GaryJK01 started this topic @ 18:05 on 20/07/2006
Hi guys,
After reading alot of the startup and success stories I have decided to join this forum for a little advice. I am only 23 but have already taken the decison to become my own boss as soon as the opportunity arises. Currently, I am studying a nutrition degree. I believe I can find a niche in this market and exploit it in the future. However, that is for another day. Other matters are more pressing. Obviously being a student in this day and age is alot more expensive than it ever has been. The deal we get from the government is ridiculous! Im abit sick of working for peanuts jumping through hoops in call centre jobs, sales and customer service roles. Therefore, I have been investigating areas that require small amounts of investment that I can setup and build during my final year at university. The best idea I have had so far is through the Utility Warehouse franchise. Using my sales background I believe I could corner the student utility market for gas, electricity, telephone and broadband at my university!
I was hoping to find out if any of you had experience with this company. I know there is an element of risk in any franchise but aslong as it is a measured risk then I would be happy. Im obviously not going to make my first million from this venture. All I require is an income of around £500 a month to make ends meet. If anyone could offer any guidance on this matter I would greatly appreciate it!
Also if anyone has any further ideas that could prove to be fruitful for a person in my position then please share!
Thanks
Gary
RE: Guidance required! Please help!
YourParkingSpace | 20/07/2006 07:20 PM
Interesting idea. Sounds like it would be quite a challenge but could be worth a go if you know what you're doing in that industry.
One idea that I looked at when at uni was creating an online bookstore as an Amazon affiliate. For each course I'd list the recommended book or books, possibly have reviews from last year's students (i.e. whether they were useful or not) and then have a link button straight to the relevant book on Amazon. That way students would know exactly what books they need before arriving at uni, and secondly buying online is always cheaper than expensive uni bookshops. And of course I'd need no stock. Decided against it in the end because of the low margins and had no web design skills but thought I'd suggest it now as a possible idea - if only to help your creative thinking!
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RE: Guidance required! Please help!
fastfences | 20/07/2006 08:24 PM
Hi Gary,
Congrats on your enthusiasm.
I joined Utility Warehouse a few months ago after hearing about it at a business meeting. I did a bit of checking (on forums!) and found it was all legit.
I do get a good deal, and I think the main selling point is that one can have ALL their services on the one bill. Very convenient and easy to manage.
I can't offer any comment about the franchise concept though. I do believe there are a few doing it, but you'd kill in a Uni!
cheers, Nigel
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RE: Guidance required! Please help!
GaryJK01 | 20/07/2006 09:33 PM
Thanks for the quick replies guys!
Nigel I was wondering where you checked to see if the company was legit? What other forums did you use? Im off to a business meeting in August to check it out properly. Just hope its not one of these brainwashing sessions promising the world and then delievering sweet FA! I just need something honest and above board that requires minimum investment that I can build and make my own then I will be a happy man!
Keep the replies coming - it would be great if I could have a chat with someone who already works an as affiliate so say hi if that is you!
RE: Guidance required! Please help!
FitnessGold | 20/07/2006 10:14 PM
Hey Gary,
Yup, congrats on the enthusiasm!
Get in touch with me at sales@ecomempire.co.uk and we can have a chat about a few options mate.
Speak to you soon,
Deren
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