It's not difficult for businesses to get into a rut. With everyone's time at a premium, there's not often the opportunity to take a step back and look at new ideas, new ways of doing things. That's why the University College of the Fraser Valley Continuing Studies is offering a variety of half- and one-day seminars for business owners and employees on Saturday, Oct. 4.

"We know how valuable time is for businesses, so when developing these modules, we looked at how we could provide the maximum benefit in the minimum amount of time," says Cheryl Isaac, director of Continuing Studies at UCFV.

Called 'Business in a Day,' the workshops will be held on the UCFV Chilliwack campus. Topics range from improving customer service to finding and keeping good staff.

"Almost any business could benefit from at least one of these courses," says Isaac. "We know that businesses like to get down to business, so we've packed a lot into these programs. Take Chairing Meetings Effectively, for example. A lot of people hate meetings, and for good reason. A meeting that's poorly run can be a waste of time. That's why it's important to understand the task of chairperson, and that's what this course will do for you," she says.

Other modules available during the Oct. 4 event include Customer Service: FISH Style, a philosophy to bring fun, energy and a positive attitude to the workplace, based on the successful experiences of the world-famous Pike Place Fish Market in Seattle; Dealing with Difficult People, how to defuse emotion during conflict, and shift from confrontation to problem solving; an Introduction to the Import/Export business, including how to find and communicate with buyers, suppliers, and potential business partners; Marketing Essentials for Small Business; and Upselling, learning the right questions to ask to ensure you know what the customer needs, and how to make the process automatic, by practising various techniques, including successful upselling approaches.

For more information on the Business in a Day courses and to register, contact Cheryl Isaac at 604-854-4576 or 604-792-0025, local  4576, or email cheryl.isaac@ucfv.ca