087 | Dan Sharp | My Professional Journey So Far – How Student Works Helped me Survive and Thrive

In today’s show, Chris interviews Dan Sharp, President, and CEO, Infoware Canada Inc. From a Student Works operator to being the CEO of a successful technology company, Dan’s story is that of grit, dynamism, and persistence. 

We start this show with Dan sharing some interesting details about his life before joining Student Works. Was Dan always focused and hard-working? And, what were some of his biggest frustrations while growing up? In this segment of the show, we highlight some of the pitfalls of the education system, and discuss why an overhaul is long due.

Next, Dan reveals how joining Student Works changed his life forever. Listeners will learn how Dan’s Student Works stint helped him hone transferable skillsets that formed the foundation for a successful professional life. 

After Student Works, Dan joined the tech giant, Canon. In the 90s, Canon, with its firm grip on the digital camera and office equipment markets, was one of the most sought-after employers in the world. Dan shares how Student Works operators managed to outperform their much senior and vastly more experienced counterparts with ease. 

How did Dan manage to stand out among an elite group of professionals and eventually rise to the position of a National Director? Dan reveals how his Student Works experience helped him along the way. He also encourages listeners to adopt a far-sighted approach by focusing on continuous learning rather than money.

After spending more than 10 years at Canon, Dan decided to don the entrepreneurial hat. Banking on his now considerable experience, he tasted success with his very first venture, a logistics business. 

Next, Dan decided to segue into the IT and software business with Infoware. Infoware develops software that helps legal professionals draft legal documents. Essentially a Word add-in, this simple software generates excellent ROI for legal professionals. Was it daunting for Dan to enter a completely new industry? Did the experience gained from his previous entrepreneurial ventures help him manage this new business?

In this segment, listeners will learn how to properly evaluate new markets and business opportunities. 

Towards the end, Dan has some excellent advice for aspiring and new entrepreneurs. Topics discussed include work structure, work-life balance, establishing key differentiators and taking calculated risks. 

We wrap up this show by discussing what it truly means to be a Leader of Tomorrow in this day and age.

Tune in for some excellent nuggets!

 

 

Links: 

Dan’s LinkedIn

 

Resources: 

Student Works 

Chris Thomson LinkedIn