Anita Toth

A recent article on D2L's blog, “Continuing Education in Canada Is Changing,” highlights transformative shifts in the field. As we navigate a rapidly evolving job market, the need for flexible, accessible learning opportunities has never been greater. 🇨🇦📚 Innovations in digital learning and personalized education are reshaping how we approach professional development. Embracing these changes can better equip learners for the future and drive success in an increasingly dynamic world. How is your organization adapting to these trends? https://ow.ly/hAOr30sGgWf

2

Here's the reality: In the current economic climate, B2B companies in Canada must treat every lead as gold. Sales and marketing teams need to work in lockstep for effective lead management. Yet, too often, there's a communication gap or a big eye roll when sales see what marketing is doing to generate leads. Flashback to about 8 years ago, when I was working as an interim VP of Sales. My team was frustrated—almost no inbound leads except from the marketing team’s events. Inbounds are like gold—so much less effort. With the leads trickling in, my team assumed marketing was navel-gazing. Honestly, I just felt frustrated. The teams should figure this out and get on with driving new business, right?!? Not very leader-ly. I had to slow it down and figure out the WIFM (what's in it for me) for both teams to actually rethink their approach and get real buy-in. The key was encouraging a few points of connection between really good marketing staff and really good salespeople. Once they trusted each other, the rest took care of itself. Here’s what we did as a team: 1. 𝐀𝐥𝐢𝐠𝐧 𝐆𝐨𝐚𝐥𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐊𝐏𝐈𝐬: Sales and marketing need to share common objectives. If you're aiming for the moon and they’re aiming for Mars, you’re bound to crash somewhere in between. 2. 𝐃𝐞𝐟𝐢𝐧𝐞 𝐋𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐬 𝐂𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐥𝐲: Agree on what makes a lead ‘qualified’. Is it the number of emails opened or the size of their budget? Get specific. 3. 𝐅𝐨𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐎𝐩𝐞𝐧 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧:  Regularly review lead quality and conversion metrics. If it’s not on the calendar, it’s not happening. 4. 𝐄𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐡 𝐅𝐞𝐞𝐝𝐛𝐚𝐜𝐤 𝐋𝐨𝐨𝐩𝐬: Sales, don’t just grumble about bad leads—tell marketing why. Marketing, listen and adjust. 5. 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐮𝐜𝐭 𝐉𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐭 𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠: Get sales and marketing in the same room. Understanding each other's processes can turn “navel-gazing” into high-fiving. Bridging the divide between sales and marketing isn’t just good practice; it’s essential for surviving and thriving. When these teams align, magic happens. Or at least fewer headaches and better performance. So, let’s prioritize collaboration and treat every lead like it’s the last double-chocolate brownie at a team meeting—handle with care and don't let it get away. 𝐖𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐨𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬? Check out Brendan Ziolo from Zinc Marketing and I as we explore this issue, bringing both sales and marketing perspectives to the table. https://lnkd.in/gSX8iB6C Have you faced similar challenges with lead management? How did you overcome them? Drop your stories in the comments below! #SalesLeadershipTips #TeamPerformanceBoost #InspiredSalesTeams #ActionableAdvice

26

9 Comments

📧 New Email Limits on Microsoft Exchange Online - Important Update for Canadian Organizations! 🚀 Starting January 2025, Microsoft Exchange Online will introduce stricter limits on bulk email sends, setting a cap at 2,000 emails per mailbox per day to external recipients. These changes are key to boosting the security of digital communications and aligning closely with the principles of the Canadian Anti-Spam Legislation (CASL), which emphasizes the necessity for clear consent and unsubscribe mechanisms. Essential Actions for Tech Teams: - Ensure Compliance: Align your email marketing strategies with both CASL and the new Microsoft policies to prevent penalties and disruptions. - Strategize Effectively: Modify your approach to manage the distribution of bulk emails, considering spreading out campaigns or exploring alternative communication tools. - Tech Integration: Implement robust email automation technologies that can handle subscriber segmentation, schedule emails according to new limits, and manage compliance requirements efficiently. This update is certainly a step in the right direction. I still receive far to many unsolicited communications that originate from the major cloud email providers. 🔗 For detailed guidelines on adapting to these new regulations, check the full updates on Microsoft's tech community blog and contact Fusion Computing Limited to learn more. References: 1. https://lnkd.in/gF9r7jTh 2. https://lnkd.in/gfYSsP4k #MicrosoftExchange #EmailMarketing #ITSecurity #CyberSecureCanada #CASL 🛡️📧

16

If you're looking for super practical/tactical ways to leverage #AI in your organization you'll want to attend this #event. Spoiler alert...if #documentmanagement/ #recordsmanagement is an issue for your organization, you'll definitely want to attend!! See you there!

1

We've helped many Canadian organizations develop or refresh their data strategies over the past two years. I enjoyed this article and we take many approaches that align here. Business/use-case driven, focus on data quality, democratization of data, and starting ground up through high-value POC's and Pilots. Another key component is designing your data architecture to align with your strategy, and choosing a partner that can help you navigate through technology options. Love to chat data strategy with anyone that's building one, needs help getting started, or has best practices and successes to share. https://lnkd.in/ghwdD7FF #datastrategy #genai #datamodernization #aws #azure #databricks #snowflake

42

1 Comment

🚨 Did You Know? 🚨 60% of small businesses go out of business within 6 months of a cyberattack, per the Verizon 2024 Data Breach Investigations Report. Cybersecurity is not optional—it's essential. Protect your small business from devastating attacks with proactive measures and expert guidance. 🔒 For inquiries or to discuss how RedArx Cyber Group can assist, reach out to me directly or visit our website: https://www.redarx.com/ #Cybersecurity #CyberAttack #DataProtection #SmallBusinessSecurity #BusinessContinuity #CyberDefense #NISTCompliance #RedArx #Saskatoon #Saskatchewan

8

🍁 **A Glimpse into Canada's Tech Scene!** Just finished digging into Leger's 2024 IT Trends Report, and it's brimming with insights that capture the essence of Canadian tech. Here's a sneak peek: 🔒 **Cybersecurity Concerns**: 61% of Canadian companies reviewed data security practices due to data breach news reports. 🚫 **Action Lags**: Despite concerns, investments in cyber threat protection are lacking, with 28% not offering training and 71% lacking cyber insurance. 💡 **Investment Growth**: 80% of Canadian businesses plan significant tech investments in the next two years, the first increase since 2020. 👩‍💼 **IT Training Investments**: Over two-thirds of companies plan to invest in IT training and skills development. 🤖 **AI Adoption**: 40% of companies plan to invest in AI and/or Advanced Data Analytics in the coming year. 🏢 **Budget and Security Challenges**: Budget constraints lead to under-investment in critical tech. 🔍 **Low Confidence in IT Teams**: Negative perceptions hinder strategic IT decisions. **Recommendations**: Greater investment in technology is crucial for Canadian companies to stay competitive. Explore the full report at [it-trends.ca](http://it-trends.ca) for detailed insights. #Cybersecurity #ITInvestments #AI #CanadianBusinesses #ITTraining #BudgetConstraints #ITReport

4

Excited to share my final project for the Troubleshooting in BI Platforms course, part of my Business Intelligence System Infrastructure program at Algonquin College of Applied Arts and Technology! In this project, I tackled the challenge of designing and implementing a cost-effective BI system that doesn’t rely on IBM Cognos. The system I developed includes: 🔹 A relational database in 3NF 🔹 Comprehensive modeling capabilities 🔹 Robust reporting features 🔹 A secure user administration system One of the key achievements was successfully connecting MS SQL ( Go sales Databse) with Power BI to manage and visualize data efficiently. I focused on creating a high-level architecture that incorporates AWS Cloud services, Power BI for ETL and reporting, and MySQL for data management. The project also involved detailed troubleshooting and hands-on implementation to ensure a smooth and secure BI system operation. 📊 Check out the architecture diagram and the final report, created using Power BI, in the attached PDF! 💡 #BusinessIntelligence #PowerBI #MSSQL #AWS #MySQL #DataEngineering #StudentProject #BIArchitecture

32

2 Comments

Thank you Digital Nova Scotia and Ila J. for helping me to deliver my updated Custom GPT workshop yesterday! We had over 100 register, 76 participate, and 23 share feedback. Here are a few comments that I felt were too good not to share (and I don't even think they were written by AI!): "Thorough, accessible, actionable. I have attended and delivered several training programs, and this session was best in class. Bravo! Great advice for a wide-ranging audience, from my 70 yr old father looking to use ChatGPT to my colleagues who have been using it for over a year." - Lisa "If you’ve ever wanted to learn more about what Chat GPT is and how it works, this training is extremely valuable. If you have a Chat GPT-4 subscription, this training will also teach you how to create your own custom Chat GPT whose model you can train in a specific context." - Ty If you weren't able to make the workshop and would like a copy of the slides, comment below and I'll send them your way! _______________________ I'm Robert Newcombe ⚗️ I help leaders of small businesses boost productivity and improve processes, using AI, automation, and systems thinking. Each month, I help 4 small businesses solve their biggest pain points and bottlenecks with my 4-Week AI Accelerator (a $10,000 program FREE for qualifying Nova Scotian organizations with WIPSI funding). May is booked. One spot is still available for June. P.S. I'll be launching my website soon that has details about my upcoming "GPT Builder Blueprint" service. Stay tuned!

32

5 Comments

To see the full benefits of emerging technologies such as AI, it is critical to build public trust in technology and ensure tools are safe and secure. At Microsoft Canada, we are committed to supporting initiatives that strengthen cybersecurity and build trust in technology.  Ontario's Bill 194, Strengthening Cyber Security and Building Trust in the Public Sector Act, currently before the Standing Committee on Justice Policy, represents a significant step forward in enhancing digital security and fostering trust in digital services delivered by government. Bill 194 is poised to play a crucial role in both safeguarding the data and privacy of Ontarians, as well as strengthening cybersecurity and driving trustworthy and responsible AI in Ontario.    Ensuring that future regulations are grounded in a risk-based approach will focus resources and measures where the risk is highest. Additionally, flexible and principles-based regulations will be key to ensuring robust security standards in an evolving digital landscape as well as fostering innovation. Focusing on future regulations that are interoperable will also enhance the overall effectiveness of cybersecurity and responsible AI efforts across borders. I’m heartened by the work of the Government of Ontario and the leadership of Minister Todd McCarthy championing this important piece of legislation and commend them on their efforts to shape Ontario’s digital future by strengthening cybersecurity and building trust in the public sector.    

139

5 Comments

Exciting Partnership Announcement: SmiForce and CDW Canada Join Forces for Digital Transformation! We are thrilled to announce a strategic partnership between SmiForce Inc. and CDW Canada, paving the way for a new era of digital and business transformation. 💼🚀 At SmiForce Inc., we specialize in AI-powered Data Analytics and SIEM solutions that empower organizations to harness the full potential of their data. Our platform seamlessly integrates with CDW Canada's solution needs, offering a comprehensive suite of tools that drive actionable insights and proactive security measures. Here's how our partnership benefits you: 1. AI-Powered Data Analytics: SmiForce's cutting-edge analytics capabilities, from automatic data ingestion to customized visualization, help unlock hidden patterns and trends in your data, fueling informed decision-making. 2. AI-Powered SIEM: Our Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) solution provides real-time threat detection, response, and compliance management, ensuring your digital assets are protected around the clock. 3. Seamless Integration: With CDW Canada's IT solutions and services expertise, our integration ensures a smooth and efficient deployment tailored to your unique business requirements. 4. Digital Transformation: Together, SmiForce Inc. and CDW Canada enable you to embark on a transformative journey, leveraging data-driven insights and fortified cybersecurity measures to drive innovation and growth. Join us in embracing the future of digital excellence and security. Let's unlock the full potential of your business together! #DigitalTransformation #AI #DataAnalytics #Cybersecurity #SmiForce #CDWCanada #BusinessPartnership

9

1 Comment

With Hireguide growing and launching into Canada, there are so many opportunities for leading Canadian companies to leverage technology and AI to streamline and improve their interview process. We are creating the most unified hiring process that focuses on identifying the best talent through their relevant skills and competencies in relation to a specific role. With one quarter in the books, I can honestly say we are building something that has so much value for both talent acquisition and hiring leaders to make their jobs more efficient. I can't be prouder of the colleagues I work with who are all-in on what we are creating. #HireKind

23

Join to learn from the experts what Nonprofit Cloud can mean for you!

2

I Finally Broke Down And Made My First Shein Purchase Whe we hosted out LinkedIn Live event on Disruptors, Matthew, Jessica and I all confirmed that we have never made a personal purchase from Shein or Temu. Next week I'm attending a few events in the GTA. I wanted to buy something ridiculous A blazer that people would remember. Local options quickly got exhausted. Since this was going to be something doesn't get regular use, price (item + shipping) became a key driver. No surprise, but SHEIN won this battle. With its current status in the market, I figured it was an opportunity to get something I wanted, while also getting first hand experience being a customer. Here's the TLDR So far, it sucks. Navigating their site (not the app) is terrible. They don't allow opening new tabs / previews, so each item has to be clicked into Sizing information makes you feel like it's inaccurate The shipping was in the 10-14 time range The checkout process hit you with multiple sales offers The item still WON'T track (despite an email saying it shipped) I have received daily sales emails for more items - but not one about my order ANY domestic retailer could CRUSH these guys on customer experience simply with communication and proper operational timing. What's happening now is that SHEIN will have to hope that I find the quality so good, and the value so high, that it negates the poor experience up until this point. I doubt that the quality will be that good for the price (~$45) Has your experience with SHEIN or Temu been better? Is this an outlier? #retail #ecommerce #shein #d2c

24

30 Comments

Why Is It Important to Delegate As a leader? Delegating is important because you can't—and shouldn't—do everything yourself. Delegating empowers your team, builds trust, and assists with professional development. For leaders, it helps you learn how to identify who is best suited to tackle tasks or projects. If you're too busy micro-managing, and chasing down who left the spoon in the sink, nothing productive gets done. When your staff works from home you're forced to macro-manage and focus on the outcomes more than the process. While you track that outcome, you don't want to worry about what you're missing or where the team may be going in the wrong direction. The last thing you want to worry about is their safety while doing it. So, let Outsource IT Computing Inc. build a service and security plan that works for the team. https://lnkd.in/gtrUG_38

1

Big news! Info-Tech Research Group has made it to LinkedIn's Top Companies in Canada 2024! We secured the 15th spot on this esteemed list, celebrating firms that provide stability and growth opportunities in the ever-evolving work landscape. Our specialty? Empowering IT leaders with actionable insights and practical tools to drive results. Our research and advisory services aid IT departments across sectors, helping them navigate complex challenges and enhance their strategic value. We are committed to innovation in the IT sector. Adapting and evolving to meet the needs of tech leaders is our game. This recognition is a testament to our dedicated team and our commitment to excellence in serving IT professionals. We are proud to contribute to the success of IT leaders in Canada and worldwide. Want to know what makes Info-Tech Research Group a top employer?  How are we shaping the future of IT? Check out #LinkedInTopCompanies 2024: https://lnkd.in/gvTwV4Ft #InfoTechResearch #ITLeadership #TopCompanies2024 #InnovationInTech #CareerGrowth

54

Are leaders born or made? This age-old question has been the topic of debate for years. While some individuals may exhibit natural leadership traits from a young age, the development of effective leadership often requires a combination of inherent qualities, acquired knowledge, and skills.   If you are looking to acquire the knowledge and skills necessary for effective leadership, consider enrolling in a leadership education and training program. Seneca Polytechnic 's Graduate Program of Business Information Technology https://lnkd.in/g6mwDsrW offers a unique opportunity to gain expertise in both business and information technology, preparing you for success in the real world. Nobody told me to advertise the BTT program, but I was touched by our committed students. All of them had years of working experience before going back to school at Seneca. The BTT program is going to equip them with the technical and business skills so that they can advance their career in the future. As usual, I am a believer of "do what you like and like what you do".

15