Posted:13-January-2021
Exclusive Interview: Finding fulfilment with an educational franchise
Name: Joyce Batten
Location: Bromley and South East London
Franchise: Tutor Doctor
Why did you go down the franchise route? And why did you choose your franchise?
During my time working at the housing association, I realised how important education is to personal wellbeing and how a lack of education is linked to unemployment. I was thinking about where my next career move should be and I attended a franchise exhibition in February 2012.
I did not see anything there but Lloyds Bank approached me about attending a seminar which explored the benefits of franchising. I attended and I also registered with an online consultancy which was specialised in introducing franchisors to franchisees. They had a checklist of criteria for choosing a franchise. Tutor Doctor seemed to tick most of the boxes. The rest is history!
What did you do before taking up a franchise?
For over 25 years I was a senior executive in the social housing sector, and I’ve also been a senior director of a housing association, a non-executive director of another and on the governing body of the educational board for housing professionals. I also ran a small consultancy in the housing sector.
How did you raise the finance?
Savings and a small loan from the bank as working capital.
What training and support did you receive initially and ongoing?
Tutor Doctor provides a very comprehensive training programme. I took part in the Road to Toronto series, which helped prepare me for the 7 day, intensive in class training.
The Jump Start support programme and continued contact with members of my group is really helpful and encouraging. One family grouping from my class keeps in contact with me regularly by email and that is fantastic. I also value the weekly Team Call where other franchisees with special skills or interest share their knowledge and experiences with the whole community of franchisees. It has helped me to improve my offer to clients, and the service I provide, as well as inspiring me with ideas I have been able to use to develop my business.
What is a typical day for you as a Tutor Doctor franchisee?
Well the beauty of Tutor Doctor is that there is no typical day. Each one is varied and provides the opportunity for new experiences. One of the things that happens almost daily is contact with customers. I speak to parents on a regular basis to check how things are going for their child. In 99% of cases, parents have noticed improved subject knowledge and self-confidence leaving behind a much happier child. I am starting to get more and regular customers and referrals.
What challenges have you faced?
Even when you have carried out a lot of research in preparation to launching, you realise there is more to do. Getting the right balance between recruiting tutors and attracting potential clients is a real challenge and a balancing act that needs thought and effort. Understanding what works and what does not work in your area is also another area to be grappled with.
Learning to analyse your results and take decisions based on what you have learned is also an area that can be challenging. With experience and perseverance, these things fall into place. Fortunately, Tutor Doctor has systems, processes and support that helps franchisees successfully implement the business model and grow to profitability quickly.
Has becoming a franchisee changed your life, if so how?
It’s changed my life, because I get to change the lives of others. My first student had experienced poor AS results in two subjects. Her parents contacted me in despair but with the help of my tutors she re-sat her exams three months later and achieved a grade A pass. I felt pure joy.
What marketing/promotional tools do you use to grow your franchise?
We rely a lot on online marketing. It is an a key lead generator for us.
I’m also a big believe in building relationships in the community. Building relationships with people and businesses in my community has been a big part of my business.
What differentiates your Tutor Doctor franchise from the competition?
The support we get from head office and the UK field resource is great. They are very proactive and always looking at ways to improve the offering and encourage the sharing of best practice.
And they are committed to making difference for families.
In your opinion, what makes a successful franchisee?
In the words of the presenter of the Lloyds Bank seminar, 20% of new business succeed, 92% of franchisees succeed. With those odds, the choice I had to make was easy, but I agree with the thought that if you can find a business which suits your current life circumstances and values, and you can help families achieve what helps them, then you have a high chance of success.
What advice would you give to someone thinking of buying their first franchise?
I would definitely recommend the franchise to others but I think it is important to have some previous management or commercial experience as it is a business and requires a fair degree of organisational ability. However, besides making a good income you have the satisfaction of knowing you are helping students achieve their true potential.
What are your plans for the future?
The future of the business also looks very bright. I have expanded under the company’s ‘Empire Builder’ programme by taking on another three territories. I have two part-time ladies who help me with admin plus another part-time education consultant who carries out initial student assessments.
Would you do it again?
Absolutely
For more information on the Tutor Doctor franchise opportunity, please click here.
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The Tutor Doctor basic profile outlines aspects of their franchise opportunity
