Dugald Orr’s Post

Dear LinkedIn Community, As I reflect on my professional journey, I've had the privilege of working with some of the most iconic brands within large corporations, as well as diving headfirst into the dynamic world of start-ups. However, my time in start-ups, though filled with excitement and potential, has unfortunately been marked by unforeseen challenges. In both instances, the start-ups I joined were brimming with promise, yet fell victim to the tumultuous nature of businesses in their infancy, ultimately leading to the premature end of my employment through mass layoffs. As someone deeply committed to investing in the long-term success of a company and who truly loved my roles, it was disheartening to see these ventures falter. Now, more than ever, I am seeking a stable position within a mature company where I can contribute my skills and expertise over the long haul. While I've thrived in the fast-paced, multifaceted environments of start-ups, I'm eager to channel my energy into a company that offers stability and the opportunity for sustained growth. My journey has equipped me with a versatile skill set, ranging from navigating the intricacies of corporate behemoths to wearing multiple hats in lean start-up environments. I bring to the table a blend of creativity, adaptability, and proven branding expertise that I'm eager to leverage in any industry. If you're aware of any opportunities that align with my skills and aspirations, or if you're interested in exploring how we could potentially collaborate, I would be thrilled to connect and discuss further. Thank you for your continued support and encouragement! #OpenToWork #Brand #Marketing

YOU'RE AN ADVENTURE Chinese New Year is right around the corner. Now, I have this love-hate relationship with Chinese New Year. On the bright side, you spend more time with your family. The problem is… Chinese New Year also involves: - Relatives asking all sorts of questions… when it’s none of their business. - Long, expensive traveling cost - Giving out red envelopes 💸 But I guess that’s life - every coin has two sides. Just like building a business. Pro: It allows you to be your boss. Con: It’s a lot harder than working a “job.” (or at least it used to be… before all these layoffs) You have to ask yourself: “Is it worth it?” Because it’s never gonna get “easy.” It will always be a roller coaster ride where you don’t know when to hit the next drop. For example: The interest rate had been low for almost a decade before 2022. A lot of companies had been booming with “cheap” money. Until… In 2022, FED announced 11 consecutive raises. Now, the pond has dried up… and people are panicking. But roller coasters are meant to be scary. The unpredictability is what makes it exciting. So, if you are indeed an entrepreneur, embrace the inevitable ups and downs. Give it all you got… …and worry about what “might happen” when it actually happens. Life is an adventure; play or be played! Cheering for you, Wuyen

Happy MLK day, network! For those of us working today, good for you! For those not, also, good for you! Couple of different things on my mind today... First - next Tuesday I will be presenting MJL Recruiting & Consulting on Luke Van Every In This Together Roundtable Networking event at 11AM EST. I'm happy to share the link with anyone who would like to join and listen live and then meet other awesome people! Second - in everything we do in life, there is risk. People who like to work 9-5 corporate jobs think there's no risk in that. What happens when you uproot your life to move across the country and while you're still in temporary housing - you get laid off? Isn't that a risk? People who decide to become entrepreneurs...there's a lot of risk in that. Let's stop looking at each other like the other is crazy. There's an equal amount of risk in both directions here. The question is - which do you prefer? And that's really all there is to it. Question for the day: is there a risk you're not taking in your life right now? If so, what is it? and Why not? If you're taking a risk, what is it? how is it going? #changemakers #2024hiring #startuphiring

"The internet is full of beautiful inspirational quotes about empowerment and resilience after a setback. One of my favourites is Paulo Coelho’s: "The secret of life is to fall seven times and to get up eight times." But sometimes you need more than a motivational quote or a poster. Dealing with a job loss is a tough reality that I’ve faced a few times. I want to share the strategies that have helped me to stay resilient, build a strong career, and be kind to myself during those difficult times." Sandra Yönter shares tips and advice for transforming a layoff into a catalyst for unexpected growth. 👉 Full post: https://bit.ly/3LIMfDi #womenintech #layoff #careertransitions #growth

Maybe the right opportunities haven't presented themselves? Maybe I need to do something different? Please share this post for some reach, I'm extremely grateful for any traction I can get. I don't quite cover everything in my video but you get the rough idea. My broad experience seems to be holding me back as I'm not quite niche enough for some roles. However, when applying for more junior roles I'm told "You sound too smart, you won't stay", that's a direct quote and I have had quite a few similar knock backs. I need a job, if I applied it was for a reason. You do know what the alternative to smart people is?!! Anyway..... there's lots to me, the video is just a taster, would love to hear from anyone who thinks my skills maybe of use. Need some positive energy? Try these various flavours! https://lnkd.in/dh4prd2C https://lnkd.in/dRDRxEC9 https://lnkd.in/dkPZJ6Yw #opentowork #operations #hire #opentonetwork #management #careers #startup #SME #strategy

More and more people are consumed by scarcity mentality, but you should embrace the principle of abundance There's enough for everyone to thrive and succeed. When you shift your mindset from scarcity to abundance, you will begin to see opportunities everywhere, and you will become more inclined to support and uplift others, knowing that their success doesn't diminish your own. So, begin now to raise your gaze from the narrow lens of scarcity and embrace the panoramic view of abundance. Let's each, together, build a future where everyone has the chance to flourish, where success is not a finite resource, but an endless wellspring waiting to be tapped into. Cheers! #abundance #employers #employees #founder #hiring #scarcity #resource

I grew more as a leader in 2023 than in any year previously.
 Unfortunately, that kind of growth doesn’t come by coasting from victory to victory. It comes from enduring a lot of pain, and there was plenty of that to go around in the past 12 months. Like many, we had to lay off staff, pivot strategy, retreat from certain markets. Barely a week went by without some terrible curveball flying at us. Many of the lessons from 2023 have yet to emerge, but there were some major learnings from steering a startup through the toughest of times. 1. Communication is Paramount You have to be honest about the challenges the company is facing and share the plan to move forward. Address concerns openly and foster a sense of trust among employees. 2. Focus Focus Focus Concentrate on your core business activities. Evaluate which products or services are most profitable and prioritize those. Everything else, get rid of it. 3. Control Your Costs
 Cost is an area of the business you can actively influence.
 Negotiate with vendors for better terms. Explore bulk purchasing options.
 Get as enthusiastic about cutting costs as you do about growing revenue.
 4. Prioritize Employee Wellbeing Layoffs can have a significant impact on morale, so ensure that those who remain feel supported. Offer counseling, organize team-building activities, and maintain an open-door policy for staff. 5. Stay Customer-Centric Happy customers are more likely to remain loyal, even during challenging times. Try seeking feedback from customers and use it to make decisions about product/service improvements. — I have no idea what lies in wait in 2024. Maybe the Fed gets its soft landing, interest rates come down, venture comes back. Maybe the war in the Middle East spreads, commercial real estate collapses, and the election is a complete mess. But I know my team is ready for any macro-economic conditions. And I want to thank them all from the bottom of my heart for their efforts this past year. It was an honor to lead you and I am so grateful for the experience (even if it was very difficult at times). But enough about me, what did 2023 teach you about running a business? Happy new year, Jeff 

Excited to share that my talented friend Victoria Halina Poon is actively seeking roles in impact investing, social innovation, and venture building! 🌟 Reach out if you know of any opportunities or connections! #ImpactInvesting #SocialInnovation #VentureBuilding"

It’s been almost 3 years of partnering with Joe F.. Over this time, I've had the privilege of building a remarkable partnership with him and witnessing many of his incredible achievements. ✅Qualified for 2021 CEO Club ✅Qualified for 2022 CEO Club ✅Built a team of 14 recruiters ✅Bought his second home! ✅In 2022, soared to the impressive rank of top 7 among 700+ recruiters at Jobot, showcasing his outstanding performance. ✅His team, JAxofalltrade$, achieved top average team twice with a 1M team ✅Currently In Q4, Joe ranks among the top 5 recruiters out of 750+ ✅The cherry on top: Joe has earned his spot to our CEO trip to Bora Bora!! While these accomplishments are truly inspiring, perhaps Joe's most significant achievement is his recent entry into fatherhood. 💖 Welcoming baby Noah into the world with his wife Denise marks a beautiful new chapter for them. In our most recent conversations, I've noticed a distinct change in Joe's demeanor. It's no longer just about him and his wife; now, it's about their growing family. 🤗 If you know Joe, you know everything he does involves striving for perfection. He consistently rises to the occasion, despite the challenges he faces both professionally and personally. I’ve always had faith in his ability to achieve ongoing success, and seeing him as a new father gives me a feeling that the best is yet to come. My favorite thing that Joe has said since becoming a father; “I’m just so happy. There are no bad days now that Noah is here." 🙏💙 I’m so incredibly proud to partner with you, Joe. Your leadership is outstanding, and I can't wait to see you thrive in your new role as a father. ❤️ #thatjobotlife #jobot #recruiter #recruiting #staffing #hr #humanresources #technology #hiring #careers #startup #startups #ai #workfromhome #familyiseverything

Today is surreal. Very very surreal. Today is the first time in over 14 years that I’m #unemployed. The first time in over 14 years I don’t have ownership of a project, clients, partners, a new business strategy, or even a team. Everyone keeps saying “enjoy the time off, something will come along, do something for yourself, spend time with your family and kids - you won’t be able to get it back.” I will definitely enjoy spending more time with the family, I promise you that….but everything else feels complicated!! Even when I’ve taken vacations in the past, I personally always had some aspect of work in the back of my mind - whether it be my team, a big upcoming launch, etc… It might sound easy, but it’s difficult to juggle the feeling of temporary “freedom” and not feeling part of team and a bigger mission. At least for me. It’s been 14 years! It’s also a mix of nerves and excitement on what’s to come. I don’t love sitting around. I don’t want to miss out on the next exciting project or opportunity. I’m hungry and #opentowork. I am tackling this #jobsearch with the same mentality I’ve had in every role I’ve been in, and I know that will pay off. Until then, I’d love to #network , I’d love to meet you for coffee in #boston, I’d love to be your random drop-in on pickleball night. Finally - I know I am not alone. My network is your network. If you see anyone I am connected with, I’d be happy to make an intro. Enjoy the weekend!! #techleadership #startups #mentorship #hiring