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With an estimated 1.5-million faculty in the US and a near 50,000 growth in UK-based academics in the last decade (to 225,000), universities and colleges have a whole range of interests and expertise on offer. In fact, despite rumours to the contrary, academia is a large and growing global ‘industry’. If you’re responsible for external relations, communications, marketing, civic engagement, knowledge exchange - or any other aspect of external engagement or “connectedness” in a university or college - then the ability to choose which faculty experts you selectively promote and publicise can be a very tough assignment. I’ve had first-hand experience with this. I was once in that very position - trying to keep up with the opportunities and the expectations afforded by 800 academics at just the one mid-sized UK institution where I worked. With the benefit of that firsthand experience and having since worked with more than 100 higher education institutions in the UK, Europe and North America, here are a few observations and also a few tips on how to organize your expertise: Approach #1: The Focus on Expertise Clusters An approach taken by some universities nowadays is to promote their expertise as a group of “grand challenges” or “beacons of excellence” - drawing together as many areas of research expertise under (usually) three or four headings. While identifying “token clusters” of expertise for focus and prioritisation may seem logical, this approach doesn’t really work. It may help with internal politics but it fails to generate enough precision to be relevant to various communities such as the media and industry. Approach #2: Selectively Promoting Key Experts One trap that universities can also fall into is to focus on a small group of academics who appear to be more suitable to promote. The reasoning for this approach is often driven by the need to have a manageable number for internal communications/press office staff to work with. The easy route to take is to just work with academics who are more keen to work with comms staff in promoting their work and who are already at ease in speaking to the media. Selection of experts on these factors, while important, isn’t the optimal way to build up the profile for the institution with key audiences. First off, this approach often doesn’t yield the diversity that audiences such as journalists and potential student and faculty recruits want to see represented. This approach will also miss the mark if it just plays to popular disciplines or hot topics. Being more inclusive to promote a wider range of disciplines and specialized topics is better value all round. Approach #3: The Faculty “Expertise Audit” I’ve seen institutions make many mistakes in positioning their faculty as experts, given it’s a proven way to differentiate brand, build profile and reputation. That’s why I’ve started to work with several universities on what I refer to as a “faculty expertise audit”. This brings a more structured process that helps prioritize key areas of research expertise and identify specialist experts. The audit also looks at the resources and overall capacity that universities have available to support an “expertise marketing” program that optimizes all these elements to significantly boost performance. Start with The Business Case for Expertise At the heart of this more structured, targeted audit approach is ensuring you are generating “return-on-investment” and “value-for-effort.” A good starting point is to ask: Where is the budget coming from? Where is current and expected demand for your programs? When starting this assessment, you have to think longer than a year out. Instead, look very hard and in detail at the next three to five years (the typical cycle of research investment and university strategies) and identify which expertise is most likely to solve the problems and consequential explorations that governments, industry, benefactors/donors, and funding agencies will want to support. I’m not saying that research areas without such sizable levels of predicted investment should be ignored - far from it - but we are in a competitive climate and universities now have to secure ‘orders’ (for applied and contracted expertise) that will ensure institutional sustainability and success. In turn, that success will allow investment in other areas that are socially vital but financially a weaker bet as regarded by funding sources. Having proven where research funding is most available, pressing and externally directed, then the audit is designed to identify and match the institution’s research talent to these requirements. These audits involve shortlisting, enlisting and then coaching the appropriate academic experts. The best results come from one-to-one sessions with academics which create buy-in and yield a more detailed marketing plan to leverage your experts. While more inclusive, this is an efficient process designed to create a “shared roadmap” for where the university and the academic both want to take their expertise. A large part of this roadmap then covers off other important activities such as creating a more discoverable and engaging online presence with enriched academic profiles that perform far better than the traditional “faculty directory.” Keeping online academic profiles fresh, content-rich, jargon-free, and compelling makes the job of expert ‘mining’ so much easier. Developing a sustained program of content with an organized lead generation process is also necessary. These extra steps are where many universities miss the mark. The result is a significant loss of inbound opportunities for research grants, consulting revenues, academic collaborations as well as local and global media coverage. I recently spoke with a Vice Chancellor of a prominent UK University who admitted that they as an institution deserved a failing grade when it came to promoting their faculty research achievements, saying that he “doubted any of their academics would be happy with the way their work was being promoted online.” This is an important aspect of the faculty audit. As a consultative process, it is non-threatening and we’re listening to staff and academics. That not only enriches the information the University has to promote its brand better, it also helps to enlist the support of the academic community who see that the university cares and that it is getting their input to put together a plan – both for the university and for individual academics. The academic is happy (they understand the value for them personally and for their institution); the University is happy (it is able to focus and prioritise its expertise in an evidence-based manner), and Communications and press office staff are happy (they have so more to work with in connecting the work of the University to a variety of local and global communities). The Benefits of A Faculty Audit Having completed many of these, I’ve seen very clearly, the results of a well run Faculty Audit process that without exception yield an excellent return on investment. Here are just some of the benefits to consider: Greater Insights: Gain a deeper understanding of the hidden strengths and opportunities within your academic ranks. Better Planning: A detailed report from a Faculty Audit enables a more strategic approach to planning where faculty research and expertise can support various programs within the University - such as industry engagement, media coverage and recruitment. Building Trust: When conducted by a third-party, a Faculty Audit is seen as more credible and less prone to perceptions of internal bias. More Engaged Faculty: Increased collaboration with faculty is gained through a more consultative process that builds “shared awareness” and enables more proactive support of their research. Increased Capacity: Producing more proactive content with faculty yields better results in terms of media coverage, research engagements, etc. Demonstrate Diversity: A better understanding of expertise that goes beyond the “usual suspects” to engaging a more diverse set of faculty to promote the University. News Coverage: Positioning your faculty and their research in a more relevant way aligns with the interests of the outside world and what's on the mind of outsiders. Less Stress: A more proactive, well structured plan helps everyone to synchronise activities better versus scrambling too much to meet deadlines in the “here and now.” Is a Faculty Audit Right for Your Institution? Here are some key considerations when evaluating the value of a Faculty Audit for your institution. You are ideally suited to undertake a faculty expertise audit if: You have a stretched workload where there's little capacity for proactive comms. You're tending to turn to the same academics for expert commentary in the media or elsewhere. You tend to get complaints (or mild mutterings) about not supporting academics enough. You don't have time to get to know the range of academic experts in your institution - especially new arrivals or eager early career academics. You've adopted an 'inside out approach' rather than one that engages with the interests of the outside world and what's on the mind of outsiders. There's weak management of expectations with the academic community - and a need for clarity and shared pathways for publicity. You're operating too much in the here and now and don't have the time to plan for future events, milestones and opportunities. You want to be more strategic in your comms and engagement - and make a real difference via attracting interest, income and investment. You don't have an integrated approach to comms (where content can be repurposed and recycled). You want more global reach and presence and can exploit digital tools to enable this. Additional Resources Academic Experts and the Media (PDF) This report, based on detailed interviews with some of the most media-experienced academics across the UK and United States draws on their experiences to identify lessons they can share in encouraging other academics to follow in their path. Download the UK Report Here Download the US Report Here The Complete Guide to Expertise Marketing for Higher Education (PDF) Expertise Marketing is the next evolution of content marketing. Build value by mobilizing the hidden people, knowledge and content you already have at your fingertips. This win-win solution not only gives audiences better quality content, but it also lets higher ed organizations show off their smarts. Download Your Copy Click Here for Additional Resources
Advertising has evolved. Let our expert explain the power of innovative marketing
Late last month, Nike once again shook up the marketing landscape with a jaw-dropping new 3D billboard in Japan. It's a concept that has turned the traditional billboard into something almost out of this world. The move has once again elevated Nike as a leader in marketing. Augusta University's Dr. Christopher McKinney, associate vice president for innovation commercialization, answers a few questions for anyone looking to know more about this marketing innovation. Are you surprised how fast the landscape is changing when it comes to emerging media? Not at all. The increases both in computing power and graphics processing unit power are transforming what we can do. Now that the door of opportunity is more widely open, we’re seeing great new ways to use that power in marketing. The new Nike 3D billboard seems to be a game changer when it comes to advertising. Do you see this gaining traction as a trend that will continue? Do you see them going even further with this and how so? I do see this as a trend that will continue and even accelerate. Nike has thrown down the gauntlet; others will be trying to “one-up” Nike. Beyond the graphic elements, we’ll see ever more clever uses of 3D sound in some marketing applications. In more traditional billboard settings, the brightness, clarity and realism will improve to the point where it will be increasingly difficult to differentiate animation from what looks like a real-life image. The advent of CG in general is always changing. What's next in that realm? With the growth of virtual reality and augmented reality, we’ll see increasing applications in the home and workplace that take advantage of the VR/AR technologies. This will be especially important in areas such as education, accommodation of disabilities and entertainment. What does the future hold? In the next decade, we likely will see more tailored marketing using these CG-mediated technologies. Marketing is an ever-evolving tool used by businesses of every size and in every community. If you are a reporter looking to learn more about what's next in marketing, then let us help. McKinney specializes in marketing and commercializing innovative new technologies. He is available to speak with media; simply click on his icon to arrange an interview today.
Ask an #Expert - Is there any way to temper America's boiling housing market?
U.S. HOUSING PRICES STILL RISING ALONG WITH MORTGAGE RATES When mortgage rates rise, home prices tend to level off or decline because fewer people can afford to buy. Experts are counting on that adage to help cool the nation’s torrid housing market. But the latest analysis of the most overvalued markets shows prices still are climbing despite the increasing mortgage rates, which last week reached their highest level in more than three years. In all 100 markets surveyed by researchers at Florida Atlantic University and Florida International University, buyers continue to pay higher premiums – that’s the difference between where home prices should be based on historical trends and where they are now. Two months ago, Los Angeles, Provo, Utah and other metro areas in the Western part of the country developed “pricing crowns,” an indication that those housing markets could be slowing. But home values have since reaccelerated, prompting concern that a looming downturn in some areas could be worse than expected. “Eventually mortgage rates will slow down home prices, but it hasn’t happened so far,” said Ken H. Johnson, Ph.D., an economist in FAU’s College of Business. “We should not see rapid upticks in prices as mortgage rates rise. It’s that kind of exuberance that led to past housing downturns.” Boise, Idaho is the nation’s most overvalued housing market, as it has been since the researchers first released their rankings last summer. At the end of February, Boise buyers were paying an average price of $513,849, even though historical trends indicate the average price should be $291,389. That 76.34 percent premium is well ahead of No. 2 Austin, Texas (64.80 percent). The full rankings with interactive graphics can be found here. Charlotte, North Carolina entered the top 10 overvalued markets for the first time with a premium of 50.14 percent. February’s average home price in Charlotte was $353,106, although a history of past sales suggests that price should be $235,188. “Charlotte’s significant and rapidly growing premium is similar to other Southern metros that are all experiencing fast price appreciation,” said Eli Beracha, Ph.D., of FIU’s Hollo School of Real Estate. “The drivers of this appear to be large population increases in these areas combined with a significant shortage in housing inventory.” Each month, Johnson and Beracha rank the most overvalued housing markets of America’s 100 largest metros, similar to the popular S&P CoreLogic Case-Shiller home price index. Johnson and Beracha incorporate average or expected price changes and provide an estimate of how much a market’s housing stock is over- or undervalued, relative to its historic pricing. The data covers single-family homes, townhomes, condominiums and co-ops. Six Florida metros, led by Lakeland, all rank among the nation’s 25 most overvalued markets with premiums of more than 40 percent. The Miami metro, with a premium of nearly 25 percent, remains the least overvalued market in the Sunshine State. As the U.S. housing market cools, metros with strong population gains and shortages of homes for sale will fare best, although those markets will continue to struggle with affordability, the researchers predict. Metros with flat or falling populations and more available homes for sale could face price declines, making those areas more attainable for young families and first-time buyers. Johnson said consumers could be taking big risks if they jump into the U.S. housing market now. “We are near the peak of the current housing cycle, and you never want to buy near the top of the market,” he said. “Consumers need to pause if their main motivation is to buy because they fear prices will rise even higher. Prices are high now, but they always moderate back toward a long-term pricing trend. Perhaps staying where you are now and letting this irrational market settle would be one of the best decisions you could make.” Ken Johnson is the associate dean and professor in the College of Business at Florida Atlantic University. Ken is available to speak to media about this topic – simply click on his icon to arrange an interview and time.
Sweeteners may be linked to increased cancer risk – new research
Sweeteners have long been suggested to be bad for our health. Studies have linked consuming too many sweeteners with conditions such as obesity, type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. But links with cancer have been less certain. An artificial sweetener, called cyclamate, that was sold in the US in the 1970s was shown to increase bladder cancer in rats. However, human physiology is very different from rats, and observational studies failed to find a link between the sweetener and cancer risk in humans. Despite this, the media continued to report a link between sweeteners and cancer. But now, a study published in PLOS Medicine which looked at over 100,000 people, has shown that those who consume high levels of some sweeteners have a small increase in their risk of developing certain types of cancer. To assess their intake of artificial sweeteners, the researchers asked the participants to keep a food diary. Around half of the participants were followed for more than eight years. The study reported that aspartame and acesulfame K, in particular, were associated with increased cancer risk – especially breast and obesity-related cancers, such as colorectal, stomach and prostate cancers. This suggests that removing some types of sweeteners from your diet may reduce the risk of cancer. Cancer risk Many common foods contain sweeteners. These food additives mimic the effect of sugar on our taste receptors, providing intense sweetness with no or very few calories. Some sweeteners occur naturally (such as stevia or yacon syrup). Others, such as aspartame, are artificial. Although they have few or no calories, sweeteners still have an effect on our health. For example, aspartame turns into formaldehyde (a known carcinogen) when the body digests it. This could potentially see it accumulate in cells and cause them to become cancerous. Our cells are hard-wired to self-destruct when they become cancerous. But aspartame has been shown to “switch off” the genes that tell cancer cells to do this. Other sweeteners, including sucralose and saccharin, have also been shown to damage DNA, which can lead to cancer. But this has only been shown in cells in a dish rather than in a living organism. Sweeteners can also have a profound effect on the bacteria that live in our gut. Changing the bacteria in the gut can impair the immune system, which could mean they no longer identify and remove cancerous cells. But it’s still unclear from these animal and cell-based experiments precisely how sweeteners initiate or support cancerous changes to cells. Many of these experiments would also be difficult to apply to humans because the amount of sweetener was given at much higher doses than a human would ever consume. The results from previous research studies are limited, largely because most studies on this subject have only observed the effect of consuming sweeteners without comparing against a group that hasn’t consumed any sweeteners. A recent systematic review of almost 600,000 participants even concluded there was limited evidence to suggest heavy consumption of artificial sweeteners may increase the risk of certain cancers. A review in the BMJ came to a similar conclusion. Although the findings of this recent study certainly warrant further research, it’s important to acknowledge the study’s limitations. First, food diaries can be unreliable because people aren’t always honest about what they eat or they may forget what they have consumed. Although this study collected food diaries every six months, there’s still a risk people weren’t always accurately recording what they were eating and drinking. Though the researchers partially mitigated this risk by having participants take photos of the food they ate, people still might not have included all the foods they ate. Based on current evidence, it’s generally agreed that using artificial sweeteners is associated with increased body weight – though researchers aren’t quite certain whether sweeteners directly cause this to happen. Although this recent study took people’s body mass index into account, it’s possible that changes in body fat may have contributed to the development of many of these types of cancers – not necessarily the sweeteners themselves. Finally, the risk of developing cancer in those who consumed the highest levels of artificial sweeteners compared with those who consumed the lowest amounts was modest – with only at 13% higher relative risk of developing cancer in the study period. So although people who consumed the highest amounts of sweetener had an increased risk of developing cancer, this was still only slightly higher than those with the lowest intake. While the link between sweetener use and diseases, including cancer, is still controversial, it’s important to note that not all sweeteners are equal. While sweeteners such as aspartame and saccharin may be associated with ill health, not all sweeteners are. Stevia, produced from the Stevia rebaudiana plant, has been reported to be useful in controlling diabetes and body weight, and may also lower blood pressure. The naturally occurring sugar alcohol, xylitol, may also support the immune system and digestion. Both stevia and xylitol have also been shown to protect from tooth decay, possibly because they kill bad oral bacteria. So the important choice may be not the amount of sweetener you eat but the type you use.
MEDIA RELEASE: Less than a week left to vote for Ontario's Worst Roads
With just six days left for Ontarians to vote in the annual CAA Worst Roads campaign, CAA South Central Ontario (SCO) continues to call on motorists, cyclists and pedestrians to nominate their worst road. “CAA research indicates that 41 per cent of Ontarians have had their vehicles damaged from poor road conditions, however most (82 per cent), did not take action by either filing a claim with their insurance company or a damage claim as part of their municipality/province. CAA Worst Roads campaign gives Ontarians an easy way to let their politicians know what roads are important to fix,” says Teresa Di Felice, assistant vice-president, government and community relations for CAA SCO. “Our research also shows us that despite the frustration associated with construction delays, most Ontarians (88 per cent) are willing to incur some inconvenience to have better roads.” Contenders for the provincial top 10 list reflect a number of communities across Ontario, including Hamilton, Toronto, Prince Edward County, and Mississauga. Some of the biggest complaints from voters so far are potholes, poor road maintenance, poor cycling infrastructure, unpaved roads. Once voting closes, CAA will compile a list of the top 10 Worst Roads in Ontario, along with a series of regional top five lists across the province. Collectively, the campaign results will help to shine a light on the state of roads in communities across Ontario. Nominations for CAA's Worst Roads can be cast at caaworstroads.com until April 19th, results will be announced in June.
Networking tips for newcomers to Canada
As a newcomer, networking can be your gateway to the Canadian job market. It gives you an opportunity to understand the employment landscape, plan your career path based on insights from other professionals, and identify mentors who can guide you and offer moral support during your job search. However, the benefits of networking go beyond just landing your first job. As you advance in your professional career, you may be able to leverage your network to find future opportunities or build your own team. Networking is essential no matter where you are in your professional journey. This article covers some networking tips to help newcomers to Canada get a headstart in their career. Focus on quality, not quantity Building a network from scratch in Canada can be a stressful, time-consuming process. Many newcomers mistakenly believe that the more connections they make, the better their network will be. However, it is the strength of your network that truly matters, not the size. Rather than sending dozens of LinkedIn connections requests every day, spend some time identifying professionals who are in organizations or roles you’d like to work in and individuals you find inspiring. Strategic networking will reduce the time and effort you need to invest in building connections and improve the quality of insights you can extract. More importantly, it’ll make it easier to follow up and stay in regular touch with the people in your network. Know what you have to offer Networking is about sharing: giving and receiving. Before you start networking, think of the value you can offer your network. Helping others is a great way of building meaningful relationships and positioning yourself as a potential candidate. People are also more likely to remember someone who offers to help them, rather than someone who is seeking their support. There are numerous ways in which you can bring value to your network, including through problem-solving, providing guidance on a specific subject or skill, connecting them to someone in your network, or offering your support for executing a project. Find networking platforms you’re comfortable with Networking may not look the same for everyone. While some people might be outgoing and social, others may be more reserved. If you’re an introvert and prefer smaller or less formal social settings, you can look for networking settings you’re most comfortable with. There are a variety of networking platform options you can use. Social and professional networking events If you’re an extrovert and do well in a group setting, in-person or virtual networking events might be the best option for you. Keep track of networking events on websites like Eventbrite and Meetup and those organized by industry associations. If you’re still assessing your comfort level around large groups, look for events that have limited seats or breakout sessions with smaller groups. Social networking and blogs Social media platforms and blogs are a great way to connect with and engage with people you’d like to add to your network. While LinkedIn is usually the go-to platform for building a network, you can also use other social networking sites or apps like Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and Clubhouse to connect with professionals. In-person or virtual coffee chats Once you’ve connected with someone at an event or social network, ask if they’re willing to meet you for a one-on-one coffee chat. A coffee chat, also known as an informational interview, is an informal meeting with an experienced professional to get insights on their organization, industry, or role. Whether you want to learn about the Canadian job market or the hiring process of a particular company, be sure to go prepared with a goal and a list of relevant questions you want to ask. When you do hear of opportunities, or begin applying for jobs, coffee chats are also a useful way of getting insights on the recruitment process and the company values or culture to help you prepare for interviews and determine if the position is a good fit for you. Volunteering If you prefer meeting people in a work setting, rather than a social one, volunteering can be an excellent way to network. People in all stages of their career volunteer in Canada, so these opportunities give you a chance to meet like-minded professionals, showcase your skills in practice, and build long-lasting relationships. Survival jobs, side hustles, and other jobs Many newcomers think of survival jobs and side hustles as just a means to earn extra money, but these can also be great networking opportunities. If you’re working in a field that aligns with your professional interests or meeting people from different backgrounds, you might be able to make some valuable connections. Similarly, the contacts you make in your professional roles might be useful later in subsequent jobs. Be sure to stay in touch with your professional connections throughout your career. Leverage existing connections Before you set out to build your network from scratch, check if you have any existing connections in Canada. These could be friends, relatives, alumni from your school, or former colleagues from your home country who’ve also moved to Canada. Building meaningful relationships through networking takes time, so tapping into existing connections first can help you speed things up. You can ask your existing connections to introduce you to other professionals in their network or refer you for job opportunities. They might also be able to help you create an impressive Canadian-style resume or share insights from their own job search experience. Set networking goals for greater discipline If you find it hard to set aside dedicated time for building a network, a goal-based approach might help. As a newcomer, you should ideally be meeting three or four new people each week, but this can vary based on your schedule and objectives. Setting concrete goals will help you prioritize networking alongside your job search and other daily tasks. Your goals can focus on the number of meetings (including follow-ups) you intend to take each week, new connection requests, priority industries or organizations, and information you’re looking to gather from your network. They can also be centred on making yourself a more valuable connection by sharing relevant content on platforms like LinkedIn or offering support to others. Be sure to set realistic, measurable, and incremental networking goals that encourage you to step out of your comfort zone, without causing stress. Adopt a consultative approach to networking It’s always better to adopt a “consultative approach” to networking as opposed to a sales approach. The difference is that you seek to understand before demanding to be understood and you listen and learn before expecting to be heard. It is quite natural as a newcomer to be focused on addressing your immediate need of finding a job. However, if you come across as pushy, the doors you’re trying to open will close and you’ll lose out on potentially valuable professional connections. Changing your approach to networking meetings can dramatically change the outcomes. Prepare and refine your elevator pitch An elevator pitch is a 20 to 30 second introduction that highlights your expertise and area of interest. A good elevator pitch is positive and conversational, and includes a question or call to action, so that your connection can respond to it. It can take a while to perfect your elevator pitch, so keep refining it based on the feedback and reactions you get. If you have a mentor, you can ask them to help you refine your pitch. In Canada, people are generally very open to providing tips on how to enhance your elevator pitch or better present yourself. Don’t go in looking for a job It is true that, as a newcomer, networking can help you access the hidden job market in Canada. However, there is so much more that networking can do for you. The most important thing to keep in mind is that networking is not meant to be transactional, so don’t expect that your professional connections will be willing to give you a job or referral as soon as you meet. By going into networking meetings with a “give me a job” mindset, you might lose out on the opportunity to improve your networking skills, understand the job market, and learn from other people’s career journey. You will also not be able to build meaningful connections with potential mentors who can help you increase your employability. Keep the conversation alive The most important part of networking comes after you’ve made the initial connection. Send thank-you notes after someone connects with you on LinkedIn and after coffee chats to keep the conversation going. It’s a good practice to keep track of what you discussed during each networking meeting, so you can refer back to your notes during follow up. This also helps you remember your connections’ interests and create a stronger bond. Keep in touch with your network and follow up at regular intervals through meetings or email. You can also keep the conversation alive by engaging with their social media posts and sharing information that would be interesting or relevant for them. If you’re seeking support from your network for your job search, be sure to keep them updated about any changes to your professional situation. Don’t let what others are doing discourage you Your goals and approach for building a network may not be the same as those of your friends or acquaintances in Canada. Just because someone else is meeting 10-12 people each week or opting to attend in-person networking events doesn’t mean that’s the only approach, or the right one for you. You might have very different schedules, objectives, and comfort levels with meeting new people, or work in different fields. Regardless of how many meetings you choose to do or the platform you pick, make sure that you have enough time to prepare and follow up with everyone in your network. Don’t be discouraged if someone else manages to get a referral or job through their network before you do. As long as you invest the time and effort to nurture your professional relationships, networking will add value and lead you closer to your career goals. For many newcomers to Canada, networking is a professional skill they may be new to, and building a network in your new country might take time. Whether you are just starting your career, exploring a different professional path, or transitioning into a new role, these networking tips will help you build strong, lasting professional connections to guide you through your career in Canada. Original article located here, published by Arrive. About Arrive Arrive is powered by RBC Ventures Inc, a subsidiary of Royal Bank of Canada. In collaboration with RBC, Arrive is dedicated to helping newcomers achieve their life, career, and financial goals in Canada. An important part of establishing your financial life in Canada is finding the right partner to invest in your financial success. RBC is the largest bank in Canada* and here to be your partner in all of your financial needs. RBC supports Arrive, and with a 150-year commitment to newcomer success in Canada, RBC goes the extra mile in support and funding to ensure that the Arrive newcomer platform is FREE to all.
Questions about colon cancer? Our experts are here to help with your coverage
Every year, National Colorectal (colon) Cancer Awareness Month is observed during the month of March in an effort to raise awareness of the importance for colon cancer screenings. The recognition offers health care providers the opportunity to educate the general public about a disease that can be preventable, but can sometimes be seen as difficult for patients to discuss with their doctors. In the spirit of education, one of Augusta University’s experts has provided some insight into the subject of colon cancer. Dr. Asha Nayak-Kapoor is an associate professor of medicine in the Division of Hematology/Oncology in the Department of Medicine at the Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University. Nayak is certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine in Hematology and Oncology Specialties. Q: What are the primary risk factors for colon cancer? “Risk factors for colon cancer include: being overweight or obese, not being physically active, certain types of diets, smoking, alcohol use, being older, a personal history of colorectal polyps or colorectal cancer, a personal history of inflammatory bowel disease, a family history of colorectal cancer or adenomatous polyps, having an inherited syndrome. Common symptoms of colorectal cancer include: bloody stool or rectal bleeding, an ongoing change in bowel habits (diarrhea, constipation, chance in stool consistency), abdominal pain or cramping, gas or persistent abdominal discomfort, you feel like your bowels are not voiding completely, weakness, fatigue, or unexplained weight loss.” Q: How can a person protect themselves from the risks of colon cancer? “Colon cancer is largely preventable if patients undergo screening tests, like a surveillance colonoscopy starting at 45 years or earlier depending on family history. Many lifestyle-related factors have been linked to colorectal cancer. In fact, the links between diet, weight, and exercise and colorectal cancer risk are some of the strongest for any type of cancer. Getting to and staying at a healthy weight may help lower your risk. A diet that's high in red meats (such as beef, pork, lamb, or liver) and processed meats (like hot dogs and some luncheon meats) raises your colorectal cancer risk. Cooking meats at very high temperatures (frying, broiling, or grilling) creates chemicals that might raise your cancer risk. It’s not clear how much this might increase your colorectal cancer risk. Stop smoking. It is best not to drink alcohol. People with a history of colorectal cancer in a first-degree relative (parent, sibling, or child) are at increased risk. The risk is even higher if that relative was diagnosed with cancer when they were younger than 50, or if more than one first-degree relative is affected.” Q: It sometimes seems that colon cancer prevention is aimed more towards men compared to women, but cancer.org lists the risks at 1 in 23 (4.3%) for men and 1 in 25 (4.0%) for women. Is there a reason why perhaps a stigma about colon cancer affecting men more has been created? “According to focus group studies, it can be seen as a taboo topic that is uncomfortable to discuss, and it is not discussed as openly in public as prostate and breast cancer screenings. It can seem embarrassing or humiliating, and can be seen as distasteful dealing with prolonged bowel preparation.” Nayak is a member of several committees, including Onyx and Bayer Speaker Bureau for Nexavar, MCG Cancer Center Molecular Oncology Programme, and MCG Cancer Center Gastrointestinal Tumor Board Committee. If you are a journalist looking to know more about colorectal cancer and would like to speak with an expert for your stories, then let us help. Nayak is available to speak with media about this important subject. Simply click on her icon now to arrange an interview today.
How to network virtually: What newcomers in Canada need to know
Newcomers to Canada already faced an uphill task of adjusting to their new life and starting a career in Canada, but COVID-related restrictions made things even harder. However, after an initial period of adjustment, virtual networking and remote job interviews have become the norm. Now, even with COVID-19 restrictions easing and people getting vaccinated, some aspects of the “new normal” are expected to continue for the foreseeable future. Due to its relative convenience, virtual networking will likely remain a popular means of building professional connections. This article covers key aspects of how to network virtually and the things you need to know about virtual networking for professional success as a newcomer in Canada. Advantages of virtual networking Start building your Canadian network before you land Before the COVID-19 pandemic, networking was mostly done in-person, which meant that newcomers to Canada could only start building their network after arriving in the country. However, with virtual networking, newcomers have the opportunity to start building their network well in advance of their arrival in Canada. You can start attending virtual networking events or meeting people for online coffee chats while preparing for your move. It can take months to cultivate meaningful professional relationships, so the sooner you start, the better prepared you’ll be to enter the Canadian job market when you land. Opportunity to look beyond your city One major disadvantage of in-person networking is that it geographically limits the people you can meet. With virtual networking, you can connect with experts or professionals, regardless of where they live. If you’re still preparing for your arrival, this gives you a chance to speak to people in different cities and figure out where the best job opportunities are for your industry in Canada. You can also learn about different job markets within Canada and plan your career path based on insights from a more geographically diverse set of people. The convenience of networking from home Attending events and networking meetings is time-consuming. By networking virtually, you can save the time it would take you to travel to the event venue or meeting place. This means that you can accommodate more coffee chats in a day and build your network faster. Many newcomers find it much easier to network from the comfort of their homes, compared to the unfamiliar and chaotic environment of a coffee shop. Since you are the person requesting the meeting, it is expected that you’ll be paying the bill for coffee during in-person meetings. These amounts can quickly add up and might impact your budget, especially if you’re meeting several people each week. In most cases, virtual meetings are also more convenient for the professionals you’re meeting, so your acceptance rate for virtual coffee chats may be higher than for in-person meetings. Easier to follow up and stay in touch Once you’ve made a connection and had an introductory meeting, it is important that you stay in touch with your new contact. However, as your network grows larger, it can become challenging to follow up with everyone on a regular basis—especially if you’re doing these meetings in-person. It’s much easier to stay connected and engage virtually over follow up coffee chats, emails, or social media. This will allow you to follow up more often and build stronger, more meaningful connections. How to build your network virtually as a newcomer in Canada Whether you’re looking to network or find a job, it is important that you keep your LinkedIn profile up-to-date. Your Linked In profile will likely be the first thing people see when they connect with you. Unlike a resume, which is customized for each job, your LinkedIn profile should be generic and should highlight all your skills, experiences, and certifications. Be sure to use a professional headshot and grab people’s attention with a compelling headline. Use LinkedIn’s advanced search filters to find new connections based on their organization, job title, and other criteria. Always personalize your LinkedIn connection request messages. You can also increase your visibility and promote your personal brand by being active on LinkedIn. Post, share, and engage with relevant content to get noticed by other professionals. Interact over social media As a newcomer, LinkedIn is not the only social network you can use to build a network. You can also find professionals you’d like to connect with on Twitter and initiate a conversation. Depending on your industry, Instagram and Facebook groups might be useful platforms for networking—but make sure your profile is professional! Clubhouse is another app where you can virtually meet and share ideas with like-minded people, listen to expert speakers, and ask questions. If your initial interactions go well, ask for a follow up coffee chat to take the conversation forward. Online networking platforms and virtual events Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, most networking events have moved to a virtual setting. Virtual networking platforms bring together people from similar industries and give you an opportunity to start making connections. Events hosted by industry associations are a great place to meet other professionals in your field. You can also find virtual networking events for different industries and interests on websites like Eventbrite and Meetup. Arrive webinars and workshops are also a great place to learn from and connect with experts. Leave a positive impression on others attending the networking session by behaving professionally and asking intelligent questions. Virtual coffee chats Online coffee chats (also called informational interviews) using tools like Zoom, Google Meet, and Webex, are a great way to build your network virtually. Once you’ve connected with someone on LinkedIn or at a virtual networking event, ask if they’d be open to a one-on-one meeting. Virtual coffee chats give you an opportunity to introduce yourself to established professionals in your industry, showcase your skills, and position yourself as an ideal candidate for future job openings. You can also seek recommendations on other people you should add to your network. If you’re looking for information about a specific organization, role, or industry, informational interviews can be particularly helpful. Be sure to do your research beforehand and have a list of questions ready. Reactivate your existing network As a newcomer, you’ll have to start building your network from scratch in Canada. However, there might be others in your network who are already in Canada. Speak with your friends and family to find out who you might already know here. You can also use LinkedIn to find alumni from your school or colleagues from your previous organizations who’ve since moved to Canada. Leverage your existing network to get introductions to other people in your industry or for job referrals. How do you effectively network virtually? Do your research. Learn what you can about the person you’re meeting beforehand and customize your questions accordingly. Going in prepared will make it more likely for you to get the information you’re looking for, and to make a good impression. Do check your technology. Make sure your internet connection, microphone and camera are in perfect working order before your virtual meeting. Take some time to familiarize yourself with the video call platform prior to your meeting. Always keep your camera on during meetings and if there’s noise in your background, put yourself on mute when the other person is talking. Do be professional. Go in with a list of topics you’d like to discuss and don’t ask personal questions. Be punctual and dress the way you would for in-person networking meetings. Create an appropriate work setting and keep your desk and background distraction-free. If you don’t have a dedicated workspace, apply a professional virtual background in your video call tool. Do be authentic and offer value. Express genuine interest in what people have to say and learn from their experience. Find ways to help the people you’re meeting—it’s a great way to demonstrate your skills in practice! Don’t skip the small talk. In Canada, small talk is a cultural practice, so make sure you allocate some time for it while creating your meeting agenda. It’s also a great way of breaking the ice and getting to know people you’re meeting and relate to them outside of their professional life. Don’t mistake your elevator pitch for a sales pitch. Your elevator pitch is a brief 30 second introduction meant to capture the other person’s interest. Highlight your skills, strengths, and achievements, but don’t oversell yourself. Don’t interrupt or multitask. Appreciate the fact that someone has taken the time to talk to you and pay attention to what they have to say. It’s rude to interrupt or check your phone when someone else is speaking. It can be very distracting, and more importantly, it gives people the impression that you aren’t interested in what they have to say. Be sure to put your phone on silent during networking meetings. There might be other distractions around you at home, such as children or pets, so find a quiet place for meetings. Don’t forget to follow up. If you’re meeting several new people every week, it can be hard to keep the conversation going with all of them. However, regular follow up is the best way to maintain professional relationships. Keep track of all your virtual meetings and create a realistic follow up schedule. Virtual networking has made it easier and more convenient for newcomers to expand their professional networks. As a newcomer to Canada, there are many online platforms and events you can leverage to start building your personal brand and growing your network virtually一even before you come to Canada. Original article located here, published by Arrive. About Arrive Arrive is powered by RBC Ventures Inc, a subsidiary of Royal Bank of Canada. In collaboration with RBC, Arrive is dedicated to helping newcomers achieve their life, career, and financial goals in Canada. An important part of establishing your financial life in Canada is finding the right partner to invest in your financial success. RBC is the largest bank in Canada* and here to be your partner in all of your financial needs.
12 tips to help you build your networking skills in Canada
Your professional network will be one of your most valuable assets in the Canadian job market. Whether you’re trying to land your first job or are looking for a mentor, your network can play an important role in helping you achieve professional success in Canada. As a newcomer to Canada, you’ll have to work harder and refine your networking skills to build connections from scratch in your new country. This article will provide you with tips to help you build your networking skills, so you can start nurturing meaningful professional relationships. 1. Understand that communication is two-sided One of the many advantages of networking is that it’s as much about promoting your personal brand as it is about learning from the experience of others. When someone takes time to speak with you, give them a chance to talk. Active, attentive listening is an essential networking skill that ensures you absorb the information being shared with you. You can then ask intelligent, relevant questions and get insights that might be useful for your professional success in Canada. Keep distractions away and focus on the conversation. It is rude to interrupt when someone is talking, so save your questions until they’ve finished speaking. 2. Improve your public speaking skills Many newcomers avoid networking or public speaking as they lack confidence in their English language or interpersonal skills. However, practice is the best way to overcome the fear of speaking in public. Take the time to work on your language skills. There are many English as a Second Language (ESL) resources and community groups available across the country to help newcomers improve their speaking and listening skills. Practice speaking in front of a mirror or with your friends. Don’t feel insecure if you have an accent or have trouble understanding some words. Remember, Canada is a diverse, multicultural country, and most people are accepting of the fact that English may not be your first language. 3. Practice both verbal and non-verbal communication What you say is only half the image you present—non-verbal communication is just as important. Your body language conveys a lot about your personality and how engaged you are in a meeting. Avoid crossing your arms, closing your fists tightly, or hunching your shoulders, as this can make you seem unfriendly. Practice smiling and gesturing with your hands as you talk in front of a mirror. Be aware of your posture and make eye contact with the people you are talking to. While networking in-person, speak confidently. Respect people’s personal space and avoid standing too close to them. 4. Learn the art of small talk Small talk is culturally important in Canada. It serves as an icebreaker before you get to the actual topic of conversation. Since small talk is meant to create a safe, comfortable environment, be sure to choose non-controversial, light topics. Some common small talk topics include the weather, sports, arts, entertainment, hobbies, and current events. Stay away from topics like politics, personal or family matters, income, and religion. As a newcomer, you can build your small talk skills by staying up-to-date on the news, developing an interest in Canadian arts, culture, and, of course, sports. 5. Ask for constructive feedback An easy way to build your networking skills is to get an honest opinion on what you maybe doing wrong or need to improve. Before an important networking meeting, do a practice run with some friends and ask them for feedback on your small talk, elevator pitch, questions, and overall communication skills. You can also ask for constructive feedback towards the end of your networking meetings. Be open and humble when you ask for tips to help you build your networking skills. In most cases, people are willing to offer guidance and insights that you can leverage in future meetings. 6. Give before you get One mistake many newcomers make is to only think about what they can get out of a connection, without considering what they may be able to offer in return. Networking is not one-sided, so be sure to make a list of your unique skills and strengths before you start. Even if you are new to the Canadian job market, review the LinkedIn profile of the person you’re going to meet to understand their role and see where you can contribute. During your meeting, convey your willingness to help and ask if there’s anything you can support them with. By offering to give before you get, you can build meaningful connections and also prove your value to your network. Once they’ve seen your skills in action, they’ll be more likely to offer guidance, connect you to others, or refer you to job opportunities. 7. Attend networking events and workshops One way to build your networking skills is to jump right in and start networking. Look for both virtual and in-person networking events on industry association websites or on platforms like Eventbrite and Meetup, and attend as many as you can. In addition to making connections, this will also give you a chance to observe the way other people network. You’ll be able to pick up best practices related to small talk, ways to introduce yourself, verbal and non-verbal communication, and questions to ask. If you meet someone particularly impressive, don’t hesitate to follow up and ask if they would be willing to share some tips to help you network better. 8. Prepare, prepare, prepare When it comes to networking meetings, preparation can make all the difference. Put your research skills to good use and learn as much as you can about the background, role, and career path of the individual you’re going to meet. Know what you want to get from your networking meetings—further connections, guidance, or referrals. Prepare a list of questions accordingly, and customize your list based on each person’s industry, skills, and position. Finally, spend some time creating an engaging, authentic elevator pitch. Remember that an elevator pitch is not a sales pitch, but a chance to tell your story and highlight your skills in an impactful way. 9. Ask for recommendations and introductions In Canada, every professional you meet will likely have their own network. As a newcomer, it might not be easy to ask the people you meet to connect you with others. This is a networking skill that you’ll need to build as you start to grow and nurture your network. Before you meet someone for a coffee chat, go through their LinkedIn network and see if they know someone you’d like to be introduced to. If you’re looking for specific information or trying to build a particular skill, it is a good idea to ask your connections if they can recommend someone in their industry or organization who might be able to help. If you’ve cultivated a meaningful relationship, you might also be able to get an introduction to someone in their network. When you are introduced to a person by someone they know and trust, they are more likely to take out time to speak with you. 10. Keep track of your networking meetings For most newcomers, the first few months of networking can be overwhelming. Since you’re building your network from scratch in Canada, you might be meeting as many as four or five people each week. This makes it hard to keep track of who you’ve met and what you discussed. As a result, you might forget valuable insights or miss out on following up with some people. Keeping track of your meetings is an important networking skill. Create a list with names of people you meet, meeting dates, their designations and organization, discussion points, and follow-up actions. When you set up follow-up meetings, you’ll be able to refer to your list to review points that you had discussed with them earlier. This list can also help you identify connections who might be useful when you’re applying for a job. You’ll also be able to clearly see gaps in your network, such as industries you don’t have connections in, so you can focus on those in the future. 11. Follow up and follow through Building meaningful professional relationships takes time and in most cases, the first meeting is only an introduction. The value you can leverage from your connections often depends on how much time and effort you invest in maintaining them. You can start by sending a personalized thank you note within 24 hours of your meeting. If you’ve agreed upon any action items during your meetings, don’t forget to deliver on them. After your initial meeting, you can keep the conversation going by regularly sharing relevant developments and insights, engaging on their social media posts, or asking for their opinion on topics related to the ones you discussed. 12. Don’t give up Finally, patience is another skill you’ll need as you start building your network in Canada. It’s easy to become demotivated when your LinkedIn connection requests go unanswered or when the people you connect with online are unwilling to meet you. Even after the initial coffee chats, some of your connections may not be able or willing to offer you the advice, guidance, or contacts you need. It takes time to nurture relationships and identify how and where someone might be able to add value. You might also have to demonstrate your own willingness to help before someone agrees to support you. Even if some meetings don’t go as well as you had hoped, don’t give up. Each new meeting is a learning opportunity, so keep an open mind. Remember that it only takes one connection or referral to land your dream job in Canada. Networking plays a crucial role in the Canadian job market. However, networking may not come naturally to everyone. As a newcomer to Canada, improving your networking skills will help you build meaningful relationships with people who can bring you closer to achieving your career goals. Original article located here, published by Arrive. About Arrive Arrive is powered by RBC Ventures Inc, a subsidiary of Royal Bank of Canada. In collaboration with RBC, Arrive is dedicated to helping newcomers achieve their life, career, and financial goals in Canada. An important part of establishing your financial life in Canada is finding the right partner to invest in your financial success. RBC is the largest bank in Canada* and here to be your partner in all of your financial needs.
Earlier this month, Georgia Southern University's Regina Rahimi, Ed.D., chatted with a journalist from Insight into Diversity to discuss the importance of trauma-informed education and how it is becoming a popular treatment for those dealing with the stress of COVID 19 and other sources of anxiety. "In recent years, a growing number of schools of education have begun focusing on trauma-informed teaching practices to help educators holistically address negative academic and social outcomes for students. Now, amid the COVID-19 pandemic, widespread racial injustice, and a host of other major stressors for U.S. youth, these concepts have become more popular, and important, than ever. “When the pandemic came, people really became concerned and interested in new traumas that were [affecting] students,” explains Regina Rahimi, Ed.D, a professor of education at Georgia Southern University. “Not only were students isolated, but if they were in an abusive household or they lived in a community where violence was prevalent, these things all became more pervasive in their lives, so that trauma was just further exacerbated.” March 16 - Insight into Diversity The full article is attached below. If you are a journalist looking to know more about trauma-informed education then let us help with your stories. Regina Rahimi is a professor in the Department of Middle Grades and Secondary Education at Georgia Southern University where her research is focused on issues of gender and sexuality in education and middle and high school drop-outs. She is available to speak with media about this important topic - simply click on her icon now to arrange an interview today.
