Category: Blog
AI & The Future of Volunteer Engagement Presentation
Last week I had the privilege of being featured as the keynote speaker for the WEAVA (Windsor-Essex Association for Volunteer Administration) AGM in Windsor Ontario. I spent the morning networking with volunteer administrators from a variety of local member organizations that are doing great work in our community. Afterwards, I spoke to the group about how AI is changing the realm of volunteer engagement and what they need to know to stay ahead of the curve.
We discussed the good/bad/reality of AI, how AI is reshaping work, some practical AI tool suggestions, AI use cases, how to prompt like a pro, the future of volunteer management and the ethics, privacy and governance surrounding AI.
My advice to always stay curious seemed to have an immediate impact as the group had a lot of insightful questions afterwards. The content ended up sparking some interesting discussion about the need for structured policy in the workplace and why having a solid AI policy is an important step forward for any organization or business. People are using AI in the workplace, whether it’s public knowledge or not. Knowing what they’re using it for, and how they’re using it, can help shape a policy that addresses the tough stuff head on and ensures sensitive data isn’t being fed into these models unknowingly.
When it comes to AI, there’s so much to learn and understand that sometimes it can be hard to get everyone on the same page. This is exactly why Blab’s educational workshops and training sessions are so helpful for local nonprofits and organizations that are looking to provide real value to their members. Whether you’re looking for custom content related to your specific industry, general recommendations for how to improve workflows using AI, or insight into how to develop an AI Use Policy, Blab can work with you to create valuable workshops or training sessions that are designed to meet your needs, address your goals and load participants up with as much value as possible.
Windsor-Essex Chamber “She Means Business” Brunch
What a motivational and exciting morning it’s been! Today I had the privilege of moderating a panel discussion at the Windsor-Essex Chamber of Commerce “She Means Business” brunch event. I shared the stage with three powerhouse professionals curated by WEtech Alliance: Zule Ankamah (owner of Zule Eats), Josipa Petrunic (Founder of TransitRewards.ca) and Brittany Charlton (Founder of Chocovate Labs).
It was such a great, candid discussion about building resilience and community. We talked about the frustration surrounding the lack of funding for women-owned businesses and why finding your community matters. There wasn’t a dry eye in the house when Zule teared up talking about the risks she had to take to start her business and the fact that her kids have been by her side to support her since day one. As business owners, it’s refreshing (and often very validating) to get real sometimes. so I appreciated everyone’s openness and honesty.
After our panel, I enjoyed a delicious brunch courtesy of St Clair College Centre For The Arts, did some networking around the room and then had the pleasure of listening to Keynote Speaker Erika Harris’ emotional presentation about her personal and business journey.
I walked away afterwards with a renewed appreciation for the little village that’s constantly cheering me on from the sidelines. The people saying my name in rooms when I’m not there. The people referring me to their friends and connections because they trust me to deliver.
This year’s women’s day events are an important reminder that supporting women needs to be a priority 365 days a year, and that women themselves need to show up for other women.
My new friend Hilda MacDonald said something at Tuesday’s Leamington Chamber event that really stuck with me and sums up my main takeaway from this year’s celebrations: ”As women, we’ve always had to fight our way to somewhere, so now we see other women as adversaries. But we have to stop doing that. We need to be a force to be reckoned with….together.” 💙
Elevate Her: AI Keynote Presentation
This morning I spent a few hours in Leamington for the Elevate Her Women’s Day event. I had the pleasure of speaking to a room full of people about how women can lead in the age of AI. As the keynote speaker, my presentation touched on some important topics, like how AI is impacting the way we do business and how women can be at the forefront by learning how to leverage it responsibly.
I talked about the importance of maintaining your own cognitive abilities, while allowing your pain points to guide if (or how) you adopt this technology into your workflow. I went through some real life examples of how to apply AI tools to specific tasks, provided best practices for prompting, and reminded attendees that how they use this technology matters more than they may think.
After they forced me to give back the microphone 🤣🎤 I enjoyed a wonderful lunch courtesy of the Portuguese Club of Leamington, browsed the local vendors set up around the room and did some networking. The second half of the programming was a panel discussion featuring three local women in leadership who so generously shared their wisdom and knowledge with us all. They spoke about lessons learned the hard way, why speaking up matters and the importance of lifting others when you rise.
I don’t often get to venture out to the county for events or meetings, so it was really nice to spend the day connecting in a room full of new people and business owners. It’s always such a pleasure to present and teach about important topics relating to digital marketing and entrepreneurship.
If you’re looking for a speaker, workshop facilitator or trainer to visit your business, inspire your team or add value to your event, let’s chat!
Meet Blab Media
Hi friends! I’ve recently acquired some new followers and subscribers so I thought it was a good time to re-introduce myself and share a bit more about Blab/me.
I started Blab Media in 2010 with the hopes of helping businesses navigate the world of social media more efficiently. What began as a two-person business, transitioned into a solo-preneur venture in 2015, and has remained that way ever since.
⬇️ Over the course of 15 years ⬇️
I’ve worked with businesses of all sizes, across many different industries.
I’ve travelled around Canada to provide services (Vancouver, Alberta, Montreal, Toronto) and I’ve met so many incredible business owners along the way!
⬇️ Fun Facts ⬇️
I once had a job that was entirely focused on dogs and I got to meet some Instafamous pups in person.
I love working from home and not having to operate within standard office limitations because it allows me to fuel my passion for travel.
I really enjoying cooking and would definitely describe myself as a foodie, so I love working with clients in the food and beverage industry. I’ve been known to joke that I accept payment in the form of good food!
While live reporting for a client at a trade show in Vancouver, I met Chef Michael Smith!
Learning about new industries and absorbing information I didn’t know before is one of my favourite parts of working with a diverse set of clients. Whether it’s wind power, housing, GMOs, cosmetics or mortgages, there’s no topic/industry I can’t tackle head on.
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If you’re interested in stepping up your social media game in 2026 and beyond, send me an email and let’s chat. No matter what your budget is or what hurdles you’re facing, I’m confident we can work together to crush your goals!
My Experience at the WEtech Alliance Mastermind & Mingle Event
Last week I spent time with a wonderful group of woman founders discussing some tough topics and offering support at a WEtech Alliance Mastermind & Mingle event. I love the variety of programs and support that WEtech offers to our small business community. There’s so much value in what they provide and they’ve helped many entrepreneurs and startups over their lifetime.
As an entrepreneur, I know first hand that running a business isn’t all fun and games, it’s usually the opposite! Lots of self doubt, weird hours, overwhelming work, isolation and stress. It was nice to talk about the real stuff, and not just the fluff, with a group of women who really get it.
As a woman, being in a space that feels supportive and safe is so important. These sessions give members a chance to talk through barriers and get honest advice from other women who have valuable insight to provide. You don’t have to be an expert to help others, you just have to be willing to share what you DO know with those who need it.
It’s always such a privilege to connect with other woman in business and to have the opportunity to learn from each other. Even as someone who has been putting in the work for 15 years, there are always new things to learn and new ways to improve my own processes. Being open to receiving new information, especially when it might contradict what you think you already know, isn’t always easy. But it can be so rewarding to find a community you can lean on and learn from as you continue to grow.
AI Summit: AI In Small Businesses & Nonprofits Presentation
Last week I hosted a breakout session at the AI Workforce Summit focused on helping small businesses and not-for-profits understand and leverage AI with a lean team and budget.
I spent my day learning at Caesars Windsor about AI tools, processes and best practices from so many knowledgable speakers through keynotes, panels, and workshops exploring how artificial intelligence is reshaping workforce planning, hiring, and talent development. There was so much information to take in!
Real talk: I was pretty nervous about hosting my own session. I felt like I had a lot less knowledge to share than some of the other presenters. The imposter syndrome hit me pretty hard as I counted down the minutes until my time block in the afternoon. 😅
When the time came for the attendees to choose from three afternoon breakout sessions (including mine), I stood at the front by my podium, heart beating faster than it should have been, and crossed my fingers. Within minutes my room filled up and every chair was taken. I was completely taken off guard and so grateful that all those people chose to listen to ME!
Over the course of my session, I broke down all the ways AI can help small businesses in their day-to-day operations. I also provided real world examples they can use to better leverage AI and I shared some of my own experiences trying to navigate that realm, so attendees understood I could completely relate with their frustration and confusion.
At the end of the session, I was approached by multiple people from the audience who wanted to chat, ask questions, compliment my presentation and just connect. Despite my uncertainty and that strong sense of imposter syndrome (I’m sure most small business owners can relate to that!), it was such a rewarding and positive experience. It was a reminder that I really do love to teach and present, regardless of the topic, and that I want to focus more on that in the new year.
If you’re looking to provide some AI insight to a small team, I’d love to discuss repurposing this successful presentation for your specific business or organization’s needs. AI aside, if you’re looking for a presenter for an event or a facilitator for a workshop, I’d love to chat and see if Blab can help you bring your vision to life on stage!
Social Media Spark: 4 Actionable Tips for Small Business Owners
Hey small business rockstars ???????? Ready to sprinkle some social media magic into your marketing strategy this year? Buckle up, because I’ve got four actionable tips that will take your small business to new heights in 2024 and beyond!
1. Define Your Brand Voice and Story
Imagine your brand as a character in a captivating story—you’re the author, and your audience is eagerly waiting to flip the pages. Define your brand voice and story to stand out in the noisy social media universe. What makes your brand unique? What values do you stand for? Craft a consistent and authentic brand voice that resonates with your audience. Whether it’s witty, informative, or heartfelt, let your brand personality shine through every post, tweet, and message. Remember, a good story always leaves a lasting impression.
2. Know Your Audience Inside Out
It’s time to put on your detective hat and get to know your audience like a best friend. Dive deep into understanding who they are, what they like, and how they engage on social media. Use analytics tools to uncover valuable insights about their preferences, behaviours, and demographics. Tailor your content to meet their needs and desires. By speaking their language, addressing their pain points, and offering solutions, you’ll create a strong connection that sparks engagement and builds loyalty. Remember, your audience is the hero of your social media journey.
3. Embrace Video Content Like a Pro
Lights, camera, action—it’s time to make your social media presence pop with captivating video content. Video is a powerful tool that grabs attention, evokes emotions, and drives engagement. Whether it’s live streams, how-to tutorials, product demos, or behind-the-scenes glimpses, video content is king in the digital realm. Don’t worry about being perfect; authenticity trumps polish. Grab your smartphone, hit record, and let your creativity shine. Your audience will love the dynamic and immersive experience that video brings. So, let’s roll out the red carpet for your video debut!
4. Engage and Build Relationships
In the fast-paced world of social media, building genuine relationships is the secret sauce to success. Engage with your audience by responding to comments, messages, and mentions. Show appreciation for their support, ask for feedback, and start conversations. Be proactive in reaching out to influencers, partners, and collaborators to expand your network. The more you engage and connect with others, the stronger your community will become. Remember, social media is a two-way street—listen, engage, and foster relationships that last a lifetime.
By defining your brand voice, knowing your audience, embracing video content, and building relationships, you’re on the fast track to social media success. So, roll up your sleeves, sprinkle in some creativity, and let these tips be the magic wand that transforms your small business into a digital powerhouse.
5 Realistic Social Media Goals For 2024
Are you ready to kickstart your social media success in 2024? Grab a cup of coffee (or tea, if that’s your vibe) and get cozy, because I’ve got some intentional goals that will take your social media game to new heights. Let’s dive in and make your digital presence shine!
Build an Engaged Community
At this point, we all know that engagement is the name of the game on social media. In 2024, focus on building a loyal community of followers who are not just passive observers, but active participants in your brand journey. Encourage conversations, ask questions, and respond to comments. Show your audience that you care about their opinions and create a sense of belonging. When your community feels valued, they’ll become your biggest brand advocates, spreading the word about your products and services far and wide.
Nurture Authentic Connections
In the age of bots and fake accounts, authenticity is the ✨golden ticket✨. Small businesses have a unique advantage—they can showcase the personal touch that larger companies often miss. Share your brand story, introduce your team, and let your personality shine through. Genuine connections with your audience will create trust and loyalty. Remember, behind every screen, there’s a real person craving that human connection. So, let your authenticity be your superpower!
Get Creative with Content
Standing out in the noisy social media landscape requires a touch of creativity. In 2024, focus on creating thumb-stopping content that captures attention and inspires action. Experiment with different formats like videos, infographics, interactive posts, or behind-the-scenes glimpses. Don’t be afraid to add some humour, tell stories, or share valuable tips. Your content is your chance to spark joy and create memorable experiences for your audience. Remember, creativity knows no boundaries, so let your imagination run wild.
Harness the Power of Influencer Collaborations
Influencer marketing isn’t going anywhere, and in 2024, it’s still a valuable strategy for small businesses. Partnering with influencers who align with your brand values can help you tap into their engaged audience and expand your reach. Seek out micro-influencers or nano-influencers who have a niche following that resonates with your target market. These authentic partnerships can create a buzz around your brand and generate quality leads. So, go ahead and make some influencer magic happen ????
Track and Analyze Results
It’s time to put on your data detective hat. In 2024, tracking and analyzing your social media efforts is essential to measure your success. Dive into metrics like engagement rates, reach, click-through rates, and conversions. Identify what’s working and what needs improvement. Use this data to optimize your strategy and make informed business decisions. Remember, data is your secret weapon to outsmart your competition and skyrocket your social media game.
Setting realistic social media goals for your small business is the first step towards success. By building an engaged community, nurturing authentic connections, getting creative with content, harnessing the power of influencers, and tracking your results, you’ll pave the way for a thriving social media presence in 2024.
✨Remember, it’s not just about the number of followers or likes—it’s about meaningful connections and delivering value to your audience. You’ve got this!
How Small Businesses Can Supercharge Success with AI Tools
Feeling overwhelmed by the ever-changing digital landscape? Don’t worry, I’ve got your back. Today, let’s talk about how small businesses can harness the power of AI tools to level up their game and conquer the online world.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) isn’t just for the big players anymore. With advancements in technology, AI tools have become more affordable and accessible, making it possible for small businesses like yours to compete with the industry giants. So, let’s dive in and explore how you can use AI to skyrocket your success!
1. Get to know your audience better than they know themselves
Understanding your target audience is crucial for any business, big or small. AI tools can help you gather valuable insights that go beyond basic demographic data. By analyzing customer behavior and preferences, AI can uncover hidden patterns and trends, enabling you to create personalized campaigns that speak directly to your audience’s desires and needs. It’s like having a crystal ball for marketing!
2. Automate repetitive tasks to save time and money
As a small business owner, you wear many hats. But nobody’s got time for mindless, repetitive tasks, right? That’s where AI comes in. With AI-powered automation tools, you can streamline processes like data entry, customer support, email marketing, and more. By automating these mundane tasks, you’ll have more time to focus on what truly matters—growing your business.
3. Enhance customer experience with chatbots
Gone are the days of waiting on hold for customer support. With AI-powered chatbots, you can provide instant assistance to your customers, 24/7. These clever bots can answer frequently asked questions, guide customers through purchases, and even suggest personalized recommendations based on their browsing history. Your customers will be impressed with this lightning-fast support, and you’ll have more time to sip your coffee (or latte, if that’s your style) in peace.
4. Optimize your ad campaigns with AI-driven insights
Running digital ad campaigns can be like navigating a maze blindfolded—until now. AI tools can analyze vast amounts of data to identify the best-performing ad placements, keywords, and audience segments. You’ll never waste a dime on ineffective campaigns again. It’s like having a digital marketing guru on your team, guiding you towards campaign success.
5. Personalize product recommendations to boost sales
Remember that feeling when Amazon suggested a product you didn’t even know you needed? That’s the magic of AI-driven recommendations. By analyzing customer behavior and purchase history, AI tools can provide personalized product recommendations that increase sales and customer satisfaction. It’s like having your own online shopping genie, granting wishes before customers even make them.
6. Stay ahead of the game with predictive analytics
Predicting the future might sound like the stuff of sci-fi movies, but AI-powered predictive analytics are turning it into a reality. By analyzing historical data and market trends, AI tools can forecast demand, detect emerging trends, and help you make informed business decisions. Say goodbye to guessing and hello to a data-driven future!
Now that you know the power of AI, it’s time to take action. Start exploring different AI tools and platforms, and find the ones that align with your business goals and budget. Remember, Rome wasn’t built in a day, so start small and gradually incorporate AI into your operations. You’ve got this!
Harnessing the power of AI can be a game-changer for small businesses. By understanding your audience, automating repetitive tasks, enhancing customer experience, optimizing ad campaigns, personalizing product recommendations, and embracing predictive analytics, you’ll be well on your way to digital marketing greatness.
So, grab your cape and let the AI revolution begin. Your small business superhero journey awaits!
Unlocking Success: Digital Marketing Trends to Watch for in 2024
Ready to take a peek into the future of digital marketing? Buckle up, because I’ve got some exciting trends coming your way for 2024. Get ready to stay ahead of the game and revolutionize your digital strategy for the coming year.
1. Conversational AI: Chatbots evolve into virtual companions
Remember when chatbots were just basic question-answer machines? Well, get ready for the next level! In 2024, conversational AI will become more sophisticated, interactive, and personal. Imagine having a virtual companion who not only assists customers but also understands emotions, provides recommendations, and engages in natural conversations. It’s like Siri and Alexa had a digital marketing lovechild ????
2. Influencer marketing takes a turn to the micro side
We all know the power of influencers, but in 2024, the trend is taking a turn towards the micro-influencers. These social media rockstars may have a smaller following, but they have highly engaged audiences that trust their recommendations. By teaming up with micro-influencers who align with your brand values, you can capture the hearts (and wallets) of your target audience in an authentic and impactful way.
3. Interactive content gets even more immersive
Gone are the days of passive content consumption. In 2024, interactive content will reign supreme. Think 360-degree videos, augmented reality (AR) experiences, and immersive storytelling that truly engages your audience. By creating experiences that captivate and involve your customers on a whole new level, you’ll leave a lasting impression and stand out in the digital noise.
4. Hyper-personalization becomes the new norm
Personalization has been a buzzword for years, but in 2024, it goes hyper! With advancements in AI and data analysis, brands will have the power to create highly personalized experiences at scale. From tailored product recommendations to customized email campaigns, hyper-personalization will make your customers feel like ✨VIPs✨. Just remember, with great personalization, comes great responsibility (Spiderman reference intended), so make sure you respect privacy and build trust.
5. Video continues its reign as the king of content
It’s no secret that video has been ruling the content world for some time now, and its reign is far from over. In 2024, video will continue to dominate as the most engaging and compelling form of content. From short-form videos for social media stories to long-form videos for educational purposes, incorporating video into your digital strategy is non-negotiable. It’s time to grab your smartphone and start creating eye-catching videos that leave viewers wanting more. Lights, camera, action…you got this ????????????
6. Voice search optimization becomes a necessity
Hey Siri, will voice search optimization still matter in 2024? Absolutely! In fact, it’s becoming increasingly crucial. With the rise of voice assistants like Siri, Alexa, and Google Assistant, optimizing your content for voice search is a must. Focus on long-tail keywords, natural language, and providing concise, direct answers. When someone asks their voice assistant a question, you want to be the one providing the answer. So, warm up those vocal cords and get ready for voice search domination!
Now that you have a glimpse into the future of digital marketing, it’s time to start preparing for 2024. Stay ahead of the curve by embracing conversational AI, tapping into micro-influencers, creating interactive content, hyper-personalizing experiences, leveraging the power of video, and optimizing for voice search. Remember, trends come and go, but the ability to adapt and evolve is what will set you apart from the competition.
So, let’s march forward and unlock success in the ever-changing digital landscape. 2024 is waiting for you, my digital marketing friend. It’s time to make your mark and write your success story! ????✨