Jacob Shriar

Pumped to be in Toronto today for Shopify editions.dev with Barrel CTO Wes. If you're here - come say hi 👋🏼 If you haven’t had a chance to check out the 150+ product updates in Shopify’s bi-annual release, Summer Edition '24, check it out here: https://lnkd.in/gETbX_2P It’s hard to believe we’ve been helping brands launch on Shopify since 2009. A lot has changed in the last 15 years. It's no longer enough for brands to invest in their website alone—they need to meet their customers where they are to succeed. As an agency, Barrel has evolved from focusing solely on a client’s website to examining the entire customer journey, seeking opportunities to enhance how customers shop and experience the brand across touchpoints. Many of our clients are CPG brands, making this approach even more relevant. These days we're working on building Shopify B2B E-Commerce storefronts, designing Amazon content, creating personalized email/SMS flows, and implementing Shopify POS. Shopify has continually evolved with merchants' changing needs and customers' buying patterns. They’re not afraid to embrace partnerships like Amazon Buy with Prime while investing the same energy in POS and B2B that got their core e-commerce offering to where it is today. The Summer ’24 Edition is aptly titled ‘Unified’ and, as usual, it’s a lot to digest. The addition of a “Top 10” summary this year is a great starting point. Among my favorite updates are unified & tailored Markets experiences across B2B and retail, store credit availability, split shipping in checkout, and seamless store pickup between POS and DTC. I'm eager to dive into the Summer Edition '24 with our team over the next few days and uncover new opportunities to enhance our clients' commerce experiences. + Subscribe to my newsletter for a weekly look at what I'm building and learning in agency leadership, life, and e-commerce: https://lnkd.in/eJU8Zpt

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Earlier in my career, I spent 5+ years at Shopify as Head of App Store. The way I landed the job might surprise you. Here's how it went down... It all stemmed from a cold email. Back in 2012, I was a Comp Sci student at Algonquin College looking for a summer internship. When I was digging around, I came across Shopify. The company was right around the 80-employee mark when I found it. I had some experience in online business – I had started a sold a community in the online gaming space, and did a brief but wide ranging internship at a startup that I felt could translate, so I shot my shot. I cold emailed Tobias Lütke (email pictured below), asking for any opportunity to work for him at his company. Not gonna lie, I would've cleaned the floors and toilets if I had to. At first, I heard crickets. Nothing in response for 1 week... 2 weeks... Then, Tobi replied a couple of weeks later and asked me if I'd be interested in taking over this "app store thing" they had been working on and seeing what I could do with it. No surprise, I accepted. And then went on to spend the next 6 years working on the Shopify app store, taking it from ~40 apps to several thousand. The lesson here? I'm shocked more people don't send cold emails. The downside is so, so low--and the upside is near infinite. One more thing: I'll be sharing more learnings from my time growing the Shopify App Store & other experiences in ecommerce here on social. If that sounds interesting, follow along for more.

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Ready to transform your customer success strategy with cutting-edge insights? Dive into this episode of Scale Your Sales, where Emma Lo unpacks the latest trends in customer success and AI-driven personalization. Emma, the onboard czar at Noibu and leader of Canada's thriving CS in Focus community, shares golden nuggets on predictive analytics, the importance of customer advisory boards, and the true meaning of personalization at scale. You don't want to miss this episode; it's a blueprint for game-changing growth! https://lnkd.in/ehqgZB7R #scaleyoursales #customergrowth #techleadership #technology #AI #sales

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NEW BLOG ALERT ‼ 10 Tips to Become a Top SaaS Seller is live. Link in the comments. Had a ton of fun with this one. Huge thanks to Avi Altschuler & Brantley Atkinson (Triple Whale), Talyson (Bacco) O’Mahoney (Tecsys Inc.), and Sam Moser (dbt Labs) for participating! They're proof that even in tough market conditions - honing in on processes, being creative with prospects, caring about relationships internally & externally, and putting in the WORK will lead to results 💲 Credit to RepVue for the data. #SaaSsales #AI #salestips

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Next year, Lightspeed Commerce will exit its teenage years and turn 20. What does that maturity mean? For me, it’s all about shifting from simply a growth mindset to one of profitability. I sat down with Gus Papageorgiou, our Head of Investor Relations and host of the Inside Lightspeed podcast, to discuss this cultural shift, where we’re heading, and how my role as CEO will guide this moving forward. When Lightspeed first started, we were all about seizing opportunities — whether it was moving to the cloud early on, expanding into new markets, or launching payments. These bold moves have driven us to where we are today. Now, as we approach this new chapter, we're putting an emphasis on: - Doubling down on areas where we can truly excel and deliver the most value to our customers. - Making profitability our new North Star and ensuring that every move strengthens our foundation. - Staying true to our core mission: helping SMBs thrive. But now, we’re doing it with a sharper focus on long-term success. Had a great time reflecting on Lightspeed’s past, as well as discussing our vision for the future. Check out the full podcast here: https://lnkd.in/gF3vG-Qn

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Insider insight: this is a higher impact and more interesting role than it might seem at first glance based on the job title. Message me if you know someone that might be interested, and I can elaborate as to why.

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💬 Over 15,000 conversations captured. 5,498 leads generated. 💬 In just the last 30 days, Vendasta’s AI Lead Capture has had a 35.7% lead conversion rate — that's how AI is transforming lead generation. Don’t let leads fall through the cracks! At Vendasta Connect, we’ll show you exactly how AI tools like this can help your agency convert more leads and never miss an opportunity. 🎯 Ready to take your lead gen to the next level? 👉 Register today, see link in comments. #LeadGeneration #AI #SalesAutomation #AgencySuccess #VendastaConnect

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Montreal marketers: if you’re sleeping on Marketing MTL–big mistake. Huge. And huge shoutout to Maya Rozanes and Evan Hallward for making it happen. Recap: The star of the evening Sarah Stockdale, CEO and founder of Growclass, an education company helping equity-deserving folks make waves in the industry, shared her insights about the state of marketing going into 2025. If you've missed it, let me catch you up. But first, a personal confession: I always joke about the two tribes of marketers: 💅🤳🏻✨ marketers VS. 📈👨‍💻🧮 marketers I’m firmly in the first camp, and that keeps me up at night sometimes. Should I master SQL or become an attribution guru? Sarah was reassuring: creative, human-first marketing will become ever more essential. Phew...We will prevail *Evil laughter, excel sheets burn, chaos reigns.* (Okay, not like that—data is still king, and we still need to know how it works if we want to thrive). Alright, the takeaways: ↳ Growth is growing. Shocker, I know. The demand for growth pros remains strong, but here’s the twist: skill set requirements vary so don’t assume you’re not cut out for it just yet, read the job descriptions. Chances are, you already have some experiences and skills that fit the bill. ↳ AI isn’t your nemesis. It’s best to outsource admin stuff to AI and scale yourself, but use own brain to do what only humans can do (that is - to use brains). ↳ Empathy is your superpower. To quote Sarah directly: “Apply the empathy muscle to the entire organization—it’ll make you an indispensable hire.” ↳ Attribution is a mess, cookies are gone, and creativity is the future. That said, as #GA4 and #AI search become the norm, marketers do need to learn how to write content for these engines (AIO or #GEO - Generative Engine Optimization). 💡 And there's my favourite: “marketing via vibe” another gem from Sarah. Why do you think I’m constantly preaching Barthe’s semiotics? Because understanding how to market through the entirety of signals and signs can be a game changer. Thanks Sarah, for the insights and inspo! PS Always great to catch up Anastasia Hamel, Patrick Faller, Antonina Samsonikova, Sia Rass, Sabrina Jonas, Marc-Antoine Vignola, M.Sc, Jenna Aquino

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By Q4, we WILL have a Supply and Demand problem for Shopify App Development. With the advisory date for checkout extensibility upgrades fast approaching now is the time to hire Custom App Developers with Checkout Extensibility experience. In Q4, every developer specializing in custom app development/checkout extensibility WILL be off the market. DM me to discuss hiring timelines, budgets, and what you need to do to stay ahead of the curve with your (or your clients’) Shopify Checkout. #shopify #shopifyplus #shopifyapp #checkoutextensibility

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AI is changing the game for agencies, and I’m thrilled to be part of the conversation at Vendasta Connect! ✨ I’m excited to host the partner panel, where we’ll hear from some of our top agencies on how they’re using Vendasta's AI tools to scale, capture more leads, and streamline client engagement. AI isn’t just a trend for us—it’s been embedded in our strategy for over a decade. We’ve invested in the infrastructure, the data, and the intelligence needed to deliver solutions that truly impact agencies and the businesses they serve. On November 14, our panelists will share real-world examples of how Vendasta’s AI tools are driving transformative results. These are the success stories that show how powerful AI can be in solving everyday challenges and unlocking new growth. 💡 Join more than 1,500+ other registrants 👉 https://lnkd.in/gh2T_3Pd #VendastaConnect #AI #AgencyGrowth #Innovation #PartnerPanel

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🚀 TechPOS: Paving the Way for Retail Success Across Canada 🚀 In a rapidly changing industry, TechPOS is proud to be the trusted partner for cannabis retailers from coast to coast, providing advanced technology that addresses today’s unique retail challenges. With a portfolio spanning over a thousand stores, our mission is simple: to deliver a seamless omnichannel experience that puts our retailers’ success first. Our team combines the best of technology leadership and cannabis expertise to drive real, lasting results. Here’s how TechPOS is empowering retailers 👇 🌐 Unified Omnichannel Experience TechPOS connects online, in-store, and mobile shopping into one smooth journey, offering features like click-and-collect and curbside pickup. This flexibility makes it easier for customers to shop where and when they choose, enhancing convenience and boosting loyalty. 📊 Data-Driven Decisions for Greater Profitability Through deep analytics, TechPOS gives retailers insights into customer preferences, purchasing trends, and inventory optimization. 🏆 Loyalty Programs That Build Lasting Connections Our integrated loyalty programs reward customers across channels, keeping them engaged and coming back. With mobile app integration, customers receive exclusive offers and reminders that make every shopping trip worthwhile. 🎥 In-Store Digital Displays that Drive Engagement Dynamic digital signage allows retailers to capture attention and promote key products in real-time. TechPOS technology keeps promotions and inventory in sync, creating an engaging in-store experience that aligns with real customer demand. 🔍 Advanced Demand Forecasting for Optimal Inventory TechPOS’s advanced technology ensures high-demand products are always available, reducing excess stock and avoiding costly shortages. This approach means less waste and maximized sales, tailored to customer needs. 🔮 Next-Level Immersive Shopping with AR & VR As technology evolves toward virtual reality, TechPOS is poised to lead. With a team that has collaborated with Microsoft’s AR experts, we’re bringing immersive shopping experiences to the forefront. Imagine visualizing products before purchase – that’s where retail is heading, and we’re excited to set the course. 🤖 24/7 Intelligent Support with Chatbots Our smart chatbots provide round-the-clock assistance, ensuring that staff have the support they need when they need it. TechPOS is at the forefront of an industry transformation, combining advanced technology and deep cannabis expertise to empower retail stores with the tools they need to scale successfully. We’re here to create real solutions for real challenges, prioritizing our retailers' growth and profitability. Ready to elevate your store? Partner with TechPOS and join us on the journey toward the future of retail. 🌱💼 #TechPOS #CannabisRetail #RetailInnovation #CustomerFirst #DataDriven #IntegratedPayments #RetailSuccess #Omnichannel #AdvancedTechnology #CannabisIndustry #Canada

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Over $500M in Sales. 12 Toronto tech leaders. One dinner table... A powerful reminder of what really drives business in 2024. Last night, I hosted top GTM executives from Google, Cisco, OpenText, Stack Adapt & some of the fastest growing startups. In a world obsessed with digital transformation, one truth stood out: real relationships close enterprise deals. Why this matters: • Top execs are flying weekly to NYC & SF • Multi-million dollar deals are getting closed in person • Trust = currency in enterprise sales • Digital tools support, but don't replace relationships The reality of enterprise sales in 2024: • One champion isn't enough • You need buy-in from entire teams • Face-to-face builds deeper trust • Community drives opportunities Key lessons from the room: • Enterprise sales cycles are getting more complex • In-person meetings convert at 3x digital • Community is the new competitive advantage • LinkedIn is underpriced attention This wasn't just another networking event. This was Toronto's top minds sharing battle scars and victories over good food and better conversation. Shoutout to all the amazing GTM leaders for your insights. Max Woo 👋 Saad Khan Yugbodh Singh Steve Young Neil Duffy Shwetha Vincy Michael King Nabeil Alazzam Leo Vynnyk Hamza Farhat Ali Vik Kandeth Want to join the next gathering of Toronto's finest? Drop a 🤝 below. These insights are reshaping how we're building at Virio. #toronto #b2bsales #enterprisesales

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Got your game plan ready for 2025? If not, we’ve got the secret sauce you’re missing. Join us December 11 at 10 AM PT / 1 PM ET for a live, down-to-earth chat on how direct mail can bring that extra spark to your omnichannel strategy. Think of it as mixing your best “ingredients” – direct mail, email, SMS, and social – into a recipe for customer engagement that sticks. 𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁’𝘀 𝗰𝗼𝗼𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴: • 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗹 𝗶𝗻𝘀𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀: Tackle those pesky data silos and bring all your channels together. • 𝗘𝗻𝗴𝗮𝗴𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗯𝗼𝗼𝘀𝘁: See how direct mail gives your message that personal touch, helping it cut through the noise. • 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗻 𝘁𝗶𝗽𝘀: Take away tried-and-true tactics to lift metrics like LTV and CAC. • 𝗟𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗤&𝗔: Got questions? We’re here to dish out answers on the spot. Sign up, and let’s make 2025 the year your marketing strategy really clicks. ⏬ https://lnkd.in/gjbtGrxJ

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Returning from your annual leave to the news of a mass layoff is not easy, even if you have not been impacted directly. While I am sure this decision was not taken lightly and I could not agree more with what our CEO Dax said below about all the people we hired at Lightspeed over the past few years, it will take a while for those of us who are still here to go back to business as usual. Until then I need your support! This is where you all potentially come into play as my LinkedIn network: To my HR & Recruitment connections across EMEA & NOAM (Germany, Netherlands, UK, Belgium, France, USA & Canada) please email our talent directory [email protected] or reach out to me for more information if your company is hiring for various positions across most departments. As a recruiter, it is hard to see folks you hired and worked with being let go, and as a colleague even harder.... To my former colleagues who were impacted, if you need any support with your CV, need an intro email to someone I might be connected with who has an open position at their company or just want to chat, please reach out. ... also please remember you are so much more than your job!

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I've noticed some interesting trends happening in e-commerce the last few years while in the market doing a few different things. In no particular order: ⭐ Shopify hired AEs from Salesforce and is converting brands from Demandware to Shopify and is focused on enterprise clients. One former client of Flaunt's, Scotch & Soda, converted to Shopify in 2 weeks post-bankruptcy in 2023 🤯 ⭐ Digitally-native brands -- even those at the very earliest stages -- are looking to set up more than just their Shopify store, including running their own retail location (ahem Meghan Herman) and expanding into Amazon, etc. ⭐ Roblox is prioritizing becoming an e-commerce platform in its own right. They already have a large market for digital goods on-platform -- is there an opportunity for them to be a destination where gen Z & gen alpha buy contextually relevant off-platform goods? ⭐ Brands in certain categories that traditionally relied mostly on channel partners and retail that once treated "e-commerce" as a dirty word are now increasing their priority on growing their DTC channel. ⭐ Instagram removed the Shop tab from their homepage in an effort to re-prioritize on advertising revenue. Feels like there's some disruption, changings-of-the-guard, and new playbooks being written for growth in the 2024+ era. #ecommerce #shopify #salesforce #Roblox #amazon #loyalty

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Do you ever look back and appreciate what your team has done? We're at our company offsite this week in Canada, and I pulled a few slides to share what our Marketing team has accomplished since our last offsite. I was 🤯 with how much we've done. Here are a few highlights: 🚀 Product launches 20+, and it doesn't include fixes and small upgrades 🖥 Website 3 versions of our homepage in this period + rebranded our entire site. 📂 Templates SEO-optimized our 400+ templates, including those made by our community, so they get more traffic, sell more templates, and make more money. 👩‍💻 Experts 5,000+ freelancers and agencies use Glide to deliver custom software to clients. Our program keeps getting bigger and better! 👩‍🏫 Education 1,300+ have completed at least one of our 3 Glide Certifications. Spoiler: we have a new AI certification going live next week! ✍ Content Our blog, The Column, is often praised for content quality. It's a must-read if you want to roll out software successfully at your company. 📹 Video Last year, we decided to double down on video, and it paid off. Our YouTube channel is the best in the industry, and we're coming for LinkedIn video now. 🎉 Events 30+ virtual events for businesses, freelancers, and partners. We always get 4.5+ out of 5 in all our events! I'm in awe of my team every day, and I make sure they know it. PS: If you want to learn about any of these specific initiatives, just comment, and I'll write a more detailed post about them.

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Are you a creative thinker with a passion for innovation? At Sage, we pride ourselves on being a unique organization that values individuality and creativity. We are on the lookout for a special Second Line Sales Manager—an experienced professional who is excited about building something new and watching it flourish. We believe that our employees are our greatest asset, and we truly mean it. Join us and become part of a team where your talents and ideas are valued, and together, we can make a lasting impact.   Our Values Are Simple: Being Human:  through empathy, care and strong connections. Being Bold:  by being courageous, curious, ambitious and creative. Creating Trust:  by delivering on our promises. Simplifying: by stripping away complexity.

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Ever wish you had a ‘blueprint’ to decode your boss’s quirks, values, and expectations right from day one? I did too. That's why I created my Leadership Blueprint, modeled after Luc Levesque, Head of Growth at Shopify, and send it to any new hires on my team. Here's why: 1. Clarity: Remove guesswork and foster transparency. 2. Efficiency: Align our efforts and focus on what truly matters. 3. Empowerment: Encourage self-starters and proactive problem-solvers. 💡 Question for you: What's the one leadership trait that you believe makes all the difference in Parks and Recreation? Explore my blueprint, and I’d love to hear your thoughts below 👇🏽

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