Who needs flexibility and why?
It may seem an odd question; we would probably all say we would like flexibility in our working lives, but statistics reveal that some may need it more than others.
Family responsibilities
Changes in the state pension age between 2018 and 2020 mean that there are more men and women still working than ever before, as they cannot claim their pensions until age 66.
All well and good, we are fitter and healthier than ever before and most people do not mind working until 66, but many of these workers also have ageing parents, and frequently grandchildren, putting them in a ‘carenting sandwich’. With these dual responsibilities eating into their time, the benefits of owning a business that allows them freedom to work flexibly becomes increasingly clear.
As Jane James, founder of Little Voices said: “Ensuring that women can be a mum or carer for elderly parents and still do something they love, earn money and be happy is a key reason for choosing a career in franchising.”
Flexible by design
Some however, do not have any responsibilities, they simply want to be free to choose when and where they work; so, whether you are planning on launching a franchise or buying a franchise territory, you need to think about building in flexibility from day one.
Jenni Morgan, a franchise owner of ActionCOACH (White Rose) did just that: “I purposely designed my business to have complete freedom to run it the way I wanted it.” She says: “I built a really strong team so the business could run with or without me.”
Focus on fitness
This structure means Jenni’s time is free to use as she chooses. She explains: “A few years ago, I committed to becoming healthier, so now I go to the gym twice a week, and those visits are sacrosanct; nothing gets in the diary at those times.” Life and work on her terms, as she designed it.
For Tessa Hawkes, founder of MiniMe Mindfulness, she took the subject of flexibility to a whole new level.
Worldwide travel
In 2022, having built up the business, she and her husband took their two children out of school and travelled around the world, whilst still running the business from abroad.
Tessa explains how she achieved what, to many, would appear the near impossible: “Travelling the world while running the business proved that flexibility is far more than working from home. By putting the right systems, people and technology in place, we were able to continue supporting our franchisees and grow our franchise network, while creating unforgettable experiences as a family. It reinforced my belief that a successful business should give you the freedom to live life on your own terms.”
Ben Brookes, franchisor of Agency Express, adds: “The ability to work flexibly is now the single most important part of anyone considering a new career.”
Military veteran
That was certainly true for retired Army Major Andrew Davis.
Andrew left the army at the age of 38; he was married with one child and wanted to build a business to support him and his family. One of the benefits of buying a Right at Home franchise meant he could attend his child’s school and social events without having to ask for time off or miss them completely.
Andrew says: “At times I was the only dad amongst a sea of mums at a sports fixture or birthday party” something that would have been unthinkable in most regular careers. He says: “Having the ability to be present at those events is so special to me and is one of the bonuses of owning my own franchise.”
Goal setting
Pip Wilkins QFP, CEO of the BFA (British Franchise Association) said: “Franchising really is what you make it. If you need to keep many balls in the air, you can build your franchise business around your commitments, but it is important you are honest with the franchisor from the outset that that is your plan, so they can work with you, to make sure you can achieve your personal and professional goals, in a professional, ethical and sustainable way.”
