In yet another interesting episode of the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, we were joined by Estelle Azemard, Vice President Americas at OVHcloud. Estelle discusses crucial topics such as hidden fees in cloud services, technology lock-ins, data sovereignty, selecting the right cloud solutions, and the future of cloud computing. Her insights are particularly valuable for SMEs navigating the complex cloud computing landscape, aiming to optimize their technology investments while maintaining control and transparency.

Key Highlights:

• Estelle illuminates common hidden fees that SMEs encounter and offers strategies to avoid these unexpected costs, emphasizing the importance of financial transparency in cloud services.
• Discussion on identifying signs of potential technology lock-ins and strategies to maintain business flexibility and foster innovation.
• Importance of data sovereignty for SMEs and steps to ensure control over data, with OVHcloud's commitment to client data integrity highlighted.
• Factors SMEs should consider when selecting cloud solutions to ensure they align with their business needs and goals.
• Insights into emerging trends in cloud technology that SMEs need to be aware of to stay competitive and innovative.

We would like to thank Estelle Azemard, for her enlightening conversation. Her expertise has undoubtedly equipped our listeners with the knowledge to make more informed decisions regarding cloud computing.

Shoutout to our sponsors for more information find their links below:

RBC: https://www.rbcroyalbank.com/dms/business/accounts/beyond-banking/index.html

UPS: https://solutions.ups.com/ca-beunstoppable.html?WT.mc_id=BUSMEWA

Xero: https://www.xero.com/ca/?source=CanadianSME

Constant Contact: https://www.constantcontact.com/landing1/new-marketer?utm_campaign=canadiansme&utm_medium=sponsorlogo&utm_source=brand

IHG Hotels and Resorts: https://businessedge.ihg.com/s/registration?language=en_US&CanSME

Don't forget to subscribe to CanadianSME Small Business Magazine at www.canadiansme.ca for more insightful episodes that empower your entrepreneurial spirit.

In another enriching episode of the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, we had the privilege of hosting Elisa Swern, a distinguished Consumer Markets Leader and Partner at PwC Canada. With a remarkable career spanning over 25 years, Elisa has shaped retail and consumer strategy, driving organizations towards achieving operational excellence. Her involvement with PwC's Alumni team in the GTA underscores her commitment to community engagement and fostering innovative programs.

Key Highlights:

• Elisa discusses the motivations behind PwC's recent consumer behavior report, highlighting key demographics.
• Insights into how small businesses can leverage this data to refine their strategies and better cater to evolving market needs.
• Elisa shares effective strategies for retailers to attract and retain customers amidst fierce competition.
• Examples of successful implementations that resonate with current consumer demands are explored.
• The podcast delves into the shifting priorities of consumers, especially in light of recent economic changes.
• Elisa advises on how businesses can adapt to maintain consumer trust and relevance.

We would like to thank Elisa Swern for her invaluable insights.

Shoutout to our sponsors for more information find their links below:

RBC: https://www.rbcroyalbank.com/dms/business/accounts/beyond-banking/index.html

UPS: https://solutions.ups.com/ca-beunstoppable.html?WT.mc_id=BUSMEWA

Xero: https://www.xero.com/ca/?source=CanadianSME

Constant Contact: https://www.constantcontact.com/landing1/new-marketer?utm_campaign=canadiansme&utm_medium=sponsorlogo&utm_source=brand

IHG Hotels and Resorts: https://businessedge.ihg.com/s/?language=en_US

Don't forget to subscribe to CanadianSME Small Business Magazine at www.canadiansme.ca for more insightful episodes that empower your entrepreneurial spirit.

In another insightful episode of the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, e were thrilled to have Alison Simpson, President and CEO of the Canadian Marketing Association, share her expertise. Alison’s distinguished career spans across top-tier brands like Holt Renfrew and Shopify, and now she’s leading transformative educational programs at the CMA that equip marketers with cutting-edge skills.

Key Highlights:

• Alison detailed this pivotal program designed to train marketing professionals in essential digital skills, addressing the evolving needs of Canada’s marketing landscape.
• We discussed how this prestigious designation integrates with the DMSC program to enhance ongoing professional development.
• Alison highlighted the CMA’s commitment to DEI in their training programs, aiming to make substantial impacts on the marketing community.
• Alison shared her insights on the broader effects of the DMSC program on the Canadian marketing industry, emphasizing the importance of aligning training with industry demands.
• Alison opened up about the hurdles faced while implementing extensive educational initiatives like the DMSC program, providing lessons that can benefit other organizations.

Thank you, Alison Simpson, for enriching our podcast with your deep insights into the evolution of marketing education and professional growth.

Shoutout to our sponsors for more information find their links below:

RBC: https://www.rbcroyalbank.com/dms/business/accounts/beyond-banking/index.html

UPS: https://solutions.ups.com/ca-beunstoppable.html?WT.mc_id=BUSMEWA

Xero: https://www.xero.com/ca/?source=CanadianSME

Constant Contact: https://www.constantcontact.com/landing1/new-marketer?utm_campaign=canadiansme&utm_medium=sponsorlogo&utm_source=brand

IHG Hotels and Resorts: https://businessedge.ihg.com/s/?language=en_US

Don't forget to subscribe to CanadianSME Small Business Magazine at www.canadiansme.ca for more insightful episodes that empower your entrepreneurial spirit.