By Business & Finance 
Ger Keane Senior, Director, Keanes Jewellers
Ger Keane Senior, Director, Keanes Jewellers takes on the Business & Finance 60-second interview challenge.
Q. What was your first job? At the age of 17 I worked for my father repairing pocket watches. From a young age I was very fascinated in the descriptive stories he would share with me about these beautiful timepieces. Once I turned 17 I was anxious to learn about them and I was privileged to have been given the opportunity to do so. Q. What would you regard as your greatest achievement to date? My greatest achievement to date would have to be Keanes Jewellers brand. We have successfully managed to grow the brand and maintain the friendly and family orientated atmosphere that was originally created by my father and mother, and most importantly we have built a brand that reflects our beliefs. Q. In three words or less, how do you define success? Success is a term that many would define differently. I would define success as the ability to maintain loyal customers and staff. I cannot emphasize enough the excellent staff we have had throughout the years. Q. What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given? My father once told me to think outside the box and be adventurous in doing so. I interpreted it as the ability to stand out and be different, leave an impression. Don’t ever be afraid to take a risk, some of the times it will be a mistake, however it will will teach you a valuable lesson and guide you in the correct direction for the next time. Q. How do you motivate yourself and your staff? My motivation comes from my staff. Seeing my staff share the passion that I have for the business gives me that motivation. Caring for my staff and encouraging them to avail of the amazing training courses throughout Ireland and the UK has certainly motivated my staff throughout the years. For example, we have a Patek Philippe training course in February in London, an upcoming Diamond training course in October and many more planned events within our own company for next year. A huge percentage of our lives is spent at work and wanting to wake up and go to work is the end goal achievement regarding my staff motivation. Q. If you could step into the shoes of one business person for the day, who would it be and why? Fergal Quinn, he is someone who I always admired for the wonderful relationships he had with customers and staff. Q. How do you relax? I play Golf in Cork Golf Club, I also enjoy walking and reading in my spare time. Q. What’s your motto? Always believe in yourself and never underestimate it. Business is people, treat your customers and staff as friends. Q. What are your aspirations for the future of your business? My goal is to maintain the friendly atmosphere we have successfully achieved to date, ensure that our staff are well trained and seize opportunities for expansion.
Always believe in yourself and never underestimate it.
