If I didn’t do this I would regret it for the rest of my life – it’s an exciting opportunity and actually makes you feel alive!
Why did you choose a franchise over setting up your own business?
It’s very daunting thinking about running your own business, especially since I know little about all the things you need to consider, like having to negotiate HR issues or how to market a business, etc. However, with a franchise all this is given to you, it’s all been done before and the sharing of best practice is really positive – it’s like a business in a box.
Seeing the professional and easy to use business model that is in place; I am excited to be my own boss, but not totally alone.
Having always wanted to work with animals, but thinking it could never give her the income she would need to run a home, Jane was intrigued to find out more about running a ‘business in a box’.
After speaking with Ryan and Tracey I immediately felt like I’m one of the family already. Tracey has been with We Love Pets as a franchise owner for years, and is now also a new franchisee mentor. It’s great to be learning from someone who’s been where I am, and is continuing to evolve and succeed.
How have We Love Pets made sure you’re the right person to carry the award winning brand forward?
When I met Ryan I think we both knew that I was right for the franchise; I felt his passion and honesty for what he wants to achieve. I want to make this business a success not only for me but for the company too. I want to help build the We Love Pets brand and promote a professionalism, to instil confidence for my customers to be reassured that I can deliver great pet care.
What did the word ‘franchise’ mean to you before you came across We Love Pets?
McDonald’s and a large outlay!
What does it mean to you now?
That I can be my own boss but with the support from Head Office, fellow franchisees and years of tried and tested methods of success.
What do you think you’ll find most challenging being a business owner?
Changing my whole life, I have always worked in an office environment and the change will be massive and I know it will be a challenge to keep myself motivated; I am under no illusion that it won’t be hard work but I am up for it!
How will you stay motivated?
I will set myself goals and tasks to achieve every day and plan out what I need to do in advance so that I can keep myself focussed and on track. I also know Head Office are there to guide and support me if I need additional help at any time.
Fear is a huge barrier for people to make a change in their lives. Did you at any time during the process worry that you can’t do this?
I do not worry that I am not capable, I know that I am, but I do think it’s totally natural to feel apprehensive and scared about such a massive change. However, all change takes time to get used to and I know that eventually I will get through it and come out the other side.
Chatting to Tracey (We Love Pets Reading East) and Jenny (We Love Pets Wimbledon) really helped and realising that they are just like me – just normal people that have come to a crossroads in life and now have the opportunity to change direction and really stretch yourself to do something that you can believe in.
If I didn’t do this I would regret it for the rest of my life – it’s an exciting opportunity and actually makes you feel alive!
What have you done in your past that you think will help you in your new venture?
Working for a large corporation has helped, as I realise that processes are good things to have in place. Also, putting myself in the place of a customer and thinking about what I would expect from a service I was paying for.
What do you love most about where you live?
The countryside – wow, it’s beautiful and I feel very fortunate to live here. I live in a village that is lovely and quiet – no dramas. I also get to see stars – can’t see those living in a city!
Why did you want to leave employment?
I have always enjoyed working and my present employers are a great company to work for; I have met some lovely people that I will still see even after I have left, however I lost both of my parents 2 years ago. It was a tough time in our lives. It’s taken a while to find a path that I want to be on, but this business opportunity has given me a new lease on life and I know that if my parents were still here they would be very supportive.
It has come to that point where I want change and what better change than to start your own business!
What lifestyle changes are you hoping to make when you’re up and running?
I have always wanted another dog but couldn’t due to working full time, I’ll be looking to re-home a rescue dog as soon as my business is up and running. I currently have a cat, Harvey, who’s five months old. He thinks he’s a dog as he follows me around from room to room, loves to sit in the bathroom sink whilst I’m having a shower, chats to me and we have regular play time which he always wins as he has bigger claws than me!
If you’re looking for a dog walker, pet sitter or boarder in Guildford, Ripley, Send Marsh, West Clandon, Burpham, Gomshall, Bramley, Shamley Green, East Horsley, West Horsley and surrounding villages, visit Jane’s dedicated web page here.
