Jen – Franchise Story
Learn more about Jen’s experience with activ, having been a franchisee for 15+ years.
What were your reasons behind researching starting your own business and specifically a franchise business?
The reason for researching and starting my own business, particularly a franchise, was driven by my desire to work from home and create a flexible schedule that would allow me to be present for my young children, who were 5 and 3 years old at the time. Recognizing that I lacked the confidence and time to fully grasp all aspects of a business on my own, a franchise presented itself as an appealing option. The structured support and backup provided by a franchise system offered the necessary framework and guidance, enabling me to navigate the challenges of starting a business with a higher level of assurance and assistance.
What was it that appealed to you about activ?
What appealed to me about activ was the unique combination of being able to engage in creative processes, like building websites, while also having access to robust technical support for both me and my clients. This blend of creativity and technical assistance ensured that I could focus on the design and user experience aspects of website development, knowing that any technical challenges would be efficiently managed. This support system not only lessened concerns about my own technical limitations but also provided a safety net, ensuring that my clients would receive a seamless service experience.
How did you find the start-up process in getting your business off the ground?
The start-up process in getting my business off the ground was initially slow. In the early days, I dedicated a significant amount of time to networking, understanding the importance of building relationships and creating a foundation for word-of-mouth referrals. This approach allowed my business to grow at a steady pace, which I found satisfying. The gradual growth was beneficial as it provided me with the opportunity to navigate the massive learning curve associated with starting and running a new business. This pace allowed me to absorb and apply new knowledge effectively, ensuring that I could manage the challenges of running a business while steadily building my client base.
With your business now 15+ years old, how have you found being a franchisee and would you recommend this to others in a similar position?
Being a franchisee has been a rewarding journey. One of the most significant benefits has been the establishment of lasting friendships with other franchisees, providing invaluable support throughout the years. I highly recommend the franchise model, especially for mothers seeking a way to work from home and balance family life. The structure and support offered by a franchise system have allowed me to adapt my business as my children grew, resulting in the growth of my family coincided with the expansion of my business. For those in a similar position, the franchise model can prove to be a fulfilling and adaptable path to building an online business.
Do you have any words of wisdom for other budding entrepreneurs considering a franchise option?
If your goal is to build an online business, then take the plunge and just do it! The digital landscape offers endless ways to establish an online presence, which, while exciting, can also become overwhelming due to the sheer number of options and strategies available. In navigating these waters, my advice is to opt for a path that provides you with a solid support system. Choose a franchise that offers not only the backup of a team of experts at the Head Office but also access to a community of franchisees who have already negotiated the path you're about to embark on. This combination of expert guidance and peer support can be invaluable, offering you practical advice, moral support, and proven strategies to succeed in your entrepreneurial journey.
