Tips for success
Be prepared for hard work
Not only is plumbing physically demanding but the hours are very long, so don’t expect to be sitting with your feet up.
Generate your own business
Although the franchisor runs call centres you will get a greater percentage of the bill if you generate your own business directly. So be prepared to do some advertising and get your name and number well known in the local area.
Learn to deal with staff
Good employees are crucial to your success and you need to hold on to them in the long-term if you are to expand. One franchisee always advertised for staff even when he didn’t need them, as he could never predict when one might leave. Read around about management and talk to other people who you believe have good management skills and learn from them.
Get to know plumbers
As this is going to be your business then it is essential that you get to know people who work in the trade. You need to think ‘are these the type of people I can get along with, employ and manage?’ Also, getting contacts in the industry can only be of benefit.
Listen to the franchisor
There is no point taking out a franchise unless you are prepared to take on board all that they say. The formulas for success devised by franchisors work and you will be in a position to benefit from these tried and tested formulas. In short, if you really just want to go your own way then this is not the right route for you.
Working from home
Initially this can be a great way to keep costs down and after your initial investment you will probably be very keen to get some money in the bank. So think about converting a bedroom into an office and a garage into a store-cum-workshop.
You will get better
This will involve a sharp learning curve so don’t worry if you make a few mistakes in the first few months, as most people do. However, you will have the back-up of a strong franchising model behind you and you will be successful if you believe in it, work hard and are willing to learn from your mistakes.
