CEO's Blog

Smart Technologies can help Manufacturing Businesses Thrive in a Post COVID-19 Reality

The Atlantic Chamber of Commerce is working to raise awareness among Atlantic Canadian business owners of the immense potential of implementing smart technological solutions. This is even more important now as companies struggle with shutdowns and decreases in production and sales, and what will surely be a realignment of global markets.

The 'What If' Conversation

Although it can be uncomfortable to consider, the "what if" conversation is critical, no matter the organization's size or shape. This is good insight from McKinsey & Company. What if your leader is no longer there?

Adjusting Our Sails for the Trade Winds

Concerned about negative economic fallout from increased international trade activity? Don’t be. The numbers show that countries that reduce barriers and pursue trade with other countries experience accelerated economic growth and rising living standards.

Measuring What Matters: ROX is the New ROI for Consumer Value

Interesting guidance from PwC’s 2019 Global Consumer Insights Survey. Traditionally, a lot of time is spent measuring and creating a unique value proposition and delivering ROI to fuel customer engagement and satisfaction. But global trends are indicating its time to add a new metric to the mix—Return on Experience (ROX).

Sheri Somerville

Disruption & Creating the Conditions for Small Business Sustainability & Success in Atlantic Canada

My friend Rivers Corbett shared a good article in Forbes today by its senior editor, Jack Kelly, who talks about the unintended consequences of the $15/hr minimum wage. In response, Rivers made the comment that “we need to understand the double edge of this contentious issue” and that “we must also protect the entrepreneur.” I agree and would include small business broadly in this regard. We must be sure we balance appropriately the socio-economic conditions being implemented—for today and for the future.

Sheri Somerville

Why Local Matters

When I speak with any of the Chambers or Boards of Trade teams and board members from across Atlantic Canada, one common attribute rises to the top: they are ardent supporters of business and their communities.

Sheri Somerville

Reputation is Powerful Currency in Business.

Building credibility and trust: the intrinsic value of chamber membership.

Sheri Somerville

Chamber Value is a Simple Equation That Adds Up

It’s always interesting when I am asked about the value and relevance of the Chamber in today’s business climate. Ultimately the Chamber’s value and relevance is demonstrated in the delivery upon a single goal: to further the interests of businesses in a local area. And in the current Atlantic Canadian economic climate, furthering business interests is critically important.

Sheri Somerville

It’s Time to Stretch Ladies

No, you’re not late for yoga class. The kind of stretching I’m referring to is within the halls of your workplace and in business. There has been much discussion of late regarding women’s underrepresentation in the C-Suite and in Boardrooms. Granted yes, some of this is due to exclusion and other factors beyond our control, but some things we can control, and we should be taking a stronger hand in how our future unfolds.

Sheri Somerville

Network for Quality, Not Quantity

Networking…As anyone in business knows, it’s all about your network. And that means sometimes boldly embracing dreaded ‘networking’ events. And while some people make it look so easy, others simply cringe at the thought of entering a room full of people and saying ‘hello’ to a complete stranger.

Sheri Somerville