Creative Problem Solving and Critical Thinking
Do you ever feel you've "missed something" as you solve routine and big issue problems?  Examine under what circumstances you should solve a problem and when you should involve others.  Learn a systematic approach to problem solving and decision-making, and expand your perceptions about situations and problems.  By participating in this course, you will be able to: understand basic fact finding techniques for problem identification; expand perceptions about situations and problems; apply a variety of thinking tools to problem, analyze its facets and formulate solutions; and learn what effective communication skills are needed to engage others in the problem-solving process

Effective Customer Care Strategies
By Participating in this course, you will be able to: understand why if you're already "good" you have to get better at serving customers; cultivate effective telephone communications with all customers; create a positive image with customers by controlling your attitudes; and use stress management strategies to handle day-to-day pressure.

Fundamentals of Effective Project Management
Participate in this one day Project Management and develop a basic understanding of when to use project management; how to evaluate an alternative for project organizations; the significance of project scope definition; effective planning techniques; how effective project teams are assembled; and key elements of project control that result in meeting project deadlines, objectives and budget constraints.  This course will provide a solid foundation for our comprehensive Project Management series being offered in spring semester.

Grant Writing - How to Be Successful
Explore the process of researching grant opportunities - if you are a board member, community volunteer, business manager, or employed in mid-to upper level management of a business - you won't want to miss this exciting seminar on examining key ways to strengthen the impact your business can make.  Learn how to research and develop key grant proposals and examine types of funding sources, including tracking the funding sources, requests and private donations.

Small Business Programs

Marketing on Small Budget
Even though your company doesn't quite match up with McDonald's, you CAN effectively get the work out about your products and services - if you have the right tools!  Learn how to develop a marketing plan highlighting what you sell and targeting the people who will buy from you.  Even with a limited budget, you can take advantage of media resources.

Patent Your Invention
Learn to develop your idea, file for a patent, and capitalize on your invention by leasing your patent rights for royalties.  There will be time for questions. This workshop is taught by a registered patent attorney.

Starting Your Business
You have questions about starting a business?  Learn about small business loans, legal requirements, marketing, hiring competent employees, and more.  Our experts share their knowledge and answer your questions.  And our instructor assists you in meeting your individual needs.

Using QuickBooks Pro 2002 XP
Prerequisite: Beginning Accounting or equivalent experience
Organize your small business with QuickBooks Pro 2000.  Learn to manage your revenues and expenses, work with payroll and bank accounts, prepare reports and graphs, and work with budgets and inventory.