Published: Wednesday, 14th October, 2009 5:00pm

Key Financial's business seminar lifts the spirits

Key Financial's business seminar in the Cavan Crystal Hotel last Thursday evening with key note speakers Jim Power and Dermot McConkey. The event was a resounding success with attendees coming from businesses in Cavan, Monaghan, Louth and Meath.

Chief economist with Friend's First, Jim Power was introduced to the packed function room by managing director of Key Financials, Niall Thornton. Mr. Power is well known from his regular press and news commentary on the state of the Irish economy and the potential for market recovery.

He spoke in depth about the global economy and the effect it has had, particularly on the Irish market. He assessed the current economic climate, predicted modest growth after 2010 and a rise in interest rates in nine to 12 months.

He highlighted the effect the sterling rate as a key challenge to Border area businesses and forecasted that sterling would continue to be weak for the foreseeable future. Questioning from the audience was lively and included queries on the effects an election would have on the economy.

Dermot McConkey of Dermot McConkey Development and Training Ltd followed with an upbeat outlook on the economy and how Irish businesses can protect and grow their businesses in a recession.

He challenged the audience on their marketing activity and their willingness to find and win new customers, stating that "no decision, is a decision" when it comes to finding new business.

"It is not the strongest who survive in a recessionary market but rather the business who can adapt," he said. He challenged businesses to examine their customer offering with regard to their features, advantages and benefits and to go as far as to ask: "If you were ever to do business with us, what would we have to do, be or have?"

The seminar was organised by Key Financials, who provide professional and independent financial services specialising in investments and wealth management, pensions, mortgages, protection and commercial loans. The aim of the seminar was to update businesses on key issues which are core to business survival and success. See keyfinancials.ie or phone 0494326841 for a free consultation.