meghanmcrae

[meghanmcrae]

Week # 13 Progress

What is working?

This week I received a final copy of my business logo to register. Please see photo below

What is not working?

As previously noted, no income is being collected from business as writer cannot begin to function as a foot care nurse until the completion of a foot care nurse clinical course

How do you feel the project is coming?

I feel satisfied with the final report created as I’ve gained new knowledge I was seeking to obtain prior to taking the course

What are you learning about running a business?

I’m learning that running a business is a forever learning process and will require frequent revaluation to keep up to speed with changing needs and requirements to be an effective entrepreneur

What are you learning about yourself?

I’m learning to ask others for help by reaching out to those who have already accomplished what I want to do next to benefit Mindful Feet

[meghanmcrae]

Week # 12 Progress

What is working?

This week I successfully hired a contractor to transfer my logo sketch to a vector file in the following formats: .ai (vector file that can be modified in Adobe illustrator) .dxf (vector file that can be modified in any vector program like Adobe) .jpg high res .jpg low res .png high res (this one has a transparent background that can be used for branding websites and photographs etc)

I became a new member of the Cornwall And Area Chamber of Commerce to participate in networking opportunities, receive early alerts that are relevant to Mindful Feet, get a say in what happens in the government through their advocacy efforts, receive discounts, and more

What is not working?

As previously noted, no income is being collected from business as writer cannot begin to function as a foot care nurse until the completion of a foot care nurse clinical course

How do you feel the project is coming?

I feel the project has gone above and beyond my expectations for success as evident by the use of various resources provided throughout this course towards the development of Mindful Feet 

What are you learning about running a business?

This week I’ve learned about business plans and why they’re important through course textbook readings in chapter 12.

Writing goals cultivates motivational intent to pursue the attainment of chief aim ✍️

What are you learning about yourself?

I’m learning to go outside of my comfort zones and share my business plans with others. This has shown to be an effective approach to receive possitive feedback, constructive criticism, and contact information to network with others who can provide leadership, creativity, and collaborative support to the benefit of Mindful Feet

[meghanmcrae]

Staying on your feet keeps you grounded to growth and longevity commitments for prospering abundance 👣

[meghanmcrae]

Week # 11 Progress

What is working?

This week I spoke to Jennifer from Pedicare (professional foot care tool supplier) to discuss current laws and regulations in Canada in relation to supporting foot care best practice guidelines and standards. I also had the opportunity to meet with Lauraine from Lauraine’s Specialty Footcare (direct competitor) who revealed plenty of good to know information 

What is not working?

As previously noted, no income is being collected from business as writer cannot begin to function as a foot care nurse until the completion of a foot care nurse clinical course

How do you feel the project is coming?

This week I played catch up to meet all project deadlines. I currently feel confident in my ability to wrap up the remainder of project due for success  

What are you learning about running a business?

This week I’ve learned about emerging trends and issues in entrepreneurship through course textbook readings in chapter 11

What are you learning about yourself?

I’m learning to say no to certain opportunities that do not serve my own business venture to say yes more often to other opportunities that do

[meghanmcrae]

Week # 10 Business Progress

What is working? 

This week I’ve received one new client referral added to wait list for service. While out shopping for makeup the esthetician on site approached me to find out more information as to what my intentions for purchase are. I explained how I don’t normally wear makeup but do not want face to appear washed out during video recording for business venture project. This lady responded with relief when services became known as her Mother requires home visits for preventative diabetic foot care

What is not working?

As previously noted, no income is being collected from business as writer cannot begin to function as a foot care nurse until the completion of a foot care nurse clinical course

How do you feel the project is coming?

This week my project took a toll due to an unexpected loss of a loved one. This experience required me to slow down and commit to performing acts of self love to prevent caregiver burn out 

What are you learning about running a business? 

This week I’ve learned about managing for efficiency through course textbook readings in chapter 10. The more I read and explore about running a business the more I recognize I have yet to learn  

What are you learning about yourself?

I’m learning I have the potential and abilities to achieve what my limited self may see as impossible for me. With the recent change of direction in career plans I’ve had other foot care nurses approach me with partnership proposal plans. I’ve also recently been offered a teaching opportunity as a PSW instructor which is highly under consideration as this experience can help shape the trainer and mentor I plan to become as in part of business acting as a staffing recruitment agency 

[meghanmcrae]

Week # 9 Progress

What is working? This week I’ve successfully paid and registered for foot care nurse clinical course at Soft Soles in Ottawa Ontario from November 7-12 of 2020 from 0900am-1700pm prior to deadline on October 10th saving $150+tax

What is not working? As previously noted, no income is being collected from business as writer cannot begin to function as a foot care nurse until the completion of a foot care nurse clinical course

How do you feel the project is coming? I feel small achievable goals have been met throughout the project that are essential to push business forward as the future happens in the present

What are you learning about running a business? This week I’ve learned about managing skills and applying techniques for business growth via course textbook readings on chapter 9

Build a better mousetrap and the world will beat a path to your door -Ralph Waldo Emerson

What are you learning about yourself? I’m learning how to modify self-responsive behaviours through acts of self-discipline. Last audio assignment revealed how I sound when I speak during a freestyle speech without reading directly from a formal script. I discovered I unconsciously use the word ‘basically’ repetitively when providing details and descriptions to prove a point. In response I monitored my conversations with others this week and caught myself using this word again. Not that this word is inappropriate but can be used most effectively when incorporated less frequently in sentences through the use of synonoms to reduce acts of repetition. In this case instead of using basically I can use the word simply

[meghanmcrae]

My Progress- Week # 8

What is working? 👍

This week I received 4 new client referrals who have been added to a waitlist! I also used this time wisely to create a customized business logo and medical uniforms. Pricing research and colour psychology investigated

What is not working? 👎

As previously noted, no income is being collected from business venture as writer cannot begin to function as a foot care nurse until the completion of a foot care nurse clinical course in November of 2020

How do you feel the project is coming?👌

Despite global pandemic related setbacks such as delay in training, equipment production and shipping I feel this project is further supporting business model for success through committed studies

What are you learning about running a business? 🤝

This week I’ve learned some pros and cons of taking over a family business and how to overcome barriers for success. Topics covered in chapter 8 of textbook readings are mechanisms to manage conflict in family dynamics, tips to prepare for taking over family business, ways to help prepare retiring family members, and legalities

What are you learning about yourself? 👐

This week I’ve done a holistic personal reflection assessment on self and noted the following habits that affect my productivity

Positive habits (➕)

going to bed and waking up early

eating healthy foods

drinking plenty of water

regular exercise

yoga, meditation, and faithful prayer

read good books and listen to educational speakers

practice positive affirmations, visualization, journal S.M.A.R.T goals, gratitude and forgiveness

take full responsibility for reality and note any self-limiting beliefs for modification 

remove self from toxic people, substances, and environments

connect with mother nature, use of crystal and aromatherapy

speak with impeccability

meet with mastermind group weekly

mentor new nursing students

contribute to society

Negative habits (➖)

have an alcoholic beverage after work to promote rest and relaxation

eat fast food to skip meal prep and dishes

watch the news on T.V or listen to music on the radio that can influence my subconscious mind

dwell on the past that cannot be changed but learned from

not practice one or more positive habit listed above per day

[meghanmcrae]

My Progress- Week # 7 

What is working?

The planning and visualizing of business venture is moving full speed ahead. The more time I invest in imagining possibilities the clearer my vision becomes clarifying present steps required to manifest desired future

What is not working?

I cannot begin my practice as a foot care nurse until successfully completing a foot care nurse clinical placement in November of 2020. This means no income is being collected from business venture at this time

How do you feel the project is coming?

I feel I’m receiving the most possible benefits from this project based on current circumstances. Learning from an entrepreneurial perspective is boosting confidence required to move forward with vision for success

What are you learning about running a business?

I’m learning about supportive resources available for running a business through required textbook readings and online modules which include but are not limited to business terminology, financing options, how to best complete with competitors, the costs and risks involved and how to manage methods to increase profitability using a collaborative and systematic approach

What are you learning about yourself?

I’m learning to distinguish personal strengths from weaknesses. I have a strong foundation of nursing knowledge, skills and experience to uplift my private practice however, I recognize it’s taking me longer to apply new concepts introduced in managing a business such as accounting techniques related to inexperience

[meghanmcrae]

Where Will I Get the Money?

See options listed below for getting start-up money👇

Personal Sources

Own Cash Investment

self invest in an online foot care nurse theory course and an on site foot care nurse clinical course to function as a Foot Care Nurse

self invest in the minimum tools and equipment required to practice

Love Money

borrow money from Grandfather who made it possible to purchase first car by co-signing loan

borrow money from Godparents who made it possible to go to college by co-signing student loan

Government Programs

Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC)

apply for start-up financing when eligible

Canada Small Business Financing Program (CSBF)

apply for commercial property

Heart of the City

apply for funding programs available. The 7 programs are City of Cornwall Rehabilitation Grant Program (tax-based), Building Restoration & Improvement Program, Project Feasibility Study Grant, Facade Improvement/Heritage Sign Grant, Municipal Planning Development Fees Grant, Discretionary Municipal Tipping Fees Grant, And Payment-in-lieu of Parkland Dedication Grant

Chartered Banks

Term Loans

apply as needed

Lines of Credit

apply as needed

Special instructions note!

Get a copy of credit report to check accuracy of information in advance

Investors

Angels

apply business Pitch to Southerneastern Ontario Angel Network (SOAN)

Other Sources

Crowdfunding

apply to the most appropriate Canadian Crowdfunding portal at the National Crowdfunding Association of Canada website

Canadian Youth Business Fountation (CYBF)

apply at futurpreneur.ca for financing and mentoring support

Indirect Financing

Foot Care Instruments Suppliers in Canada

Contact and negotiate a generous term to get inventory that hasn’t been paid for prior to use

[meghanmcrae]

The Business Plan, Section 4: OPERATIONS

Questions are responded by answering the following format extracted from Business Plan, Business Reality Starting and Managing Your Own Business in Canada, Fourth Edition by James R. Skinner on page 96

Space and Equipment

1. The following equipment is needed to run Mindful Feet:

Pre-ordered individualized sterile disposable foot care tools (i.e. nail trimmers) Foot care devices are considered critical and must be sterile to the point of use. Need to acquire

Veloria suction integrated podiatry file by Hadewe. Light and easy to handle high grade tool with 40,000 RPM. Reduces spread of airborne particles. On a wait list. Product is being rebranded in Germany for Canadian use. Expected date of release is late September, 2020  

Personal protective equipment (i.e. gloves, gowns, masks, and facial shields) To protect wearer’s body from injury or infection. To meet best practice requirements to flatten the COVID19 curve

Agenda. To schedule appointments. Need to acquire

Uniforms. To present professionalism. Own

Carry Case. To transport tools. Need to acquire

Phone. To respond to current, new, and potential clients. Own

2. Not in retail or consumer business at this time however, currently highly considering establishing a clinical foot care setting at 900 Pitt Street in Cornwall, Ontario. Factors under consideration include placing the cash register at the front of facility facing the main entrance window and placing supplies in sequence to support IPAC standards. A simplified example of this includes placing clean labelled tools on one side of the room and dirty labeled tools on the other

Logistics

3. All sterile to the point of use tools are pre-ordered online for $9.90 each through Quality Foot Care Products. All tools are stored in clean room designed at owners’ home. All supply storage to be relocated to clinical foot care setting considering a high need for service is met 4. N/A

Methods and Procedures

5. The process of foot care services includes an initial in-depth health assessment of client and their lower limb needs. This assessment entails a client history, list of diagnosis, copy of medical administration record, DNR status, chief complaint, reason for referral, and planning interventions to meet client specific goals through a holistic nursing approach.  Client also receives first foot care treatment. Appointment lasts one hour in duration and is 30 minutes every session following. Client receives an invoice following service provided. Payments can be made to Mindful Feet via cheque, e-transfer, or cash. 6. Clients are strongly encouraged to speak with Mindful Feet manager to report any complaints and/or concerns. A report can be complete via email or voice call. Manager will typically respond within one business day. All urgent and life-threatening matters are directed to dial 911 for immediate medical attention. For additional resources, health teachings, and support personal care conferences are available upon request

Systems

7. For online booking, admin scheduling, payments, charting and reporting Mindful Feet uses the Jane App which is created for professionals within the health and wellness industry

Organization

8. N/A 9. When Mindful Feet can hire new foot care nurses to join the team, they’ll be paid $25/hr and be provided with tools and equipment required on a contract basis. Moving forward with the vision to establish long term security commitments to nursing staff offering benefit and pension plan options

Regulation

10. Licences required are a valid G drivers’ licence and certificate of competence from the College of Nurses of Ontario ($300/annually) 11. Memberships required are with WePRN the Registered Practical Nurses Association Of Ontario ($264/annually) and Canadian Association of Foot Care Nurses (100+tax/annually)  Other: Advanced foot care nurse certificate, proof of up to date immunizations, clear police screen for the vulnerable, valid first aid and CPR level C, current certificate of WHIMIS training completion

[meghanmcrae]

Customer Persona

Mr. D.W

About

Mr. D.W is an 89year old widower who has recently been admitted to long term care in Cornwall, Ontario. Mr. D.W is diagnosed with arthritis, mild dementia, Parkinson’s, and type 2 diabetes. Mr. D.W worked for Domtar paper mill prior to production closure in 2006. Mr. D.W has one daughter who is sole POA of care and finances. Mr. D.W enjoys playing cards and watching sports network on T.V

Benefits

 Mr. D.W pays $35 per service as oppose to $50 as other residents in the nursing home use Mindful Feet

Mr. D.W wants an appointment every six week on a Monday at 0930hrs and his appointments are scheduled accordingly in advance. This helps Mr. D.W remember when his appointments are

Mr. D.W originally organized service for nail trimming and nail thickness reduction however, following foot exam calluses noted and removed to prevent potential foot ulcer. Mr. D.W is now aware of additional benefits to receiving regular foot care

Use Case

 Mr. D.W invests in advanced and diabetic nursing foot care to prevent infection and other foot ailments

Mr. D.W has dry and cracked skin. Attending physician recommends a hydrating lotion to treat. Mr. D.W purchases lotion used by Mindful Feet and made it a part of his care plan

Previous Solution + Pain Points

Before Mindful Feet Mr. D.W lived at home with his wife who cut his nails. Wife being a former health care aid who self-learned how to cut thick nails. Problems with this include tools not sterile and shared between couple.  Mr. D.W developed the occasional infection requiring antibiotic therapy

Buying Trigger

Nursing staff at long term care facility did not cut his thick and ingrown toe nails

Buying Process

Mr. D.W complained to his daughter who found a foot care nurse ad in the elevator of his home when in visiting. Daughter called to find out more information for her Dad. When Mr. D. W’s daughter suggested service available Mr. D.W eagerly agreed with relief. Mr. D.W enjoys receiving his foot care so much that he decides to schedule an appointment every six weeks

Choice Factors

Convienience- Mr. D.W wants his toes cut in his home to reduce feelings of dependency on daughter

Specialization- Mr. D.W wants a nurse who can provide proof of advanced and diabetic foot care certificate

Infection Control- Mr. D.W wants sterile tools to be used on his feet and not the disinfected ones at the nursing home that he knows can grow bacterial spores

[meghanmcrae]

Creative Advertising Exercise 🧷

[meghanmcrae]

Case Study for Discussion

4. Critique the sales approach Micheal is using. Suggest alternatives.

Micheal starts off by sending out half-page flyers one in every mailbox of the neighbourhood. Though the flyer is short and direct message can be enhanced by modifying words selected. Instead of cheap use affordable and replace here’s my number with name so people know who to ask for when they call. Some people may have already heard of you or know who you are which increases the likelihood of receiving a call considering your reputation is in good standing condition. Done in one day and good work can be eliminated. People want to believe they’re getting the best option available to them and good falls short from exceptional. Guaranteeing work is complete in one day leaves the assumption that corners will be cut and client’s may look for reasons to support this belief whether valid or not. Next, Micheal goes door to door with a wise smile but opens mouth with negative feedback on the appearance of their home increasing levels uncomfortability or defensiveness as responses. Micheal is better off initiating complements on what he does like about their home. Next, Micheal adapts his approach to asking how the client is prior to diving in and asking if the person wants a really good paint job and for cheap. Micheal may have been more successful by sharing his own personal story, experience, and supportive evidence of work quality through photos. If person is still not interested Micheal can ask if they know anyone else who would be. Closing all interactions expressing profound gratitude towards others contribution to cause no matter how small or insignificant it may appear on the surface. Micheal may do well responding to the following other refusals using different individualized responses. For the person who does their own repairs and house painting offer to help assist them meet their goals. For the person who has their own contractor find out who it is and how they seem to be doing. If this competitor is doing well Micheal can mirror them. Lastly, for the person who does not see their home in bad enough condition find out what is considered to be bad enough condition to them so you know when to come back.

[meghanmcrae]

Local Competition

Competition is a healthy dose of motivation to keep you on your toes -Meghan McRae RPN, nurse educator, owner of Mindful Feet

#1) Carefor

Carefor is a registered charity that aims to keep families together living at home by providing home health care and community support services from nursing to personal support. On July 9, 2020 Carefor announced the grand opening of their local foot care services on Facebook with a supporting link to their website. Webpage reviewed contains a list of contact numbers to receive foot care service in clinic at Cornwall, Ontario and surrounding locations. Carefor also offers foot care in-home. Currently, Carefor has not initiated their practice providing foot care except for in Cornwall. Each visit costs $40.00 however, fees are not listed on webpage and those interested are encouraged to contact Carefor directly. Carefor is marked as number one competitor as this organization has built intimate relationships and connections with people since 1867.  

#2) Diabetes Centre

The Diabetes Centre is located at Cornwall Community Hospital. This is a private physician led clinic funded by the Ontario Health Plan (OHIP.) Dr. Deyoung and Dr.Levac are endocrinologists who are part of a diabetes management team that include foot care nurses who provide preventative diabetic foot care. Currently, there’s little to no advertisement known for this service. Most clients are referred by their multidisciplinary team or find out through word of mouth. The Diabetes Centre has been working on creating a webpage of services available however, due to the COVID-19 the final publishment is on hold until an undetermined time. The Diabetes Centre is marked as 2nd competitor as service is covered but require clients who are mobile or have support to attend appointments safely.

#3) Lauraine’s Specialty Footcare Services

Lauraine is a registered nurse who began providing foot care in 1984 and is now working as an independent foot care practitioner affiliating with the Department of Veterans Affairs who use Medaive Blue Cross as their insurance agency. Specialities include advanced and diabetic foot care, ankle brachial indexing, and providing foot care to persons with dementia. Lauraine offers foot care at her clinic located in Long Sault, a 10min drive from Cornwall and in-home services. Lauraine charges clients $45.00 per visit. There’s no website for Lauraine’s Specialty Footcare Services but a google search easily provides direction to a Facebook page with 88 likes and contact information. No pricing is revealed on Facebook nor is list of full services. Laurine states her best form of advertisement is through posting an ad in the local newspaper. Lauraine is marked as 3rd competitor as she is known to provide foot care to residents who live in long term care facilities.

[meghanmcrae]

Message Map🩺🦶

[meghanmcrae]

Strengths and Weaknesses

Entrepreneurial Skills

Entrepreneurs are judged solely on their ability to make profit. JAMES R. SKINNER  Author of Business Plan, Business Reality: Starting and Managing Your Own Business in Canada

Financial Planning Strength: I can easily save and accumulate money Weakness: In the past I used a credit card inappropaitely leading to debt. I have not since used a credit card related to feelings of fear and worry Strength: I know my financial position can improve and grow with the regular appropriate use of credit. Therefore, I recently obtained a zero annual fee credit card through my bank. I plan to use this card for most of my transactions in replacement of debit. I’ve created a preauthorized payment plan to reduce the amount of work load on self and risk of late payment

Sales/Negotiation  Strength: I’m not afraid to ask for what I want because I know if I get told no I’m in no worse of a position than prior to asking. I reject rejection and continue to ask for what I want. Persistence usually leads me to what I want or better Weakness: I have little to no experience working in sales

People Management Strength: I have a positive mindset and am confident in my ability to win friends and influence people Strength: I have over 7 years of experience as a supervisor. I promote strong work ethics that are easily mirrored by my employees as evident by demonstrating excellent work performance