In the world of high-stakes competition, where every moment is magnified and every misstep exploited, there is no better case study than the Australian cricket team. Whether it's the Border-Gavaskar Trophy or any other format, Australia’s approach to the game is a masterclass in resilience, … [Read more...]
The Daily Joys That Outlast Annual Rewards: A Reflection on Leadership and Culture
Four years into leading corporate services at the Ottawa Community Foundation, I find myself reflecting on what truly defines fulfillment at work. This isn’t a question I’m approaching for the first time. Over the past 15+ years, I’ve had the privilege of leading teams across diverse roles and … [Read more...]
Why Your Value Proposition Matters: The Key to Winning Opportunities
When it comes to securing a role, the art of persuasion lies in one powerful question: What value do you bring to the table? Employers are not in the business of handing out jobs - they’re in the business of solving problems, growing their operations, and driving success. No matter how stable or … [Read more...]
Rise Above the Noise: Mastering the Competitive Mindset for Job Market Success
In a world drowning in surplus, survival isn’t about simply existing - it’s about standing out. Whether it’s products vying for attention, ideas competing for adoption, or people striving for opportunities, the principle remains the same: excess creates noise, and success belongs to those who rise … [Read more...]
Elevate Your Circle, Elevate Yourself: The Hidden Power of Influence
"Surround yourself with people that push you to do better. No drama or negativity. Just higher goals and higher motivation. Good times and positive energy. No jealousy or hate. Simply bringing out the absolute best in each other." – Warren Buffett Warren Buffett’s words offer a compelling … [Read more...]
14 Topics for Professional Success – For International Students and New Canadians
The purpose of these topics is to: Topic 1 - What to Expect in Canadian Interviews - Manu Sharma Topic 2 - How to Present Diverse Skills Effectively to Employers - Manu Sharma Topic 3 - Checklist for Presenting Diverse Skills on Your Resume - Manu Sharma Topic 4 - Sample STAR … [Read more...]
Lighthouses, Not Tugboats: The True Role of Mentors in Building Your Own Path
Mentors are often seen as the guiding lights on our journeys - the wise ones who share their experiences, offer insights, and help us avoid costly mistakes. But mentorship isn’t about receiving a set of ready-made answers or a clear-cut map to success. It’s far more nuanced than that. To truly … [Read more...]
Embrace the Provocative: Why (and How) Challenging the Status Quo Can Be a Badge of Honor
Being called "provocative" often carries a stigma. For many, it brings to mind images of disruption, conflict, or pushing too hard. But here's the truth: being provocative, when done with intention and care, is one of the most powerful ways to inspire change. It’s not about causing chaos for its own … [Read more...]
The Art of Slowing Down: Why We Need Long Form Reading in an Age of Speed
In today’s world, speed is king. We consume information the way we consume fast food - quickly, easily, and often with minimal satisfaction. Podcasts, video summaries, bite-sized blog posts, and endless social media scrolls all promise to save time. After all, time is money, right? So why would … [Read more...]
Leadership by Elimination: The Wisdom of Knowing What to Leave Behind
Leadership isn’t always about having the answer; it’s about having the discernment to let go of everything that clearly isn’t the answer. We often associate leadership with bold, visionary choices, the kind that change the course of a company or a team. But just as often, the hallmark of great … [Read more...]