Ready to roll. eBay consultant Michael Hughes and Joan Tummon, #YouCan Co-ordinator at Down Business Centre, pictured with participants of the programme.[/caption] Participants on the #YouCan programme were literally inspired by the presentation by Michael Hughes of Michael Hughes Consulting who is a leading expert on trading in eBay. Speaking just after the session, Downpatrick businessman Patrick Cassidy who joined in the sessions to learn more about online trading, said: “It was mind-blowing. This opportunity will definitely be add something to the local business community.”. The overall objective of the eBay session was to help local people establish themselves as online sellers by providing them with the knowledge needed to set up their own eBay businesses. The workshops were held during the two days at the Business Centre’s training facilities on the Belfast Road and were facilitated by eBay’s top-rated seller Michael Hughes, who was the first eBay accredited specialist in Ireland. Michael combined practical tips on accessing eBay with a series of illustrated videos highlighting current success stories throughout the UK and Ireland. His workshops at the Business Centre were a follow-up to an introductory course which recently attracted over 40 participants to the Ballymote Centre. Praise for the workshops was universal by all those who attended. Ruaidhri Branagan, from B & C McKeown Limited, said he would recommend it to everyone. “It was amazing the amount of things it taught me that I did not know about eBay that will really help bring my business forward in the future. It was unbelievable.” Catherine Rooney, from the Wildflower Boutique in Irish Street in Downpatrick said: “The time was very well spent. I have learned a lot of new skills which will directly influence my business profitability in a positive way.” Eugene Gallagher added: “It was very informative and useful. Lots of practical advice on setting up an ebay business.” Josephine Gorman: “Whether or not you are an experienced business person, this course is essential. Even with having a challenge with dyslexia, I learned an amazing amount and this has given me the confidence to enter into the world of eBay.” Workshop co-ordinator Joan Tummon described the event as one of the most successful ever run by Down Business Centre. “It demonstrated what can be done and how people can take the first steps towards running their own business. We will be looking to run similar workshops in the future.” ]]>