Posted:13-January-2021
Exclusive interview: Inspired to franchising after career in charitable sector
Name: Nick Howes
Location: Leatherhead, Surrey
Franchise: LMI-UK
Tell us a bit about yourself and what you were doing prior to buying your LMI franchise business?
Having graduated university, I spent the next 12 years working in the charitable sector leading various projects and initiatives. I became increasingly involved in the delivery of training which sparked my interest in finding out what resources existed for the development of people that I could perhaps learn from and tap into.
Why did you go down the franchise route? And why did you choose LMI franchise?
LMI was something I looked at initially as something that could be helpful for me in my previous role.
"I loved the materials and methodology so much that I eventually bought my own franchise in the business."
I was not looking for a franchise to buy as such – it was more a case of finding something I thought was great, which happened to be a franchise opportunity. I chose LMI because what they taught worked in terms of helping managers and leaders in their day-to-day work.
How did you raise the finance?
In order to invest in LMI I re-mortgaged my house.
What training and support did you receive initially and ongoing?
As part of the franchise package all franchisees receive training and support in all areas of franchising. Primarily I received Intensive initial training in product knowledge, the sales process and the market we were operating in.
In addition to that I receive ongoing training in the form of regular team meeting as well as 1:1 support from the franchisor – in reality, as much support as I was inclined to draw upon.
What is a typical day for you as a LMI franchisee?
Days vary greatly depending on how the diary is booked. Typical activities include attending local business events, communicating with prospects and clients via email, phone and using social media, conducting sales meetings and facilitating courses with clients, either in groups or one-to-one coaching.
What challenges have you faced?
The greatest challenge in building my franchise is winning new clients and maintaining the personal disciplines that lead to winning business that are shared in the LMI franchisee training.
Has becoming a franchisee changed your life, if so how?
Yes – hugely in terms of personal development, confidence and earning potential. It has put some tools in my hands that enable me to live out my own sense of personal mission to help develop and improve the lives of others.
What is the most invaluable piece of advice you could give someone looking to buy their first franchise?
My advise to prospective franchisees is to choose an area of work that really interests you so you have the enthusiasm to keep going when your business requires patience and hard-graft.
In your opinion, what makes a successful franchisee?
"To succeed in franchising I would say you need enthusiasm, hard work, positive attitude and the willingness to learn and be tenacious in following the franchise selling strategy."
What are your plans for the future?
My plans are to grow my franchise, increase the size of the team working with me and create a business that allows me the finance, freedom and flexibility to enjoy my work and fulfil my personal goals.
Would you do it again?
Yes. Absolutely!
For more information about the Leadership Management franchise or to request their franchise prospectus, click here.
Interested and want to know more about Leadership Management?
The Leadership Management basic profile outlines aspects of their franchise opportunity
