Kevin Dee

Words to Live By!

Get vaccinated!Treat them like you would want to be treated.Develop good habits.Work on your bad habits.Know your own strengths and weaknesses.Be honest with yourself.Don’t compromise your principles.Work hard when you are working.Manage your time.Give more than you get.Don’t dwell on the past.Ha...

Sometimes You Can't Make it on Your Own!

U2 have a famous song, "Sometimes You Can't make it on Your Own". Bono probably didn't envisage a business perspective to his lyrics but the sentiment can actually apply to many situations.One of the interesting things for business leaders is that they often don't have anyone to talk with about ...

Valid Business Reasons to Spend Time With a Client

Time is such a precious commodity these days that clients need to have a good return on the investment of their time spent with suppliers.  If you are an established sales person then you likely have strong relationships with your clients, and this makes the clients more amenable to spending some...

Le point sur le marché du travail canadien (juin 2021)

Bienvenue dans le regard d'Eagle sur le marché du travail canadien. Notre objectif a tendance à être l'espace professionnel, en mettant l'accent sur les emplois technologiques.Ces derniers mois, nous avons produit des mises à jour spécifiques du marché que vous pouvez trouver via ces liens :Ottaw...

Canadian Job Market Update (June 2021)

​Welcome to Eagle's look at the Canadian job market. Our focus tends to be the professional space, with a focus on tech jobs.   In recent months we have produced specific market updates which you can find through these links:  Ottawa May 2021 Toronto April 2021 Montreal March 2021 Edmonton Feb...

Life Is Not Fair. Get Over It!

Things people say:​"The other guy was born into a rich family and has the best of everything.""She has such fantastic hair.""I should have got that job.""Our team played better but the other team won because… insert complaints of referees, bad breaks, lucky shots etc.""I get all the dirty jobs (c...

10 Ways To Differentiate as a Saleperson

It is often said that “people buy from people”.As a business owner I would hope the quality and capability of the company is a big factor in any buying decision, I am also cognizant of the fact that it is my sales team that delivers the selling messages to clients.  If a client is not receptive t...

Habit #5: First Seek to Understand: Then to be Understood

​One of Steven Covey’s most famous books was “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People”.Coveys’ 5th Habit focuses on communication … and the importance of listening and understanding the other party first, before communicating your idea or message.Often I am amazed at the assumptions that people m...

Sometimes The Simple Answer Is Right

I am a big fan of trying to keep solutions simple.There is no need to over complicate life, yet often that is the way things go.Technology is a wonderful example of how, just sometimes, we can over complicate life.The answer to a business challenge is often as simple as a change in process, or a ...

Making the Most of Your Personal Time

One of the "tools" that is suggested when you want to lose weight is to write down everything that you eat over a few days. The idea being that when you compare reality to what your perception was, you will have a clearer and more accurate view of how you can make meaningful changes in your food...

Help Yourself!

​You are responsible for you … what are you doing about that?Are you coasting through your days … or are you executing on a plan?Are you letting your relationships evolve … or are you working at them?Is your health and fitness taking care of itself … or do you have goals and a plan?Are you having...

10 Ways to Make It A "Feel Good" Day

We live our lives every day dealing with the normal pressures of life. We build routines and focus on the things we need to do, and some of the things we would like to do.Every now and again it is a good idea to focus on others, to give, with no expectation of getting anything back.I call that ty...

Client Meetings Are NOT Social Events

Salespeople are paid to generate business for their company. A big part of establishing credibility and earning the right to be a supplier comes from a relationship that develops between the client and the supplier. People like to do business with people that they like. People do NOT like to do ...

Humility is a Key Attribute for any Leader

It is not hard to find articles about the importance of humility in leaders. That is good because there are countless stories of CEOs with big egos and the damage that can cause. All too often leaders, who probably have significant experience, think that they have all the answers. Perhaps it is...

Building Your Skills Through Practice

Malcolm Gladwell in his book Outliers suggests that it takes 5,000 hours of "practice" to master a skill ... he gives examples of professional athletes (soccer and hockey players) and even some tech leaders (Bill Gates, Steve Jobs etc.) as examples of his theory. Here is the thing ... going to w...

Strengthen Your Team, Proactively!

Every leader knows that "people management" has the potential, (and often fulfills that potential), to be a huge part of where you spend your time. You deal with poor performance, complaints of all kinds, ego stroking, breaches of rules, motivation issues and politics. On the positive side of the...

3 Attributes to Get a Job ... Experience, Skills and Attitude!

Finding a job can be tough in the best of time. When jobs are scarce it is easy to lose hope, but it is important to keep a positive attitude. That in itself is a differentiator for an employer!There are basically three things you bring to a new employer ... skills, experience and attitude. Yo...

Quality First THEN Speed!

The phrase "learn to walk before you run" exists for an obvious reason ... and in business we need to get good at our role before we can get faster at our role. Whatever your job, you will likely have heard phrases like ... "Doing more with less", or "Work smarter AND faster". Science tells us ...

Are You Achieving Your Potential?

We are all born with certain talents. We all have the ability to improve those talents through education, practice and effort ... and we can do this at any time in our lives. Some people will take full advantage of those talents and others will not.Robert Schuller asked the question, "What grea...

Spring Resolutions!

Many people make New Year Resolutions and most of those people fail to meet their goals. If you want an indicator of that just visit any gym early in the New Year and again a couple of months later! Spring is a great time to re-commit to some small changes in your life ... call it your Spring R...

Hiring, Firing and Retention... Build Great Teams!

Businesses will often talk about the importance of their people, they will say things like "Our people are our greatest asset", or "It's our people that make the difference" and similar statements.The thing is that very often companies operate very differently than you might expect from reading t...

Manage Your Anger

Anger is sometimes confused with passion. Passion is an emotion that successful people harness to drive their ambitions. Anger is a different emotion (sometimes because people are passionate) and it can be a very negative emotion.​"Holding anger is a poison. It eats you from inside. We think tha...

Habit as a Tool for Success

We all develop habits over our lifetime, some good and some not so good! Habits can be a great tool to use in building success in any career if we consciously develop them. We can develop a habit of lifelong learning that will give us the tools for success in our chosen profession. We can deve...

GRAB Your Opportunities!

Life is full of opportunities! Generally it is the people who are looking for those opportunities, and willing to put in some effort, that take most advantage. We all have many aspects to our lives and each of them can bring opportunity.Health. Do you take advantage of the nice weather to be m...

Be Focused, Avoid Distractions!

One of the aspects of riding a motorbike that I like, is the total concentration required to stay out of trouble. The biker needs to not only be very aware of the bike and its surroundings, but also be vigilant for potential mistakes by other road users. My dad's philosophy on driving, which he ...

Productivity Tips from the Best Salespeople

How do the most productive salespeople spend their time that makes them so successful? The best salespeople have many qualities, but in terms of productivity these are just a few ideas:1. They maximize time with clients and prospects. Whatever that might mean in our COVID world!  It can obvious...

Use Productive Mini-Breaks to Improve Your Productivity

How often are you swamped with urgent. "must do" tasks that absolutely consume your day? I'm going to go out on a limb and suggest that happens to a lot of people. The work needs to get done, so you put your head down and do it. One problem is that other important tasks slip ... some of which ...

Earn Your Credibility

Credibility is a big word ... and some people seem to have trouble understanding it. Credibility is earned ... not given. When you have credibility THEN the world opens up for you. Until you EARN that credibility, you really need to be very focused on just that! Whether you are an entry level...

Push Your Company!

I used to work for one of the large consulting companies. One of the things I most admired about "the firm" was the fact that the company never stood still, it was always looking to reinvent itself. In addition to admiring that quality it was also something that drove many employees nuts! Fast...

10 Reasons Why I Support Good Causes

Charitable giving is a personal thing, and yet it is a critical contributor to the society in which we live. If you like our society then in order to preserve it, and even improve it we NEED to contribute.Below are just ten reasons why I have chosen to support the various causes that I have over...

The Sales Funnel

Do you understand the metrics around the "Sales Funnel" for your industry? How many prospects do you need to chase (top of funnel) to get one piece of closed business? When I first moved into a sales role I found the terminology to be a little intimidating ... prospecting, qualifying, closing, ...

Building Confidence -- 10 Tips

I can relate to Colin Powell's quote and thought I could share a few tips from some failures over my fairly long career to date! Now all you have to do is (a) prepare and (b) put in the work! We all have times when we are a little uncertain. It could be because you are in a slump, it might be...

Feeling Low Energy? 10 Tips To Stay Sharp

We all hit those low energy periods from time to time, and a pandemic has exacerbated this for everyone!It might be because there is a sustained period of pressure at work, it might be because of stress at work or at home, it just might be because it has been a while since we took some time off. ...

10 Tips To Help Your People Be More Autonomous

Time Management and Personal Productivity are a bit of a focus for me. I am a huge fan of the "To Do List", Goals, using calendars effectively and setting priorities. I am also a big believer in delegating as much as possible and about focusing on high return activities. ​"Until we can manage ti...

We Can ALL Benefit From Some Help Sometimes

"Many hands make light work.""Two heads are better than one."There are many sayings that relate to the same fact, that there is power in a group.A good friend of mine ran a strategic planning session which included many strong personalities, with a diverse and sometimes opposite set of opinions.H...

Do You Make Yourself Clear?

We have all had those moments, some of us more than others, when we realise that we are talking at "cross purposes" with someone. They are thinking about one thing and we are talking about something else!It is often innocuous, and cause for a little chuckle, each thinking you were talking about s...

10 Signs Your Sales Rep is Struggling

In a perfect world a manager will know how well, or not, their salespeople are doing. They can then help course correct, adjust strategy or provide training in time to ensure that they deliver as expected. However we rarely operate in a perfect world and one thing salepeople seem to universally...

How to Solve a Problem

Day in and day out we are all faced with problems that we need to solve, both in the office and in our personal lives. Problems come both big and small, and yet the way to handle them is basically the same. In my experience there are many people who are never "taught" how to address problems and...

10 Reasons Companies Use Contract or Temporary Help

ALL great companies use some form of temporary or contract help at various times. Here are just ten reasons why they do that! 1. For project work. Assigning full time staff to a project (a) is sometimes difficult; (b) can cause problems in the role you take them from; and (c) can create issue...

Focus on The "End Game"!

Life is full of ups and downs. We ALL have days where we wonder if we should have bothered getting out of bed! Hopefully we also all have days when everything seems to work. IF you have goals, then when the going gets tough you can console yourself that there will be plenty more opportunities ...

Independent Thinking

It is very easy to be "swayed" by others. People with strong opinions will share them quickly ... and often! If a couple of people are of the same opinion then there is a momentum, and that can pull others along into a herd mentality.​"Too often we... enjoy the comfort of opinion without the di...

International Day of Pink - April 14, 2021

Today Eagle is encouraging all of our staff to wear pink in support of the International Day of Pink. We will be wearing T-shirts, ties, socks, hairbands -- whatever pink items that we have! ​The International Day of PinkThe International Day of Pink was started in Nova Scotia when two straight...

Realistic Success in an Instant Gratification World

There are many people in our society who expect instant gratification... perhaps it is even becoming the new "norm". They want to lose weight instantly... and so will indulge in ridiculous fad diets. They want to win at whatever they are doing, sports, video games, work contests... without putt...

Is Pragmatism a Thing of the Past?

Webster defines pragmatism as a reasonable and logical way of doing things or of thinking about problems that is based on dealing with specific situations instead of on ideas and theories.I like to think of pragmatism as common sense ... but of course, as Voltaire is credited with saying. "Commo...

Communication

The importance of good, and regular communication is critical in business, in any relationship and indeed most situations of any kind.Have you ever thought you had been clear? Either in the message delivered or the message you received? Only to find out later that you were way off base!The foll...

So You Want To Be An Entrepreneur?

There are many rewards for being a business owner. You have the ability to define your own destiny and your fate is largely in your own hands. If you make the right choices, develop good plans and execute well on your plans then you can reasonably expect to do well financially. There are many pe...

Communication Skills are Critical

Communication is such a BIG word! ​Have you ever thought you had delivered a pretty clear message ... but subsequently it becomes clear the message was not received? Of course you have ... it happens ALL the time! Here are a few thoughts about communication: 1. Just because you told somethin...

Take Notes During Sales Calls

WE work hard to get client meetings so it is imperative that they are very productive! Here are just10 reasons why salespeople should take notes when meeting with clients. 1. Your memory is not as good as you think, so take note of what one of the world's smartest men said! Albert Einstein on...

Salespeople Determine Their Own Income ... Some Tips to Help!

The typical salesperson's income is very much tied to their productivity ... usually by way of commission. The company they work for will have expectations about how much business a salesperson should generate and this will typically be reflected by the quota assigned to the salesperson.Expectat...

Goals Without Plans are Pipe Dreams

I am a big fan of goals.They give you something to aim for.They provide focus.They are the foundation of any great time management system.They are necessary for any company that wants success, and highly recommended for anyone who wants to achieve success in almost anything, personal or career or...

Great Salespeople Ask Questions!

We have all heard the saying, "You should never assume, because when you assume, you make an ass of 'u' and 'me'." The problem is that we still do it. Consider just a couple of very simple situations. The CIO says, "We won't be spending anything now until next year." The salesperson takes this...

Go Ahead Make SOMEONE's Day ... 10 Ideas!

How do you feel when you get pleasantly surprised? Most likely you have a busy life, juggle priorities, work hard and have commitments that fill your days. You never have time to sit back and "smell the roses" or to focus on the good things in your life. Here is the thing... when something une...

Advice for Your First Job (actually applies to us all)

Do you remember your first job? I was 16 years old when I joined the Royal Navy and I had no idea what it meant to work for a living. Not that you are given much choice in the forces, you will do the job, you will do it as efficiently as you can ... or you catch a whole bunch of grief. Its actua...

Invest in Yourself

Stephen Covey wrote about the Emotional Bank Account, explaining that for every relationship we have, there exists an imaginary bank account. In order to invest in each relationship we need to make deposits in that account, and whenever we make withdrawals we are harming that relationship. The ...

Make Time Your Friend

Time is one resource that we can never get back.​"Time is what we want most, but... what we use worst."William Penn​We all have the same twenty-four hours each day to accomplish the things that we want to accomplish. ​"Don't say you don't have enough time. You have exactly the same number of hou...

Accuracy is Always Important. 10 Ways You Can Improve Yours!

Mistakes are a fact of life … they happen!It is however important to learn from our mistakes, which is a natural process that will result in us getting better.If we don’t learn from our mistakes then we miss a huge opportunity … and yet many people fall into this trap.Accuracy is extremely import...

5 Ideas to Get the Recruiter's Attention

In the recruiting business we are constantly looking for great people to meet the needs of our clients.When your job entails looking at hundreds and thousands of resumes it can be easy to get a little cynical.  Our job is to sort through the large numbers of resumes and weed out those that are no...

Inertia

Everyone experiences it at some time or other. You hit a brick wall and can't seem to move anything forward. You experience an inertia that is really hard to break! It happens for a myriad of reasons ... The tasks you are working on are REALLY hard ... and you are not sure about how to procee...

There is a Price to be Paid for Everything

Generally speaking there IS a price to be paid for everything. Good and bad! If you do not pull your weight at work what is the impact? If you want to achieve success in your career there is a cost! If the government increase costs for businesses what is the impact? If a business wants to be...

When the Going Gets Tough!

Entrepreneurs are good models for people dealing with tough challenges.​"Tough times never last, but tough people do." Robert H. Schuller​Anyone who has ever started a company knows what that feels like. The uncertainty, the stress, the effort needed in order to make something a success. Anyon...

10 Tips To Improve Your Energy Level And Positively Affect Your Life

If you are healthy and strong then you can do your best work... no secret there! If you are healthy and strong then you will feel better mentally... also no big secret. If you are healthy and strong then you can enjoy more activities in your leisure time... probably not the first time you ever ...

Make Fact-Based Decisions

Management is not an exact science and all too often we are forced to make decisions without all of the facts. That is just life and even though we have incomplete data it is always preferable to be decisive. If your decisions happens to be wrong then you can course correct. That is far prefe...

Advice

Twelve thoughts on advice that might make you think a little!​"Free advice is often overpriced." E C MCKENZIE​Good advice can make a huge difference in your life... opening opportunity, saving on potential errors and saving time.We get all kinds of advice (good and bad) from all kinds of people (...

Be More Productive: 15 Tips

Time is a finite resource and in today's exceptionally busy world it is a resource that we should all hold precious ... and yet most people don't. If you are in a busy job then getting your work done in a productive "work day", without the necessity to put in extra hours on a regular basis, shou...

What Do You Think Makes a Good Leader?

There are many books about leadership, and advice is plentiful. I find it interesting to read the theories from people who have worked in large corporations versus those who have worked in smaller (more entrepreneurial?) companies. There are the academics who provide their theories and the con...

Planning Your Time

One of the skills that financial advisers bring to the table is an investment allocation plan. A plan that works specifically for your situation, and allocates different percentages of your investments into different risk categories. The idea being to get the right balance of growth and risk i...

Giving back ...

There are still a lot of individual Canadians with good well paying jobs, who do not "give back" to the society that gives them that quality of life. What does that mean ... because we are all responsible for our own success, right? Why should we give back? I am a big believer that we are the ...

Productive Busy or Just Busy?

Everybody is busy these days ... maybe even crazy busy! The question is ... are you being busy doing the right things? Do you let your day drive you, or do you drive your day? Some signs that you might be driven by your day ...You let emails and phone calls interrupt your flow.You don't have a...

Make Time to Think

When did you last take some time to JUST think? Typically when we have a few minutes we will turn on the TV, pick up our smart phone, get on Facebook, email, YouTube, Twitter, LinkedIn or some online tool. Many of us will have grown up multi-tasking ... we watch TV and do our email, we eat our ...

Feedback

I think it would be safe to say that nobody likes to receive negative feedback. It bruises our ego and we can become defensive when we hear criticism. That happens even though we know we should just accept it as feedback that can help us get better. I can't even profess to be good in this area...

Do You KNOW What Your Sales Team is Saying to Your Clients?

"Oh don't worry about that clause, we'll just cross it off!" "Yeah "management" won't let us do THAT any more ... I guess they don't want business!" Your employees are out day after day talking to your customers and business partners, do you know what they are saying.You likely hire new people, ...

Your Attitude Defines You!

If you want to be successful, in any job, then you need to focus your energies on the types of activities that move you towards your goals.Some excellent advice says Plan your Work and Work Your Plan.I think it should read Plan Your Work and Be Very Focused in Working Your Plan!Some advice from t...

Using Routines to Your Advantage

FIRST let me say that I often talk about the danger of being in a rut ... but don't think I am changing my tune here. Any routine that you develop needs to be revisited every now and then to make sure it is still serving you. Having said that ...You know what it is like when you get thrown off ...

Entitled OR Accountable?

It seems that there are a growing number of people in our world who have a feeling of entitlement and they come in many shapes and forms. They feel entitled to a job, entitled to government handouts, entitled to benefits that were negotiated in other times, entitled to major bonuses, entitled to...

Is The Grass REALLY Greener?

Change is a constant in our lives, and I am a big advocate of being the agent of change before the change happens to you! Having said that, I also believe that it is important to have a plan for the change you implement. This kind of rationalization can apply to almost any aspect of your life, ...

Email Etiquette - 20 Tips!

Email is both (i) a fantastic tool and (ii) the bane of our lives ... all at the same time! It brings to mind an old saying, "can't live with it, can't live without it!" While the main cause appears to be volume, there are things that we can do to help ourselves. Certainly within our own compa...

Bite Your Tongue

I talk about change often ... and while many people welcome change and some crave change, most people find it uncomfortable. Here are a few thoughts to consider when you find yourself uncertain about change: 1. Truly understand the details ... ask lots of questions. 2. Try to get in the mind...

Attitude Matters ... A Little Humility is a Good Thing!

The world is a fickle place, and it can be easy to find ourselves in a "comfort zone" or getting a little complacent because we have had some success. Yes you can probably get away with a little attitude when you are having success. Yes you can probably bend the small rules, not be so good with...

What Makes a Winner in Sales?

At the very highest levels of competition the difference between winners and "the rest" can be miniscule!Sprinters win their races by hundreds of a second! Soccer matches are very often won by a moment of brilliance out of a ninety minute game. The same holds true for most sports ... the best o...

Make People Smile!

Wouldn’t it be nice if someone did something to make you feel good?It wouldn’t need to be big … in normal times, they might go and get you a coffee, bring you a cup cake, tell you a joke, give you a sincere compliment.In a pandemic they may need to get a little more creative. They could send you ...

Lessons From Hitting the Ditch!

​I have crashed motorcycles twice in my life, the first time I was 17 years old. I went too fast into a roundabout on a wet Liverpool road and found myself sliding along the road, following my bike, until we came to an abrupt halt up against the sidewalk.  I got lucky.The second time was a Friday...

10 Reasons Clients Use Staffing Companies

The staffing industry continues to grow and provide value to clients across every level of government and every type of industry. Our services are used for many and varied reasons, so here are just ten reasons why we exist."More employers than ever are struggling to fill open jobs - 45% globally ...

Careers Require Investment

There is a saying which I came across that goes like this ... "Don't compare your Chapter One to someone else's Chapter Twenty". I don't believe that there is any one person attributed with the quote, but I like it! I like it for a number of reasons: It is good advice for people looking for a m...

Embrace the Uncomfortable

If you want to grow your muscles you work them to the point of discomfort, let them repair and do it again.If you want to learn a new skill then you put significant effort into learning it, endure the times when you feel like you’ll never get there and do it all again.If you want to have a good r...

Invest in Your Relationships ... or Someone Else Might!

We ALL have relationships in our lives... family, friends, acquaintances, colleagues, clients etc. Here is what I know about "relationships 101". You have to WORK at relationships. That means actually doing positive things for that other person.Stephen Covey had a great way of describing this w...

Leadership Should Be Uncomfortable (and it is)!

There are many reasons why people are in leadership positions, and you would hope that they are for the right reasons. People earn their positions because of their knowledge and experience, in many cases they earn the position by proving their worth and they are in the position because they trul...

Get the Most Out of Life

Twain's quote is reminiscent of another one of my favorite quotes from James Dean. "Dream like you will live forever. Live like you will die today." On the other hand I think Twain's quote is a little more structured ... it makes me want to think about the things I should do.Over the years I h...

Having a Bad Day?

We all have them ... yup even me! You know what it is like ... the car won't start; you spill your coffee on your shirt on your way to a client appointment; a client is upset and rips a strip off you; the boss gives you grief because you are behind on your paperwork! Maybe you have been stuck a...

Give Something Back - Get in the Game!

Here is your "Giving To Do List". #1. Answer these questions. Are you employed? Do you give regularly and meaningfully in support of charities today? Is it a conscious decision or are you "dragged along"/guilted/hit up at a point in time? What charities interest you? (Cancer and Heart dise...

10 Lessons About Careers … From 50 Years Experience

I was looking at some old documentation lately and was reminded that in September this year I will celebrate the 50th anniversary of my entry into the workforce.  Crazy!In September 1971 I joined the Royal Navy as a Junior Naval Aircraft Mechanic second class … you don’t get any lower on the tote...

Bob's Rules

Many years ago I worked for Bob, who was a very successful partner at a Global consulting company. One of the reasons I enjoyed working for Bob was that he was VERY clear about his expectations. He also left me alone to reach those expectations ... unless I didn't, in which case I would hear ab...

Will Your Mood Affect Your Decision Making?

No matter how "even tempered" we are, there is always the opportunity to be a little edgy ... and in a business setting that can be dangerous. We can be in a bad mood because of personal issues outside of work, because of the work itself or even because of external influences like the weather! ...

10 Reasons Why I Take Lots of Notes!

If you look in my notebook you will see pages filled with notes. Here are some reasons why I write lots of notes: 1. I do not have an exceptional memory ... as Albert Einstein once said, " ... why should I fill my brain with facts I can find in 2 minutes". 2. I have not yet met anyone with p...

Are You a Talker or a Doer?

The world is filled with ideas … but ideas without action are not worth much.I have heard the phrase “I could have done that” many times … but they didn’t!There are plenty of people who will be quick to tell you what you did wrong … of course most of them did nothing.You will get advice from peop...

Career Advice - Make the Boss Look Good

The heading for this blog entry is fairly self explanatory, and at first glance seems quite simple. In reality it is probably theone piece of advice I could give anyone to encapsulate everything it takes to have a successful career. Let me explain ... If you adopt the attitude that you will do...

Focused People Find Success

Most people want to enjoy some success in their life. Some might define success as having a balanced life, enough money, a challenging job, good relationships and a manageable amount of stress. OR they could define success any way they like. NOTHING comes without a price. You need to EARN tha...

Life is GREAT!!!

I am often struck by that thought … I am SO lucky, life is GREAT!My journey has been varied, interesting, and I would certainly not have been voted as likely to succeed when I was  growing up!My first job, at 16 years of age, was in the Royal Navy as a boy sailor,  and I was able to start there a...

10 Ways Leaders Can Build Their Team

There is a fairly well established school of thought that a strong team will outperform a group of individuals fairly consistently. It is demonstrated in sports and in the workplace when people are willing to work to help each other and not just act selfishly. How DO managers, leaders and execu...

The Entrepreneur's Reality

A new business owner needs to do whatever it takes to make their business a success. That seems like a "given" to many people, but a short conversation will reveal that most people don't REALLY get it. Those people will often just assume that working hard is just that ... working hard. Working...

Get Time Management Right And Everything Else Follows!

There are a million and one books designed to help us be more successful, be fitter and be smarter. It can be a little daunting just trying to figure out what is most important. Is it better to exercise in the morning or the evening? Should I do weigh training or cardio? Should I learn a new ...

You Can't Always Please Everyone

It is not a bad thing to look for solutions that satisfy everybody, it is especially good when you can find win-win scenarios. Very often the cost of pleasing everyone is just too much. Leaders need to make decisions ... even knowing that the answer is not perfect. Some thoughts ... 1. A de...

Get The Critical Tasks Done!

Effective time management will make a difference in almost any job. As a salesperson I would credit time management with playing a huge factor in any success that I had.Good time management will focus you on the most important tasks, prioritise your time, eliminate time wasters and make you your ...

Accountability Is A Huge Differentiator

People who are accountable accept responsibility without excuse. Entrepreneurs demonstrate their accountability by overcoming the many obstacles in their path on the journey to success... whether they are ultimately successful or not. If they are not successful, they will no doubt accept respons...

Are You Too Busy to Help Yourself?

Every now and then I write about "time management" or "personal productivity" related topics ... and this topic is a classic! It takes effort (and time) to get better at "time management", but of course,only if you make time!Those reading this who see the irony in that statement have some hope. ...

Encourage People to Ask For Help

I always tell new employees to ask lots of questions.  I tell them that it is far better to ask, and get it right than to assume and get it wrong.  I tell them that they might feel stupid asking the same questions over and again … but the reality is, in our busy world we all need to hear the less...

Nice People

The label NICE has somehow acquired negative connotations ... to be called NICE can be interpreted as boring or "blah", when people often prefer to be thought of as exciting or interesting. Sometimes if I describe someone as NICE they take it as an insult! I think that is a raw deal for the NICE ...

Hang Out With Positive People

I tend to be a "Glass Half Full" type of person by nature. I also believe that developing an optimistic outlook is something we can ALL work on, and one tangible way to do that is to choose who we spend our time with (even if it is just virtually right now)! When I am with high energy, positive...

A Sense of Humour At Work

What role does humour play in the work place? There is plenty of scientific support for the fact that laughter is good for you. It is good for you physically, because it brings oxygen rich air into your body that stimulates your lungs, heart and muscles in addition to releasing endorphins from ...

The "Hope and a Prayer" Planning Strategy

Every year all companies face the same challenge of developing a plan for the upcoming year. The extent of that planning will vary among companies, but generally companies need to have targets for the next year which are focused on revenues and expenses, resulting in what everyone hopes will be ...

Goal: Develop Healthy Habits!

We all know that we are supposed to look after ourselves.We should exercise regularly.We should eat healthy foods.We should limit our vices ... alcohol in particular.However for many people the reality of knowing that and doing it are two different things!We COULD get there if we managed that cha...

Is Your Career Success Lens On Straight?

If you want to achieve success in your working life you need some clarity of vision.  You need to understand how others see you, especially your boss(es)!​“The price of success is hard work, dedication to the job at hand, and the determination that whether we win or lose, we have applied the best...

Keep It Positive

We ALL have tough times ... what will lead us to success is how we deal with those times.Sometimes when your back is against the wall you will have a tendency to be negative. You will find all of the excuses why things are going wrong. You will find people to blame. You will find others to tak...

Have YOU Moved Your Agenda Today?

​I have a note on my desk, right over the phone and it asks that question ...HAVE YOU MOVED YOUR AGENDA TODAY? ENOUGH?It is written in CAPITAL LETTERS with a sharpie ... so it is hard to ignore.I spot it when I arrive in the morning and I see it when I am packing up at night and its sole intentio...

Customer Expectations

Every customer has their own expectations in a given situation. The best companies will help to set those expectations based upon their product or service ... and will meet or exceed expectations in order to provide a satisfying experience. Expectations can be reasonable or unreasonable heading...

Words Salespeople Use

It is always interesting talking to sales people about their performance and their upcoming targets.Here are some words that you will often hear, but which should set off the alarm bells:Hope; Probably; Wish;  Potentially; “Coming”; Investment.​The kind of words that you want to hear are:Plan; St...

Lessons Often Need to Be Re-Learned!

Experience makes us better. We all know that ... as long as the experience is good, and we learn along the way. Lifelong learning, coupled with experience will help us to be our best selves. Not too many people would argue with that. What is sometimes overlooked is that all too often as we "m...

One Life, One Calendar

One of the questions frequently asked of senior executives is around the concept of work/life balance. How do you manage your time with a crazy busy work schedule and family commitments?​"The challenge of work-life balance is without question one of the most significant struggles faced by moder...

Love What You Do Is More Realistic Than Do What You Love!

We are often told to do what you love, that you should choose a career that will inspire you and will fulfill you. Here is the thing ... it is not always that easy. There are a relatively small percentage of people who achieve that goal ... and more power to them! For most people the answer is...

Are You Standing Still?

Phil Neville was a professional footballer, currently coaches the England women's team and was a former captain of Premier League football (soccer) club Everton ... the team I have followed since I was old enough to kick a ball growing up in Liverpool. Some time ago I watched an interview with ...

Are You Considering a Career in Sales?

If you ask most people about "Sales" they will readily admit that they "...could never be in sales" ... and there are good reasons (and bad) why people feel that way. No question ... Sales is Tough (but so are many other jobs)! You are always measured on your latest success.There is often no tim...

Change

Why are you doing things the way that you do them? You still call on the same clients. You still have the same selling messages. Your offerings are the same. Your pitch is the same. Your value proposition is the same. Yet ... the world is changing. Don't change for change sake ... but do m...

Compelling Sales Messages

​​Sales messaging is critical, and is often the difference between getting noticed or just ignored.​1. If you are trying get a prospect's attention then your message to him/her needs to hit the mark.2. It should be short enough that they will read it ... too long and you lose their attention. ...

First Impressions ... Grooming

We probably have all had advice about first impressions, the need to create a good first impression at one end of the spectrum and perhaps not judging a book by its coverat the other end.I think that in the workplace can certainly play a big factor in a person's chance of success. Certainly it is...

Grit

I watched a remake of an old John Wayne movie, True Grit.  It got me thinking about the importance of grit, albeit in a slightly different way than in the “Old West”, more in relation to today’s business world.I don’t know an entrepreneur who doesn’t have grit.I don’t know a successful leader who...

Use Your Corporate Culture to Attract Talent!

When recruiting top talent, job postings are a great way to reach passive and active job seekers. There are many techniques to writing the perfect description which in turn drives more applicants to your job posting and results in plenty of qualified candidates, but it's also critical that you g...

The Best of Series: Sales Success - A Secret Formula?

I have spent the better part of the last 30 years in some kind of sales capacity, including executive roles and as CEO of Eagle ... which of course is a sales role too. There are really remarkably few secrets to success in sales.Despite the multitude of sales methodologies, "tricks and tips" and...

In Sales? Keep the Pedal to the Metal Especially NOW!

The pandemic and its fallout have paralysed salespeople everywhere ... but YOU don't need to be one of them! One opportunity for us as salespeople right now is to improve our network. We can both increase the number of contacts that we have, and improve the relationship we enjoy with those con...

Underestimate Change at Your Peril

"If you don't like something, change it. If you can't change it, change your attitude." Maya AngelouThe longer you are in business the easier it is to become complacent ... and complacency is the beginning of the end. It is easy to underestimate the new competitor on the block, yet the big box s...

Business Writing ... 5 Tips!

The rise of social media and other forms of electronic media has radically changed the way that people communicate on an every day basis. It is not just the young who text each other using the abbreviated "language of texting", Facebook has become a mainstream way to communicate, Twitter and Li...

Enthusiasm Is Contagious

I am often reminded of the power of enthusiasm! If you visit or call into a company and the first person you engage with is chatty, welcoming and full of enthusiasm, it will have a positive impression:It makes you feel good!It puts you in a good mood about dealing with this organisation.Imagine ...

Your Mission (should you accept it) is to Get People Smiling!

Pandemics are tough!Canadian Winters are tough!Many people have lost their jobs.Those lucky enough to still be working are dealing all the craziness of these times!So … make it your mission to get as many smiles as possible!Smiles are contagious … so the best place to start is by smiling yourself...

Great Salespeople Deliver!

It amazes me but many salespeople want to be called anything but sales people. They want titles like account manager, account representative, client rep or any other name that does not have the word "sales" in it. I am proud to be a sales person! Sales people are responsible for generating the ...

Communication - Shades of Grey

I couldn't resist using that title ... but you might be disappointed to learn this blog entry does not have the same racy content as the book with a similar name! My topic today focuses on the fact that we human beings are all different ... yet so often we assume "the other person" is thinking t...

Change SOMETHING to Improve Your Life!

​Change ...1. You cannot expect anything in your life to improve if you are not prepared to change something.2. Change will happen, whether you want it to or not! 3. It is better for you to control the change that happens to you, rather than just let it happen. 4. The consequences of change...

How Busy Salespeople Get It All Done!

Most people will have heard the "eating the elephant metaphor": Question: How do you eat an elephant? Answer: One bite at a time. The metaphor is applied to any large problem... you break it down into manageable tasks that you can accomplish, one task at a time towards the bigger goal. This m...

A Salesperson's Dilemma ... How To Get Your Mojo Back!!!

Sales is a profession that can never rest on its laurels ... there is always lots of work to be done. However when things are going well there is a tendency to ease up a little, to take a little extra time off, golf a little more, have "out of office meetings" on Friday afternoons etc. These ar...

A Good Strategy is Important, Good Execution is Critical!

If you are a business owner you know the importance of having a good strategy. Indeed I have written about strategic planning many times and will often credit strategic planning as being a big influence on any success that we as a company have had. The ability to get away from the day to day chal...

Peer Groups are Great Tools for Learning and Support

When I started my company I called a couple of friends who also ran their own companies. I asked them to call a couple of other people and explore the prospect of a monthly gathering of business owners. We started a "President's Club" with the objective of learning from, and supporting, each ot...

Develop Good Sales Habits

Sales teams are often made up of some different characters, each of which will have an annual $ target (their plan) and they will often be compensated based on their performance. Their approach will however range differently ... but here are three different hard working sales characters that you...

A Peer Group for Motorbiking Business People?

A post I wrote about the power of peer groups prompted a couple of questions about how they work and what really happens. Some of the interest was specific to the CEO Ride, which is a peer group/conference for business leaders who ride motorcycles. The typical comment I receive is a sarcastic,...

December Tech News

This is my 30,000 foot look at events in the Tech industry for December 2020. What you see here is a pr�is of the monthly report I produce, which will be available in more detail at the News section of the Eagle website, where you will also find back issues. A Little History of previous year's D...

Make The Most of Your Time

​​I write about personal productivity or time management every now and then ... its a subject that I have "studied" for many years. It is also a subject that can make a tremendous difference in anyone's career ... BUT we are all a little different, and the same techniques don't always work for ev...

Thoughtfulness

We live in a world that is fast paced, and sometimes the “little” things can be forgotten. yet the “little” things can also mean a lot!In our Western society we work a lot, commute a lot (when there is no pandemic), deal with our family commitments, deal with many “hassles” on a daily basis, have...

Tips To Be Interesting To Others

There are a ton of reasons why you should work at developing relationships.You are told that you should network with more people for any number of good reasons, but for most people this is hard to do.You want to make friends but find it difficult to get conversation started.You might be extremely...

Make Next Year a Great Year

I know ... you get tired of hearing about GOALS! You don't want to face the effort of making a plan that you feel you can't control or that has little chance of success. I used to think that way too. Once I had my mind changed for me, what I found was that (a) it really doesn't need to be a co...

Making Time for the Really Important Stuff

Most of the people I know work in crazy busy environments, I interact with a lot of business owners and senior managers. They have busy lives, and they make their priorities ... work, family,hobbies/interests etc. They find it very difficult to add more into that mix, feeling that something ha...

Life Does Not Need to Be Complicated

Decide what your values are .Understand what you want from life.Understand that there is a price for everything and determine what you are willing to pay.Go for it … ensuring that you are ALWAYS true to your values.The same process applies to a career, a hobby, a relationship, a new car or a vaca...

Make Change Stick

If you are like me then you will always be looking for ways to be better, in many areas of your life.  I work at my professional role, my home life, my relationships and my health.  If I want to improve anything it requires change, and as we all know change is tough!​“Insanity: doing the same thi...

The Impact of a Bad Attitude

One of the hardest things to do as a manager is to fire somebody. There are a lot of reasons why you may be in that situation, and you always look for reasons not to do it. That is natural, reasonable and the human way to look at these situations. However … sometimes it is so clear, and yet we st...

November Tech News

This is my 30,000 foot look at events in the Tech industry for November 2020. What you see here is a pr�is of the monthly report I produce, which will be available in more detail at the News section of the Eagle website, where you will also find back issues. A Little History of previous year's N...

Canadian Job Market Update for November 2020

One of the ways Eagle adds value is to provide regular job market information. Sometimes it is a look at Canada as a whole and other times we focus more in-depth on specific markets. This update is a high-level look at the Canadian job market, and the factors influencing it. In previous months...

Gratitude

It is always a good idea to be thankful for all the good things in our life.  When we are having a tough time, like a global pandemic for instance, it is even more important!It doesn’t matter what religion you are, or what politics you have, if you live here in Canada we live in one of the best c...

October Tech News

This is my 30,000 foot look at events in the Tech industry for October 2020. What you see here is a pr�is of the monthly report I produce, which will be available in more detail at the News section of the Eagle website, where you will also find back issues. A Little History of previous year's Oct...

Lifelong Learning

The concept of Lifelong Learning has been around for a long time now ... not only is it documented in Wikipedia, but people talked about it when I went to school (when Moby Dick was a guppy!). It should not be a new concept to anyone and there are so many reasons why it is essential that if you ...

September Tech News

This is my 30,000 foot look at events in the ICT industry for September 2020. What you see here is a pr�is of the monthly report I produce, which will be available in more detail at the News section of the Eagle website, where you will also find back issues. A Little History of September in prev...

August Tech News

This is my 30,000 foot look at events in the Tech industry forAugust 2020. What you see here is a pr�is of the monthly report I produce, which will be available in more detail at the News section of the Eagle website, where you will also find back issues. A Little History of August in previous y...

July Tech News

This is my 30,000 foot look at events in the ICT industry for July 2020. What you see here is a precis of the monthly report I produce, which will be available in more detail at the News section of the Eagle website, where you will also find back issues. A Little History of July in previous year...

June Tech News

This is my 30,000-foot look at events in the Tech space for June 2020. What you see here is a pr�is of the monthly report I produce, which will be available in more detail at the News section of the Eagle website, where you will also find back issues. A Little History of June in previous years ....

Keep Your Edge

​It takes some talent. lot of hard work, determination and consistency to become a top performer... in just about anything. The best of the best all have a significant amount of natural talent... but without the effort and the mental fortitude they just don't ever reach their potential. It also...

May Tech News

This is my 30,000-foot look at events in the Tech space forMay 2020. What you see here is a pr�is of the monthly report I produce, which will be available in more detail at the News section of the Eagle website, where you will also find back issues. A Little History of May in previous years ...F...

April Tech News

This is my 30,000-foot look at events in the Tech industry for April 2020. What you see here is a pr�is of the monthly report I produce, which will be available in more detail at the News section of the Eagle website, where you will also find back issues. A Little History of April in previous ye...

March Tech News

This is my 30,000-foot look at events in the Tech industry for March 2020. What you see here is a pr�is of the monthly report I produce, which will be available in more detail at the News section of the Eagle website, where you will also find back issues. A Little History of March in previous ye...

The Value of Recruitment Agencies Through the COVID-19 Pandemic

Our team has spent the last couple weeks connecting with clients to understand how they're coping through the COVID-19 epidemic and new economy we're all experiencing. Not surprising, every organization is experiencing different challenges. There are devastating stories coming from industries li...

February Tech News

This is my 30,000-foot look at events in the Tech industry for February 2020. What you see here is a precis of the monthly report I produce, which will be available in more detail at the News section of the Eagle website, where you will also find back issues. A Little History of previous year's ...

It Feels Good When People are Nice to You ...

It does, doesn’t it?  When people go out of their way to be nice it makes you feel good.  It doesn’t have to be any big deal. There are tons of ways to make people smile, to affect them in a positive way.  If we all did it every now and then perhaps we would also be the recipients of those feel g...

January Tech News

This is my 30,000-foot look at events in the Tech industry for January 2020. What you see here is a pr�is of the monthly report I produce, which will be available in more detail at the News section of the Eagle website, where you will also find back issues. A Little History of previous year's Ja...

December Tech News

This is my 30,000-foot look at events in the Tech industry for December 2019. What you see here is a precis of the monthly report I produce, which will be available in more detail at the News section of the Eagle website, where you will also find back issues. A Little History of previous year's ...

November Tech News

This is my 30,000-foot look at events in the Tech industry for November 2019. What you see here is a pr�is of the monthly report I produce, which will be available in more detail at the News section of the Eagle website, where you will also find back issues. A Little History of previous year's N...

October Tech News

This is my 30,000-foot look at events in the ICT industry for October 2019. What you see here is a pr�is of the monthly report I produce, which will be available in more detail at the News section of the Eagle website, where you will also find back issues. A Little History of October in previous...

Job Market Update Across Canada for October 2019

Here at Eagle we provide job market information on a regular basis, sometimes at a high level across the country and other times looking in more depth at specific markets. This update is a high-level look at the Canadian job market, and the factors influencing it. In previous months we have provi...

September Tech News

This is my 30,000-foot look at events in the ICT industry for September 2019. What you see here is a pr�is of the monthly report I produce, which will be available in more detail at the News section of the Eagle website, where you will also find back issues. A Little History of September in prev...

August Tech News

This is my 30,000-foot look at events in the ICT industry for August 2019. What you see here is a pr�is of the monthly report I produce, which will be available in more detail at the News section of the Eagle website, where you will also find back issues. A Little History of August in previous y...

July Tech News

This is my 30,000-foot look at events in the ICT industry forJuly 2019.What you see here is a précis of the monthly report I produce, which will be available in more detail at theNews section of the Eagle website, where you will also find back issues.A Little History of July in previous years …Fi...

June Tech News

This is my 30,000-foot look at events in the ICT industry for June 2019. What you see here is a pr�is of the monthly report I produce, which will be available in more detail at the News section of the Eagle website, where you will also find back issues. A Little History of June in previous years...

May Tech News

This is my 30,000-foot look at events in the Tech space forMay 2019. What you see here is a pr�is of the monthly report I produce, which will be available in more detail at the News section of the Eagle website, where you will also find back issues. A Little History of May in previous years ......

April Tech News

This is my 30,000 foot look at events in the Tech industry for April 2019. What you see here is a pr�is of the monthly report I produce, which will be available in more detail at theNews section of the Eagle website, where you will also find back issues. A Little History of previous year's Apri...

March Tech News

This is my 30,000 foot look at events in the Tech industry for March 2019. What you see here is a pr�is of the monthly report I produce, which will be available in more detail at the News section of the Eagle website, where you will also find back issues.A Little History of March in previous year...

Canada Job Market Update March 2019

Here's a look at Canada's job market, specifically for IT, as we finish up the first quarter of 2019.There are a number of indicators that I have used over the years to give an idea of how things are going, one such indicator is the markets. For this purpose I focus on the TSX. The markets have...

February Tech News

This is my 30,000 foot look at events in the Tech industry for February 2019What you see here is a pr�is of the monthly report I produce, which will be available in more detail at the News section of the Eagle website, where you will also find back issues.A Little History of previous year's Febru...

January Tech News

This is my 30,000 foot look at events in the Tech industry for January 2019What you see here is a pr�is of the monthly report I produce, which will be available in more detail at the News section of the Eagle website, where you will also find back issues.Five years ago, inJanuary 2014 Google was ...

December Tech News

This is my 30,000 foot look at events in the Tech industry for October 2018.What you see here is a pr�is of the monthly report I produce, which will be available in more detail at the News section of the Eagle website, where you will also find back issues.A Little History of previous year's Decem...

Seasons Greetings

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November Tech News

A Little History of previous year's Novembers ... Five years ago in November 2013 Opentext paid $1.1 Billion for cloud based integration services company GXS Group and another Canadian deal saw Mitel buy Aastra for close to $400 million. Other deals included ebay's $800 million purchase of glob...

October Tech News

This is my 30,000 foot look at events in the Tech industry for October 2018. What you see here is a pr�is of the monthly report I produce, which will be available in more detail at theNews section of the Eagle website, where you will also find back issues. A Little History of previous year's Oc...

September Tech News

This is my 30,000 foot look at events in the ICT industry for September 2018. What you see here is a pr�is of the monthly report I produce, which will be available in more detail at the News section of the Eagle website, where you will also find back issues. A Little History of September in pre...

August Tech News

This is my 30,000 foot look at events in the Tech industry for August 2018. What you see here is a pr�is of the monthly report I produce, which will be available in more detail at the News section of the Eagle website, where you will also find back issues. A Little History of August in previous ...

Canadian Job Market Update

In the second half of 2018 the general message to technology job seekers is a positive one, and below I will explain why, and also why there is some caution to that statement.On the face of things a 5.8% unemployment rate is as good as it has been, and Canada has created 240,000 jobs (mostly full...

July Tech News

This is my 30,000 foot look at events in the ICT industry for July 2018. What you see here is a précis of the monthly report I produce, which will be available in more detail at the News section of the Eagle website, where you will also find back issues.A Little History of July in previous years ...

June Tech News

This is my 30,000-foot look at events in the ICT industry for june 2018. What you see here is a precis of the monthly report I produce, which will be available in more detail at the News section of the Eagle website, where you will also find back issues. A Little History of June in previous year...

May Tech News

This is my 30,000-foot look at events in the ICT industry forMay 2018. What you see here is a pr�is of the monthly report I produce, which will be available in more detail at the News section of the Eagle website, where you will also find back issues. A Little History of May in previous years .....

April Tech News

This is my 30,000 foot look at events in the Tech industry for April 2018. What you see here is a précis of the monthly report I produce, which will be available in more detail at the News section of the Eagle website, where you will also find back issues.A Little History of April in previous yea...

10 Reasons to Attend Canada's Staffing Conference - Niagara Falls in May

I recently blogged about the value of attending industry conferences for anyone, in any industry. If you are in the staffing industry in Canada then the ACSESS conference is coming up May 15, 16 and 17 in Niagara Falls. ​Here are ten reasons you should attend... One. Our industry is already b...

The Value in Attending Industry Conferences

​I started my own business more than twenty years ago and since then I have attended at least one industry conference most years. I consider it to be a big part of my educational investment in myself and have never left a conference thinking that I had wasted my time or money. I consider all th...

Life is a Like Running a Marathon

​To race a successful marathon requires a plan, a willingness to stick to that plan and the fortitude to overcome adversity and pain before you reach that finish line. That description is remarkably like life ... whether we are talking about your career, your relationships, your health or any as...

Don't Avoid Tough Decisions

​If you have any management or leadership responsibility then you will inevitably have tough situations to deal with, and tough decisions to make. The last thing you should do is to avoid them ... because they just don't go away, in fact they typically just get worse. You will inevitably have l...

February Tech News

​This is my 30,000 foot look at events in the Tech industry for February 2018. What you see here is a précis of the monthly report I produce, which will be available in more detail at the News section of the Eagle website, where you will also find back issues. A Little History of previous year's ...

January Tech News

​This is my 30,000 foot look at events in the Tech industry for January 2018. What you see here is a précis of the monthly report I produce, which will be available in more detail at the News section of the Eagle website, where you will also find back issues.A Little History of previous year's Ja...

Quarterly Job Market Update Across Canada - Q4 2017

By Kevin Dee, Chairman of the Board at EagleGeneral Observations:​The unemployment rate at the end December was 5.7%. This was the lowest rate in forty (40) years, and a significant improvement over September when it was 6.2%. During the previous 12 months, Canada added a very strong 422,500 jobs...

Canada's Job Market - Fourth Quarter of 2017

​General Observations:The unemployment rate at the end December was 5.7%. This was the lowest rate in forty (40) years, and a significant improvement over September when it was 6.2%. During the previous 12 months, Canada added a very strong 422,500 jobs of which 394,200 were permanent full time...

December Tech News

​This is my 30,000 foot look at events in the Tech industry for December 2017. What you see here is a précis of the monthly report I produce, which will be available in more detail at the News section of the Eagle website, where you will also find back issues.A Little History of previous year's N...

November 2017 Tech News

​This is my 30,000 foot look at events in the Tech industry for November 2017. What you see here is a précis of the monthly report I produce, which will be available in more detail at the News section of the Eagle website, where you will also find back issues.A Little History of previous year's N...

Making the Most of Your 8 Hours

​First let's look at WHY you should want to be your most productive. Then we can look at what you might DO to be productive! WHY should you be your most productive?It feels good.It is how you get ahead.If you have variable compensation it is how you earn more.It is probably the only job securit...

Contracts Are Important

​As a young salesperson it always seemed like contracts took all of the fun out of a sale. There is the "high" of getting a YES from a client but then you have to get a contract agreed, with all of that "legal stuff". My experience is that many companies really don't pay attention to the detail...

Take Responsibility for Your Own Career

​Do you OWN your career? Ask yourself a few questions ... Am I "drifting" in a general direction that life is taking me ... or am I on a path that I chose? Do I know what I want from my career? Am I making conscious decisions that will get me where I want to be in my career? Am I investing i...

Internet Advice

​The internet is an amazing resource.We can instantly get answers to all sorts of questions.The caution here though is that you will need to understand whether the “fact” you are getting is actually a fact or is it someone’s opinion, or even a straight out fabrication (fake news?)!Some things are...

October 2017 Tech News

​This is my 30,000 foot look at events in the Tech industry for October 2017. What you see here is a précis of the monthly report I produce, which will be available in more detail at the News section of the Eagle website, where you will also find back issues.A Little History of previous year's Oc...

Canada's Job Market - Third Quarter 2017

General Observations:The unemployment rate at the end September was 6.2%, an improvement from the 6.5% unemployment rate at the end of June. During the previous 12 months, Canada added 320,000 jobs (almost 289,000 full time). For the purposes of this report I focus on the TSX and during the thi...

September 2017 Tech News

​This is my 30,000 foot look at events in the ICT industry for September 2017. What you see here is a précis of the monthly report I produce, which will be available in more detail at the News section of the Eagle website, where you will also find back issues.A Little History of September in prev...

Independent Contractor or Employee (Canada)

Before I get into this blog post I will post a disclaimer … I am not an accountant or a lawyer, so this article cannot be construed as “advice” from a professional.  I am a staffing company owner who has been in the business more than 20 years and have been very involved with this issue at an ind...

Selling Internally

As a young salesperson I was often reminded that is was important to sell "internally" just as much as I sold "externally'. There were lots of examples why, but generally they involved getting people onside with my sales situations.I had to convince proposal writers to put in that extra effort s...

Do Your Job Effectively!

There are many duties associated with most jobs … but inevitably there are “core” parts to your role.  It is critical that you (a) understand what they are; and (b) focus your attention on them!“Every job is a self-portrait  of the person who does it.  Autograph your work with EXCELLENCE.”If we u...

July Tech News

This is my 30,000 foot look at events in the Tech industry for July 2017. What you see here is a précis of the monthly report I produce, which will be available in more detail at the News section of the Eagle website, where you will also find back issues.A Little History of July in previous years...

June Tech News

This is my 30,000-foot look at events in the ICT industry for June 2017. What you see here is a précis of the monthly report I produce, which will be available in more detail at the News section of the Eagle website, where you will also find back issues.A Little History of June in previous years ...

Canada's Job Market - Second Quarter 2017

General Observations:The unemployment rate at the end of the first quarter was 6.5%, an improvement over the 6.7% unemployment rate at the end of the last quarter. During the previous 12 months, Canada added 351,000 jobs (almost 250,000 full time). For the purposes of this report I focus on the...

Quarterly Job Market Update Across Canada for Q2 2017

By Kevin Dee, Chairman of the Board at EagleGeneral Observations About the Canadian Job The unemployment rate at the end of the first quarter was 6.5%, an improvement over the 6.7% unemployment rate at the end of the last quarter. During the previous 12 months, Canada added 351,000 jobs (almost ...

Why Clients Should NOT Source Their Own Contract Talent

There are3 compelling reasons why clients should NOT source their own contract resources: "Competition is always a good thing. It forces us to do our best. A monopoly renders people complacent and satisfied with mediocrity." Nancy PearceyPRICE At first it seems counter intuitive, but if you th...

May 2017 Tech News

This is my 30,000 foot look at tech events for May 2017. What you see here is a précis of the monthly report I produce, which will be available in more detail at the News section of the Eagle website, where you will also find back issues.A Little History of May in previous years …Five years ago, ...

Don't Be a Luddite

During the industrial revolution the Luddites opposed change and fought against the notion that machines would be used to get around labour laws. The term Luddite today is used to describe anyone who opposes automation and new technologies. We are on the cusp of another breakthrough, similar in...

The Value of the Staffing Industry

The staffing industry comprises "middle men" who find talent to meet their client's demands. In the optimal case they find the perfect candidate, in a timely manner and at a good price. Of course "middle men" have been targets for disruption for years. Technology will replace them (travel agent...

A Time of Great Opportunity!

During the industrial revolution the Luddites opposed change and fought against the notion that machines would be used to get around labour laws.The term Luddite today is used to describe anyone who opposes automation and new technologies.We are on the cusp of another breakthrough, similar in imp...

April 2017 Tech News

This is my 30,000 foot look at tech events for April 2017. What you see here is a précis of the monthly report I produce, which will be available in more detail at the News section of the Eagle website, where you will also find back issues. A Little History of April in previous yearsFive years a...

Canada's Job Market First Quarter 2017

General Observations:The unemployment rate at the end of the first quarter was 6.7%, an improvement over the 6.9% unemployment rate at the end of the last quarter. During the previous 12 months Canada added 276,000 jobs. The stock market continues to be relatively volatile, but perhaps that is ...

March 2017 Tech News

This is my 30,000 foot look at tech events for March 2017. What you see here is a précis of the monthly report I produce, which will be available in more detail at the News section of the Eagle website, where you will also find back issues.A Little History of March in previous years ...In March 2...

Do You Have a Plan?

Goals can make a big difference in your life.If you have no real plan for your life then here are a few thoughts for you.1. If you don’t know where you are going, then you might not like where you end up.2. If you have trouble defining where that end point should be, or what it looks like, then p...

Take Action to Improve

We are all responsible for our own destiny. Yes ... some people have a lot more hurdles to overcome than others. Those hurdles might include medical, environmental, mental or any other kind of challenge. "Decide carefully, exactly what you want in life. Then work like mad to make sure you get ...

Business Owner? Invest in YOU!

​Eagle has been working with independent contractors for more than twenty years. One of the challenges that any business owner faces is in personal development and it is particularly tough for the owner of a one person business. If "the business" is taking time out for training, then it is not ...

Facts or Bias?

Do you believe everything you read?“Of course not!”  you say.How do you determine what to believe?That is a tougher question … because almost every message we receive has some kind of bias.Coke, of course, is better than Pepsi … unless you are a Pepsi drinker, and feel the opposite.All the bad ne...

Business Relationships

Business relationships are just like any other relationships … they need to be nurtured, they need investment and they need a level of commitment.Clients WILL buy from people they trust, and you do not achieve trust without establishing some kind of relationship.In almost any business relationshi...

February 2017 Tech News

This is my 30,000 foot look at events in the ICT industry for February 2017. What you see here is a précis of the monthly report I produce, which will be available in more detail at the News section of the Eagle website, where you will also find back issues.A Little History of previous year's Feb...

January 2017 Tech News

​This is my 30,000 foot look at events in the ICT industry for January 2017. What you see here is a précis of the monthly report I produce, which will be available in more detail at the News section of the Eagle website, where you will also find back issues.A Little History of previous year’s Jan...

Know What You Don't Know!

That, very obvious, statement is actually an insight that two types of people tend to miss. Those people that allow the unknown to stop them from moving ahead; andThose people who don't recognise they could do with some help."It ain't what you don't know that gets you into trouble. It's what you ...

Canada's Job Market @ Year End 2016

General Observations:From a jobs perspective 2016 finished much as it started, most markets were okay but not great and the oil and gas space was “hurting”.  The oil patch has been hurt not only by the low price of a barrel, but also by the political uncertainty introduced by both provincial and ...

December Tech News

This is my 30,000 foot look at events in the ICT industry for December 2016. What you see here is a précis of the monthly report I produce, which will be available in more detail at the News section of the Eagle website, where you will also find back issues.A Little History of previous year’s Dec...

New Year Resolutions Made Easy

It took me a while to understand the power of goals and the need to have them in my life.  I expect that the reasons I resisted were similar the reasons most people resist:Goal setting seems like an academic exercise:I wasn’t sure how to start:I wasn’t sure how to set realistic goals;It all feel ...

Season's Greetings

As we wrap up another year and celebrate the beginning of a new one, the Eagle Team would like to extend our warmest wishes to you and your family. In the spirit of giving, Eagle has made our traditional $15 000 holiday donation to charities across Canada. This simple gesture in lieu of cards an...

What COULD You Do With 20 minutes?

If you were to invest 20 minutes a day, 5 days a week towards “self development” what could you do?Health & FitnessI have a weight routine that takes me exactly 20 minutes … when I do it, I usually do 20 minutes of cardio first but if pushed for time I just do the weight routine.  There are 9...

Give!

You have a good job … you can afford to give something.There are SO MANY deserving causes … especially now!Families caught in a tough situation who will struggle to get a good meal.Kids who will go hungry, or cold or both.People struggling in third world countries for basics like water and food …...

Finish the Year Strong!

For many salespeople December means slowing down, stopping pushing for sales and waiting for the New Year.  Some clients are winding down for the holidays.  Some are putting decisions off to the New Year.  The salespeople have a lot of personal things to get done, and might use this time to catch...

November Tech News

This is my 30,000 foot look at events in the ICT industry for November 2016. What you see here is a précis of the monthly report I produce, which will be available in more detail at the News section of the Eagle website, where you will also find back issues.A Little History of previous year’s Nov...

Avoid Unintended Consequences

How many times do we see a negative impact from seemingly harmless or well-intentioned actions?We see it from governments who implement well-intentioned legislation only to cause negative affects in the “real world”.    They react to a situation and impact everyone, rather than focus on the root ...

#Social for the Small Business

Small businesses NEED to be on social media.If I am looking for anyone, or any service, my first stop is the social networks. If a company/service does not have an online presence that is commensurate with the service I expect … I just won’t find them!If you are a technology contractor or a lands...

Do You Have a "Happy List"?

A “Happy List” is just a list of things that make you happy, cause you to smile or for which you are thankful.10 thoughts on what to have on the list … If you were born in a first world country with access to all of the amenities of a modern civilization, then really think about how many things y...

October Tech News

This is my 30,000 foot look at events in the ICT industry for October 2016. What you see here is a précis of the monthly report I produce, which will be available in more detail at the News section of the Eagle website, where you will also find back issues.A Little History of previous year’s Octo...

Hard Work and Success ... the Link!

We know that successful people work hard.We also know that lots of people work hard and are not particularly successful.It is probably fair to say that lots of people think they work hard and struggle to understand why they are not successful.It is probably also fair to say that a very few peop...

Canada's Job Market. A review of Q3 2016

General Observations:The third quarter of 2016 continued the “new normal” for Canada’s economy, which was not a positive thing!  Until oil prices get up into the $70+ range, consistently, we are unlikely to see a recovery in the very important oil sector.  Interest rates remain low but need to ed...

Appreciate What You Have!

It is easy to take things for granted!Four examples …. On a grand scale we take our situation for granted with our “first world” problems.We live in an instant-everything kind of world.  Instant information, music, sports, food, entertainment, friends … you name it, you can get access to it insta...

September Tech News

This is my 30,000 foot look at events in the ICT industry for September 2016.What you see here is a précis of the monthly report I produce, which will be available in more detail at the News section of the Eagle website, where you will also find back issues.A Little History of September in previo...

Warning: Email Can Harm Your Relationships

In many ways the heading of this article is similar to those warnings you see on bags of peanuts … Warning: This product may contain nut products.We all KNOW that email is a lousy form of communication, but it is so easy.We KNOW that it is very easy to inadvertently (or purposely) send a negative...

Life Long Learning

When did you last take some training?When did you last invest in your own career?  (Forget about what your employer does.)Do you have a personal training plan?Do you have a career plan?Do you understand how your industry is being affected by technology, by regulatory change and by global competit...

August Tech News

This is my 30,000 foot look at events in the Tech industry for August 2016. What you see here is a précis of the monthly report I produce, which will be available in more detail at the News section of the Eagle website, where you will also find back issues.A Little History of August in previous y...

"Why?" Is a Powerful Tool

There are certain words and phrases that really stand out in business … “Why?’ is certainly one of them.Why, You might ask?Right there is a perfect example of the power of this word.  When coupled with the ability AND discipline to actually listen, it will open up a treasure trove of information....

Getting Started If You're Overwhelmed & Disorganised

Many people find themselves in this situation … overwhelmed and unsure about how to dig out from under the pile!I could talk all day about good time management practices but when you are in this position you just need some help.“Time is what we want most, but what we spend worst.” William PennMak...

Hire People Who Pay Attention to Detail

There are lots of ways that an employee can differentiate themselves from the pack when competing for a job.They can dress to impress.They can bring a great attitude.They can demonstrate their concern and involvement for those less fortunate.They can be well prepared, having studied before arrivi...

Goals ... Just Set Some!

Are you a person that sets goals in your life?  If that is the case, then congratulations, because you are one of a very small minority!I often encourage people to take charge of their lives, to LIVE life and not just let life happen to them.Goals are a great tool to help you actually take charge...

Time Management is THE Key

The ability to get the important stuff done, to manage a tough work load and be super productive … THAT is what sets apart the most successful people.You could be the smartest person on the planet but if you are not getting the important stuff done then your success will be limited.Are you driven...

July Tech News

This is my 30,000 foot look at events in the ICT industry for July 2016. What you see here is a précis of the monthly report I produce, which will be available in more detail at the News section of the Eagle website, where you will also find back issues.A Little History of July in previous years ...

Get The Best Return on Your Time

You work hard.You have a “To Do” list.You chop away at that list every day!You don’t seem to be getting ahead!You could probably work 24 hours a day and still not clear your list.“There is nothing less productive than to make more efficient what should not be done at all.”  Peter DruckerSome ques...

What is Stopping You?

You have dreams and ambitions.You have talent.You have energy.You are no different than any other successful person.So … why are they successful and you have not yet reached your dream?The things that get in the way of us achieving our potential are:Fear;A willingness to put in the effort; andCom...

Canada's Job Market - A Q2 Review

General Observations:The unemployment rate at the end of the first quarter was 6.5%, an improvement over the 6.7% unemployment rate at the end of the last quarter.  During the previous 12 months, Canada added 351,000 jobs (almost 250,000 full time).For the purposes of this report I focus on the T...

June Tech News

This is my 30,000 foot look at events in the tech industry for June 2016. What you see here is a précis of the monthly report I produce, which will be available in more detail at the News section of the Eagle website, where you will also find back issues.A Little History of June in previous years...

Drive Sales Activity

Probably every salesperson I know has times when they seem to hit a bump in the road … their success starts to dry up, their numbers decline and they have trouble recovering.For many the answer is to ride the slump down until inevitably they get fired.For others they will see the writing on the w...

Enhance Your Personal Brand

It is not that many years ago that the term “Personal Brand” did not exist!  Back then we built a “reputation”, “beefed up our resume”, strove to be a “thought leader”, were careful of our “image” etc.  However I like the all encompassing description of Personal Brand!What can YOU do to enhance y...

Be a Productive Superstar

How much of your day is spent on highly productive activities?If you are like most people you probably have no idea.  You might even be under a mistaken illusion that you are very productive.“Lack of direction, not lack of time, is the problem. We all have twenty-four hour days.”  Zig ZiglarThe ...

Supercharge Your Days

How good are you at time management?I have always cited time management as one of my strengths.  I am not afraid of hard work and i have always studied ways to improve my productivity … yet I also believe it is a never ending quest!Some things I have learned along the way:We can always be more pr...

May Tech News

This is my 30,000 foot look at events in the tech industry for May 2016. What you see here is a précis of the monthly report I produce, which will be available in more detail at the News section of the Eagle website, where you will also find back issues.A Little History of May in previous years …...

Build Great Memories

We don’t like to think about our lives ending, but it is one certainty that we can’t escape.   The reality is none of us are getting out alive!When you are approaching that time what do you think will be important to you?“The only certainty life contains is death.”  Patricia BriggsSome people mig...

April 2016 Tech News

This is my 30,000 foot look at events in the tech industry for April 2016. What you see here is a précis of the monthly report I produce, which will be available in more detail at the News section of the Eagle website, where you will also find back issues.A Little History of April in previous yea...

Give Help Unconditionally

One of the things that I have learned in life is that giving is a good thing.It could be giving money or time to a good cause.It could be giving advice or counsel to someone looking to me for advice.It could be helping an entrepreneur out with some ideas or contacts.There are many ways to give.Th...

Five Things Anyone Can Do Now To Improve Their Life

You have heard many times that you are the architect of your own destiny, but do you actually do anything about that?People tell you that you can choose to be happy … but do you believe them?Here are just five things (almost) anyone can do to improve their life.1. Cultivate a positive attitude. Y...

First Quarter 2016 Canadian Job Market Review

General Observations:The first quarter of 2016 in Canada has been more of the same from last year.  The economic hit in the oil patch has meant more layoffs, high paying jobs being replaced by lower paying jobs and a hit to the general economy.  Changes in government have not had much impact on s...

The Devil is in the Details

Every venture will depend upon a sufficient level of detail in order to be successful.This applies whether you are talking about a home hobby project or your new business venture.So my advice to the budding entrepreneur, new manager or really anyone trying to accomplish something significant, is ...

International Day of Pink

Our company is encouraging all of our staff to wear pink this Wednesday April 13th in support of the International Day of Pink. We will be wearing T-shirts, ties, socks, hairbands -- whatever pink items that we have!The International Day of PinkThe International Day of Pink was started in Nova Sc...

March Tech News

This is my 30,000 foot look at events in the tech industry for March 2016. What you see here is a précis of the monthly report I produce, which will be available in more detail at the News section of the Eagle website, where you will also find back issues.A Little History of March in previous yea...

Leadership and Tough Decisions

People in positions of power often make decisions that will impact people (sometimes a lot of people) both positively and negatively.“Decision is the spark that ignites action. Until a decision is made, nothing happens…. Decision is the courageous facing of issues, knowing that if they are not fa...

Focus Wins the Day!

The metaphor in the picture strikes a chord with me … because, like most business people I always have a million ideas for improving things, all of which are amazing of course!The reality is that if I try to focus my attention on too many things then I dilute those efforts and nothing gets done w...

How Busy People Get Stuff Done

Do you ever wonder how some people can accomplish so much with their time?They establish and run huge companies, are seemingly involved in charitable ventures, political lobbying and oh by the way they have a home life too!There is a reason why Benjamin Franklin said, “If you want something done,...

Start Your Day Right

I often write about “driving your day” but what does that look like?  It starts before you even log into your computer.1.  Get in the right frame of mind.This can be different for different people, but here are some ideas that you might want to try.Read some uplifting material … motivational quot...

International Women's Day - A Canadian Role Model

Today is International Women’s Day . designed to “Celebrate the social, economic, cultural and political achievement of women”.I’m a little biased with this blog entry, but one of the motivator’s for up and coming women in society is to be able to see role models.For many women who are ideal role...

February 2016 Tech News

This is my 30,000 foot look at events in the tech industry for February 2016. What you see here is a précis of the monthly report I produce, which will be available in more detail at the News section of the Eagle website, where you will also find back issues.A Little History of previous year’s Fe...

How to Get Your Prospect's Attention

A constant challenge for salespeople is  getting  the attention of prospects.We try cold calling, and get ignored.We send emails that don’t get read.We get on social media and try to connect with our prospects … and then get their attention, only to be shut down quickly.What gives?How are salespe...

Are You Reading Enough?

A Facebook post does not constitute news.Reality TV is not reality that is going to improve your world.How do you get your news?How do you grow your knowledge base?When was the last time you read a newspaper?Do you read industry periodicals?Reading fiction is good because it expands your vocabula...

Take Responsibility for Your Life

Entitlement is a great way to limit your potential.Taking responsibility for your self is the only way to, borrowing a quote from the US Army, “Be All That You Can Be.” and reach that potential.Don’t live your life looking for the handouts.Don’t live your life doing the least possible, and expect...

January 2016 Tech News

This is my 30,000 foot look at events in the tech industry for January 2016. What you see here is a précis of the monthly report I produce, which will be available in more detail at the News section of the Eagle website, where you will also find back issues.A Little History of previous year’s Jan...

It's Your Life ... Own It!

Some people make things happen… Some people watch things happen, and others wonder “what just happened ?”Some people complain about their lot in life … others get on with building the best life they can.Some people look for the flaws in others … other people find the qualities to admire in others...

Work Ethic

Hard work is the critical component to any success you might have.How hard you work is something entirely within your own control.Hard work is not about just doing stuff, or putting in hours.  If your time is not used productively then you are not going to be successful.Take an honest look at you...

CANADIAN JOB MARKET Review 2015

General Observations:2015 was a tough year in Canada, with GDP contracting for each of the first two quarters, Canada suffered a “technical recession”, and many businesses felt it!  The primary reason for the malaise was the impact on the oil sector caused by a low price per barrel.  Other impact...

Leadership is NOT a Popularity Contest

In an ideal world managers would set reasonable expectations of their staff, and their staff would be accountable for meeting those expectations.   Once targets were met, management would set new goals and the cycle would continue.  The manager would not need to oversee the work, micro-manage the...

The Destructive Power of Bad News!

“Pessimism becomes a self-fulfilling prophesy; it reproduces itself by crippling our willingness to act.” Howard ZinnThe recession of 2008 was a clear example of how bad news feeds on itself.  Not a day went by without the “chicken littles” of the world calling for Armageddon!  Amazingly enough ...

Tech News for December 2015

This is my 30,000 foot look at events in the tech industry for December 2015. What you see here is a précis of the monthly report I produce, which will be available in more detail at the News section of the Eagle website, where you will also find back issues.A Little History of previous year’s De...

Will YOU Reach Your 2016 Goals?

There are two things that you can do to increase your chances of reaching your 2016 goals.1.  Consciously work on your willpower, and I wrote about that not too long ago in my blog entry called The Power in Willpower.2.  The second thing, and arguably the most important, is to have a plan.  When ...

Seasons Greetings

Enjoy your holidays … and make 2016 your best year ever!PS. Take a little time to make it a good holiday season for others less fortunate than you too! Eagle made its annual donation again this year.

Top 10 Blog Entries for 2015

​​The following were the most popular blog entries from the last year.  If you missed any of them then now is an opportunity to catch up!Surviving a Downturn (in Alberta?). This was a “reprint” of advice from Tom Peters just before the last recession.  It seemed topical back in January as oil pri...

Evaluate YOUR Year

Can you believe that the year is almost over?Some people reading this will be happy about that, it has definitely been a tough year for many … the oil sector comes to mind!For others this will have been a good year.How do you evaluate whether it was good or bad?  Is it a subjective evaluation or ...

Sales Relationships & The Holiday Season - 10 Tips

If you are in sales then you typically want to grow your network and improve the quality of relationships with each of those people in your network.It is just common sense, the more people that you deal with the more opportunities that become open to you.The better relationship you have with thos...

Tech Industry News for November 2015

This is my 30,000 foot look at events in the tech industry for November 2015. What you see here is a précis of the monthly report I produce, which will be available in more detail at the News section of the Eagle website, where you will also find back issues.A Little History of previous year’s No...

Document Meetings ... It Saves Grief!

Every manager will be familiar with the concept of miscommunication.  How often have you had these situations:You THOUGHT you had been clear.They THOUGHT you meant this when you meant that.Everyone left the meeting on the same page … but somehow things went off the rails.Three people left a three...

The Power in WillPOWER

Willpower is what gets you out of bed to exercise when you really want to roll over and nap for another hour.Willpower is what gets the entrepreneur on a plane at 6:30am after getting back from a different location at 10pm last night.Willpower is what a salesperson needs to keep calling prospects...

Independent Contractor Myths & Realities in CANADA!

From time to time governments will decide that they need to crack down on independent contractors.  Typically the suggestion is that independent contractors are paying less in taxes than they should, or that they are really employees.  During the run up to the recent federal election Justin Trude...

Tech Industry News for October 2015

This is my 30,000 foot look at events in the tech industry for October 2015. What you see here is a précis of the monthly report I produce, which will be available in more detail at the News section of the Eagle website, where you will also find back issues.A Little History of previous year’s Oct...

10 Tips to Improve Your Life

I think the “pursuit of happiness” is a goal for almost everyone.People think “if only … ” and list things or situations as being the answer to their happiness.  If only … I had more money; that person would marry me; I had a house in that neighbourhood; I owned a Porsche; and on and on.This focu...

Scaling Peaks for Charity!

Congratulations to my business partner (one of  Eagle’s Vice Presidents), Frances McCart who together with a team from CIBC climbed Kilimanjaro to support the fight against breast cancer.Big shout out for the whole team, who raised more than $110,000!How cool is that!This is Frances getting a lit...

Voting Day in Canada

Here are 10 reasons why YOU need to get out and vote:This is a privilege of our democracy that people in other parts of the world would love to have;This is a privilege of our democracy that our parents and grandparents fought and died to preserve;This is your chance to influence the government t...

CANADIAN JOB MARKET Review Third Quarter 2015

CANADIAN JOB MARKET Review Third Quarter 2015General Observations:This has been a tough year thus far in Canada.  With GDP contracting for each of the first two quarters, Canada suffered a “technical recession”, and many businesses felt it!  The primary reason for the malaise has been the impact ...

Tech Industry News for September 2015

This is my 30,000 foot look at events in the ICT industry for September 2015. What you see here is a précis of the monthly report I produce, which will be available in more detail at the News section of the Eagle website, where you will also find back issues.A Little History of September in previ...

Mental Toughness

Mental toughness can be otherwise described as discipline, attitude or willpower … and is a quality that is within all of us, IF we choose to work at it.It is the difference between the dreamer and the entrepreneur; between the winner and the rest; between a full life and a life of “if only”!We d...

You Only Find Oil if You Dig Wells

This saying might seem obvious, but I love its simplicity.  It suggests that typically you need to “do the work” in order to “reap the rewards”.  Yes it’s a basic concept, but it is hard to find fault with, other than it is so obvious … or is it?If your goal is to hit oil, then presumably digging...

Mondays

There have been numerous songs about Mondays, with the most controversial perhaps being the Boomtown Rat’s “I don’t like Mondays”.  It was about a young woman who went on a shooting spree with the excuse that she didn’t like Mondays!For a lot of people Monday’s tend to be a challenge.  They view ...

Life is Easier if You are Fit

The world today is a complicated place.Stress levels are high.It is high paced, competitive and demanding.People live longer than they ever have,Our standard of living is generally higher than at any other time in history.We travel more, eat better and enjoy more luxuries than previously.Yet in o...

Tech Industry News for August 2015

This is my 30,000 foot look at events in the ICT industry for August 2015. What you see here is a précis of the monthly report I produce, which will be available in more detail at the News section of the Eagle website, where you will also find back issues.A Little History of August in previous ye...

Upgrade Your Team

Every company wants, and needs, to attract the best people that it can.Good companies will invest in those people, empower them and hold them accountable for their performance.  As time goes by it becomes evident which of the people are top performers, which people are performing at an acceptable...

Rescuing Salespeople from a Slump

One of the things that makes the sales profession tough is that you are only as good as your current performance, which is very measurable!  It becomes very obvious when a salesperson is not being successful and in addition to the obvious lack of numbers there is a tendency to spiral downwards.Th...

Helping Others Enriches You!

Most of us go through life very focused on our goals, our desires, our “things”, our experiences, our careers and our personal life.That’s OK.We make plans and try to better ourselves.We make lists and try to check off items from those lists.We set interim tasks to reach our bigger goals.ALL of t...

It Is More Important to HAVE Goals Than to Reach Them!

That seems like a contradictory thing to say, why would it be OK to miss our goals?  What is the point of having goals if we are not going to meet them?Goals are a way to focus our efforts, in a direction that makes sense to us … today.Along the way “stuff happens” some of which we plan for, some...

Goals are Important! Reaching them is less important!

That seems like a contradictory thing to say, why would it be OK to miss our goals?  What is the point of having goals if we are not going to meet them?Goals are a way to focus our efforts, in a direction that makes sense to us … today.Along the way “stuff happens” some of which we plan for, some...

Momentum is Important!

As a young salesperson I would be told that I needed to create and maintain a momentum for each sales situation.  What that actually meant  was a bit of a mystery to me for a while, but over time I began to understand the power of that advice.Very often you will hear an old salesperson say that t...

Tech Industry News for July 2015

This is my 30,000 foot look at events in the ICT industry for July 2015. What you see here is a précis of the monthly report I produce, which will be available in more detail at the News section of the Eagle website,where you will also find back issues.A Little History of July in previous years …...

Develop Your Curiosity

Wikipedia describes curiosity as:(from Latin curiosus “careful, diligent, curious,” akin to cura “care”) is a quality related to inquisitive thinking such as exploration, investigation, and learning, evident by observation in human and animal species. Curiosity is heavily associated with all aspe...

CANADIAN JOB MARKET Review Second Quarter 2015

General Observations:The first half of the year has been a challenge here in Canada, driven largely by the struggling oil sector, which tends to ripple through the economy.  The general feeling is that Statistics Canada will announce a recession, given that Canada will have experienced two consec...

Don't Stop Trying!

Generally speaking the best things in life come at a cost.Whether it is money, or effort, or time; or some combination of those things, invariably there is some cost.I would also suggest that very often that cost is greater than you expect!So, when we want something or want to achieve something w...

Eleven Thoughts About Keeping It Simple

You would think it fairly obvious that the more complex a solution is to a problem, the bigger the chance of failure.  Yet we often over complicate our lives, our businesses and the problems, both small and large, that we are trying to solve.We see the risks all the time with BIG projects … they ...

It's About the Client NOT About You! (More Sales 101)

The  focus here is a subject that I know resonates with clients.  It is also a subject that I remember struggling with as a young salesperson.Sales calls need to be about the client, not about you, your company,  your product or service.“Don’t find customers for your products, find products for y...

Technology Industry News for June 2015

This is my 30,000 foot look at events in the ICT industry for June 2015. What you see here is a précis of the monthly report I produce, which will be available in more detail at the News section of the Eagle website, where you will also find back issues.A Little History of June in previous years ...

In Sales We Must Ask For the Business

Salespeople tend to be social by nature and that can be a double edged sword.  The good part is that they can very often build relationships with people, the bad part is that they spend so much time socialising that they forget about the business!If your salespeople are getting client meetings bu...

Silence is Not Always Golden!

Communication is more a science than an art.  There are guidelines and even rules that can govern communication which we can use to train people, yet it remains one of the most frustrating aspects of people’s modus operandi!One of the most frustrating communication traits is when there is silence...

Dealing With Tough Situations

Events will happen in all of our lives … but it is our reaction to those events that will determine how they affect us.It is easier in the business context to keep things in perspective, but the same principles can apply in our personal lives too.One business example might be losing a key client,...

What IS The Comfort Zone ... 10 Thoughts?

You will see all kinds of articles, quotes and advice about “getting outside your comfort zone” and I have certainly written my fair share.  Certainly I see that a lot of people “get it” but there are also many who either don’t see the value, or don’t think they should bother.So … I thought I wou...

The Value in Attending Good Conferences

Last week I spent a couple of days at the annual FEI (Financial Executives International) conference in Winnipeg.  While I do not have a financial background myself, Eagle does provide our clients with finance and accounting talent, so the participants were potential clients for Eagle.Heading to ...

Network With Like-Minded People

For many people the thought of networking is almost as bad as asking them to speak in public.  For others it is just all too much hassle, they just don’t want to bother?If you define networking as meeting new people and establishing a rapport with those of interest then there are many excellent r...

Technology Industry News for May 2015

This is my 30,000 foot look at events in the ICT industry for May 2015. What you see here is a précis of the monthly report I produce, which will be available in more detail at the News section of the Eagle website, where you will also find back issues.A Little History of May in previous years …F...

Knowledge is the New Job Security

Here are a few thoughts that just might resonate with you.There are no “jobs for life” in the modern workforce. That means your job security is(a) what you know and(b) how you perform.That is what will give you success in your current role, and what will win you your next role, whether in the sam...

People are Awesome

Our world today moves at an incredible pace … and it is all too easy to be swept along in our own importance.We run from task to task, from appointment to appointment and forget to appreciate the people around us.“We make a living by what we get.  We make a life by what we give.” Winston Church...

Protect Your Personal Brand

What is your personal brand?“Your brand is what people say about you when you’re not in the room”  Jeff BezosYour reputation, your image, the “persona” you display to the world, your personality, your professional self … in fact all of the above, and perhaps more.You build that brand over time, d...

Technology Industry News for April 2015

This is my 30,000 foot look at events in the ICT industry for April 2015. What you see here is a précis of the monthly report I produce, which will be available in more detail at the News section of the Eagle website, where you will also find back issues.A Little History of April in previous year...

Work is Called Work for a Reason

I love my job.  It is challenging yet rewarding, exasperating but fun, I work with amazing people and some not so much, I work long hours, but I do that because I take pride in my work.Most of us need to work, to pay the bills, put a roof over our heads and generally get “things” that are importa...

Persistence or Stalking?

When you are in sales there is a tough line to walk between being a stalker and being persistent.There are lots of statistics suggesting that salespeople give up too early, BUT if there is no “client need” then pushing too hard is not going to help.Recently I spotted an article about some reporti...

Twelve Lessons on Building a Company Culture

There is a significant amount of focus on company culture these days, and with good reason.  If you want a sustainable entity then a positive company culture is a good start, it is a great way to attract & retain talent plus it is a positive message to clients and shareholders.Where I get a l...

It is Time to Take a Hard Look at Payrolling

Companies have many excellent reasons why they use a flexible workforce to supplement their full time staff.  Like any purchase, organizations want to get the best price possible for these services and one of the ways they try to save money is by sourcing the people themselves and then “payrollin...

CANADIAN JOB MARKET Review First Quarter 2015

General Observations:As always, the intent of this summary is to provide some insight into Canada’s job market with input from many sources including our own “from the trenches” view.  We want to bring value to both job seekers and hiring managers with these observations and opinions.The first qu...

Are You TRULY Living Your Life?

10 Lessons From a Retirement Party on Living a Good Life

Recently I attended a retirement party for a friend that I have known for more than 25 years.  It was a great time and I was able to catch up with a number of people I had not seen in some time, plus meet some new and interesting people.There were a lot of people at that party and it was very evi...

Technology Industry News for March 2015

This is my 30,000 foot look at events in the ICT industry for March 2015. What you see here is a précis of the monthly report I produce, which will be available in more detail at the News section of the Eagle website, where you will also find back issues.A Little History of March in previous year...

Some Hard Facts About Sales

Your job in sales is to generate business for your employer.You do this by:Representing your company well.Understanding client needs and problems.Solving those needs and problems with your company’s solutions/products.“If people like you, they’ll listen to you, but if they trust you, they’ll do b...

The Recruiter Value Proposition Continued

In recent articles I talked about some of the reasons why hiring managers should invest in a relationship with their recruiters. I talked about three key reasons:Just in time staffing. Their reach in finding talent when you need it;Upgrading. Their ability to help you improve your team; andKnowle...

Technology Industry News for February 2015

This is my 30,000 foot look at events in the ICT industry for February 2015. What you see here is a précis of the monthly report I produce, which will be available in more detail at the News section of the Eagle website, where you will also find back issues.A Little History of previous year’s Feb...

The Continuing Value of a Recruiter to The Client

There are many reasons why clients will go to a recruiter.  Some of those reasons are fairly common and others are not so common.  Typically clients look to a recruiter when they have an urgent need for talent … but an ongoing relationship with your recruiter will mean you can actually get proact...

The Value of a Recruiter to a Hiring Manager

For some people a recruiter is a “necessary evil” … someone that they call as a last resort, when they are desperate to fill a role.  The rest of the time they will avoid them.The fact is that in addition to being a source of talent there are many reasons why a hiring manager should cultivate a r...

Practical Tips for Driving Your Day

I often talk about the need to take control of your time.  Too often we come to the office and just “do stuff”, which means that your day is driving you.“If you don’t know where you are going, you’ll end up someplace else.” Yogi BerraSometimes when I talk about this subject I see heads nodding, ...

A Mentor/Mentee Relationship is Attractive BUT Hard Work!

Mentoring is very often cited as an excellent way for “up and comers” to learn, and it can also be very rewarding to the mentor as they help those early in their career.“There are two ways to acquire wisdom; you can either buy it or borrow it.” Benjamin FranklinI have had mixed success as a ment...

Positive (or Negative) Influences Can Change Your Life

We all know those “glass half full” people who always seem to be positive.We also know negative people who always seem to have something to complain about.Both of these characters can have a profound effect on our own mood, lifting our spirits or dragging us down.The best thing you can do for you...

Technology Industry News for January 2015

This is my 30,000 foot look at events in the ICT industry for January 2015. What you see here is a précis of the monthly report I produce, which will be available in more detail at the News section of the Eagle website, where you will also find back issues.A Little History of previous year’s Janu...

Surviving a Downturn (in Alberta?)

Here in Canada, where the resource sector plays such a big role in our economy there is some concern about what kind of economy we are going to see in 2015. The price of oil is unlikely to recover quickly and the conference board is suggesting that Alberta will head into recession. This will ha...

Surviving a Downturn

If you have been in business for any length of time you will have seen downturns and recessions.  They are never easy!The current pandemic has been exceptionally hard on many, and yet some others have fared well, and a lucky few have thrived.There is no MAGIC when it comes to a recession.  There ...

CANADIAN JOB MARKET Review Fourth Quarter 2014

General Observations:Each quarter I try to provide the reader with an understanding of the Canadian job market based on a regular set of indicators.  In addition to public market indicators I use Eagle’s experiences serving our clients across Canada.  The hope is that job seekers will gain some i...

Are You Changing With the Times?

Our world is constantly changing and we all need to adapt with it if we want to survive and remain relevant!  There has never been a more pertinent time for that statement, in the middle of a pandemic with millions out of work and companies wondering about their future!“Control your own destiny o...

Waiting is Not a Winning Strategy

There is an old saying that goes something like, “Good things come to those that wait”.My experience, certainly in the business world, is that if you want something to happen then DON'T WAIT… you had better drive that outcome!“Don’t just stand there. Make it happen.”  Lee IacocaHere are 5 reasons...

What Does Success Look like to You?

Society talks about success all the time … and for many people that might be the old “American Dream”.  Having a good job, a nice house, 2.5 kids and decent health, with perhaps the family dog and a white picket fence … or the 21st century equivalent.I think it is also fair to say that success is...

Technology Industry News for December 2014

This is my 30,000 foot look at events in the ICT industry for November 2014. What you see here is a précis of the monthly report I produce, which will be available in more detail at the News section of the Eagle website, where you will also find back issues.A Little History of previous year’s Dec...

Drive Your Life! Set Some Goals For 2015.

The holiday break is of course a great time to spend with family, to indulge a little and recharge the batteries. It is also a good time to take a few minutes and think about how 2014 worked out for you, and what you might want to achieve in 2015.If you set some goals in 2014 how did you do again...

Do You Have A Smartphone Addiction?

Some days it seems like the whole world is addicted to their smartphones!You can’t walk one city block without encountering someone, and more often many people, trying to text and walk, usually badly.Despite mass awareness, legislative change and police clamp downs you cannot commute home without...

5 Reasons Salespeople Should Finish Strong!

When I was much younger I used to be a sprinter, and my distance was the 220 yard sprint, although I also ran the 100 yard race.  These days of course, those races would be 200 and 100 metre races.One of my lasting memories of this sport was my coach shouting, “Finish strong”, whether it was duri...

10 Tips To Get Employee Input

If you are of the opinion that nobody knows the answer better than you, then you might disagree with the premise of this article.There are certainly people who think they are smarter than everyone else, and they will discount all opinions beyond their own.There are people who will only accept inp...

Making The Most of Your Sales Meeting Time

If you work in any large city, or your sales territory is large, then you can find yourself spending a lot of time travelling to and from meetings. Obviously face to face time with clients is critically important but you also don’t want to kill your productivity for a day, or half a day because o...

This Blog Is For You, NOT About You.

In the almost nine years that I have been writing this blog I have occasionally heard from people when they thought that I was targeting them with one of my entries. Of the almost 1,800 blog entries that I have written I can think of only a couple that were targeted at someone specific … and they...

Technology Industry News for November 2014

This is my 30,000 foot look at events in the ICT industry for November 2014. What you see here is a précis of the monthly report I produce, which will be available in more detail at the News section of the Eagle website, where you will also find back issues.A Little History of previous year’s Nov...

Thinking Ahead

For a short period of time, during my school years, I took chess lessons. While I enjoyed the game I did not keep it up, probably because I was more inclined to less cerebral activities like football (soccer). The aspect of chess that I found most interesting is the need to think multiple steps a...

Do You Really Need Another Holiday Card or Company Swag?

Several years ago my company made the decision to take the budget we had been spending on holiday cards, postage and small client gifts and instead donating that to charity. We felt that this was one more way that we could demonstrate our commitment to the community, with the help of our clients....

11 Tips to Travel Like a Business Owner. Frugally and Productively!

People who don’t travel much will often think that business travel is exotic. Interesting cities, nice hotels, restaurant meals all seems so much better that the everyday “humdrum” existence they live!Then there are the people who actually travel for business, whose view might be a little differe...

10 Thoughts From a Small Mistake

We all make little mistakes in life, maybe even on a regular basis. We put keys in a pocket and then wear something else to work … oops no office key! We are busy talking when driving and end up going the wrong way. We forget to put a belt on when we get dressed, or wear the wrong color shoes. No...

The Impact of Saying Thank You

How often do you go out of your way to thank someone?Do you really mean it, or is it a rote “thanks”? Is it delivered sincerely, or are you just going through the motions?Do you actually recognize when you should thank people? Do you really appreciate the things that people do for you?Do you know...

10 Ways To Improve Your Day

Some people are natural optimists, they are often referred to as “glass half full” people and they look on the bright side of life. I tend to fall into that camp.Other people are naturally pessimistic, tend to look on the darker side of life and see problems rather than opportunities.“An optimist...

Always Remember!

On November 11, 1918 hostilities ceased, marking the end of “the Great War” … World War I. November 11th was chosen as the day we should all remember those who served, so that our way of life could be maintained.Today we remember not only those men and women who lost their lives or were injured i...

Is Your Company Making Time For Strategy

Running any business can be all consuming, there is always so much to do. I don’t care whether it is a large public company or a small private company, the challenges are significant, if different, and the resources available to tackle them are also different.“By failing to prepare, you are prepa...

Technology Industry News for October 2014

This is my 30,000 foot look at events in the ICT industry for October 2014. What you see here is a précis of the monthly report I produce, which will be available in more detail at the News section of the Eagle website, where you will also find back issues.A Little History of previous year’s Octo...

Leaders Don't Stop At The Decision ... They Ensure Success

As a leader, whether you run a business, a division within a business or a very small group, you try to improve your situation. It might be trying to improve productivity, increase sales, improve quality, and improve working conditions or any number of things.The process you will likely go throug...

Working With Underperforming Salespeople

Salespeople have a tough job. There is no hiding… they either sell or they don’t. They are either meeting their quota or not. It is black and white.When a salesperson is not meeting their targets then the next best thing they can do is to demonstrate that they are doing the right things. Again… t...

10 Tips For Surviving Networking Events

The very idea of networking can send some people into a cold sweat. As the event approaches they are dreading it. They try to think of reasons not to go. When they do go they will seek out someone, anyone, hopefully that they know already but worst case someone just like them… and hide in a corne...

10 Reasons to Vote!

In a weeks time, voters across Ontario will elect their municipal candidates (Manitoba is later this week, PEI and BC vote in November). Across Ontario there will be 2,800 council members plus 700 school board trustees elected.These people have a big impact on all of us … as an example here are t...

Canadian Job Market Review for Third Quarter 2014

General Observations:At the end of the third quarter in 2014 it would be hard to suggest that this has been a banner year for Canada’s economy. There have been plenty of bumps along the way although we have thus far been lucky to avoid natural disasters such as the Alberta floods last year.When w...

Understand Your Client's Needs!

I recently bought a new motorcycle, not the one I had intended to buy, but I am happy with my purchase and the fact that it was significantly less expensive than my intended purchase did not hurt.I had intended to buy a Harley Davidson. It was an emotional decision based on the brand, my experien...

10 Tips For Dealing With Major Change!

Sometimes plans change!It could be external factors such as economic conditions, regulatory change, market changes or competitive situations. It could as easily be internal factors such as company changes, management changes, new better opportunities arising or staff changes.Whatever the cause, i...

10 Company Culture Tips for Leaders

Most companies would like to think everyone is aligned with the mission, vision and goals of the company.“If everyone is moving forward together, then success takes care of itself.” Henry FordThe simplicity of Ford’s quote is powerful, and it is a true statement. The tough part is to actually ge...

Ten Tips for Leaders Making Tough Decisions

Any Leader needs to make tough decisions. CEOs tend to have the unique additional challenge of making such decisions as the final decision maker. It is a subtle, yet sometimes daunting, difference.At any other level within an organization there is someone else to challenge/stop/change or just agr...

Use a Meeting Agenda for Your Sales Calls

It never ceases to amaze me how often a salesperson will come back from meeting a client, with absolutely no information of value.Yes it is great that they are building a relationship with the client.Yes it is great that the client always considers our company when looking for services from compa...

Technology Industry News for September 2014

This is my 30,000 foot look at events in the ICT industry for September 2014. What you see here is a précis of the monthly report I produce, which will be available in more detail at the News section of the Eagle website, where you will also find back issues.A Little History of September in previ...

What Exactly Do Staffing Companies Do?

Staffing companies are tasked with (a) finding (the right) talent, (b) when the client needs them (timely) and (c) at a price to fit the client’s budget.For those who have never worked in the industry it doesn’t seem that hard. Run a few ads, interview a few people send them over to the client an...

The Effect Of Alcohol On Careers

It strikes me as strange that I am writing a blog entry with such a title.I am quite partial to a nice bottle of wine.I enjoy my single malt collection upon occasion.I have been known to have a beer to go along with a barbeque on a hot Summer evening, or after a game of soccer.I’m a social person...

Professionals Control Their Mood

Even the most positive people in the world have bad days… that is just a fact of life!Given that most of us are human, (I have come across a few ogres in my time), we are also prone to react badly when we are having a bad day.Here is the thing … it is NEVER appropriate to let your poor mood affec...

Do Your Values Match Your Employer's

It is normal for a company to have a set of core values, used to aid in decision making and to establish a culture that is developed purposefully rather than by accident.It is normal that the employees of that company will have similar values, in fact if their values are not aligned then it is ra...

The Joy of Giving

Corporate Social Responsibility has been a priority for our company since we started in 1996.  We didn’t know it was called CSR, we just knew that we had a responsibility to give back to the communities in which we operated.As a company we also encourage all of our staff to get involved … we have...

Are You Thankful Enough?

It is very easy to get swept along with life, to be too busy to “smell the roses”, to be too stressed to recognise what you have and all too often we forget that we have it good.Every day we could be reminded of how lucky we are … if we would only see, listen and recognise!“Some people grumble th...

Entrepreneurial Hunger

I was trying to find a word that best describes the mindset of an entrepreneur and the best I could come up with was… HUNGRY.If you are hungry then you are willing to go a long way to satisfy that hunger.If you are hungry you will work harder.If you are hungry you will be willing to take some ris...

Technology Industry News for August 2014

This is my 30,000 foot look at events in the ICT industry for August 2014. What you see here is a précis of the monthly report I produce, which will be available in more detail at the News section of the Eagle website, where you will also find back issues.A Little History of August in previous ye...

Eagle's Series of ALS Ice Bucket Challenges

The ALS Ice Bucket Challenge has taken the world by storm over the past couple weeks and, like many other companies, Eagle participated at offices across the country. In addition to making some fun videos, the Eagle Team also made donations to ALS and we're proud to say that in total, we contribu...

The Value of Self-Discipline

Self-discipline seems to have become an “old fashioned” concept, and you don’t find too many people talking about self-discipline these days.If you want to be a top athlete then you need to spend years training, building up your skills and getting stronger and better all the time. It takes self-d...

Making Tough Business Decisions

Operating a successful business, or even division within a business, requires a pragmatic approach to solving problems. It should be a dispassionate look at problem situations with the desired outcome being the correct “business decision” for the company.“It doesn’t matter which side of the fence...

Keep An Open Mind. 10 Tips About Embracing Change.

Just what does that phrase “Keep an open mind” mean anyway?Your boss says it; your parents might say it; anyone attempting to convince you to try something new might say it.Of course you are keeping an open mind… BUT!If that BUT is there in your head, then you are NOT keeping an open mind.We all ...

Support Your Industry Association

I have blogged before about the need for every company to “do its bit’ for the particular industry with which it is involved!  Your association works on your behalf, and just one of the areas it gets involved with is regulatory issues, which obviously affects us all.Eagle is a member of two very...

Your Personal Vision Statement

Companies create vision statements, with the intent of picturing how the company might look at some point in the future.It is just one way of bringing order to how a company is run.If you get the vision right, it becomes “the goal” and every business decision needs to move you towards that goal. ...

5 Life Lessons From A Professional Tennis Game

Last night I was lucky enough to be invited to watch the Rogers Cup currently being played in Toronto.  This annual event is always well attended and one of the premiere sporting events in the city’s calendar.I had the opportunity to watch Canada’s last hope for this year’s tournament Milos Raoni...

Technology Industry News for July 2014

This is my 30,000 foot look at events in the ICT industry for July 2013. What you see here is a précis of the monthly report I produce, which will be available in more detail at the News section of the Eagle website, where you will also find back issues.A Little History of July in previous years ...

Life Lessons From A Business Owner

We all need to be reminded about what is possible!  My story is a pretty good reminder!I started my working life as a Junior Naval Aircraft Mechanic 2nd Class in the Royal Navy. It does not get any lower in the hierarchy than that! I was 16 years old and left my home in Liverpool, caught a train ...

10 Tips For LifeLong Learning

It is a fact that our world is changing at an incredible pace … and the only hope that we have of remaining relevant throughout our career is to always be learning.“Once you stop learning you start dying” Albert Einstein.The speed of change in my lifetime alone is astonishing … I grew up in a ho...

Inspiration That Works For Me

Quotes and sayings can be a little “hokey” for some people, but I like them. I like it when I find new phrases that resonate, I like it when I come across a quote that makes me smile and I even like it when I re-discover older sayings that still have meaning for me.I have a tattoo on my arm that ...

Change Your Results ... Or Have Them Changed For You!

There are two basic ways in which change will happen to your results.  The more desirable way is Proactively, where you change the things you are doing and the way you are doing them.  However if you do not change your behaviors, inevitably change will come Incidentally, because the world will ch...

The Many Hats of the CFO

I was at the FEI (Financial Executives International) conference in Niagara Falls a few weeks ago.  There was some great content over a couple of days, but one of the best sessions was the opening keynote from Maureen Sabia who is Chairman of the Board at Canadian Tire.  She has enjoyed many year...

Hard Worker or Hardly Working?

There is a certain type of person that takes great delight in doing everything possible to avoid work. I have seen them in action, or perhaps I should say I have seen their inaction, in many different situations and from what I can see they generally have one, or a combination of motivations:1.  ...

Canada Job Market Review Second Quarter of 2014

General Observations:There was not a big change in Canada’s economic circumstances between Q1and Q2 of 2014.  The unemployment rate has been hovering close to the 7% mark for some time and finished the quarter at a disappointing 7.1%.  Over the previous 12 months Canada has added 72,000 jobs, whi...

Developing Your Business Strategy ... 10 Tips

Strategic planning is a critical component of any company’s success.“Strategy without tactics is the slowest route to victory, tactics without strategy is the noise before defeat” Sun Tsu.Developing plans does not need to be onerous, but it does require effort and a commitment to taking the time...

KEEP The End In Mind!

If you know me, or have read many of my blog entries, you will know that I am a Stephen Covey fan, in particular his book and theories around the 7 Habits of Highly Effective People.Covey’s Habit #2 is “Start with the end in mind” … which is excellent advice.  What he is really saying is to under...

It Takes A Plan To Get Stuff Done!

We need to create plans all the time, business plans, account plans, growth plans, acquisition plans, project plans etc. We even create holiday plans.  There really is no magic to creating plans, but what there is … is EFFORT!  It takes a willingness to roll up the sleeves and really apply yourse...

Reasons To Grow A Business ... And What It Takes

Tomorrow your business could get hit by the “metaphorical bus” … some catastrophic change might happen, some market shift, some impact that will spell the beginning of the end.It happens to businesses all the time.Companies become complacent; they become too dependent upon one client, upon one ma...

Common Sense In Business Using the 80/20 Rule

I think most people have heard of the 80/20 rule, also known as the Pareto Principle … basically that 80% of the effects come from 20% of the causes.In business it is often that case that 80% of revenues come from 20% of the clients.  It can also be suggested that 80% of your problems come from 2...

Thoughts On Happiness From Steven Covey

I have always like Covey's ideas ...

Technology Industry News for June 2014

This is my 30,000 foot look at events in the ICT industry for June 2014. What you see here is a précis of the monthly report I produce, which will be available in more detail at the News section of the Eagle website, where you will also find back issues.A Little History of June in previous years ...

Checklists Help Productivity

Pilots use them to make sure they go through every step in their routine, every time … even though they might have been doing it every day for years!You can create checklists to make sure that you remember to do everything you should do!Checklists allow your brain to focus on the more creative as...

5 Tips To Foster Innovation

We hear about innovation all the time these days.Governments need to embrace innovation because they need to “do more with less”, and increase their tax base by encouraging innovative companies that create jobs.Companies are told that they need to innovate to be competitive, to adapt to changing ...

Do You Have Something To Look Forward To?

Sometimes life seems to go by in a blur … I get busy, there are always so many commitments and it would be easy to just let life happen to me, rather than to take charge of it.I think we all get there at times, we have work commitments, we have jobs that need to get done at home, we have commitme...

Do You Know Where You Are Headed?

Today you probably have some idea where you are going.  In today’s environment (pandemic) that universe might be greatly restricted … but you likely have a plan for the day.It is not so hard to picture where you are going today, but do you have a bigger picture beyond today and this week and mayb...

Taking A Management Role Might Not Be Everything You Thought

One of the great business myths is that once you are “the boss” you have more control and more time to do the things you want to do rather than the things you are told to do. Your perception is that you likely would do a much better job than your current boss and can’t wait to get the role and “s...

Lend a Hand

My theory on helping others is that I get as much out of the “giving” as they are likely to get from the “receiving”.It feels good to help others.It is what makes our society so good, so civilised and so admired.Using the “Pay It Forward” concept you can think of it as payment for favors done to ...

Dude Where's My Car ... and Other Stories!

I attended the FEI conference in Niagara Falls last week, which is designed for Canadian Financial Executives (#FEICanada2014).  I learned quite a few things, including the fact that accountants certainly DO know how to have fun!One of the lessons I walked away with was a reminder that stories ar...

10 Tips On Social Media For A Busy Executive

You are already busy and yet you are committed to raising your profile and improving your personal brand through social media.You don’t know where to begin.You don’t want it to be a burden, but can set aside some time.I have been blogging  since 2006, and have been on LinkedIn and Twitter for a n...

10 Tips On Personal Branding For any Busy Person

You work hard, you put in more hours than the “next guy” and your focus is on the “meat and potatoes” of your job.  You are good at what you do and try to bring value every day.In today’s workforce just being good at your job is not enough.  That is the “table stakes” and there are always going t...

Find Ways To Do More!

Time is such a precious resource in almost any profession.“The bad news is time flies. The good news is you’re the pilot.”  Michael AltshulerWith my background I tend to focus on salespeople or recruiters, but I expect most people could relate.It would probably be fair to say that the more you c...

Ace That Job Interview With These 5 Tips

Job interviews can be stressful. It doesn’t matter how experienced you may be there is always an element of doubt about your chances of getting the job.Am I the best candidate? Is there someone more qualified? Have I put my best foot forward?Here are a few facts about the hiring process…1. It is ...

Technology Industry News For May 2014

This is my 30,000 foot look at events in the ICT industry for May 2014. What you see here is a précis of the monthly report I produce, which will be available in more detail at the News section of the Eagle website, where you will also find back issues.A Little History of May in previous years …F...

Don't Kid Yourself About Your Work Ethic!

Do you believe your own hype?Perhaps you have enjoyed success in your career, perhaps you have had success in your chosen sport or people have praised you for some of the good things you have done over the years.Don’t get complacent!Don’t believe that because you were successful yesterday that yo...

What Inspires You?

This week American writer and poet Maya Angelou died, at the age of 85.  She was known for a number of inspirational quotes, here are some that I like.“Nothing will work unless you do.”“If you don’t like something change it.  If you can’t change it, change your attitude about it.”“I don’t trust a...

Three Strategies For Keeping Motivation High

Sometimes motivation is tougher to come by than at other times … everyone feels that way occasionally.  In fact probably EVERYBODY feels that way regularly during a pandemic!!!“Ability is what you’re capable of doing. Motivation determines what you do. Attitude determines how well you do it.” Lo...

Why Eagle Supports The Fight to End Cancer (FTEC)

Companies are asked for financial support all the time.  Many of those companies are very generous in their support, and others are not so supportive.  I thought it would be worth giving a perspective on why my company supports our community, using an upcoming event as one example.The Fight to En...

Life Balance

The subject of work/life balance is a common topic and like most people I have my opinions. I have formed mine over almost 50 years in the workforce, starting out as a Junior Naval Aircraft Mechanic 2nd class in the Royal Navy (I don't think you can start any lower than that!). Since 1996 I have ...

Small Business Entrepreneurs Bring Incredible Value!

The entrepreneurs who get the most profile are those who create significant companies, or those who disrupt industries.  The Bill Gates, Steve Jobs, Mark Zuckerberg, Elon Musks and Jeff Bezos type of entrepreneur are often featured as role models, and rightly so because their achievements are leg...

Perseverance

One of the best traits that you can develop is perseverance.“Great works are performed not by strength but by perseverance.”  Samuel Johnson.Whatever you are trying to achieve, it will take effort, some success, some failure and an ability to stick with it through the ups and downs.You could rel...

Reading Is A Critical Skill. Do You Read Enough?

How much do you read?Do you read news articles from credible sources … or read the sound bites available on the internet?Do you read articles about your industry, keeping abreast of trends and changes that might be relevant to your future?Do you read novels?Do you read interesting business articl...

How Do You Keep Up In A Changing World?

The amazing pace of change affects all of us, both at work and at home.At work, changes in technology, globalization and demographics can cost us our jobs but also create new amazing opportunities.Heraclitus said, “The only thing that is constant is change” … and he lived 500 years BC!What should...

Technology Industry News For April 2014

This is my 30,000 foot look at events in the ICT industry for April 2014. What you see here is a précis of the monthly report I produce, which will be available in more detail at the News section of the Eagle website, where you will also find back issues.A Little History of April in previous year...

Stuff Happens. Don't overreact!

Its not what happens, its how you react!Stuff happens!Good stuff happens and bad stuff happens.The measure of a person or an organisation is in how they react to the “stuff”.If someone makes a mistake at work, big or small, and tries to hide it, blames other people, blames the world/circumstances...

Customer Service Means Managing Expectations

Busy people can be the toughest clients… but also they can be very easy to keep happy.  IF you manage, and then meet, their expectations!The busy client calls his investment advisor (could be anything… insurance agent, banker, lawyer etc.) looking for some answers to a few questions at 3:30pm on ...

How Should CEOs Spend Their Time

As CEO nobody tells you how to do your job, so how do you maximize your performance?One way is to identify the types of activities that bring true value to the organization and ensure that you are spending more time doing those things than on activities that bring less value.If you are CEO of a s...

4 Easy and Free Steps to Getting the Attention of Top Talent

April’s Virtual Recruiter Quick Pollasked respondents what they feel is the most attractive feature of their company to new employees, aside from the work itself.  Not surprisingly, results of the poll and a simple Google search reveal that most companies have a mix of enticing qualities.  So, wh...

Getting Fired

Today I read that Manchester United let their coach David Moyes go … which is a euphemism for, he got fired.Moyes came to Manchester United from my team, Everton where he had a long and fruitful eleven year tenure. He was let go from Manchester United after just 10 months, based upon an inability...

Canada Job Market Review First Quarter 2014

General Observations:The new year started with some optimism and we have seen some good signs related to Canada’s job market.  Over the course of the first quarter the unemployment rate improved for a starting point around 7.2%, ending the quarter at a 6.9% unemployment rate.  Over the course of ...

The Challenges of Leadership

As a leader how do you handle the major challenges that you face day in and day out?The typical challenges we face are relatively predictable…1. There are financial challenges. Meeting the company targets, selling enough business, managing costs etc.2. There are people challenges … finding and re...

Think Like An Owner When Travelling For Business

If a manager can emulate a business owner’s approach to business travel then they will be sending a clear and positive message to their executive about their attitude.Here are some of the things I do, and have always done when I travel:1.  I apply a common sense approach to business travel, I kno...

Take Your Career Opportunities!

Life offers us opportunities all the time … the trick is(a) Spotting them, and(b) Taking advantage of them.When you are new to a company, new in a role or just looking to move up the ladder you will be presented with opportunities to shine, either through the normal course of business or better y...

If You Are Leaving A Voicemail Do It Right!

How often do you get a voicemail that you find hard to understand?How often do you get a voicemail that misses some critical information?Voicemails are an effective tool if used correctly, but they can be frustrating if they are done badly.I often get voicemails that are difficult to understand, ...

Great Leaders Lead By Example To Protect Their Personal AND Company Brand

I wrote a blog entry called 10 Ways Leaders Can Build Their Team.  One thing implied, but not actually said in that blog entry was that a good leader will lead by example.The leader who says, “Do what I say, not what I do will have trouble gaining the respect of her/his team”.This aspect of leade...

10 Things A Productive Salesperson Can Do With 20 Minutes

Previously I shared thoughts about how effectively using 20 minutes could have a big impact for self-development. Given that we often “waste” 20 minutes on non-productive activities there is very little cost to doing this.Today I thought I would look at how a salesperson might use 20 minutes effe...

Technology Industry News For March 2014

This is my 30,000 foot look at events in the ICT industry for March 2014. What you see here is a précis of the monthly report I produce, which will be available in more detail at the News section of the Eagle website, where you will also find back issues.A Little History of March in previous year...

From Dreams To Reality ... Are You Ready?

We have all heard the phrase, “Today is the first day of the rest of your life.”I recently saw an Irish saying, “This is a day in our lives, and it will not come again”Both are meant to encourage us to truly LIVE our lives, and not just coast through life.Very few people actually take that advice...

Lessons From The Boxing Ring

Three years ago I climbed in a boxing ring in front of several hundred people in a charity boxing event.It took some thought before I agreed to make that commitment, but the experience was a positive one.Would you be willing to do the same?  To give blood for charity in a boxing ring, rather than...

5 Ways to Bring ADDED Value to Your Clients

You are a business owner, or a salesperson and your core role involves building a business by selling the product or service of your company.  Through that you will build a relationship with clients and prospective clients.  One great way to enhance those relationships is by bringing ADDED value,...

Entrepreneurial Passion

If you spend a little time with a group of entrepreneurs you will be struck by the energy that emanates from these people.They all have it… it is a passion for what they do, a hunger to succeed and a willingness to do what it takes!Without that enthusiasm it would be easy to give up because succe...

The Pros and Cons of Out-of-Town Candidates

Do you consider out-of-town candidates when screening through job applicants?  That’s the question we’re asking in this month’s Virtual Recruiter Quick Poll.Jobs posting often result in a pile of resumes and the easiest way to start cutting them down is by eliminating those candidates who are not...

The Power of the Calendar With Reminders

Calendars and reminders are two of the three critical component of your time management system.  The third element is the To Do list which is a topic for another day.  You can use calendars and reminders to help you “drive your day” rather than have the “day drive you”.  Here are some tips:Ten Th...

Make Time to Give

There is a saying that goes, if you want something done, then give it to a busy person!If you are in a senior position, perhaps you own your business or are a senior executive then very often you feel like you don’t have time to meet all of the demands on your time today … how could you possibly ...

Your Blueprint to Finding a Job

Unemployment affects people at a personal level … it is about the ability to pay bills, to enjoy life and to feel like you are contributing.If you are unemployed you might be influenced by articles about unemployment rates which may be depressing.  You might be discouraged by the lack of jobs lis...

Is Procrastination Affecting Your Sales Success?

A good salesperson will always have a long “To Do” list.It will include setting up meetings, documenting meetings, collecting data for clients, details around contracts, keeping in touch with existing clients and prospects, developing new leads, moving all of their current sales activities toward...

So You Are Changing Jobs ... Do It Right!

Most of us move from one employer to another at some time or other and some do it more often than others!Whether it is a regular “thing” or a very rare occurrence it is always a good idea to leave on a positive note, for many reasons but keep in mind itisa small world.Here are a few pointers abou...

Your Motivation Book - An Idea

Some years ago I received a rather nice notebook as a Christmas present.  It was a hardback book and inserted amongst the note pages are photographs of my family.  It was a nice gift that I didn’t want to waste, so I pondered about how I might use it.I decided to use the book as a book of lists, ...

Belief

Belief is a powerful thing … it is what inspires millions around the world to follow the religion that they believe in.On a much smaller scale entrepreneurs have chased their dreams for centuries, and it is very often belief that gave them the strength and endurance to battle through adversity on...

Invest in Your People

At the risk of being a little repetitive, I recently wrote a blog entry about the need to be continually learning … to “sharpen the saw” as Stephen Covey would have said.“Anyone who stops learning is old, whether at twenty or eighty.  Anyone who keeps learning stays young.”  Henry FordAs individu...

Twelve Time Management Blog Entries

One of the areas most within your own control, that can affect your ability to be successful, is how you use your time.  Over the years I have written many blog entries on this subject and today, in one place, you can find twelve of them … which might just give you some ideas to be more productiv...

Sharpen the Saw

Stephen Covey’s book The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People identified habit number 7 as “Sharpen the Saw”!That book was written 25 years ago, yet its teachings are as relevant today as they were then!Habit number 7 has become even more important today because of the pace of change in today’...

Are you a Salesperson?

Salespeople are proud of being just that … salespeople!Don’t avoid that title, be proud of it … the sales profession is an honourable one!

Technology Industry News - February 2014

This is my 30,000 foot look at events in the ICT industry for February 2014.  What you see here is a précis of the monthly report I produce, which will be available in more detail at the News section of the Eagle website, where you will also find back issues.A Little History of previous year’s Fe...

Screening Candidates on Social Media -- Is It Worth It?

Over the last 10 years, social media has changed the way we do many things in both our personal and professional lives.  One trend that quickly gained traction in the business world was the screening of the social media profiles of job applicants.  In fact, although the results of February’s Virt...

Some Lessons From a Vacation Break

A few years ago I wrote a blog entry about Recharging Your Batteries on vacation.  The premise being that you should take the kind of vacation that works for you and your specific circumstance.Well, fresh back from a week’s vacation I thought I would share just a few thoughts based on this vacati...

A Career in the Staffing Industry

We live in interesting times.  We have an economy that has retained a high level of unemployment since the recession yet one that also has skill shortages. The coming years will bring increasing pressures on our workforce as the Boomers eventually do retire, albeit slower than originally intended...

The Two Faces of the Entrepreneur

If you are, or have been, an entrepreneur you may recognise yourself.If you are considering becoming an entrepreneur then this may be something to think about.Successful entrepreneurs walk a fine line between “looking big” and “operating small”.What do I mean by that?1.  Looking big.Clients want ...

Selling is a Process Not an Event

Good salespeople will always be “on the go“!They know that there is a momentum to selling, and so they avoid inertia at all costs.They will be meeting new people, because that is how you find opportunities.They will be building relationships with the key people in their networks.They will be look...