In the dock - a triple whammy

Credit Management, Sep 2007

Merseyside & North Wales Branch

Our last meeting took place at the impressive Royal Naval Headquarters, Brunswick Dock, Liverpool, overlooking the boats in the marina. Three very different topics made this an extremely interesting and informative meeting.

25 years after the Falklands conflict, we were delighted to welcome our first speaker Lt. Col. John Davies of the Royal Marine Naval Reserve, a veteran of the war. Lt. Col. Davies was involved in action atTwo Sisters Mountain. He received injuries in a mortar attack, from which he fully recovered, although he tragically lost a close colleague in action.

John gave a presentation on the history of the Royal Marines, who were originally formed in 1664, and the commando role they played in the Second World War. John explained about the reserve force, made up of both experienced ex-Royal Marines and volunteers based all over the UK. He also described the rigorous training that they undergo, and the critical part they play today in the conflicts in Afghanistan and Iraq. This fascinating insight also revealed that to date there has only been one lady who has won the coveted green beret.

Next up came a bundle of female energy in the form of Molly Harvey of MHATraining, an author, life coach and renowned public speaker. Molly's presentation involved practical examples of the importance of body language and attitude to work, with the full participation of the audience! Molly introduced us to the idea of making "stop doing" lists, to focus on what we are good at and delegate what we are not so good at, and challenge the daily tasks that we undertake at work with the question: "Is what I'm doing right now creating the best use of my time?"

Molly outlined the 10 keys to managing your time with energy and advice on avoiding people who are 'energy stealers'. Brilliant stuff! Anyone wanting more information and access to the MHA automated tip of the day should go to Molly's website www.thesoulwoman.com or email molly@thesoulwoman.com

Molly was a hard act to follow, but Peter Gent of Atradius, one of our sponsors, gave it his best shot!

Peter told us that Atradius is the largest credit insurer in the UK, with a worldwide network of lawyers and collectors. Peter focused on the collections arm of the business, its success rates in different countries using its own global network of offices to provide comfort to the creditor around standards and data control, and the quick and cost effective way it can aid a company's cash flow. Atradius now has a full online system for placing overdue accounts.

Our thanks go to Atradius for sponsoring the event, and to all the speakers for contributing to such an entertaining and informative evening.

Many thanks also go to the Royal Marine Naval Reserve who provided the venue.