Case Study - Tina Vincent

Why I chose franchising

I chose franchising ‘accidentally’. Having had no experience previously of franchising, I chose Kumon for the concept, before I understood fully what a franchise is!

What I did before taking up a franchise

Before taking up the franchise I investigated the company and its reputation; applied for the post; underwent interviews and basic training.

How I raised the finance

I raised the finance through personal savings.

The training and support I receive from my franchisor

The training and support I receive from my franchisor is excellent, I have only to ask.

The challenges I have faced

The challenges I have faced have been numerous. Learning ‘to think outside the box’ as far as advertising was concerned; learning to have faith in my own judgement and experience as a former teacher; persevering when the business had been running at a loss for the first two years; developing my management skills with reference to very young employees; learning not to be afraid to be more forthright with parents and most important of all, no matter how ‘shattered’ I am, remembering that the individual student may only see me once in seven days and deserves my fullest attention for their few private moments with me. My current challenge: to appreciate my limitations and plan ahead for all eventualities.

My advice to someone thinking of buying their first franchise

Go for it! But be prepared to work very hard. It isn’t all roses and one has to be prepared to wait for deferred gratification! Probably the best advice is to be open to the advice and support of colleagues, and to be willing to share ideas.

My plans for the future; to grow my own centre and improve my expertise.