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Mastering Listening Skills for Success in Business and Entrepreneurship

Posted on by Anastasia Netronev

In my time as a business founder and CEO, I have found that effective communication is the backbone of a successful business, career and entrepreneurial journey. Yet, when we think of communication skills, we often focus on speaking and presenting and overlook one of the most essential aspects: listening. For professionals, students, educators and entrepreneurs alike, mastering listening skills can not only help you build better relationships but also help drive growth, innovation and informed decision-making.

Based on my experiences working with numerous companies, here are some observations on why listening skills are a critical part of communication, as well as practical steps you can take to improve this often-underestimated skill.

Why Listening Is A Key Communication Skill

When we discuss communication skills, we tend to emphasize clear speaking, persuasive pitching or compelling presentations. But what are the potential benefits of honing your listening abilities in the business world?

1. Building Trust And Rapport

Active listening shows people that you value their thoughts and input. Entrepreneurs negotiating deals or leaders managing teams can foster trust simply by being attentive and receptive. Making people feel heard can encourage them to open up to you, which can, in turn, help you foster stronger connections and long-term loyalty.

While leading a team, I faced a situation where a team member was struggling to meet deadlines. Instead of jumping to conclusions, I scheduled a one-on-one meeting and listened actively. I learned about personal challenges affecting their performance by encouraging them to share their perspective. Together, we adjusted workloads and identified support strategies. Clear, empathetic communication built mutual trust and improved individual and team outcomes, reaffirming for me the importance of listening as a key leadership skill.

Listening signals respect. Whether you’re engaging with employees, clients or investors, being present and attentive can help you lay the foundation for healthier professional relationships.

2. Gathering Insights And Feedback

By truly listening, you can gather critical information to help you avoid misunderstandings, make smarter decisions and innovate more effectively. Listening is important for ensuring that no valuable feedback is overlooked that could contribute to continuous improvement.

For example, listening to customer feedback is important for learning what they want, addressing their concerns and personalizing your services to better grow their satisfaction and loyalty. Take Lego’s resurgence in the early 2000s, which involved deep listening to customer feedback, leading to successful product innovations like Lego Mindstorms.

3. Fueling Innovation And Collaboration

In my experience, groundbreaking ideas are more likely to emerge from diverse perspectives. Entrepreneurs and leaders who listen carefully can better encourage team members to share new ideas, leading to creative solutions and advancements. For instance, Satya Nadella, CEO of Microsoft, championed a “learn-it-all” culture that encouraged feedback and curiosity. By prioritizing listening, he helped lead Microsoft’s resurgence and innovation growth.

The Consequences Of Poor Listening In Business

Neglecting listening skills, on the other hand, can be costly. Failing to listen properly can lead to misaligned goals, missed deadlines and/or increased workplace tension. It can also increase your risk of overlooking critical cues from clients or team members that could potentially lead to new ventures, partnerships or innovative ideas. I recall a project where a lack of active listening during a key meeting resulted in a team member misinterpreting their responsibilities, causing delays and frustration for everyone involved.

Furthermore, employees who feel unheard are more likely to disengage, which can lead to reduced productivity and higher turnover rates. Gallup reports that disengaged employees cost businesses at least $483 billion annually. And ignoring customer feedback can lead to negative reviews and damage to the brand’s reputation. Listening actively can help prevent such situations and even reinforce the positive image of your brand.

Practical Tips To Improve Your Listening Skills

Becoming a better listener takes practice, but I have consistently found that the rewards are well worth the effort. Here are a few steps you can take to enhance your communication skills by mastering listening:

• Practice active listening. Show engagement by maintaining eye contact, nodding and providing feedback. Avoid distractions, such as checking your phone, and focus entirely on the speaker. You can even role-play conversations with mentors or peers to help refine your listening techniques.

• Embrace silence. Resist the urge to fill every silence. Pauses often lead to deeper thoughts and insights. Give people space to gather their ideas.

• Pay attention to nonverbal cues. Body language, facial expressions and tone of voice often reveal more than words. For instance, maintaining consistent eye contact generally signifies confidence and attentiveness, whereas avoiding it may indicate discomfort or disinterest. Open body posture, such as uncrossed arms and leaning slightly forward, typically suggests engagement and approachability, while crossed arms might signal defensiveness or resistance. Observe these subtle signals to gain a fuller understanding of what is being communicated.

• Ask open-ended questions. Encourage meaningful dialogue by asking questions like, “How do you see this project unfolding?” instead of closed-ended ones that limit responses.

• Stay curious. Approach conversations with curiosity rather than judgment. Assume there’s something valuable to learn from every discussion. This mindset shift can lead to unexpected insights. For example, while discussing results with my team, a junior team member raised a question about a seemingly minor discrepancy in our data. Instead of dismissing it, we explored the issue further and uncovered a miscommunication between departments that could have undermined the entire project.

• Seek feedback. Ask others how well you listen. Regular feedback can help you refine your communication skills and demonstrate your commitment to improvement.

• Take time to self-reflect. After conversations, pause to review what went well and identify areas for improvement. I also recommend studying reliable sources, such as The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen R. Covey, and/or enrolling in courses focused on communication skills.

Whether you’re leading a business, teaching a class or pitching to investors, listening can help you foster trust, minimize risk and unlock growth opportunities. Start applying these tips today and see how they can help transform your personal and professional relationships.

https://www.forbes.com/councils/forbesbusinesscouncil/2025/02/20/mastering-listening-skills-for-success-in-entrepreneurship

Business and Society: A Partnership for Progress and Impact

Posted on by Anastasia Netronev

The connection between business and society is not a choice—it is a necessity. Having worked in various industries for over 20 years, ranging from manufacturing to tech startups and now consulting, I’ve seen firsthand how businesses can drive societal change while achieving their financial goals. By focusing on shared value, businesses can turn challenges into opportunities, creating a ripple effect of positive change.

1. Businesses Thrive When Society Thrives

The mutual dependence between business and society is undeniable. Companies rely on healthy, educated communities for their workforce and customer base, while societies depend on businesses for innovation, jobs, and economic growth. For example, I once worked with a tech startup that developed software to digitize supply chains for small farmers. Initially, we saw it as a profit opportunity. However, as we trained farmers to use the system, we realized it also empowered them by improving their crop yields and income. Over time, this mutual benefit created trust and loyalty that scaled our business.

Michael Porter and Mark Kramer describe this as “creating shared value.” Nestlé provides an excellent case study. In India’s Moga district, Nestlé invested in infrastructure and training for local dairy farmers, raising the region’s standard of living. At the same time, Nestlé secured a stable supply of quality raw materials, ensuring its business success.

2. Corporate Social Responsibility: A Strategic Advantage

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) isn’t just a checkbox for businesses—it’s a long-term strategy. During my career as a business consultant, I’ve often advised clients that CSR initiatives can be a competitive advantage. For instance, a textile manufacturer I worked with in Southeast Asia struggled with public backlash due to pollution. By adopting sustainable practices, such as wastewater recycling and reducing chemical use, the company not only improved its public image but also reduced costs, attracting eco-conscious clients.

Walmart exemplifies this approach. It cut greenhouse gas emissions while lowering food prices for consumers through sustainable agricultural practices. By prioritizing initiatives that intersect business and societal needs, Walmart achieved economic and environmental benefits.

3. The Power of Innovation in Addressing Social Challenges

Businesses have unique capabilities to innovate solutions for social problems. In my own experience, one of the most rewarding projects involved a renewable energy startup aiming to bring affordable solar energy to rural areas. We combined cutting-edge technology with micro-financing options, enabling low-income households to access electricity. This not only expanded the company’s market but also transformed lives by improving education and health outcomes.

Tesla offers another inspiring example. By revolutionizing the electric vehicle industry, Tesla has addressed climate change while building a multi-billion-dollar brand. Similarly, Gildan Activewear’s eco-friendly practices in Honduras reduced environmental harm while ensuring clean water for local communities—a win-win scenario.

4. Building Ethical Foundations for Long-Term Success

Ethics and transparency are critical for any sustainable business. As a consultant, I’ve encountered companies hesitant to invest in ethical practices, fearing higher costs. However, I’ve consistently seen that businesses committed to ethics gain trust, which is invaluable in the long run. For example, I worked with a healthcare provider that implemented strict patient data privacy measures, even exceeding legal requirements. Although costly initially, this decision differentiated the company from competitors and attracted clients who valued trust.

Unilever’s commitment to sustainability offers a similar lesson. By integrating ethical principles into its core strategy—such as reducing plastic waste and ensuring fair wages—Unilever has earned consumer loyalty and boosted its brand reputation.

5. Challenges in Aligning Business Goals with Societal Needs

Despite the benefits, aligning business goals with societal needs is challenging. In one project, I helped a multinational company navigate conflicting priorities: shareholders demanded short-term profits, while stakeholders expected long-term sustainability. By emphasizing open communication and showing how sustainability could drive long-term profitability, we gradually won over skeptical investors.

This tension is a recurring theme in globalization and transparency. For instance, when companies neglect environmental or labour concerns, they risk public backlash. The 2013 Rana Plaza tragedy in Bangladesh highlighted the dangers of prioritizing profits over safety, forcing global brands to re-evaluate supply chain practices.

6. Collaborations for Greater Impact

No single entity can solve global challenges alone. Partnerships between businesses, governments, and non-profits are essential. In my consulting work, I’ve seen successful collaborations where companies pool resources to address systemic problems. For example, one retailer partnered with a non-profit to provide education programs for its workers, boosting employee retention and morale while empowering communities.

Walmart’s collaboration with the US Agency for International Development (USAID) to support smallholder farmers in Central America is a textbook case. By combining Walmart’s expertise in logistics with USAID’s agricultural programs, they improved food security and farmer incomes.

7. The Path Forward: Systemic Change

Looking ahead, businesses must integrate societal goals into their core strategies. During my career, I’ve encouraged clients to shift from reactive CSR initiatives to proactive systemic changes. For example, instead of just donating to educational charities, a client in the tech industry created a free coding platform for underprivileged students. This not only addressed skill gaps but also cultivated a future workforce aligned with the company’s needs.

Future priorities include:

  • Leveraging Technology: AI and big data can revolutionize areas like healthcare and climate modelling.
  • Promoting Circular Economies: Adopting models where resources are reused rather than discarded, as seen in IKEA’s sustainability efforts.
  • Fostering Inclusion: Ensuring economic opportunities extend to marginalized communities through fair wages and equitable hiring practices.

Conclusion

The relationship between business and society is a powerful force for progress. By embracing innovation, ethical practices, and collaboration, businesses can transform global challenges into opportunities for mutual benefit. Drawing from my own experiences and the success stories of industry leaders, it’s clear that businesses thrive when they see themselves not just as profit-makers, but as agents of positive change.

https://www.forbes.com/councils/forbesbusinesscouncil/2025/01/09/business-and-society-a-partnership-for-progress-and-impact

The Power of Brand Management

Posted on by Anastasia Netronev

In today’s fast-paced and highly competitive business environment, brand management has emerged as a crucial discipline for organizations across industries. A well-crafted brand strategy and effective brand management practices can propel a business to new heights, creating a solid and enduring connection with customers and fostering loyalty, differentiation, and long-term profitability. As the founder of a leading business consulting company, I have witnessed firsthand the transformative power of brand management, and in this article, I will delve into its fundamental principles and share some enlightening examples from my experience.

Defining Your Brand Identity:

Building a strong brand begins with clearly understanding your organization’s identity, values, and unique selling proposition. Defining your brand identity helps shape perceptions and establishes an emotional connection with your target audience. A compelling example is Apple Inc., which has masterfully crafted its brand identity around simplicity, innovation, and user experience. By consistently delivering on its brand promise, Apple has cultivated a fiercely loyal customer base and established itself as a global leader in technology.

Consistency Across Touchpoints:

Brand consistency is essential across all touchpoints, including your logo, website, advertising campaigns, customer service, or social media presence. A seamless and consistent brand experience builds trust and reinforces your brand’s values in the minds of consumers. Nike, the renowned athletic footwear and apparel company, is a prime example of consistent brand management. From its iconic swoosh logo to inspirational marketing campaigns and athlete endorsements, Nike has maintained a cohesive brand image across various touchpoints, resulting in a strong brand association with sports performance and lifestyle.

Building Brand Equity:

Brand equity is the intangible value that a brand possesses. It measures the brand’s strength and influence in the marketplace. Effective brand management enhances brand equity by investing in brand-building activities like advertising, sponsorships, and brand extensions. Coca-Cola, one of the world’s most valuable brands, has successfully built brand equity through its extensive marketing efforts, memorable advertising campaigns, and consistent brand positioning. As a result, Coca-Cola’s brand equity has become synonymous with happiness, refreshment, and timeless appeal.

Adaptability in a Changing Landscape:

Brand management is not a static process. In today’s ever-evolving business landscape, adaptability is crucial. To remain relevant, brands must stay attuned to consumer preferences, market trends, and technological advancements. An excellent example is Netflix, which initially started as a DVD-by-mail rental service but successfully transformed into a global streaming powerhouse. By recognizing the shift in consumer behavior towards digital content consumption, Netflix adapted its brand strategy, embraced technology, and revolutionized the entertainment industry.

Engaging with Your Audience:

Successful brand management involves authentic engagement with your target audience and building meaningful relationships. Social media platforms have provided businesses with an unprecedented opportunity to connect with consumers personally. Red Bull, the energy drink company, is a prime example of leveraging social media for brand engagement. Through its extreme sports content, captivating videos, and user-generated campaigns, Red Bull has created a vibrant community of brand enthusiasts, establishing a strong emotional bond with its target audience.

Brand Crisis Management:

One exemplary instance of effective brand management I witnessed involved a technology company. This company has established itself as a leader in the consumer electronics industry through consistent innovation and high-quality products. However, during intense competition, they encountered a product defect that affected many of their devices. Rather than downplaying or ignoring the problem, the company swiftly acknowledged the issue, took responsibility, and promptly initiated a comprehensive product recall and replacement program. They communicated transparently with their customers through various channels, addressing concerns and providing regular updates.

The company mitigated potential reputation damage by prioritizing customer satisfaction and maintaining open lines of communication. It demonstrated a solid commitment to its brand values, which fostered customer loyalty and trust. This type of proactive and transparent approach to brand management is a compelling example of how effectively handling crises can strengthen your company’s image and customer relationships.

Innovating and Evolving:

Successful brands continually innovate and evolve to meet changing customer needs and expectations. By staying ahead of the curve, brands can maintain a competitive edge and drive growth. Tesla, the electric vehicle manufacturer, has disrupted the automotive industry with its innovative approach to sustainable transportation. Through its cutting-edge technology, sleek designs, and visionary leadership of Elon Musk, Tesla has redefined the perception of electric vehicles, setting new standards for the industry and captivating consumers worldwide.

Brand management is an indispensable aspect of modern business strategy. It empowers organizations to shape perceptions, build meaningful consumer connections, and drive long-term success. By focusing on brand identity, consistency, equity, adaptability, audience engagement, crisis management, and innovation, businesses can harness the power of branding to create a lasting impact. The examples shared in this article illustrate the tangible benefits that effective brand management can bring. Embracing these principles and investing in brand management is a worthwhile endeavor that can yield substantial returns in today’s dynamic and competitive marketplace.

https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesbusinesscouncil/2023/07/27/the-power-of-brand-management-unlocking-success-in-the-modern-business-landscape/?sh=77938c533dfd

A Guide To International Relocation For Startup Leaders

Posted on by Anastasia Netronev

For startup business owners looking to gain the knowledge and tools needed for international relocation, I have crafted this guide with essential information on visa types and more – giving you the advantage to take your venture global. With this all in mind, let’s get started taking steps toward success.

Understanding Different Types Of Visas

The first thing you need to determine is what type of visa you and any co-founders will require. The type of visa you need will depend on various factors, including the country where you have headed and your proposed roles within the company.

Various visas are typically available to suit different business situations, so it’s essential to understand the best option for your business. Here are five types of visas commonly available to entrepreneurs:

Business visitor visa

This can be an excellent option to establish initial contacts with a potential partner or investor overseas. Business visitor visas may also allow you to attend business meetings, conferences, or other events in other countries.

Investor visa

Suppose you plan on relocating your business to another country and investing a significant amount of money into the country’s economy. In that case, you may be able to apply for an investor visa. However, to qualify, typically, you must invest a large amount of money in a business and enterprise approved as a foreign investment by the country’s government.

Work visa

Depending on the type of work visa you qualify for; you may be allowed to work and live in another country long term.

Self-employment visa

Suppose you own your own business and want to relocate it to a new country. In that case, you may be eligible for a self-employment visa that allows you to live and work in the country for an extended period. Some countries require that you have a certain amount of capital to invest before you can apply for this type of visa, while others will simply need you to prove that you have made a successful business for yourself in your home country.

Startup visa

This visa is usually offered to entrepreneurs looking to establish a new business venture in a foreign country. To qualify for this type of visa, you may need to show that you are making a solid effort to develop a successful and innovative business in the new country. Often, a startup visa will allow you to live and work in your new country. I must mention that with the Canadian Start-Up Visa, you can say goodbye to temporary visas, as it leads to permanent residency.

Once you have selected the type of business visa you will apply for, you’ll need to demonstrate that your financial assets and your company fulfill eligibility requirements. Be ready with education or work experience records, as these may also contribute to determining qualification.

My preferred option is usually a startup visa, as I’ve found it gives entrepreneurs the most outstanding amount of freedom and flexibility in terms of the type of work, they can pursue. For example, in Canada, I’ve noticed that the Canadian Start-Up Visa provides the most benefits while living and working in the country.

Finding Success In A New Country

Some argue that the team is the most critical component of a startup’s success. By assembling a talented and diverse group of people passionate about their work, you can maximize your chances of success.

But ultimately, I believe the success of a startup is determined by whether it provides value to its customers. After all, why else would people continue to pay money for your product or service if they aren’t getting anything in return?

Prepare a well-crafted business document package outlining the key highlights of what differentiates your products or services from others. Also, outline your product’s target market, competitive advantages, sales and marketing strategies, and other critical business model components. All this information will help the country’s authorities understand the opportunity and value you offer and why your company is worth approving.

Starting a business abroad is exciting, so ensure you have all your ducks in a row. Make sure to come prepared with the necessary financial resources—you’ll likely need to provide proof that they are available and accessible. Doing this diligent preparation can help ensure that setting up your company in a new location will go as smoothly as possible.

Preparing For The Challenges

I think the main challenges in business immigration-related programs include meeting the eligibility criteria, providing adequate documentation to support your application, and navigating complex regulations and processes. Moreover, starting a business in a new country can be challenging due to cultural and language barriers, unfamiliar market conditions, and legal differences.

Entrepreneurs can navigate these challenges and increase their chances of success in a new country by doing their research and seeking professional help and advice from experts familiar with the local market conditions, regulations, and legal requirements. (Disclosure: My company provides business consultation)

A lot of work goes into qualifying for a visa and starting your own business, but the rewards can be tremendous. So, if you have the ambition and drive to succeed, go for it!

Have you ever heard the saying, “A big business starts small“? This quote is often credited to Richard Branson, founder of Virgin Group, and serves as a reminder that big businesses don’t happen overnight. Starting with even just one single idea can lead to extraordinary growth and success.

The information provided here is not legal advice and does not purport to be a substitute for the legal advice of counsel on any specific matter. You should consult a licensed adviser concerning your situation for legal advice.

Things to consider doing business overseas

Posted on by Anastasia Netronev

Based on the opportunity to work with lots of businesses based in overseas locations, I have found it to be a very rewarding experience. One of the best things about working with international ventures is the chance to learn about new products and services. In my role, I often have to research new companies and industries, and this has given me a great deal of knowledge about the global marketplace. If you are thinking of starting a business overseas, there are many things to consider. To make sure your business is successful, here are some tips to follow:

Market research

Research is one of the most important things when it comes to starting a company. If you are going to invest your time and money into a business, it is important to know that the business is going to be successful. Conduct market. This will help you determine whether there is room for growth in the market and which market you should focus on.

Target customer

Next, you must determine who your target customers are. You can also find out where your customers are located and identify your competitors. Once you have identified your target audience, it will be easier to market your products and services to them.

Business Location

It is important to consider location when choosing a location for your business. You need to take into consideration what type of customer base you intend on targeting and the demographics of the area where you plan on opening your venture.

Cost

Another important factor to consider is cost. You may need to find cost-effective methods of doing business overseas. Using technology to your advantage is a great way to reduce the cost of doing business.

Video conferencing, for example, can replace the need for expensive business trips. Online collaboration tools can help teams to communicate and work together effectively, even when they are in different countries. And finally, online project management tools make it easy for businesses to coordinate activities between different offices and time zones.

Business Name

Very important to figure out what your business name should be. You should choose a name that is unique to your company but also easy to remember. You should check that your company name is available locally. If your business name is not available in the local language, you may consider choosing a different company name.

Legal

Once your company is established, you will need to register it with the government. Choose a local attorney who can help you with the paperwork and represent you during the process. You will need to obtain a license from the local government to operate your business legally.

You must decide what type of structure is right for your business. You can incorporate a company as a sole trader, a partnership, or a limited liability company. Each structure has its own advantages and disadvantages. The type of business you choose will depend on your business needs and financial circumstances.

Business Relations

It is very important to establish a good relationship with suppliers and customers from the very beginning of your business. It will make it easier for you to get the supplies you need and help grow your venture. It will also build a good reputation for your business and help you succeed in the long run. Working with local partners can be a great way to reduce costs and minimize risk when starting a business overseas. They can provide valuable insights into the local market and help you navigate the regulatory landscape.

Online Presence

As a business owner, it is important to maintain a social media presence. Social media is a great tool that you can use to connect with customers and promote your brand. You can use it to share information about your venture and engage with your followers.

Your business will need a website if you plan to market your products or services online. Additionally, you should make sure that you have a strong online presence if you decide to sell products on online marketplaces. You will need to build your website from scratch or purchase a theme from an online template store. You will need to use SEO best practices to make your website more searchable. If you want to expand your business internationally, you will need a powerful marketing strategy that will help you to reach potential customers in different countries.

Work-life balance

It is important to maintain a healthy work-life balance if you want to succeed in business. Being an entrepreneur is a lot of hard work, so you need to find ways to relax and take your mind off work. It’s important to socialize and connect with other people in your industry so you can learn from each other’s experiences. Stay motivated and positive if you want to achieve your full potential as an entrepreneur.

Helpful tools for your business

Finally, it is important to set up an accounting system to keep track of your finances. This will ensure that your company remains profitable and gives you the information you need to make informed decisions. CRM software is also a useful tool for helping you to manage customer relationships and track sales.

To sum up, it’s important not to be afraid to take chances. Building a successful business takes time and dedication. You need to be committed and have a long-term vision if you are serious about growing your business.

You need to be willing to take risks and make changes when necessary. Creating a business is something that can be rewarding but it can also be challenging at times. Don’t let the challenges of entrepreneurship discourage you from pursuing your dreams. With the right knowledge and tools, you can achieve success in your venture. Failure isn’t the end of the world but giving up is. You should be prepared to make mistakes and learn from your experience so that you can become a stronger entrepreneur over time.

https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesbusinesscouncil/2022/12/13/things-to-consider-when-doing-business-overseas/?sh=59395650f635

How To Find Investors In A Remote World

Posted on by Anastasia Netronev

These days, connecting with potential investors no longer relies solely on in-person meetings. Between social media platforms, video conferencing tools, and virtual events, it only takes one online interaction for an entrepreneur to connect with someone who can open up a wealth of funding opportunities.

With digital options being embraced by more and more people all over the world, taking advantage of these different mediums can attract the attention of potential investors virtually. To help, 15 members of the Forbes Business Council each share one strategy entrepreneurs can use to find and command the attention of investors in a remote world.

Partner With Local Business Organizations

If you’re looking for investment opportunities, now is the time. With so much money flowing into the market, investors are aggressively seeking new opportunities. Get involved with local business organizations. Take part in virtual events and never remain silent. If you’re proactive and promote your business effectively, you’ll be sure to find the right investors. – Michael Shribman, APS Global Partners Inc.

Reach Out To Known Investors In Your Space

With the transition to a remote-work world, innovators and entrepreneurs are able to identify, pitch, and close deals with investors on virtual calls with decks, ideas, and passion. With the internet’s vast ability to be our greatest resource, one can identify who is investing in their space by conducting industry research and reaching out digitally in a way that will stand out. From there, the door is open! – Christian Brown, Glewee

Find Your Market Niche

With so many options available online, no matter the economy, quality products and services will always be in high demand with both consumers and investors. These do elicit higher prices, but they also create a feeling of privilege and prestige. Exclusive and niche companies, rather than mass production and affordable products or services, bring investment attraction. – Martina Seferovic, OIP Inc.

Develop A Compelling Pitch

The key to finding investors in a remote world hinges on several things. First, create a clear and compelling pitch that articulates what problem is being solved, why it is compelling and unique, and why it will be successful. Leverage your network through social and digital channels to share your pitch and create qualified referrals. Find vetted investors through investment websites. – Jackie Shoback, 1414 Ventures

Leverage Your Network

Warm introductions remain the best route for fundraising in a digital world. The best strategy is to network with other entrepreneurs and impress them enough to get a genuine recommendation in front of their own investors. Today, networking with entrepreneurs is the easiest it’s ever been, with dozens of accelerators and communities connecting people digitally. – Tyler Weitzman, Speechify

Go Where The Investors Are

Investors are an important audience for us. We look to connect and build relationships with them where they spend their time, and like many of us, that is increasingly online. Digital events and social networks are the most common method, but we are also developing an organic strategy by creating inbound content combined with an outbound email marketing strategy. – Anand Subbaraj, Zuper

Engage On Thought Leadership Platforms

Consistent engagement on thought leadership platforms can heavily influence your chances of acquiring investors. Virtual or social impact has become the fastest route to expanding a business and brand. The more you share your knowledge on various topics that relate to your business, the greater the chances that you’ll attract growth through potential investors while also developing promising partnerships. – Makeba White Chanay, B1 Ventures & Holding

Nurture Your Relationships

Focus on relationships. Your developing network is your most valuable resource—don’t focus on monetizing it, but do focus on cultivating it. If you are an asset to those you interact with, it will be easy to ask and explore when you have needs. Building an investor network works the same way, and it can be built remotely through regular video calls and check-ins, even when you’re not raising funds. – Jeffrey Wessler, Heartbeat Health

Build An Audience That Can Double As Investors

Build your audience in a digital world, and allow them to be investors and lifetime contributors to your business. As you continue to build out and scale based on what your audience suggests, you will build trust and investment while also gaining opportunities to scale and be introduced to other resources. – Blake Van Putten, CISE

Look Into Online Investor Platforms

There are multiple investor companies and government grants that can be found online. Lately, many platforms have appeared that help startups connect with needed investors. These online platforms are a good way to start the journey of raising capital. Staying up to date with the latest technology and having your business ideas reflect that online is another must. – Oxana De Castro, FOXYLAB NEW YORK

Cater To Market Demands And Expectations

As business becomes more digital, your company will appeal to a broader set of investors. There will be fewer borders between you, your capital, and strategic support. Recognizing how this changes the criteria through which you’re evaluated is important, and catering to global expectations—based on regional market demands—is key. – Casper Rasmussen, MACH Alliance

Be Transparent About Company Values

It’s incredibly important for digital materials to be crisp, clear, and ready to share at any moment. Subtleties can get lost during virtual meetings, so your supporting documents can fill in that clarity. Regardless of where the discussions happen, the most important thing is to find investors who align with your company’s vision and corporate values. – Derek Lim Soo, Peak Power Inc.

Create A Strong Brand

One of the keys to finding investors in an ever more remote—but better connected—the world is ensuring you have a strong brand. If your narrative is compelling and your connection to your audience organic, you’ve done the hard bit. Whatever medium you use, make sure potential clients feel reassured and connected to your business. This is how you build trust. We always strive to develop and honor that. – Natalie Bellis, The Seventy-Ninth Group

Focus On Building Long-Term Relationships

In some ways, the more the world changes, the more things stay the same. While there are many digital options one can leverage to get investors’ attention, I have found that nothing is more powerful than connecting one-on-one. While that’s not “scalable,” it does allow you to go deeper to build valuable long-term relationships, gain trust and learn much more about your product and the market. – Stephen Sokoler, Journey

Commit To Forward Movement

Keep moving. People are attracted to progress and movement. The fund must grow, the portfolio must grow and our partnerships must grow. When you hit a wall, go over, below, around, or straight through it, but do not stop! – Jeremy Krell, Revere Partners

By Expert Panel®Forbs Counsil

Emulate Canada’s Immigration Policy, Ex-Minister of Immigration, Counsels World Leaders

Posted on by Anastasia Netronev

Leaders of advanced countries have been urged to emulate the friendly immigration policy of Canada.

Former Minister of Immigration and Citizenship of Canada Gerry Weiner gave the charge while delivering a keynote address at the opening session of the maiden Journalists International Forum For Migration (JIFORM) Intercontinental Migration Summit hosted by the Medgar Evers College (MEC), City University New York (CUNY) on Wednesday in Brooklyn.

Weiner, who spoke on immigration policies and emigration, urged nations to copy the friendly immigration policy of his country.

Properly managed immigration

Also an ex-Secretary to the Government in Canada, Weiner however cautioned that migration should be properly managed by both developing and developed nations with adequate provisions to lower the unemployment ratios forcing migrants to desperately search for greener pastures abroad to avoid agitation for revolution.

Gerry cautioned that migration should be properly managed by both developing and developed nations with adequate provisions to lower the unemployment ratios forcing migrants to desperately search for greener pastures abroad to avoid agitation for revolution.

Welcoming the guests, Dr. Antionette Coleman, Senior Vice President and Provost of the MEC said the institution was proud to host the event.

She pledged that the university would take migration discussion beyond the classroom and encouraged contributions to deepen policies and implementations to improve migration governance.

The President of the JIFORM about immigration

Speaking, Dr. Ajibola Abayomi, the President of the JIFORM with over 300 journalists covering migration across the continents said the summit was aimed at promoting academic inputs on migration matters, networking, robust policy on safe, orderly and regular migration among nations and individuals in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG).

He said the reappraisal of labor migration was imperative given the significant contributions of the migrants to the advancement of both low and high-income economies which recorded over $714 billion in remittances in 2019 alone and other significant improvements in the subsequent years.

“Human mobility is the fulcrum of the global economy. The theme of this summit was carefully chosen to highlight the importance and the need for a review of migration policies in several regions of the world, especially to the advantage of the migrants that are economic developers.

“Migration is a human right issue. The JIFORM since its inception in 2019 has shown tremendous commitment to fighting migration menaces and challenges like human trafficking, smuggling of migrants, sexual slavery, and irregular migration and promoting regular migration with quality information to make labor migration safe and rewarding for all.”

Dr. Ajibola said the summit would continue in America as an annual event and expressed the desire to keep the partnership with the MEC towards sustaining it.

The minister for Labour and Social Security

Alpha Timbo, the minister for Labour and Social Security, Sierra Leone who spoke on Labour Migration And Ilo Convention: Challenges And Prospects For West Africa said: “Good governance is very significant in regulating labor migration and this involves ratification of International instruments, inter nation-state collaboration or agreements. 

“The West African nations must evolve capacity building for migrant workers, training and preparation of migrants with soft and hard skills and a digitalized migration for tracking, monitoring and social protection with effective enforcement or implementation of the policies to achieve the desired objectives of safe, orderly and legal migration” the minister suggested.

In her submission on decent work strategy, Dr. Princess Ocansey, a member of the African Union Labour Migration Advisory Committee bemoaned the unemployment ratio in Africa but stated that: “Well-managed Migration can provide several solutions! From temporary circular migration opportunities to strategically positioned remittances to fix emerging forex issues and more.”

“The African Development Bank stated that one-third of Africa’s almost 420 million millennial-aged 15 to 35 are unemployed and discouraged, another third are insecurely employed, and only one in six are employed on a salary basis. This is a ticking time bomb! A security issue our governments must not overlook.

What we need

 “We need a mindset change for our youth to become creative job creators- instead of sitting and waiting for nonexistent jobs, especially in the post covid era. We need a paradigm shift, shifting from working unilaterally to multilaterally all over the world – in order to make it. No longer can we be in silos – this post-pandemic era commands us to come together, to fight together, not fight each other – or we sink together” she averred.

Pastor Solomon. A. Folorunsho, the chairman of the Home for the Needy, and his counterparts from Germany, called for support for the victims of forced migration.

He drew attention to the needs of his foundation in Benin City, Nigeria taking care of over 5000 internally displaced persons and other migrants including food, drugs, funds, and scholarships.

Addressing Economy: Diversity of migration and benefits to migrants and host country Dr. Wale Idris Ajibade the Executive Director of African Views (AV), a nonprofit organization in consultative status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council advocated more tolerance for migrants from the host countries saying they had a key role to aid development.

Continental leadership awards were given to President Maada Bio of Sierra Leone, Lazarus Chakwera, the President of Malawi, Alpha Timbo, and Princes Ocansey.

The summit was moderated by Professor Byron Price, and Raquel M. Bennett both from the MEC, and Dr. Ajibola Abayomi.

The need to restructure labor migration across the continents topped discussions at the opening session.

The 3-day hybrid summit was themed: Appraising Human Mobility And Security: Prospects And the New Challenges Of Labour Migration Post-Pandemic Era had arrays of speakers from across the continents in attendance.

By; RAYMOND TEDUNJAYE, Lagos

Emulate Canada’s Friendly Immigration Policy, Ex- Minister Counsels World Leaders

Canada’s tech entrepreneurship and the Startup Visa are paying off

Posted on by Anastasia Netronev

Canada is the world’s leader in technology entrepreneurship. Last year, Canada invested more than $650 million in innovation Startup companies through the government’s Business Development of Canada (BDC). This money has leveraged more than $6 billion of private investment and created 50,000 jobs across the country.

Since 2012, the BDC has invested in Canadian technology companies, enabling them to get off the ground and launch their business. Through its Working Capital Funds and its Export Development Canada program, the BDC has supported over 2,600 Startup companies. It was done to help them achieve significant growth. Additionally, the government is committed to investing in innovation that will help improve the lives of Canadians.

One of the reasons for Canadian success is attracting and forging a depth quality of talent. More broadly, Canada continues to attract a steady influx of diverse, ambitious immigrants from across the globe that add significant value to our talent pool.

Why it matters:

Technology companies are driving economic growth in Canada and around the world. Investing in innovative technologies and Startups will ensure that Canada will remain at the forefront of this increasingly global digital economy. And this is how the Startup Visa program is coming in handy for the Canadian government.

Solution: Startup Visa

To boost the economy, the Canadian federal government has created an innovative program. This program is for foreign entrepreneurs that wish to launch their Startup business in Canada. Through the Startup Visa program, eligible applicants receive a permanent residence if the business meets the criteria requirements.

Canada’s prominence on the world stage in this sector is growing rapidly. Our ability to compete on a global scale is a testament to the importance of maintaining a robust innovation ecosystem in this country.

Attracting more investment capital and ensuring that Startup companies have the support they need to succeed is the important thing.

Come and join the Canadian Startup Hub today! To grow, expand and merge your business in the Canadian market!

Cutting-edge statistics on Canadian entrepreneurs and the SUV program.

Posted on by Anastasia Netronev

Entrepreneurs play a vital role in the Canadian economy. They use their skills and initiative to extract value, start businesses, and provide employees with jobs. SUV program is one example of an entrepreneurship initiative that has had a positive impact on the Canadian economy.

The Start-Up Visa program helps entrepreneurs to start and grow their businesses by providing them with access to capital, mentorship, and other resources. In addition to the SUV program, there are many other ways in which entrepreneurs contribute to the Canadian economy. They help to create new products and services, start new businesses, and drive innovation. Entrepreneurs are an essential part of the Canadian economy, and we need their skills and initiative to continue to prosper.

Exciting Facts

-We have approximately 3.5 million entrepreneurs across Canada.
-58% of Canadian entrepreneurs are university-educated.
-Young Canadian entrepreneurs who have had an operating business for less than a year may receive loans of up to $60,000.
-Canadians between the ages of 25 and 44 are most likely to start their own businesses.
-Entrepreneurs need to work no less than 70 hours a week to succeed.
-Approximately 20 percent of startups fail in their first year, while 60 percent fail in the first three years.

SUV program is for those who want to start their own innovative business in Canada. The Start-Up Visa program is a great opportunity for entrepreneurs to get their businesses off the ground. When it comes to Canada’s latest entrepreneur statistics, we can safely say that the long-term, post-COVID outlook is pretty good.

SUV program and entrepreneurship

The Start-Up Visa program is one of the reasons why entrepreneurship will continue to thrive in the Great White North. It helps entrepreneurs access the market quickly and efficiently by providing them with resources and support.

In addition, the SUV program also helps startups to create effective strategies to stay on the market. It has been successful in helping many startups to grow and become successful. As a result, the SUV program will continue to play a significant role in the success of entrepreneurship in the Great White North.

The Start-Up Visa program is a great way for entrepreneurs to get started in Canada.

What is LOS and how do you get it?

Posted on by Anastasia Netronev

LOS, or Letters of Support, are provided by designated entities that invest in or support start-ups. These entities need to be approved by the Canadian government in order to provide LOS under Canada’s Start-Up Visa program.

Why is LOS so important?

LOS is an important part of the application process for entrepreneurs applying for a start-up visa. The Letter Of Support shows that there is interest and investment in the applicant’s business venture. Without LOS, it would be impossible for entrepreneurs to demonstrate that their business idea is viable and has potential for growth under the Start-Up Visa program.

The letter or letters of support are provided by the designated organization to the applicant or applicants themselves. There can be up to 5 co-applicants for each business application under the Start-Up Visa program. A letter of support must be provided to each one of those applicants.

What does a Letter Of Support include?

A letter of support is documentation from a designated organization that proves the entrepreneur’s business idea has been reviewed and approved. The LOS contains information about:

-the designated organization,

-the commitment certificate,

-the applicant, and

-the team heading up the proposed business venture.

The LOS is an important part of the application process because it demonstrates to the immigration officer that the entrepreneur has taken the time to develop a well-thought-out business and has secured the support of a credible organization.

What do you do with LOS?

The LOS is then included by the entrepreneur in his or her application for permanent residence under the Start-Up Visa program.

If you are an entrepreneur looking to apply for a start-up visa, make sure to research which entities can provide LOS. Please check whether they are approved by the Canadian government. This will increase your chances of success in obtaining a start-up visa.

How can we help you?

Want to be sure that your venture will receive the Letter Of Support for the Canadian Start-Up Visa. Contact us today at info@startupcanadavisa.com. Become one of the hundreds of entrepreneurial applicants who have successfully established their businesses in Canada since applying for PR under the Start-Up Visa Program with our business consulting services.

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