Posted:13-January-2021
Exclusive Interview: "I’ve been my own boss for 19 years…it’s all down to me!"
Name: Mark Tonks
Location: Birmingham
Franchise: Orange and Blue Action, Leadership Management UK)
Date launched the franchise: Nov 2000
Can you tell us a bit about yourself and what you were doing prior to buying your LMI franchise business?
Spent 20 years working in the paint finishing and surface coating industry. The last 10 years was working for a German company here in the UK and had the opportunity to travel extensively throughout Europe and the US. It was during my time at this organisation I had the opportunity to test my leadership skills in a different arena than the sports field. I loved the challenge and it shaped my future direction.
Why did you go down the franchise route? What made you choose thre business coaching and people development industry? And why did you choose a Leadership Management franchise?
I found something I loved to do that provided me the opportunity of working with people and it also provided me with a toolbox of world class resources from which to build my business.
How did you raise the finance?
Personal finances
What training and support did you receive initially and ongoing?
Some basic introductory stuff to get started but followed up with regular and still ongoing bi monthly workshops, regular telephone calls and annual conferences here in the UK and overseas in Europe and the US
How would you describe your day-to-day role as a franchisee?
Salesman first and foremost, however you try to wrap it up we are in a sales business that happens to work in people development.
What challenges have you faced?
Like most small businesses cash flow is always tight, but really the most critical challenge is gaining new clients on a regular and repeatable and sustainable basis. The climate can change so quickly when you are small that you have to be flexible and adaptable. No sooner do you think you have it cracked that something comes along to shake it up again.
Has becoming a franchisee changed your life, if so how?
I’ve been my own boss for 19 years…it’s all down to me, whatever I achieve is all my fault!!
What is the most invaluable piece of advice you could give someone looking to buy their first franchise?
Find something you love to do, don’t chase the money. Just do the right things and the money will follow afterwards.
In your opinion, what makes a successful franchisee?
Someone who takes personal responsibility and isn’t too stubborn or opinionated to follow the system because generally speaking it works.
What are your plans for the future?
I have a 5 year plan to execute and then I’ll either go part time or retire, depending on how well I execute the plan!.
If you had to do it all again, what would you do differently?
I would be even more focused and more disciplined than I have been. I might have got to the part time option a bit quicker.
To learn more about franchise opportunites with Leadership Management UK, request an obligation-free prospectus here!
Interested and want to know more about Leadership Management?
The Leadership Management basic profile outlines aspects of their franchise opportunity
