The Franchise Relationships Institute recently released study results that confirm what I’ve known for a long time – many franchise-operated businesses outperform their company-managed counterparts.
In an interview with Smart Company, Director of the Franchise Advisory Centre Jason Gehrke suggests franchisees operating a business will “work damn hard to keep that investment protected.” Because they have to, it’s their livelihood!
And it’s true, isn’t it? If you’re a franchisee (or any business owner for that matter), it’s like your baby – you’ll spend hours nurturing at its birth, put the hard yards in during its growth, and continue to work on it for the long haul so that you can stand back and gaze proudly at what you’ve created.
Australian workers have experienced a tumultuous few months, especially those in the mining, aviation and manufacturing industries. Take for instance the recent job losses we’ve read about; mining magnate Alcoa, Aussie airline Qantas, possible university cuts, rumoured changes for technology giant IBM and not forgetting the car manufacturing sector. Redundancy packages, planned job reductions and cut-throat changes. It’s evident that no one is safe, not even those at the top.
The Alcoa announcement, which will see around 1,000 job cuts, is another blow to the regional city of Geelong which has recently been hit hard by job losses – Ford, Target, and of course Qantas. Similarly to boom times, when things are good, everyone is optimistic. On the flipside, when times are tough, they’re pretty tumultuous and people find it hard to see light at the end of the tunnel.
My advice for those in Geelong, and anyone across the country who’s been given a package and sent on their way, is be the optimist and seek out a franchising venture as your next career prospect. It’s a long-term, ‘workable’ solution that’s accessible to everyone.
Essentially “redundancy-proof”, as a franchisee you have the opportunity to be your own boss; you are the one at the helm of your business; and you get to enjoy the fruits of your hard work! In franchising, you get the best of both worlds, with strong support networks, marketing strategies and the benefits and guidance of a big organisation… even though you’re one of the little guys.
Following redundancy, job loss or organisational change, Australian workers are often left seeking inspiration and the chance to start afresh. I’ve always been taught and have always believed that you make opportunities! Opportunities don’t just arrive…
Several of our own FFCo franchisee owners have come on board following a redundancy, and the collective response when we ask how they’re finding the change is a united declaration of “freedom!”. The contrast from their previous working life to their new career is a stark juxtaposition: previously managed by a team of senior executives, they are now in control of their hours, their ideas and ultimately their successes! Having been involved with franchisees for over 30 years, for many, taking the leap and making the change is exhilarating and extremely liberating.
So, if you are feeling lost and in need of a complete lifestyle change, you’re probably not alone. It is important when embarking on the franchising journey that you seek the right advice and guidance and find the right fit for you. And, whilst initially daunting, your efforts will ensure it’s satisfying and rewarding because at the end of the day, the buck stops with you!
