A is for advanced
Content marketing advertorial for Mercedes-Benz Barrie
Originally appeared in Dockside Muskoka, Spring/Summer 2019,
a printed publication
Originally appeared in Dockside Muskoka, Spring/Summer 2019,
a printed publication
The new A-Class has the tech your kids will love, with the safety you need
Mercedes-Benz’s 2019 A-Class is redefining luxury for Canadian families. This model, which was introduced to the Canadian market for the first time this year, pairs Mercedes-Benz’s signature style with an attainable price point and a ton of cutting-edge tech, perfect for young drivers.
“This model would make a statement at any price point,” says Michael Murillo, General Manager of Mercedes-Benz Barrie. “At this price, it’s remarkable.” But, he adds, there’s much more to the vehicle than meets the eye.
Voice activation and AI
The A-Class is making history as the first Mercedes-Benz model to offer futuristic AI and voice activation software to help you stay focused while on the road. Just say ‘Hey Mercedes,’ and give your command.
“This vehicle has the most natural, capable and intuitive speech interface offered by any automaker,” says Michael. “If you want to adjust the temperature, play your favourite playlist or call your mom, you can do it all with your voice.”
Many of us use voice-activated technology at home to turn on our favourite music, control our lights and set alarms; in the A-Class, it allos drivers to keep their hands on the wheel and their eyes on the road at all times.
“This is a huge relief to those of us who have kids who drive to the cottage separately,” says Michael. “When the roads are as busy as they usually are on a Friday night, you likely want to know how their drive is going, but you also want them to be as focused as possible. The A-Class makes that possible.”
Fool-proof navigation
To make the drive even easier, Mercedes-Benz has designed the A-Class with dual 7-inch, or optional 10.25-inch digital displays – one above the steering wheel to keep you informed, and the other in the centre of the dash to keep you entertained. Each is designed with a crisp LED display that takes GPS directions to a new level.
“Each display can be customized to emphasize or minimize your controls. I like using the minimalist mode for distraction-free driving on busy roads, and using the sport mode for a bright, punchy look for a fun look in the evening,” says Michael. “But what I really love about the screen is Mercedes-Benz’s navigation system.”
Unlike traditional navigation technology, this system uses a split screen to show the aerial map and the street-view at the same time.
“The street-view highlights the street that you need to turn on using arrows and labels. It’s fool-proof, even for those who struggle with directions.”
Safety first
The A-Class may be tech-friendly, but, like Mercedes-Benz’s other models, it’s built for safety. In addition to its responsive handling and confident 4-Matic all-wheel drive system, you’ll find the same premium safety features that you expect from a Mercedes-Benz.
“The adaptive cruise control and lane keeping assist make highway driving easy,” says Michael. “You can just set your speed and relax knowing that the A-Class will slow down when it approaches another vehicle or pull you back into your lane if you wander into another without realizing.”
Add the futuristic 360-degree camera with blind spot assist, and you won’t worry about other vehicles sitting in your blind spot.
“This technology lets you breathe a sigh of relief, knowing your son or daughter will make it to the cottage and back without any surprises,” says Michael.
A-Plus Personality
While the A-Class is the perfect vehicle for keeping your children safe on the road, its design will make you want to drive one, as well.
This hatchback’s aggressive, aerodynamic exterior are fun and sporty, but what everyone’s noticing is its eye-catching interior.
In addition to a range of colours and trim options, the A-Class can be customized day-to-day and drive-to-drive.
“The interior is fantastic! It makes a real fashion statement. With 64 customizable LED colours available for your display and cabin lighting, the A-Class can adapt with your driving mood,” says Michael.
Test-drives made easy
Taking an A-Class for a test drive as simple as taking a break on the way to the cottage – Mercedes-Benz Barrie is located off the 400, so it’s easy to stop by and take one for a ride.
Talent Found
Content Marketing Advertorial for Botree Inc.
Originally appeared in Central Ontario Business Magazine, October 2019,
a printed publication
Originally appeared in Central Ontario Business Magazine, October 2019,
a printed publication
Empower your employees to work better
tIf you’ve ever asked why your business can’t find the right employees, you’re not alone. Our country is facing a significant labour shortage that doesn’t seem to be ending soon.
According to recent stats, 40 percent of small to medium size businesses are having issues finding employees; at the same time, organizations are doing everything they can to cut costs.
While the situation seems grim, Teena Sauve, Senior Advisor with Botree Inc. believes maximizing profitability comes from creating a company culture that values employees.
“Your best bang for your buck is also your highest line item in your expenses: people,” says Teena. “Invest in employees and you’ll get a higher return. Organizations that don’t start to prioritize culture and people will find themselves hiring mediocre talent at a high rate, if they can find talent at all.”
Instead of hiring new people, start with focusing on communication and productivity of your current team.
“Many staffing problems stem from a lack of either skill or will,” says Teena. “Some employees need the resources to advance their skills, while others need to feel heard.”
At Botree, Teena and her team pride themselves on their industry-agnostic approach to business development: not specializing in any one industry, they can take an out-of-the-box approach that cross-pollinates with great tools from other industries.
“We disrupt your thinking and help you tap into your company’s inherent potential,” says Teena. Her team creates customized programs to train staff and managers, enhance workflow and communications, and address issues ranging from training to conflict management.
The secret, she says is not to give up on your team: “Break out of the box and evolve.”
According to recent stats, 40 percent of small to medium size businesses are having issues finding employees; at the same time, organizations are doing everything they can to cut costs.
While the situation seems grim, Teena Sauve, Senior Advisor with Botree Inc. believes maximizing profitability comes from creating a company culture that values employees.
“Your best bang for your buck is also your highest line item in your expenses: people,” says Teena. “Invest in employees and you’ll get a higher return. Organizations that don’t start to prioritize culture and people will find themselves hiring mediocre talent at a high rate, if they can find talent at all.”
Instead of hiring new people, start with focusing on communication and productivity of your current team.
“Many staffing problems stem from a lack of either skill or will,” says Teena. “Some employees need the resources to advance their skills, while others need to feel heard.”
At Botree, Teena and her team pride themselves on their industry-agnostic approach to business development: not specializing in any one industry, they can take an out-of-the-box approach that cross-pollinates with great tools from other industries.
“We disrupt your thinking and help you tap into your company’s inherent potential,” says Teena. Her team creates customized programs to train staff and managers, enhance workflow and communications, and address issues ranging from training to conflict management.
The secret, she says is not to give up on your team: “Break out of the box and evolve.”
Ready to get started? Let's chat. [email protected]