You’re in Good Company
"Before I met Jodi, I was skeptical of business coaches, but she is the real deal.
As a fledgling entrepreneur, her direction and advice have been invaluable. Throughout our working relationship, I've realized how critical it is to have a qualified, experienced advisor like her provide guidance and keep me motivated to work on my business, as well as in my business.
She is whip-smart, direct, honest but also diplomatic and compassionate and her business knowledge is unmatched. She's helped me with so many areas I found challenging as a first-time business owner, including pricing, business planning, client management, financial forecasting, marketing, and the list goes on. With every problem I've encountered, Jodi has provided balanced and insightful feedback to help me move forward with confidence. She's also a genuinely lovely human and a lot of fun to work with.
10/10 would hire again!"
— Vanessa G., Greenlight Content
“Hi Jodi!,
I don't want our sessions to end...(Insert tears)
You have helped me meet all of my expectations and more. I really enjoy having you in my corner. You are professional, fun, knowledgeable and very good at what you do.”
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“Jodi @ WorkSmart Canada has been my business coach for the last 3 years. I have had so many positive experiences and growth in business that I can't count. I feel like my success would not be the same without her by my side. 100% recommend!”
— Sara L., Sara Lodge Nutrition [Owner]
1-on-1 Coaching Client & Smart Growth Strategies Simplified Program Participant - Fall 2022
“I worked with Jodi to build out a business plan for an e-commerce store. She was an extremely thorough coach and accountability partner. She’s also very well connected in the local business community and was able to put me in touch with all of stakeholders I needed to get started. I would definitely recommend her coaching services!”
— Alison M., Small Business Owner
“Jodi is an INCREDIBLE business coach. Admittedly, I did not think coaching was something I would be into, boy was I wrong. Jodi ran the Small Business grant program I was fortunate to be part of at Hamilton City Hall, and I thoroughly enjoyed her personality and teaching style. So signing up to work with her through Work Smart was an obvious choice for me. Jodi is honest and direct, yet kind and fun to talk to, she will not waste your time with fake platitudes. I HIGHLY recommend her programs if you want to take your small business to the next level.”
— Jaime D., Kitties and Cabernet [Owner]
Smart Growth Strategies Simplified Program Participant - Fall 2022
“I entered this program with Jodi for a 6 month period and I am so pleased with the progress I have made with my business. From being involved in 1 on 1 sessions and also group sessions, I have gained invaluable lessons. I learned a lot about myself as a business owner, how far I could push myself, how much I can actually handle and most importantly how much I could delegate. This is really important as an entrepreneur, delegating... and it was tough for me... as I still want to hold on to many things...there are professionals out there that are better at certain things than I am!!!
Jodi is a great listener, she has a wealth of knowledge and is compassionate.
Every business owner out there wanting to GROW their business needs Jodi in their life!!!
I encourage you to at least do yourself a favor and budget this into your life... YOU NEED THIS!”
— Lystra D., Radiance Laser Clinic [Owner]
Smart Growth Strategies Simplified Program Participant - Fall 2022
“I was excited but really struggling when I decided to start my own business. I found it difficult to get the answers I needed and got caught in the Google search loop more than once. I was stressed & overwhelmed (understatement!) trying to figure out what to do first and how to do it right. I was tired and ready to give up.
I joined the start-up bootcamp and decided to add the 3 months of additional business coaching because I needed the guidance and support, plus it allowed me one-on-one access to a coach.
I cannot express my gratitude enough for finding this program and team. Not only did the bootcamp make the actual process of starting a business simple but the training provided step-by-step guidance for moving through the start-up process. Every day, I was provided with real steps and actions to take to actually start my business.
About halfway through the program, I officially launched my web site and social media. By the end of the program, I had my business registered, insured, planned with monthly, quarterly and annual goals. I know who my customer is and how to actually market to them. Plus, I understand my pricing! I learned about bookkeeping and taxes, I was helped to purchase the right domains for my company and save all social handles.
There’s so much! PLUS, I had two paying customers.
This program is the real deal! This program has accountability, support, community and a successful process to launch your business. Thank you again to the whole team!”
— Mollie O., Holistic Nutritionist, Wellness Start-up
Start a Business in 90 Days Bootcamp Program - Fall 2022
“I run a creative studio with my fiancé, and we use Work Smart [Canada]'s coaching services. We absolutely ADORE Jodi -- her personality is incredibly welcoming, receptive, and ready to help you achieve your goals.
I use Jodi's coaching services for myself as an entrepreneur to work on time management issues, general burnout... everything you'd expect a business owner to need guidance on. She's always prepared with answers, assignments which challenge me to explore my own qualities and skills, and insightful tips. Work Smart | Train Smart has so much to offer, and Jodi is such a gem and dream to work alongside -- she is an integral part of our business' success. I would highly recommend these services, and my 5 stars are only limited by Google... I would give Jodi as many stars as I possibly could, as she has made such a difference in my life and business!”
— Allie C., Branding and Web Design Business Owner
“You have been a gem for helping me keep myself on point. You have been an invaluable asset to me. Huge. I can't even put into words how much love and gratitude I have for you. You exceeded my expectations in every way and you are a lovely, amazing human being. Thank you a million times from the bottom of my heart. I could not have done this without you! I hope this new year is good to you because you deserve only all the good things."
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“I first want to say that I am a very particular person with high expectations. I hired Jodi to help me curate a quality business plan and she FAR exceeded my expectations in every way possible. She is extremely professional, knowledgeable and resourceful. Her attention to detail is impeccable. The method in which she delivers her services is highly organized and client centered. Her kind and graceful manner kept me calm and on point. This made the entire process enjoyable and easy to manage. I can't say enough about how invaluable her services are.”
— Carrie L., River Road Nature School [Owner]
“I had an assessment with Jodi over the phone. She was very helpful with just an initial call! We discussed options for incorporation, tips for getting ahead of finances and she laid out a few different flexible plan options for me and my business. Jodi was professional and friendly and I would highly recommend to anybody looking for a tune-up of their business.”
— Adam Cole, Done Right Pest & Wildlife Control [Owner]
“I attended the [Start a Business in 90 days] bootcamp in March 2022 and quickly observed the team's dedication to helping their clients succeed in obtaining the skills to transition to becoming a new business owner.
I specifically worked with Jodi who supported me in many ways, including administering assessments to guide me in choosing the best industry for me to start a business in. When I was stressed or ran into a problem, Jodi would help me by providing feedback and support so I could resolve the issue. She is very strong at meeting the needs of her clients, plus she is always patient, respectful and professional with everyone she works with.”
— Sue C., Consultant, HR Management Systems Start-up
Smart Growth Strategies Simplified Program Participant - Spring 2022
“Jodi Laking knows what she is talking about! Jodi started her own business at a very young age, and has built many successful businesses over the years. She knows what steps need to be completed to launch or grow your business and has a knack for holding people accountable. If you are looking to grow your business, reach out to Jodi!”
— Caroline Baird, Caroline Baird Coaching (Leadership Career Mentor and Transformation Coach)
“Jodi was a pleasure to work with. She was approachable & knowledgeable. I completed her Accountability Course for my business, and found each session a good combination of structured topics and tasks, paired with time for questions, discussion, and feedback.
I wouldn't hesitate to take any courses she offers in the future, and am even considering her one on one coaching services.”
— Elizabeth S., Furniture and Home Décor Store Owner
Six-week Accountability Group Client
“Thank you Jodi for providing an excellent six week accountability workshop! The content, support and resources this woman can provide your business with are outstanding! Don’t miss any of her workshops! Exceptional value!”
— Kerri R., Registered Massage Therapist and Health Clinic Owner
Six-week Accountability Group Client