The Argus has joined forces with Barclays and business guru and marketing specialist Jim McLaughlin to run a free seminar to help businesses in Sussex.

The Kick-Start Seminar, at the Hilton Brighton West Pier Hotel on Wednesday, October 22, will focus on practical solutions based around two essentials - what your business does and how it sells.

Nigel Jeffrey, head of small business for Barclays in Sussex, said: "Keeping up the momentum a business had when it started can be hard once it's up and running.

"That's why it's important to step back, stop for breath and take a look at what has been achieved so far.

"This workshop, open to all small businesses in the area, whether they are Barclays customers or not, provides an opportunity to do this."

The event will help business people to assess their strengths and weaknesses and recognise the true potential of their companies.

The seminar will cover a range of subjects including business performance, business planning, leadership and marketing. More than 95 per cent of previous delegates said they would make changes to their business as a result.

Mr McLaughlin is a qualified marketer and has spent the past six years working on leadership, strategic and people management projects.

He said: "What differentiates great businesses from people with great ideas is the ability to act quickly and decisively and focus their efforts on those activities that will give the highest return. At the workshop I will provide some guidance on how to do this."

Delegates will receive a practical work book which will enable them to put what they have learnt into practice. There is also an interactive web site to share their ideas and experience.

The event runs from 9am to 2pm and lunch will be provided. There are only 90 spaces so it will be important to register early.

For more details, contact Steph Levitt on 01903 542078 or book online by visiting www.smallbusiness.barclays.co.uk/seminars_events

Wednesday September 24, 2003