How Will H1B Visa Changes Impact Your Team and Talent Acquisition?

How Will H1B Visa Changes Impact Your Team and Talent Acquisition?

How Will H1B Visa Changes Impact Your Team and Talent Acquisition?

In our line of business, geopolitics doesn’t usually factor into decisions. We find you the best possible candidate for the role, and ensure that they are a great fit for your company. No more, and no less.

However, given the recent news regarding our friends to the south, and their government’s recent decision to suspend several classes of visa, most notably, the H1B, our work becomes more relevant than ever.

With companies no longer able to access a global talent pool, competition for US talent in the United States is set to increase significantly, and competition for global talent will increasingly take place within Canada, due to Canada remaining open for skilled immigration.

Using high-level boutique recruiters dramatically increases your likelihood of hiring top talent. We know exactly who fits a given role, and we are the most qualified people to advise you on how to attract and keep your talent, as well as ensuring that they continue to perform.

When competition increases, experts become more and more important.

We know the people, and we know how to ensure that you are not getting “B-list” staff.

Staffing is one of the few truly zero-sum propositions out there. If you attract the best, your competitors, well, won’t. Your business wins, and your competitors won’t be competitors for very long.

We know both Canadian and US markets and talent, which means that we are extremely well positioned to deliver in both markets. If your company is based in the US, and has Canadian operations, we can ensure that you have a top American team as well as an excellent international team.

The USA restricting access to foreign workers doesn’t need to mean that your team will take a hit, but if you don’t consult with the experts, it likely will.

See our partner, The Rostie Group’s, response here. They’re your go to for all office space and corporate headquarters needs in Toronto.

For more information about making  Rostie & Associates your go-to recruiting agency, feel free to visit our website www.rostie.com or call toll-free 1-800-647-0780.

Working From Home is Hard Work

Working From Home is Hard Work

Though working from home (WFH) is not a new concept to many people – it’s a practice that has been gaining in popularity over the last number of years – however, many of us were given no choice but to work from home due to Covid-19 and we learned working from home is hard work.

I think it’s fair to say that most of us appreciate the opportunity our employers have offered to continue to earn a wage throughout this crisis. Many, like me, have come to prefer working from home, though it isn’t ideal for everyone.

Perhaps you are simply more extroverted and prefer to interact with other people or you may not have the space for a separate office.  My “office” is the corner of my living room but as it’s just me and Arthur (my cat) it works very well.

However, if you have family at home, having a desk in the corner may not be ideal.  You’re going to have to make more of an effort to concentrate no matter how supportive your family is!

And for others, while they may be able to get much of their work done from home, their job would be much easier in an office setting.

But, even those of us that have taken to WFH like ducks to water, there are days when it’s difficult to power through for eight hours.

Whether it’s from feeling under the weather or suffering from lack of sleep or just “one of those days”, there will be times when you find it difficult to stay focused.  And that’s okay. There’s many ways to break up your work day into chunks of time that will allow you to still get work done while relieving some of the pressure.  Because, let’s face it, our employers are entrusting us to work from home and that trust should not be abused.  I’m sure that your boss also has “one of those days” as well and would likely understand.

If you’re simply having trouble adjusting to WFH, here’s a great article from MindTools to get, and keep, you on track.

If you’re really into the swing of WFH but just having the odd rough patch, below are some of my suggestions along with some professional advice to give yourself a break but still get the work done.

Exercise:

I have found that when I’ve been restless it’s not usually the work getting to me, but lack of exercise.  Now, I’m certainly no gym rat and won’t even run to catch a bus, but even I know that going from the bed to the sofa to drink my morning tea then straight to my desk isn’t a good idea.  You may not be commuting to work but you still need to have a transition from “home” to “work”.

For me, it’s walking.  I try to get out every morning for a good walk.  I’ll be honest in that there are some days when the snooze button and I are best friends, but even if you can only manage a 20 minute walk, it makes a big difference.  I try and fit in another walk after work or dinner and ideally a quick one at lunch.  I’ve even begun incorporating some stretches into my workday.  And while I may be about as graceful as an elephant in a tutu, it helps!

Here’s an article from Readers.Com that details the benefits of stretching along with some specific stretches you can do at your desk.

Give yourself a mental break:

Sometimes it’s your mind that’s tired or frustrated and you need to give it a break.

If I’m feeling frazzled or frustrated, I like to make a cup of tea and go sit on the balcony for five or ten minutes – a backyard is awesome if you have one.  Otherwise just go to another room, as long as it’s away from your desk; but be sure to leave your cell phone, laptop, iPad or whatever behind.  (Take the tea, leave the cell phone, come on, Godfather, anyone?)

The point is to just sit, be quiet and let your mind wander.  To be honest, your brain will probably focus on work. But don’t grab hold of any of it, just let it flow and you may end up with a solution to a task or problem you’ve been struggling with – or just come back to your desk a little bit calmer which really is the goal.

Here’s a fantastic article from Medium.Com on how to give your brain a break.

Finding work that isn’t “work”:

Most of us have various aspects to our jobs, so maybe take some time to do something that is still work related and of value to your employer but not the core of your job; perhaps conducting research or writing a blog!

Proper eating habits OR “Are cookies a breakfast food”?

As you have probably surmised from my comments regarding exercise, I am not anyone’s idea of a “health nut”.  However, it is important to eat proper meals at reasonably proper times.

If you’re like me, making tea in the morning is challenging enough, don’t tell me to cook breakfast – it’s just not going to happen.  Perhaps brunch but isn’t that what restaurants are usually for?

However, even I can find something healthy in the morning – instant oatmeal, whole grain toast, or if that’s still too challenging try some fruit with a small piece of hard cheese or hard boiled egg.  You can boil up enough for a few days ahead – and if that’s not your thing you can buy them already hard boiled in little plastic pouches – go figure!

Eating regularly scheduled meals will help keep you on a proper work cycle.  Let’s face it, if you’re eating lunch at 3:00 in the afternoon while WFH, are you really going to be that productive for the rest of the day?  Unless you’re one of those people that normally eat later meals – though personally, I would never last that long – I’d be “hangry” by 1:30!

Anyway, I’m not going even going to attempt to provide nutritional advice – I’m someone that firmly believes potato chips are a food group – but decent eating habits will help you stay focused, and you don’t have to take my word for it.

Here’s some advice from Harvard Medical on foods to help you stay sharp

Just remember, we’ve all had to get used to WFH and if you have those days where you struggle to stay focused, there’s ways to make working from home, well, work!

Your Career Path: Making the Most of a Bad Situation

Let’s face it times are tough with almost every sector having taken a massive hit, literally overnight.

No one would think you’re crazy for saying that there are no opportunities out there right now but, surprisingly, there are.

Many industries are hiring to either meet current demands or to prepare for changes going forward.

Realistically, for some people it may mean changing industries or learning new skills to adapt.

However, you may be fortunate enough to already be working in one of the industries currently hiring or planning to expand post Covid-19.

This article from The Muse lists 94 companies across a variety of industries that are currently looking to hire.

And here is some encouraging news from Business Wire and Forbes.

This article from Accenture provides some great insight regarding the effects of Covid-19 on the technology industry.

Of course we all realize these are not the “best of times”, but while conducting my own research into what types of industries are hiring and what types of positions are available,  I came across dozens of articles –  both USA and Canadian centric – far too many to list here.

But, it does show that if you are considering searching for a new position or perhaps changing careers, this may be the time to make that happen.

Just as of writing this article, Rostie & Associates has positions available for a Sales Director, Senior Software Engineer, Data Scientist, Account Executive, Senior System Administrator, Cyber Security Engineer, Cyber Security Manager and a Senior Systems and Network Engineer.

You can find more details on these and other positions, at www.rostie.com

Speaking with other recruiters confirms that, yes; companies are hiring and utilizing technologies such as Zoom, Skype, Webex, etc. to conduct interviews.

Many of the roles will be “work from home” until it is safe for them to re-open their offices.

These recruiters have also advised that they’re seeing an uptick in hiring for various types of roles in healthcare, eCommerce, Fintech and Cyber Security, just to name a few.

Of course, there are a great number of positions available in areas such as distribution.

If you are of an entrepreneurial nature, perhaps now is the time for you to go out on your own.  This article from Forbes suggests this could be the time to make it happen.

And, if you just need some encouragement, here are some success stories from Mental Floss and Business Insider that show that adversity can be turned into advantage!

Brand New Team Room Available

Get inspired and get in action. Team Room 703 is ready to be the workspace where you will make your next big business move and become a game-changer in the industry.

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The Rostie Group provides more than just office space. When you become a part of our waterfront work community, your team is set up for support, growth and success. The Rostie Group is a community of professionals working together with a great team of staff who go the extra mile to personalise your work environment, making this workplace a place you want to be everyday.

20 bay stRBC WaterPark Place is the newest and hottest building in Toronto’s Financial South Core. Fully renovated and connected through Toronto’s PATH system, this prestigious 20 Bay Street address is home to more than a few big names in the industry. This summer will be humming with excitement right outside your new workspace. You can commute on your bike along the shore, have lunch in the gardens by the waterfront and catch a Blue Jays game after work; with the Rogers centre and Union station only a 5 minute walk away. The diverse and liveliest parts of the city are at your fingertips!

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Our Reception team will greet you every morning and provide all your clients with the best in customer care. Your mail and packages are delivered to your office everyday. If you have any questions or need a friendly familiar face to chat with – Reception is your go-to spot.

The Meetings Manager is here to handle all your meeting needs; from interviews to training sessions and evening events we have an array of meeting rooms that are available for your use. Every tenant receives an allotment of meeting room hours – no additional fee!

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Our Marketing and Communications Coordinator plans in-house events for every occasion – Social Fridays, Chili Cook-offs, Holiday Festivities – and is there to keep the energy up. The Rostie Group lounge encourages positive interaction between all tenants, creating new friendships and business colleagues. Engaging and informative free Breakfast and Lunch workshops are held at The Rostie Group on a regular basis. We bring in leading industry names to provide guidance on the latest technology trends, how to grow your business, client-focused relationships and more!

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instagramWhen you are ready to hit the gym with your new found friends, TriFit has outfitted 20 Bay St, with an up-scale gym experience right in the building! Exclusive to WaterPark Place tenants only for $35/month – this brand new amenity includes group fitness classes, spinning, state of the art weight training machines with lockers and showers. TriFit gym ensures your team can take a well needed workout break without leaving the work community!

Need your computer hooked up? Looking for some troubleshooting help? We have an onsite IT team here to ensure all your technical needs are taken care of immediately. Because lets get serious – the Internet is everything these days! The Rostie Group prides itself on being a flexible and customizable work community. Configure your new team space to reflect your company’s values, there is room for up to 20 people!

The Rostie Group is looking forward to meeting with you, getting to know your business and team members and welcoming you into our waterfront work community. Come and see for yourself what Toronto’s thriving South Core has to offer. We promise you won’t be disappointed!

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Build your brand awareness in Toronto with a Lunch ‘n’ Learn and Rise & Shine Breakfast!

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Build your brand awareness and gain new clients in Toronto! The Rostie Group at 20 Bay Street, WaterPark Place wants to help your business succeed in Toronto with the right exposure. Lunch ‘n’ Learns and Rise & Shine Breakfasts are a very popular and promising method for educating business professionals and attracting new clients to your company. At The Rostie Group, we offer modern and professional boardrooms and training rooms to host the seminar – at no cost to your company! With over 100 clients, and a social media and digital marketing platform that reaches more than 10,000 people – your Lunch ‘n’ Learn or Rise & Shine Breakfast is guaranteed to pull a promising audience.

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Elaine Newman, CEO of Global Learning, Lunch ‘n’ Learn 2015

In one hour you have the chance to engage and educate potential clients, business partners, and Toronto’s financial district on the inner workings of your business.

Business methods, challenges, successes and failures all make for relevant presentation starters. People want to to know the story behind your startup and how they can partner with you to create a promising future for all business in Toronto.

Whether you are heading up a tech company, the next big bank, or making it as an entrepreneur, a Lunch ‘n’Learn or Breakfast Seminar is the best way to get your brand, your business and your name out in Toronto.

Take a look at some of the insightful and inspiring Lunch ‘n’Learns and Rise & Shine Breakfast Seminars that have been hosted at The Rostie Group:
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https://www.rostiegroup.com/blog/free-rise-and-shine-breakfast-seminar-july-8th-800am/

https://www.rostiegroup.com/blog/free-lunch-n-learn-with-davis-martindale-accounting/

https://www.rostiegroup.com/blog/lunch-n-learn-retrospect/

https://www.rostiegroup.com/blog/content-marketing-lunch-n-learn-by-marketingcopilot/

Do not miss this opportunity to make your brand a household name and gain valuable exposure to Toronto businesses!

Call today to book your free Lunch ‘n’ Learn or Rise & Shine Breakfast in Toronto!

1-800-648-1840              info@rostiegroup.com

 

The Scoop is Out for March!

Spring is in the air…almost! Before the snow melts, make sure you check out the Sugar Shack on the Waterfront’s Sugar Beach March 12th-13th! The Waterfront also has tons of activities for March Break, including Kids Camps.

St. Patricks Day is also just around the corner, be sure to head to the Miller Tavern for some amazing specials and a Guinness or two!

http://www.harbourfrontcentre.com/camps/marchbreak/

http://www.dayofhappiness.net/

http://www.sugarshackto.ca/

http://towaterfrontfest.com/

http://www.themiller.ca/Bay/main.html

 

 

Top 10 Choices for Winter Fun on the Waterfront!

Toronto’s winter has been unpredictable to say the least! The Waterfont community is still full of excitement and fun things to do. Use this list to plan your next after work night out, or visit to the Waterfront on the weekend!

ART:

  • Stay warm and feed your eyes and your ears with Quebec artist Patrick Bernatchez’s installation work on now until May 15, 2016 at The Power Plant Art Gallery. Immerse yourself in the changing seasons, pondering the cycle of life and death, rebirth and what time really means. Great for a date or friends to visit, and its FREE!  Find the Power Plant at 231 Queens Quay W.
  • powerplantLooking for some obscure and enigmatic art to whisk you out of this awkward winter we are having? Look no further than Deliberately Ambiguous. Five exhibitions at The Harbourfront Centre organized in conjunction with the Toronto Design Offsite Festival. You will be confused in the most positive way possible, and pushed to the limits of design, art and craft. This event is also FREE, because you know it’s better by the water!

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  • “The City of Toronto, in partnership with OCAD University, has launched a temporary, digital art installation at Union Station. The interactive exhibit, called Memory Capsule, pays tribute to the venerable station and cherished public space, which is undergoing a major revitalization”. There you have it! Taking the subway can be boring, but Union station has ramped up the artistic exposure with this installation, taking us all to the next level, and down to the Waterfront of course!

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EVENTS:

  • For the very first time, the Waterfront is hosting it’s own Sugar Shack – Quebec style too! Taking a page out of Canadian history and tradition, maple syrup tasting is a must for all Torontonians and tourists alike. It really makes you want to say Canadian eh? Catch this experience March 12th and 13th. Don’t forget to check out all the local food trucks serving up popular eats from around the city – our favourite the Montreal Smoked Meat Sandwich from Caplansky’s!

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  • If you have ever been to a convention at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre, then you know anything is possible here. The venue was made for events like Comicon! You don’t have to be a die hard fan of Comics or Superhero’s either. This year will be featuring guests such as Jason Isaacs from Harry Potter and Tovah Feldshuh who plays Deanna from The Walking Dead! Guaranteed you will see someone dressed as Deadpool, and hey maybe this is your chance to put on that Catwoman costume you’ve been meaning to wear again. With over 400 exhibitors, you’ll be sure to find something that excites the hidden sci-fi lover inside all of us. March 18th-20th. Tickets: http://comicontoronto.com/tickets/

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FOOD:

  • Miku restaurant – The best sushi experience in Toronto. The sushi looks like art, and tastes amazing. Sweet and flavourful, there is no need for Soy Sauce. The Sake pairs well too! Convienently located in 10-20 Bay Street, WaterPark Place is accessible through the PATH or off of Bay St and Queens Quay. Stop by before you hop on a flight at the Billy Bishop Airport or have your next lunch meeting here.

 

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  • Watermark Irish Pub and Restaurant  – Our go to place for after work food and drinks! Literally situated on the water at the Queens Quay Terminal, you will want to indulge in a Guinness or two. Be sure to stop by on March 17th for St Patrick’s Day festivities!

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  • Harbour Sixty – Ideal for those looking for an exquisite up-scale steakhouse experience. Classic and on-point, Harbour Sixty is frequented by our clients for business lunches and after work rendezvous. Mouth-watering goodness!

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  • C’est What?!? Located at 67 Front St. East., this spot is a mix of board games and fireplaces, craft beer and delectable wine selections if you’re into that kind of thing! Good for a night out with friends or an after work unwind.

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HOTEL:

  • Our number one hotel choice is the Le Germain – connected via the PATH and located right in Maple Leaf Square, Le Germain offers a unique boutique hotel experience, with original décor and stellar service –  you will feel like a celebrity visiting Toronto for TIFF! Trust us, you’ll like it. Book here: http://www.legermainhotels.com/en/torontomls/

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Oh yeah, The Waterfront’s Singing Ambassadors are hiring for the summer season. If you like to sing and hang out by the Waterfront, you should definitely apply! We would love to see you around.

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Connect with us to stay in the loop with what is happening on the Waterfront Work Community!

 

#SocialFriday Winter Warm Up

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Join us for a Winter Warm Up – #SocialFriday!
Have a hot cocoa from Miller & Bean Coffee Company, meet your neighbours, and start the weekend off right!

20 Bay Street, 11th Floor

Toronto, ON M5J 2N8

Find out why drinking hot chocolate is beneficial!

http://www.healthyeating.org/Healthy-Eating/All-Star-Foods/Beverages/Article-Viewer/Article/212/Health-Benefits-of-Hot-Cocoa.aspx

Recap! Chili Cook-off 2016

Chili Cook-off 2016 started off spicy!

8 creative Chili entries geared up for the competition!
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The Mexican theme was felt throughout the afternoon; the unconventionally warm February weather in Toronto helped to boost spirits!
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Thank you to Lone Star for coming out and providing some delicious tortilla chips and salsa!

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Everybody tried the 8 chili dishes and ranked them according to their favourites!

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Food, fun and social networking were had by all!
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Some took the judging very seriously – as you can see Melisa lined up her chili tastings and deliberated who to pick as #1! All the chili recipes were unique, including a vegetarian option and ground chicken option, with delicious cornbread and dips all made by our caring tenants and friends.

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Mike serving up the Chili!

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Miller & Bean rocking the moustaches!

Chili cookoff winners table(high res)

Congratulations to our winners – First Place for Nathan, Second Place for Charlie and Third Place for John!

Thank you to Tim Hortons for donating chili and bread for the competition, and Los Colibris for the gift certificates!

The 2016 Chili Cook-off was a huge success, thank you to all our clients and friends who came out and enjoyed the afternoon with us!

We are looking forward to some great events coming up for 2016, stay tuned for details!