It is clear that more people than ever are looking for a change. A Microsoft survey of more than 30,000 global workers showed that 41% of working people were considering switching jobs or quitting altogether this year. Research from HR software company Personio, of workers in the UK and Ireland, claims that 38% of those surveyed planned to leave their jobs in the next six months to a year.
Some economists have called this the ‘Great Resignation’ and there are a number of reasons people are looking for a change. For some, the pandemic has driven a shift in priorities, encouraging them to pursue their dream job or a business of their own, or to have more flexibility in terms of where they work and how much travel is involved. For others, the decision to leave is due to the way their employer has treated them during the pandemic.
So, if you are not happy with your corporate life, you are not alone. The question is, what will YOU do to change things and get the life and lifestyle you are hoping to achieve.
Franchising has proved to be the answer for many, so if you have always dreamed of starting your own business, this could be a great place to start.
If you have been in corporate or ‘office’ life, you will have transferable skills which will help you in any new venture, even though you may not think of them in that way. Many management franchises in particular, are looking for people who have experience in managing people or dealing with customers, either consumers or often, in the business to business field. Sales experience in any sector is always useful but the key attributes franchisors are looking for will often be linked to drive and enthusiasm and your desire to build a business of your own, instead of working for someone else.
A management franchise is a business you own and run with a team of ‘on the ground’ or ‘front of house’ staff, rather than being involved in delivering the day-to-day activities yourself. Your role is to add your experience and skills gained during your career, to the support and structure of your chosen franchise. With your franchisor’s help, you can build a local business of your own. You will need to lead and effectively manage your team, focusing on building the sales, keeping your customers happy and of course, controlling the financials.
There are a wide range of options available in management franchising, for example: cleaning, both commercial and domestic; home care; major fast food and coffee brands; cost management services; recruitment; gyms and fitness; property services and of course, car paint repair like Revive! where you employ skilled technicians to carry out the services offered. So there are plenty of choices available to you, depending on your level of investment of course, as some are premises based which adds to the initial costs and ongoing overheads.
The important thing here is to look for a business you can get excited about, one where you really want to get your teeth into building your franchise locally. There is no point leaving corporate life to start a business that you are not going to enjoy running. You need to look for something with the capability to meet your financial needs, as well as fit in with your plans in terms of work/life balance.
Some people are looking to scale things back a bit after a full-on corporate career, whilst others want to take on an exciting new project by building a business. Make sure you know what your aims and objectives really are, as although buying a franchise will provide training and support and a structure to follow, you will still need to put the work in to make it a success.
You will need a different approach, whatever the franchise you choose, as when you have your own business there is no-one to fix the printer or refill the coffee machine! There is no regular salary going into your account either, so you’ll have to keep a close eye on cash flow as well as profits.
Buying a franchise isn’t for everyone, giving up corporate life with all its perks can be a step too far for many.
But if you have long dreamed of starting your own business, taking control of your future and setting your own agenda, franchising can offer the support to help you fast-track your way to success.
