design (including a map of Halifax) and to watch Wanda Robson’s reaction to seeing the note.

BUSINESS VOICE 15 NEWSMAKERS

HEALTHWIZE WELLNESS CENTRE PREVENTING BIDE AWHILE ANIMAL SHELTER DONATES 2,000 CHILDREN’S BOOKS GLUTATHIONE DEFICIENCY Bide Awhile Animal Shelter has and teach the next generation what it HEALTHWIZE Wellness Centre now recently purchased 2,000 copies of means to be a responsible pet guardian. offers, KORFactor™ glutathione, “Master The Happy Tale of Two Cats and The Recipients include the Halifax Public Antioxidant.” Nearly every degenerative Lucky Tale of Two Dogs, by Cathy M. Libraries, the Halifax Regional School disease we know can often be traced Rosenthal, for donation to children Board, Sparks, the Boys & Girls Club, back to chronic inflammation, which across the province. This is an important early childhood learning centres and long-term can be devastating. Glutathi- education initiative, as the books visitors of Chapters, the Discovery one helps fight infections, free radicals, explain the role of animal shelters Centre and local shopping malls. prevent cellular and DNA damage and helps recover faster from injuries. It's also a “natural detoxifier.” Natural glutathi- one levels decline starting in the mid- 20s, so supplementation is important for optimal health. The special processing makes it “highly absorbable.” Maintain- ing optimal glutathione stores is essential for upholding a healthy heart, mind and immune system. For more information please contact Wendell at 902-443-2946, or e-mail [email protected].

PRECISION BIOLOGIC PRESENTS NEW APPROACH TO IMPROVE INHIBITOR TESTING FOR HEMOPHILIA A Precision BioLogic, in collaboration with Roche and Genentech (a member of the Roche Group) unveiled data from the study of a new kit for a Modified Nijme- gen-Bethesda Assay (MNBA), at the Thrombosis & Hemostasis Societies of North America (THSNA) 2018 summit in BENEFITS OF MAINTENANCE-FREE LIVING San Diego. Recognizing the need to stan- In today’s society, we all have busy sched- from dog walking to home repairs, you dardize and improve Factor VIII (FVIII) ules and sometimes it’s hard to fit it all in, can select and build a package to suit you inhibitor testing for people with hemo- which is why the team at Forest Lakes and your family’s needs. To learn more philia A, the companies collaborated has introduced a new way for their resi- about how you can benefit from main- on the development of the new MNBA dents to live their lives maintenance-free. tenance-free living, call a Forest Lakes kit and the recent study. Full details are From housekeeping to snow removal, representative today, at 902-482-1394. available at www.precisionbiologic.com.

16 MAY 2018 NEWSMAKERS

A.P. REID INSURANCE Four Diamond award. CUT is one of only committees dedicated to improvements STORES LAUNCHES NEW three restaurants in Nova Scotia awarded in safety, training, licensing, ethics and CUSTOMER PORTAL this distinction. CUT has successfully business development for all renovators been awarded the Four Diamond award and their staff. The company motto is A.P. Reid Insurance Stores, a leading every year, from 2008 to 2018, under “Trusted – Professional.” Dan and his national insurance brokerage, is excited General Manager and Sommelier Melissa crews work hard every day to ensure they to announce the launch of their new, Carey. “We are honoured and humbled to live up to it. user-friendly online customer portal and receive a Four Diamond rating for 2018. mobile app, branded the “A.P. Reid Client It is a rarity for a steakhouse to achieve HALIFAX STANFIELD Access Centre.” The technology offers this standing and it is a testament to the INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT customers quick and easy access to their hard work, dedication and meticulous RATED AMONG BEST policy information, when and where ever attention to detail over the past decade by AIRPORTS IN THE WORLD they need it. Created with the customer our entire team.” experience in mind, A.P. Reid Client Halifax Stanfield has once again been rated by passengers as one of the best Access Centre uses the latest technology, MONK RENOVATIONS airports in the world. Airports Council with improved navigation and function- COMMITTED TO BEING A International (ACI) World announced ality, to ensure that visitors are provided LEADER IN THE RENOVATION the winners of the 2017 Airport Service an optimal experience. Clients can access INDUSTRY the platform across all digital devices Quality (ASQ) awards and Halifax tied through www.apreid.com, or by down- MONK Renovations was honoured for the third-place ranking in the Best loading the A.P. Reid Insurance app. by the Canadian Home Builder Associa- Airport by Region (more than two million tion — Nova Scotia, with the prestigious passengers per year) category. ASQ CUT STEAKHOUSE RECEIVES Koltech Peak award as Renovator of the awards are presented to airports whose FOUR DIAMOND AAA/CAA Year for 2018. This is MONK’s second passengers have rated them the highest AWARD time being awarded this honour as they over the course of a year, based on their were also winners in 2016. Working demonstrated commitment to providing CUT Steakhouse, a member of the RCR continually to raise the bar in the resi- an excellent customer experience. The Hospitality Group, has once again dential renovation industry, Dan Monk award will be presented in Halifax this been awarded the prestigious AAA/CAA serves on several industry boards and coming September, at the global summit.

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&QGU [QWT DWUKPGUU JCXG NCDQWT ICRU! .QQMKPI VQ ITQY [QWT EQORCP[! The Atlantic Immigration Pilot is helping Nova Scotia businesses succeed. Learn more at novascotia.ca/AIP

BUSINESS VOICE 17 COVER STORY

Halifax Chamber welcomes Cynthia Dorrington as Chair of the Board By Erin Elaine Casey

Photos: Mike Dembeck

ynthia Dorrington has a goal: to expectations are high. She’s been prepar- Council for 21 years, several of them as Cbuild a more diverse and inclusive ing for this moment since she joined the Deputy Mayor. “He stepped outside the business community — and a Chamber Board in 2014, serving fi rst as chair of norm,” she says, “and my parents always that refl ects that community. She believes the HR and Governance Committee, and supported us in fulfi lling our dreams.” we must speak our goals out loud to create then as Vice Chair of the Board. Taking Family remains important to accountability to ourselves and others. over as Chair was an easy decision, she Dorrington. With her husband, Wayne, “If I can build bridges and provide explains, “Because I believe in helping she has three stepchildren living all over avenues for intersections to occur and business grow, stimulating the economy Canada: in Halifax, Saskatoon and discussions to take place and make this and I have a unique perspective as the Yellowknife. She became a proud fi rst- a Chamber that is worthy of our entire representative of a diverse business. The time grandmother in November 2017 business community, that to me is the Chamber is not just for mainstream orga- and is now planning a trip to Saskatoon ultimate success,” she says. “That’s an nizations. The door is open for all.” to meet the new addition. audacious goal, but we have to say it.” Born and raised in New Glasgow, She is also in business with her Dorrington took over as Chair of the Dorrington is one of six children. Her sister, Cassandra Dorrington. Together, Board of the Halifax Chamber of Com- father, Francis, was the fi rst African Nova they own and operate Vale & Associates. merce in April. As the fi rst African Nova Scotian to sit on New Glasgow’s Town Established in 2004, Vale is a boutique Scotian to hold the position, she knows Council. Elected in 1976, he remained on consulting fi rm specializing in strategic

18 MAY 2018 COVER STORY

If I can build bridges and provide avenues for inter- sections to occur and discussions to take place and make this a Chamber that is worthy of our entire business community, that to me is the ultimate success. That’s an audacious goal, but we have to say it.” — Cynthia Dorrington, President, Vale & Associates, Chair of the Board, Halifax Chamber of Commerce

change management, governance, orga- and oversaw various programs and then nizational assessments, supplier diver- migrated into the role of a system admin- sity, performance management, project istrator, which was a non-traditional role management, HR advisory, training and at the time. There were very few women management, business consulting and development and team building. She in that field.” She was involved in Y2K contractual HR services to organizations brings all these skills and more to her new upgrades, but in 2001 Dorrington was around the world, including Canada, the role at the Chamber. downsized along with a whole group of United States, the Caribbean, Central Dorrington’s path to self-employment people. She moved to an international America and the continent of Africa. wasn’t exactly typical. After graduating call centre as a system support manager. The company is named after Vale Road, from high school, she moved to Halifax Coincidentally, in 2004 Dorrington and the New Glasgow neighbourhood the and found work in the high-tech telecom- her sister Cassandra were downsized at Dorringtons grew up in. munications sector, where she stayed for around the same time. The two of them As President of Vale & Associates, about 20 years. While she was employed agreed to start a business, run it for a Dorrington consults with small- to medi- at MT&T, specialized retraining was year and see how it went. “We enjoyed um-sized organizations across various offered to just 25 employees. Dorrington ourselves so much in year-one that we industry sectors. She specializes in help- was chosen from hundreds of applicants decided to go into year two. Vale is still in ing companies experiencing challenges to go through the customized program to business and we work all over the world!” with mergers and acquisitions, business augment the corporation’s IT division. Dorrington now holds both CPA and growth, culture change and succession “In the beginning, not one of us CMA designations and has been running planning. She works in organizational and knew IT,” she jokes. “After completion Vale & Associates for 14 years. people strategy, diversity and inclusion, of the program I entered the IT division Being the first African Nova Scotian

BUSINESS VOICE 19 COVER STORY

we must come together and say what we need going forward,” Dorrington says. “We need to have voices at the right tables, those decision-making tables and it’s important for my community to be there. I might wear a business hat and have that in common with most of our membership, but I do think differently and I’ve had different experiences as an African Nova Scotian and also as a woman. I don’t resonate just as a woman in business. I’m a black woman in busi- ness and there are other issues that go along with that.” Many friends and relatives have provided guidance and support to Dor- rington along the way. “At the end of the day, you have to have your supporters and the people in your corner — having your touch points and the people you can sit down and talk to is very important.” Making this move for my community is a big deal, She wants to give a special shout out because this is the oldest Chamber in North America. to Rustum Southwell, CEO of the BBI. “He has really guided me, helped me to But it’s also a coming of age, because African Nova achieve and made me the person I am Scotians have been in Nova Scotia for over 400 years. today,” she says. She had always done volunteer work and Southwell encour- I see this as monumental not only for the Chamber aged her to apply for the first merged Board of the Halifax Partnership. “I sat but for my community.” on that board for seven years and it was — Cynthia Dorrington, President, Vale & Associates, so much fun and I learned a lot about Chair of the Board, Halifax Chamber of Commerce myself and about being a Board mem- ber. Rustum was on the Nominating Committee for the Halifax Chamber, Chair of the Halifax Chamber is both Dorrington is no stranger to com- and he put my name forward for the exciting and a little overwhelming for munity building, and has worked hard for Chamber Board. When [past chair] Rob Dorrington. “You know, history is going years to bring diversity to the corridors Batherson asked me to Chair the HR and to be made, but at the same time, it’s the of power. In addition to her role at the Governance Committee a couple of years unknown. The unknown can be daunt- Chamber, she is Chair of the Board for later, I said sure! Without Rustum, the ing. Ultimately, I am who I am — and the Black Business Initiative (BBI), Chair Chamber might not have someone from I will do what I can to make sure the man- of HR and Governance for the Africville the African Nova Scotian community on date, mission and vision of the Chamber Heritage Trust, and Chair of Governance the Board today.” are achieved,” she says. And she is keenly for Hospice Halifax. Previously, she When asked what she’s most looking aware of how important her new position Chaired the Governance Committee of forward to during her time as Chair, is to the African Nova Scotian commu- the Board of the Greater Halifax Partner- Dorrington laughs. “My biggest goal is nity. “Making this move for my com- ship, was President of the Halifax Corn- making it through the year! It’s going to munity is a big deal, because this is the wallis Chapter of the Canadian Progress be a fast year and I’m going to work very oldest Chamber in North America. But Club, a member of the Police Chief’s closely with my team at the Chamber. it’s also a coming of age, because African Diversity Advisory Committee, and vol- There’s no I in team.” Nova Scotians have been in Nova Scotia unteered for 16 years with the Telephone Her first and foremost objective is for over 400 years. I see this as monu- Pioneers, to name just a few of her volun- ensuring the Chamber is reflecting the mental not only for the Chamber but for teer activities. many different entrepreneurs, organiza- my community.” Having an African Nova Scotian tions and institutions that make up Hali- So far, the feedback from her com- woman at the helm of the Chamber is fax’s business landscape. “I want to make munity has been very positive, according an important development for black, sure the Chamber is reflective of all our to Dorrington. “How do we build and immigrant and other professionals who potential clients. One important area is strengthen our diverse membership? A lot might not feel adequately represented in the not-for-profit sector, which is greatly of Chamber members are not from diverse the public life of this city. “What we’re needed but often overlooked. I really communities,” she explains. “A lot of peo- going to see is change. Having somebody want to focus on how the Chamber works ple are now saying, ‘Wow! I need to learn like me at the helm is an opportunity to with them — how can we advocate for more about the Chamber.’ It’s about time.” promote diversity, but at the same time them and make sure they’re promoted?

20 MAY 2018 COVER STORY

Patrick Sullivan, President and CEO of the Halifax Chamber of Commerce, is pleased to welcome Cynthia Dorrington as the new Chair of the Board. She begins her tenure in May, 2018.

It’s always hard to fi nd sponsorships and funding — and the public doesn’t always understand what they do.” She points out that charitable organizations usually don’t have the same opportunities for marketing and promotion that for-profi t enterprises do. She hopes to promote strategic partnerships. “All sectors are needed in our business commu- nity. Sometimes we don’t consider the challenges faced by not-for-profi ts, and they’re the ones who struggle the most.” With her sights set fi rmly on diversifying the Chamber membership, Brightwood Golf & Country Club looking for ways to promote strategic partnerships between diff erent orga- 227 School Street | Dartmouth nizations and representing her African Nova Scotian community, Dorrington is excited to get started on her year as Halifax Chamber Chair. Her key mes- sage is one of co-operation, inclusion Thursday, June 14 and openness to new ideas, people and 12:00 pm - 8:00 pm ways of doing things. “I want to set the stage for others to follow and allow them to realize there’s nothing to fear. We’re all talking the same language and we all have the same dream. We all dream. We all dream of To register visit www.halifaxchamber.com being successful, and that’s diff erent for Sponsorship Opportunities Available! diff erent people — let us all dream collec- tively together, no matter what success [email protected] means to us.”

BUSINESS VOICE 21 HIRING MILLENNIALS

Cathy Yeulet/123RF Keeping up with the millennials Is your HR team riding the wave of change? By Jon Tattrie

ast year, a popular Chrome extension millennials or not — was engaged and next steps. A lot of young people just go Lautomatically replaced “millennials” excited to work where they were working for what’s posted, or what they’ve already in headlines with “snake people.” It led and felt they were delivering meaning done, instead of going for what they to altered gems such as, “Navy seeks to every day when they showed up nine-to- really value.” adapt training for snake people;” “Snake five?” she asks. “Value” is the key word in under- people: you will not be quite so special in And it’s not about funky chairs, ping- standing what millennials seek in work. the ‘futr’;” and “Snake people most likely pong tables and a Wii in the lunchroom. “Most millennials feel like they are part to fall for online scams.” Breen worked in human resources before of a bigger picture,” she says. Breen uses Ali Breen, a Career Coach for snake starting her own business to consult with the example of a company looking to hire people — sorry, for millennials — says millennials and with those who wish to a carrot-chopper. If you wind up chop- workers in their 20s and 30s are used hire them. She sees what works when ping carrots just to chop carrots, it won’t to stereotypes. Savvy human resource recruiting young workers. feel meaningful. But if you chop carrots departments read beyond the headlines. When she sits down with a millen- because you’re working at the Dart- “Stop listening to the noise about nial selecting a career path, she uses a mouth North Community Centre and how millennials are entitled, or mil- narrative approach. “You help people it’s helping people live healthier, that’s lennials are coddled. A lot of that is mine their stories and experiences in meaningful. Or if you’re chopping carrots very negative. Really, at the end of the order to power up to move forward. We at a restaurant that always sources local day, wouldn’t it be great if everyone — do a lot of reflective work before we take foods, that’s meaningful. “I’m happy to

22 MAY 2018 HIRING MILLENNIALS

Really, at the end of the day, wouldn’t it be great if everyone — millennials or not — was engaged and excited to work where they were working and felt they were delivering meaning every day when they showed up nine-to-five?” — Ali Breen, Narrative Career Coach

chop the carrots, because there’s mean- ing behind the chopping.” Job ads should reflect this. Often, Contributed Breen says, postings read like job descrip- tions. Perhaps the carrot-chopper needs That meant instead of their first con- related demographics in the workforce. to be “dynamic” and have good cus- tact with the company being the highly We have boomers through millennials — tomer service skills. “But they won’t say, structured and stressful interview, it was and everything in between,” he says. ‘Because our customers are looking for the last step and they arrived for it with a When it comes to recruiting younger this kind of experience.’ In a way, they’re good understanding of the company and workers, “fully tech-enabled organiza- putting out a wish list of skills without a friend inside. “You’re going to attract tions will certainly outpace the laggard putting that into the context of their people who really want to be there much organization to recruit and retain top specific business.” more than if you do something really talent.” In return, younger workers send generic,” Breen says. That includes using enterprise generic applications to match the generic Another creative way to reach mil- resource planning, or ERP, to integrate posting. It can be better. Breen points to lennial workers came from a company applications to manage the business one of her clients who recently recruited that asked for references from appli- and automate some office work. It also new workers. Usually, that would mean cants — and provided its own. Would-be means using popular communications posting the job, reading resumes, inter- workers could talk to a former employee tools like Yammer or Skype for Business, viewing applicants and hiring someone. about company culture, a “super- with less reliance on phones or email. It But they took a different approach. customer,” about why they love the opens more channels for communication First, a current millennial who company, or a community partner who at work, including instant messaging and worked for the company posted the relies on the company. Breen considers: video chats. opening on Facebook and invited anyone “How cool is that?” “We’re seeing progressive organi- interested out for coffee. “They take a Again, it means if the applicant zations and progressive HR departments peer-level employee and get them to accepts the job, they’re already buying invest in things like employee experience have a casual, informal meeting. That’s into the company’s values and thus are through gamification, supporting learn- the first interview.” more likely to stay. If all the pressure is ing and development through massive The potential worker meets an on just landing the job before you get online open courses, or nano-degrees,” active employee and gets a true idea to peek behind the curtain, millennials he says. of what the work will be like. If it’s a are apt to leave quickly if they don’t like He says younger workers focus mismatch, they know then and no more what they see. more on “moments that matter,” such time is wasted on either side. If they Scott Coleman is co-owner and as promotions or performance discus- can see themselves in the role, they Atlantic Managing Partner at Optimum sions. “The biggest trend we see is the go to the next step. In that case, they Talent, which offers full-service human consumerization of HR. People have made a two-minute video of themselves resources to help “organizations succeed more choices today than they’ve ever had answering three questions. The third through people.” Increasingly, those before in what they want to do and with step was a formal interview with HR and people are millennials. “We’re at a pretty whom they want to work.” a manager. fascinating time when it comes to age- In a way, he says, companies can

BUSINESS VOICE 23 HIRING MILLENNIALS

AnnieSpratt/Unsplash

take the approach they used to win cus- tomers and apply it to recruit and retain younger workers. “It’s more than the pool table in the lounge or social beverages at three o’clock on a Friday,” he says. Younger workers tend to respond well to being coached, rather than managed. HR departments might find more success with monthly catch-ups compared to reviews every six-months. Little problems can be addressed quickly and engaged workers will do a better job. Some younger workers want to rise to the top swiftly, while others seek untra- ditional career paths including lateral movements and temporary spells in dif- ferent departments. Culture trumps cash for retaining younger workers. Perhaps that means working untraditional hours, Joe Robichaud, Tanglewood Studio or in untraditional workspaces. “On the whole, young colleagues are hungry, they’re capable and they On the whole, young colleagues are hungry, they’re crave learning opportunities like no other capable and they crave learning opportunities like no generation,” he says. “True success for our younger colleagues is a balance of other generation. True success for our younger colleagues personal health and happiness with con- is a balance of personal health and happiness with tributions at work.” Coleman says younger workers value contributions at work.” collaboration and were raised to ask — Scott Coleman, Co-Owner, Atlantic Managing Partner, questions. They might stop asking in a workplace where boomers and gen-Xers Optimum Talent don’t ask questions, or don’t like to be

24 MAY 2018 HIRING MILLENNIALS

Tim Gouw/Unsplash

Millennials, from what I see, value collaboration, team work, social justice and enterprise — companies that are really putting their money where their mouth is in giving back and making the world a better place.” — Wendy Vrooman, Partner, Sandler Training Joe Robichaud, Tanglewood Studio asked questions. That can lead to alien- the company’s strategy and studying carrots to help herself help others through ation, a sense their work isn’t meaningful HR deployment and HR skills gaps. She mission work. and fresh vacancies in the company. routinely meets millennials who want to For an older generation, the idea of Wendy Vrooman says older gener- grow personally and professionally. Suc- working hard at a job to leave it might ations are moved by money, titles and cessful HR departments tie those goals make no sense. But it makes sense to success. “It’s been the norm that with together to benefit the company and the millennials. The job they’ll do in 15 years long work hours, you throw yourself into employee. doesn’t exist today, meaning few people your career to get to a certain stage,” she She gives a recent example where a expect the job they land in their 20s to be says. “Millennials, from what I see, value young woman wasn’t bringing in enough there in their 40s. collaboration, team work, social justice sales through cold calls. Cold-calling “They’re coming up and taking care and enterprise — companies that are seemed unconnected to her personal of the world,” Vrooman says. “If we don’t really putting their money where their growth. But she did want to travel and get on board with that sooner rather than mouth is in giving back and making the do mission work. When she came to see later, how are we preparing and coach- world a better place.” cold-calling as valuable because the ing them to be the drivers not only of Vrooman is a Partner at Sandler more success she had, the more money economy, but I think more importantly to Training. They help companies grow she could bank to take a travel break, her them, of social justice and social enter- their revenues by analyzing the organi- sales increased. She was no longer just prise? It’s incumbent on us to adapt to zational charts around sales, learning “chopping carrots” — she was chopping them to help them be successful.”

BUSINESS VOICE 25 PROFILE Solving the human resource puzzle The new reality of staffing businesses and organizationsBy Joey Fitzpatrick

You may have a very happy and productive workforce, but if your standard practices are in violation of the law, you could find yourself in big trouble. I can help employers identify those issues and figure out ways to mitigate them.” — Sarah Mullins, Founder and Owner, uptreeHR

job, millennials tend to value flexibility, services, helping companies through meaningful work and upward mobility. the job posting and interview processes. They are not content to work 10 years at a This area can also be a minefield if an menial job before getting the chance for employer has not kept pace with evolving advancement. human rights law. For example, it is illegal Helping companies adapt to this new to base a hiring decision on whether an reality is part of the job for Sarah Mullins, applicant has children or is married. owner and founder of uptreeHR, a com- One of her areas of expertise is with pany she launched two years ago to assist immigrant entrepreneurs. While these clients in every area of human resources. new Canadians may have sharp business “I love working with companies that acumen and ambition, they are often have flexible workplaces and progressive unfamiliar with Nova Scotia’s labour practices and helping them get there,” laws in areas such as minimum wage and Mullins says. “The workplace is evolving maternity leave. and the successful companies will be the uptreeHR works with clients of all ones who can evolve with it.” sizes and in a wide range of business While providing meaningful work sectors, including retail, manufactur- and competitive wages, employers ing, technology and agriculture. Clients must also adhere to provincial labour on monthly retainers receive support standards and human rights legislation. for their entire HR function, including Employers need to be aware of prohibited everything from policy and performance grounds of discrimination, such as gen- management to employee relations and der identity and sexual orientation. They payroll. also need to understand an employer’s “For those clients I would typically duty to accommodate employees with become a senior advisor on the manage- special needs. Termination is an espe- ment team and attend their operations cially delicate area, which if not handled meetings.” Sarah Mullins, properly can leave an employer exposed Professional development plays founder and owner to litigation. an ever-increasing role in maximizing of uptreeHR. With two decades experience in HR, employee potential and performance. Mullins can help clients put in place the At the same time, technology has freed Contributed necessary structure and procedures and the HR function from much of the paper raise red flags when she sees potential pushing, allowing it to play a much more Attracting and retaining top employ- problems on the horizon. strategic role within an organization. By ees has always been an essential element “You may have a very happy and pro- taking a long term view, uptreeHR helps of business success. That task is made ductive workforce, but if your standard clients understand the impact that HR even more varied and complex with the practices are in violation of the law, you has on a company’s bottom line. arrival of millennials in the workforce. could find yourself in big trouble,” she “It’s a mistake to see HR as just a This generation, born roughly between points out. “I can help employers identify cost-centre,” Mullins says. “With the 1983 and 2000, comes to the workplace those issues and figure out ways to miti- right expertise, it can be incredibly with its own set of expectations and val- gate them.” strategic and significantly impact the ues. Rather than stability and a long-term uptreeHR also provides hiring support performance of a business.”

26 MAY 2018 Join the Halifax Chamber for an adventure to… October 13 - 23, 2018 11 Day trip for only CHINA $2,299* BEIJING • SHANGHAI • SUZHOU • HANGZHOU

Your Trip • Roundtrip international airfare & Chinese domestic airfare & Tax (from TO) • 4-and 5-star hotel accommodations • 3 meals each day • Deluxe bus tours Includes: • Fluent English-speaking tour guides • Entrance fees for attractions

Day 1: YYZ/Beijing Day 5: Beijing Day 9: Hangzhou/Shanghai Check in at YYZ International Airport for an Bus excursion to the Great Wall, the 4,000 Morning boat cruise on West Lake with afternoon flight. Your adventure begins as mile long and 2,000 year old construction relaxing stopover at jewellike pagodas you fly trans-Pacific aboard a wide cabin is said to be the only man-made structure and tea houses. Afternoon tour bus trip to jetliner. visible by the naked eye from the moon. Shanghai. Visit the Ming Tombs. One of the 13 Ming Day 2: Beijing Emperors' Tombs is fully excavated and open Day 10: Shanghai Arrive in Beijing, the Capital of China by for exploration. Visit the Yu Garden, a maze of marvelous midnight. You will be met at the airport by pavilions, ponds, rocky works and your tour guide and transferred to the hotel. Day 6 - 7: Beijing/Shanghai/Suzhou overarching trees. Also visit the Bund, Fly to Shanghai, followed by a bus trip to Shanghai's famous waterfront park. Tour the Day 3 - 4: Beijing Suzhou for the Lingering Garden, Tiger Pudong Economic Development Zone. Visit the Tian An Men Square, the largest Hill, Hanshan Temple and the National square in the world, the Palace Museum, Embroidery Institute to see silk embroidery, Day 11: Shanghai/Beijing/YYZ also known as the Forbidden City, home a local craft with thousands of years of Free time in the morning. The afternoon of 24 emperors with a total space of 9,999 history. Dinner this evening will include a flight will depart by 1:30pm for YYZ where rooms, and the Summer Palace, featuring show featuring traditional Chinese music. you will arrive at 10:30am on the same day. the Long Corridor with painted gallery, Kunming Lake and Longevity Hill, Seventeen Day 8: Suzhou/Hangzhou Arch Bridge and the Marble Boat. Tour Morning tour bus excursion to Hangzhou For more info contact: to the Lama Temple and the Temple of for a visit to the Economic Development Heaven, built in 1420 A.D., where the Zone and the centuries-old Lingyin Temple, [email protected] emperors prayed to the heavens for a good featuring a 64.3 foot high camphor-wood or visit: harvest. carving of Buddha. HALIFAXCHAMBER.COM/CHINA

• Price reflects double occupancy • Add $500 for single occupancy • 11-day all inclusive tour package plus all the air travels (from Toronto) • Includes everything on the itinerary • Add $200 to take Terra-Cotta Warriors Itinerary • English speaking tour guide on every tour bus • Valid passport and visa required

BUSINESS VOICE 27 TRENDS Making workspaces safe places Help for Nova Scotia employers addressing sexual harassment By The Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission

The Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission has introduced new online resources to help employers address and prevent sexual harassment in the workplace. Through its Safe Spaces Make Great Workplaces campaign, it is providing a short, free, online course for employers and their employees, along with a template for a sexual harassment policy, which can be adapted by organi- zations. The Commission has recently seen a significant rise in the number of calls concerning sexual harassment, including from employers asking for advice and training. “We think it's important that Contributed Nova Scotia employers have the tools Launch of Safe Spaces Make Great Workplaces on March 8, 2018. From left to right - to address sexual harassment head-on Jim Cormier, Retail of Council of Canada; Christine Hanson, Nova Scotia Human Rights and prevent it,” says Christine Hanson, Commission; Kate Allen, Canadian Federation of Independent Business; and Gordon Stewart, CEO of the Nova Scotia Human Rights Restaurant Association of Nova Scotia. Commission. Forty-three per cent of women in Canada say they have experienced sexual harassment in the workplace — victims often experience harassment repeatedly. The Nova Scotia Human Rights Act pro- hibits sexual harassment and organiza- tions and institutions in Nova Scotia have a legal duty to take steps to prevent and address it. Harassment can take place where there is a power imbalance between employees, but it is not limited to tak- ing place amongst co-workers. It can also occur with individuals not directly employed by an organization, such as con- tractors, consultants and even customers. It can occur anywhere that an employee represents their organization, including “Addressing and preventing sexual Business and the Restaurant Association sales calls, client dinners and trade shows. harassment in the workplace starts of Nova Scotia. A public launch of the The costs can be high in terms of the phys- with employers having a clear sexual Safe Spaces Make Great Workplaces ical and emotional impacts on victims. harassment policy, educating staff and Campaign took place on March 8, Organizations that do not take enforcing the policy,” says Hanson. International Women’s Day in Halifax. steps to prevent harassment can face “Organizations must have a plan to deal major costs in decreased productivity, with sexual harassment promptly and To access the online resources, low morale, absenteeism and potential efficiently.” legal expenses. Not dealing with matters The resources have already received visit www.safespacesns.ca. properly could also negatively impact an the support of the business community, Businesses may also feel free to contact organization’s reputation and customer including the Retail Council of Canada, the Commission at 1-877-269-7699 for loyalty. the Canadian Federation of Independent advice and guidance.

28 MAY 2018 A DIFFERENT KIND OF UNIVERSITY

Leaders come in many forms. Since 1974, Atlantic School of Theology has been developing post-graduate students for ministry, as well as shaping leaders to meet the theological and ethical challenges of today’s world.

We invite you to discover the Atlantic School of Theology. astheology.ns.ca

BUSINESS VOICE 29 TRENDS

Enhancing diversity rawpixel/123RF Five unconscious biases to watch out for in your hiring process

reviewed 366 public companies across an looks the part? Or because a candidate array of industries in Canada, Latin Amer- comes from an organization we respect? ica, the United Kingdom and the United Or because we really connected with the States and found that companies in the top person based on some shared experi- 25 per cent for racial and ethnic diversity ence? All of these reasons are biases that are 35 per cent more likely to yield financial commonly creep into hiring decisions and results above their national industry medi- work against efforts to enhance diversity. ans. Also, companies in the top 25 per cent Here are five unconscious biases to watch for gender diversity are 15 per cent more out for: likely to yield financial results above their ANDREA FORBES-HURLEY national industry medians. These statistics CONFORMITY BIAS are not new revelations. As an executive “Groupthink” is a common phenom- MBA, CPHR, PARTNER, search professional, I often hear from lead- enon in hiring processes. A well-known KNIGHTSBRIDGE ers who agree that enhancing diversity is a study by Soloman Ashe highlighted the ROBERTSON SURRETTE top priority. So why aren’t we seeing more tendency for people to be swayed by the diverse organizations? opinions of others when participants were Cultivating a diverse workforce is Most organizations are fishing in asked to rate the length of a line compared important and this notion is supported the same pools, following the same to a sample of three other lines. Although by economic trends and research. With processes, asking the same questions and the difference in sizes was clear, if partici- many Atlantic Canadian regions experi- hoping for a different outcome. In order to pants were told their peers had chosen the encing population decline and the impact create more diversity within our orga- incorrect answer, more than 75 per cent of the “brain drain,” as newly minted nizations we need to take a careful look also chose the incorrect answer at least graduates head west, the topic of enhanc- at the unconscious biases that are often once out of 12 trials. ing diversity within our organizations has inadvertently built into hiring processes. If you have ever been a part of a moved to the forefront of talent manage- Everyone involved in the hiring process hiring panel, you have seen the impact the ment conversations. needs to challenge assumptions and ask majority opinion can have on others. Pan- Demographic challenges aside, often uncomfortable questions: Are we elists may go along with the group because research in recent years has clearly demon- picking the “best” candidates because it is easier or because the group response strated that diversity has a direct impact the other members of the hiring panel causes them to question the validity of on the bottom line. McKinsey & Company liked them best? Is it because a candidate their own opinion. This is particularly true

30 MAY 2018 TRENDS when organizational leaders sit amongst In a small community where it is sound and act alike. the majority. This phenomenon can lead easy to draw connections through family, If your organization is truly commit- groups to overplay the strengths of the friends or professional relationships, this ted to enhancing diversity, those involved candidate the majority favours and under- can easily feel like a great way to build in recruitment and talent management play the strengths of other candidates. rapport with a candidate. We have a natu- must take deliberate action to change the ral tendency to want to be around people status quo: Proactively identify organiza- HALO EFFECT we can relate to. However, decision mak- tions, sites and individuals connected to Do you ever find yourself immedi- ers may unknowingly disadvantage can- diverse communities to build awareness ately drawn to a candidate because they didates without connections in our region of career opportunities. Engage others work at a company or with an individual by applying this bias. Hiring managers involved in the hiring process in a frank that you think highly of? The halo effect may choose the candidate with whom discussion about the importance of occurs when we see one positive aspect they found a strong affinity, because they diversity and revisit that priority at each about a person and we let the halo “glow” walked away from the interview feeling stage of the hiring process, to keep it top of this association affect our perspectives positively about the encounter, without of mind. Question initial reactions to of everything else about that person. truly evaluating if the candidate brought dismiss the application of a potentially Reactions such as, “He worked for the best skills and experience to the table. qualified candidate from an underrep- her, so he must be good” or “That com- resented group and educate teams on pany did big things that year, so she must SIMILARITY BIAS the cultural nuances that may influence be talented,” inadvertently give credit Closely related to the affinity bias candidate behaviours during an inter- where it may not be due. As a result, the is the similarity bias which involves the view. Build a culture of inclusivity within candidate with the positive association natural tendency to want to work with your organization by starting a dialogue will have an immediate advantage in the people who are like us. Studies have about diversity and unconscious biases. hiring process over those outside a hiring shown that similarity is one of the most Challenge your own assumptions and manager’s known networks. significant factors influencing the attrac- encourage others to do the same, reval- tion to candidates during assessment and uate hiring strategies and processes and BEAUTY BIAS leads hiring managers to be inclined to monitor the success of these strategies. Research has shown that people “hire in their own image.” Unfortunately, Change in workforce diversity will who are rated more physically attractive this bias can perpetuate homogenous not happen without change in the way are immediately perceived to be happier organizations of employees that look, organizations hire and promote. and more successful. The tendency to correlate attractiveness with the likeli- hood of individual success can have a direct impact in hiring decisions. Have you ever heard someone suggest a tall, athletic looking CEO really “looks that part?” In Malcolm Gladwell’s book Blink, he reveals that 58 per cent of the CEOs of Fortune 500 companies are over six-feet tall despite the fact that only 14.5 per cent of the population of American men are over six-feet tall. Not surprisingly, studies suggest men’s attractiveness ratings increase with height. Further to this point, what we believe to be attractive is influenced by our individual sociocultural back- grounds. So, if we return to the example of height, while unconscious biases may favour tall male leaders, statistics suggest that North Americans are on average taller than individuals from many other countries, which may further disadvan- tage underrepresented groups.

AFFINITY BIAS BARBI HOLLAND Send your referrals to: The affinity bias occurs when we are SALES CONSULTANT (902) 481-1228 drawn to someone we have something MEMBER MAGNET [email protected] in common with (i.e.: you attended the same university, you grew up in the same REFER YOUR FAVOURITE BUSINESSES AND community or you have a mutual connec- HELP US BUILD AN EVEN BETTER CHAMBER. tion). In Atlantic Canada, we might call Earn $50 in Chamber Bucks for each successful referral! this the “who’s your father” bias.

BUSINESS VOICE 31 TRENDS Cultivating happiness Gratitude at work can increase productivity up to 50 per cent

FLORIA AGHDAMIMEHR BSCHE, CONSULTANT, TRAINER & SPEAKER, WORK-

PLACE PRODUCTIVITY COACH rawpixel/123rf

Remarkable, but is it even possible? Gratitude Defi cit Disorder (GDD) as an Show gratitude for doing their job? Well, organizational phenomenon, referring to FIVE WAYS TO CULTIVATE if it is useful in life, chances are it will be workplace culture. A culture of gratitude A CULTURE OF GRATITUDE: benefi cial at the workplace. positively aff ects people — even when we • As manager, highlight what is Did you know that appreciating your don’t necessarily feel appreciation, but working rather than what is not team can aff ect employee engagement, we are in midst of a culture of gratitude. • Speak highly of colleagues performance, help reach goals, encour- According to American Bureau of Labour especially when not present age job satisfaction and innovation? in the U.S., 64 per cent of employ- • Be the colleague you want to Leaders often overlook gratitude because ees leave their jobs because they feel work with it is so simple. Research confi rms appre- under-valued and unappreciated. • Write “thank you” in different ciation is the single most eff ective factor According to a survey of 2,000 languages in enhancing workplace productivity. Americans released 2013, by the John • Thank those who may not In 2012, Stanford Business Magazine Templeton Foundation: get thanked reported gratitude can increase produc- • People are less likely to feel or tivity between 25 and 66 per cent. It’s the express gratitude at work than gift that keeps on giving! anyplace else Make it a challenge to be appreciative Emergenetics International reported • Ninety-three per cent agreed, grateful and grateful. Don’t worry — your team, that by implementing gratitude into com- bosses are more likely to succeed co-workers or your boss won’t take advan- pany culture, employees are more willing • Most reported, hearing “thank you” tage of you when you show gratitude at the to spread their positive feelings with felt good and motivated them workplace. You might even be surprised others, whether helping with projects, • Almost all respondents reported with the results. Managers who say “thank taking time to recognize those who have saying “thank you” to colleagues you” to their team may fi nd their employ- gone the extra mile — it’s the mentality of makes them feel happier and more ees feel motivated to work harder. “we’re in this together.” fulfi lled Gratitude is important for building Dr. Robert A. Emmons of the Uni- • Thirty-fi ve per cent believed workplace trust and a positive corporate versity of California and Dr. Michael E. expressing any gratitude could lead culture. Many eff ective leaders have McCullough of the University of Miami, coworkers to take advantage of them switched to appreciation to help manage found after only four months writing or avoid unnecessary stress. The results gratitude journals, participants were National Institutes of Health of employing gratitude as a strategy are more optimistic, inspired, enthusias- (Zahn et al, 2009) found high overall surprisingly benefi cial. Introducing a cul- tic, attentive and experienced superior gratitude produced high-levels of activity ture of gratitude builds trust and enables meaningful culture. Surprisingly, they in the hypothalamus, which controls productivity to soar! also exercised more and had fewer visits eating, drinking and sleeping — with a to physicians than those who focused on huge infl uence on stress levels. Gratitude Floria Aghdamimehr, specializes sources of aggravation. improved sleep, decreased depression in leadership and building trust for Lea Waters, Psychologist at the and participants had fewer aches and positive workplace culture to intensify University of Melbourne describes pains. productivity.

32 MAY 2018 Member 2017 Satisfaction Survey The Halifax Chamber received 175 respondents for the 2017 survey.

What Matters to Business of Members would recommend joining 97% the Halifax Chamber *up from 94% in 2016 Champion Common Sense Regulations 78% Assist & Promote Entrepreneurship 87% 69%

Reduce the Tax Overall Satisfaction with Burden 63% the Halifax Chamber *up from 80% in 2016

Why Businesses Join the Chamber 70% 63% 43% Network & develop Establish a profile in Support local business contacts the business business initiatives community

Top 3 Member Benefits 65% of respondents 1/3 have 25 of Members employees use the Group or less Health plan Group Health M2M Marketplace Home & Auto Insurance Insurance WORKING FOR YOU Unapologetically owning our ambition Wonder Women Workshop inspires and challenges By Erin Elaine Casey

If I took one message away from the Chamber’s Wonder Women Workshop on March 2, it’s this: Stop apologizing for being awesome. Maybe I should back up. In the past few weeks, I’ve had several meetings with women starting new businesses and I’m seeing a pattern. A lot of us — not all, but a LOT — feel like impostors. As if we’re here in this professional space by accident or dumb luck, not because we have the chops to make things happen. Like we always have something to prove, even when we’ve already arrived. I was so struck by this apologetic attitude during a recent coffee date with an aspiring woman entrepreneur that I felt compelled to look into her eyes and Contributed say, “You are NOT a fraud.” Or, as women’s leadership expert From left to right: Eleanor Beaton, Andrea Janzen, Charlene Boyce, Cynthia Dorrington, Eleanor Beaton put it in her keynote Wendy Brookhouse, Margaret Chapman and Leah Rimmer. address at the workshop, “Unapologet- ically owning our ambition is a coura- the law firm BoyneClarke, wants most is I talked to relates to what Beaton calls the geous act of everyday feminism.” for women to feel free to be themselves “Barbie complex” — the compulsion to Every single speaker and panellist and define success and leadership for be perfect and do everything perfectly. who took the stage on that sunny Friday ourselves without justification or apology. It comes in many forms, from “playing morning shared some version of the very Panel member Andrea Janzen, Profes- small” in business (because we’re so same message. Speaker Wendy Brook- sional Coach, reminds us to step up and afraid to make a mistake) to the constant house, founder and Chief Strategist at share real stories about the challenges pressure to be “gracious” (because we’re Black Star Group, urged us to deeply women face, so we can put fuel in our so afraid people will think we’re not nice). examine our relationship with money and tanks instead of judging ourselves and Mount Saint Vincent University “step into our power” by making a plan to each other so harshly. undergraduates Jasmine Schreiner and take control of our financial health. What There were more than 130 women in Cassie Pilon, told me they already feel panel member Leah Rimmer, Partner at the room that day, and almost everyone enormous pressure to compete and be “better” than the men they go to school with. “Men are treated differently, get more opportunities and are paid more than us for the exact same work,” Schreiner says. “If we’re not perfect, it’s like we’re letting the team down.” LET US HOST YOUR CORPORATE EVENT Pilon agrees: “You have to be perfect at home and perfect at work. You’re afraid of falling off that pedestal.” Starting at Includes 18 hole green What’s the answer? It’s simple, but fee, shared cart, and +tax it’s not easy. We have to get over the idea $ BBQ steak dinner. 59.99 pp that working our butts off and striving for a flawless performance is the path to Only want to play 9 holes? We can accommodate your group anytime including weekends. success — that nice women don’t want professional power and that ambition, 902.384.2033 | [email protected] | www.riveroaksgolfclub.ca whether you’re pushing for success in

34 MAY 2018 WORKING FOR YOU

We want to lead by example by engaging all members of our diverse business community and that involves an inclusive strategy for our events, volunteer positions and leaders.” — Becky Davison, Marketing Director, Halifax Chamber of Commerce your $20,000 microbusiness or your “We wanted to let the women’s busi- inspired by all the amazing and coura- multi-million-dollar enterprise, is a dirty ness community know that we support geous women who spoke with me at the word. them,” says Becky Davison, Marketing Wonder Women Workshop: Wendy Brookhouse has it right when Director for the Halifax Chamber of • Trust yourself she says, “Power is a good thing.” Commerce. “We want to lead by example • Be imperfect One way to normalize what it takes by engaging all members of our diverse • Tell real stories — to be a powerful woman — including what business community and that involves your own and others’ Beaton calls “episodic selfishness” — is an inclusive strategy for our events, • Celebrate your ambition to share narratives about what power and volunteer positions and leaders. This will • Define your success ambition look like in real life. On March 2, definitely be an annual event!” we heard those narratives and saw those Cynthia Dorrington, President of powerful women in action. And guess Vale & Associates, took over as Chamber The Wonder Women Workshop was what? They’re not so different from the Chair in April. I feel like her words are — sponsored by Sobey School of Business perfect rest of us. if you’ll forgive me — for this at Saint Mary’s University, BoyneClarke, Fun fact: 12 of the 15 staff members particular moment: “When you articulate Rogers, BMO and Theriault Financial. at the Halifax Chamber are women, as are a goal, you have to think it through and the incoming Chair of the Board and Vice also speak it out loud. We typically don’t Chair and they are a powerhouse bunch. go back on what we say. We never want On the eve of International Women’s Day, to look like we failed or relinquished our hosting an event celebrating women and goals. When you articulate a goal or mis- the important role they play in the busi- sion or vision, you will strive to achieve it.” ness community, just made sense. And so, here is my own vision,

Helping you grow in Nova Scotia Suzanne Rix will help you navigate the complexities of immigration law so that you, your family or your employees can work in Canada. Suzanne advises clients on which type of immigration application will have the greatest chance of success. From lease review to the benefits of incorporation, Mohammad Ali will help you reach your goals faster and ensure every detail is considered. He provides legal guidance on all matters related to running your own business.

Suzanne Rix Mohammad Ali Raza [email protected] [email protected] 902.491.4124 902.491.6845

BUSINESS VOICE 35 SPECIAL FEATURE GOLFING GETAWAYS A seaside challenge for golf Chester club offers scenery and high-level golfingBy David Pretty

If golf is experiencing any sort of “We’re very fortunate with our loca- game, players will relish the opportunity decline in popularity, Dave MacMillan, tion here,” he admits. to enjoy a top-notch lunch served by General Manager of Chester Golf Club, The area’s natural beauty and the friendly staff. isn’t seeing much first-hand evidence. club’s unique and challenging course “Our clubhouse is a very popular “We have a vibrant membership have been attracting golf enthusiasts local dining destination,” MacMillan every year,” he says with a hint of since 1955. With several renowned adds. “We’re particularly well-known for pride. “Our dues are low when com- architects having a hand in its evolution, our seafood and our chowder is some of pared to other clubs that don’t have our the 6,100-yard, 18-hole, par-70 course the best around.” resources.” takes players through a charming While enjoying their refreshments, This is particularly impressive when maze of seaside vistas and forest-lined visitors will marvel at the breath-taking you consider the site’s many amenities, fairways. scenery. including club rentals, power carts, “The greens and the precarious “First time visitors to Mahone Bay on-site practice facilities and well-ap- winds are the course’s greatest defence,” are always blown away,” MacMillan says. pointed locker rooms with showers. Com- he enthuses. “The back nine in particular “It’s ‘Canada’s ocean playground’ in one petitive group rates and a fully-equipped offers a gratifying series of ball striker’s gorgeous vista.” boardroom make Chester Golf Club a holes that can really make or break your For these reasons and many more, particularly popular choice for charity round.” Dave MacMillan is notably optimistic. events and corporate outings. At the apex of the course, players “I’m excited for the future. We’ve While features like this are certainly must contend with unpredictable got a great plan in action here at Chester convenient, MacMillan knows that it coastal winds. The final hole skirts Golf Club. We work hard and we still really comes down to course quality and seaside before guiding players back to consider ourselves to be at the apex of the surrounding environments. the clubhouse. After an intense golf the golf scene here in Nova Scotia.”

A UNIQUE SEASIDE GOLFING EXPERIENCE

Chester offers visitors the magic of a classic golf course in a seaside setting. The course routing provides a golfi ng adventure that is both challenging and enjoyable for all skill levels. It is a joy to play, whether you aspire to break one hundred twenty or par of seventy. Any missed shots will be due to the distracting beauty of the Atlantic Ocean, the islands and the colourful sailboats tacking in the wind. After your round, come in and sample some of the fi nest seafood found in Nova Scotia. We’re told the seafood chowder is superb. WE LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING YOU!

220 Golf Course Rd • Chester • NS • www.chestergolfclub.ca • Tee Times & Pro Shop: 902-275-4543 • Dinner Reservations: 902-275-4702

36 MAY 2018 PLAY & ADVERTISING MAXIMIZE PACKAGE #1 All for $5,400 + HST (no entrance fee required) • Up to 100 rounds of golf YOUR RETURN • Up to six named employees to share rounds • Rounds may be redeemed for guests (must be accompanied by the business member) • Additional rounds available for purchase • Preferred tournament rates ON GOLF • Fee INCLUDES advertising listed below • Seven-day advance booking privileges when Business members at Oakfi eld hosting guests/clients ceate all new opportunities to • No minimum spend requirement • Complimentary practice facility meet clients, retain talented • Lockers and cart storage available staff , reward eff orts, and grow • Four-day advance online booking their own businesses. Oakfi eld • Member charge accounts for all club purchases off ers high value membership • Lounge, dining room, canteen and packages combined with hospitality cart services advertising opportunities to Advertising Included: off er real return on your golf • Promote your business and reach over investment. 30,000 golfers every season Digital Signage - In Lounge Digital Signage - In Proshop Also available: • Hole sign advertising • $850 per season (+ $500 production cost)

PLAY & ADVERTISING PACKAGE #2 $3,200 + HST This package includes all the same privileges as Package #1 with the following exceptions: • Up to 50 rounds of golf CaII Eric Tobin today for • Advertising NOT Included but may be more information purchased•Minimum 2 and maximum 4 named employees 902.861.2777 (x2) or email • Additional rounds played (beyond 50) eric.tobin@oakfi eld.ca charged at $50 + HST per round WHERE ARE THEY NOW Focus on financial health Black Star takes simplified approach to finance By Heather Laura Clarke

When someone is embarrassed about the state of their finances, they’re less likely to ask a professional for help. But Wendy Brookhouse says that’s exactly when they need expert advice the Wendy Brookhouse, most. Founder and Chief Strategist “We always hear ‘I’m going to get at The Black Star Group. my stuff sorted out and then I’ll come see you,’” says Brookhouse. “But if you have a cut on your arm, do you wait for it to be healed before you talk to a doctor? Of course not.” Brookhouse is the founder and Chief Strategist of The Black Star Group and has been providing down-to-earth financial services to entrepreneurs, pro- fessionals and business owners for more than a decade. Contributed “We want people to realize: you are where you are. There’s no need to employers want to help their employees While a traditional financial plan be ashamed or embarrassed about your straighten up their finances — and reduce will lay out how much to save and where financial state, because that isn’t serving their stress levels — to better focus on to invest it, Brookhouse says Black Star’s you,” says Brookhouse. “It’s so important their work. plans go beyond those specifics. for us to get people to start talking about She encourages any business that “Instead of just focusing on ‘do this their money.” brings Black Star in for a lunch-and-learn and then in 30 years you’ll be fine,’ we At the 2016 Halifax Business to make a donation to Junior Achieve- add in a layer of how you can achieve Awards, Black Star Group was a 2016 ment of Nova Scotia, which offers that while still having a life now,” says finalist for Small Business of the Year. programs like Economics for Success, Brookhouse. “It’s important to look into Brookhouse says it was an honour to have Dollars with Sense and Investment the future, but you still have to optimize been recognized and the nomination led Strategies. your situation for today.” to even more connections as Black Star “They’re doing such amazing work She says Black Star advisors sit down grew quickly. around financial literacy in schools,” says with clients and figure out how to reduce Brookhouse has been travelling Brookhouse, who is currently writing a their stress and anxiety over money. across Canada and the U.S., giving book about financial health for women. They help them get a system in place that keynote addresses on financial health “If we’re able to teach this next genera- addresses everything from the balance in and Black Star is now offering lunch-and- tion about money and give them the right their chequing account to their insurance learn sessions for businesses. information from the very beginning, coverage. While the information on financial they’re going to be smarter and more “People are crying out for true health is certainly useful for employees, empowered with their money.” advice on how to get where they want to Brookhouse says it’s actually the employ- While she has high hopes the next go — not just strictly investment advice,” ers who are really benefiting from these generation will get off to a good start, says Brookhouse. “It needs to be a sessions. Brookhouse says many baby boomers, conversation about all of the things your “There is so much data showing the gen-Xers and millennials are suffering money touches.” correlation between how your employ- now from financial stress — and it’s She says the Black Star team has a ees deal with their money and their affecting people in all income brackets. “big, hairy, audacious goal” of chang- productivity at work,” says Brookhouse. “It’s not about how much money ing one million lives through financial “Studies have shown up to 25 per cent of a you make. In fact, it’s more likely that health. They know they can’t do it alone, company’s payroll is lost due to financial if you make good money, you have debt so they regularly train independent advi- stress.” you want to get rid of,” says Brookhouse. sors on their holistic planning system. She adds that people don’t have the “A lot of people have debt because they “We really are in tune with our ability to compartmentalize: if they’re haven’t been taught how to deal with clients because their success is our suc- worried about their finances, it’s going to their money properly and we don’t want cess,” says Brookhouse. “We get a little affect them in the workplace. Brookhouse anyone to feel badly about it.” too excited when we make a difference says there’s been a lot of interest in these “If there’s debt to be dealt with, we’ll in someone’s life. There’s always a lot of new lunch-and-learn sessions because help you deal with it.” high-fiving going on in the office!”

38 MAY 2018 CONVERSATIONS MATTER. STAY INVOLVED. 6XEVFULEH WRGD\ herald.ca/jvch Wherever Business Takes You

At MNP, focusing on the success of our clients has always been at the heart of who we are and what has set us apart. This client-centric approach is also why MNP has grown to become one of the most trusted accounting, tax and business consulting firms in Canada. Committed to Atlantic Canada, our diverse team of business advisors delivers the customized and innovative strategies you need to succeed, wherever business takes you. Contact Kirk Higgins, FCPA, FCA, Regional Managing Partner, Atlantic Canada, at 902.493.5452 or [email protected]