Posted:13-January-2021
Exclusive Interview: "I invested in an open and honest business model"
Name: Sharon Bradley
Location: Tollerton, York
Franchise: Cleanhome
Tell us a bit about yourself and what you were doing prior to buying your Cleanhome franchise business?
We were living in Spain prior to buying the franchise. My husband works in the oil and gas industry and I was a housewife. Family issues meant we had to relocate back to the UK.
Why did you go down the franchise route? What made you choose a domestic cleaning franchise? And why Cleanhome?
We went down the franchise route because, even though it involves investment, we believe if you find the best business model your return on investment will be a lot quicker and you will build your business more quickly.
We chose the domestic cleaning industry as I used to manage 400 villas in the Middle East and was constantly looking for cleaners so I had some previous experience of what it would be like.
We chose Cleanhome based on their business model and their open, honest approach - and if I did want a cleaner for our home I would certainly use this type of service.
How did you raise the finance?
My husband provided the finance.
What training and support did you receive initially and ongoing?
Two day in depth training initially, and a visit to a client with another Franchisee. The training is ongoing, simply ask a question if you have a problem and you are provided with a solution. There are also two training days every year will all of the other franchisees where you can also learn from other people’s experiences. You are also given an opportunity to provide input if you think the business model can be improved.
What is a typical day for you as a Cleanhome franchisee?
Business hours are 0900 -1700 hrs Monday to Friday. However, in your daily routine you have total control of your diary and you plan ahead of time when you will make appointments, whether it is visiting a client, a cleaner or a networking meeting. If you want to have a banking day, or even a day off, you can plan for it. As long as we have our telephones and our diary with us, because of Genesys, we can run our business from anywhere we can get an internet connection
What challenges have you faced?
Finding mature and reliable cleaners is the biggest constant challenge - and why there is a need for a business like ours.
Has becoming a franchisee changed your life, if so how?
Yes, as we can now see that we can build a family business to whatever level we decide. This is in line with our initial, hopeful expectations of our own business and the Cleanhome business model has enabled us to make that a reality
What is the most invaluable piece of advice you could give someone looking to buy their first franchise?
Do your homework and select a franchise which can add value to another person’s life. Ensure that you believe that you can provide a solution to a problem. Only choose a franchise where the franchisor will answer all of your questions before you invest a penny. Do not rush into anything blindly and speak to existing franchises - of your choice - and see how they have found their business before you make the final commitment.
In your opinion, what makes a successful franchisee?
Be professional, honest and open. Deliver value for others. Be fully committed and follow the business model but also find ways where you can add more. If you encounter a problem find the answer quickly, learn by any mistakes, and appreciate what works for others may not work for you. Track what works for you and improve on it.
What are your plans for the future?
To continue to build the business to a level whereby we can employ our daughter as a manager.
Would you do it again?
We would not start again at the age we are now, but if we were younger - certainly we would. We have also recommended our franchise to friends as we totally believe in our business and we are very happy that we chose CleanHome to work with.
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Interested and want to know more about Cleanhome?
The Cleanhome basic profile outlines aspects of their franchise opportunity
