is this right for me?

With over 30 years in the business, we have learned what it takes to operate a successful student painting franchise. Identifying individuals who will be successful managers is not an easy task but we have recognized the following characteristics and commonalities amongst our successful franchise managers:

Knowledge of Product and Service

Plain and simple, successful managers know what they are talking about. Knowledge is the key to confidence and confidence is the key to success in business.

Follow The System

This is what a franchise is all about! Franchise systems are successful because they have a proven method and system. Successful franchise managers follow this method and system.

Hard Work

Ask any business owner the key to their success and they will unanimously agree that hard work and sacrifice are paramount to a success. Vacations, time off and down time are secondary priorities. Most entrepreneurs have the attitude that they do what it takes now so that they can reap the rewards later.

Realizing Where The Buck Stops

Successful business owners realize that they must take control and ownership over decisions, tasks and problems and that they are ultimately responsible for all aspects of their operation.

Personable and Likeable

Even the most quiet and reserved individuals realize that the foundation of their success rests on their ability to communicate. They must conduct themselves in a way that warrants respect from employees, customers and suppliers alike.

Asking Questions

Utilizing the experience and knowledge of regional and district managers, head office staff and franchise managers is not only encouraged, it is expected. One of the main reasons for being part of a franchise system is to make use of the easily obtainable knowledge and support system.

Resiliency

Successful franchise managers build positively on setbacks and do not let minor failures get in the way of achieving their targets.

Tracking the Numbers

Good managers understand that doing an accurate estimate is as important as managing the job. Ask any successful manager how a job is progressing and they can easily provide accurate wage and material numbers.

Treatment of Staff: Fair but Demanding

Hire the right people and dismiss the wrong people. Managing well means being friendly but not familiar. Successful managers earn respect from their employees by doing their job well. As an employer, it is your responsibility to provide steady and satisfying work to your staff.

Can Do Attitudes

A cliche, we know, but it aptly describes the attitude of successful managers. Good managers will properly resolve any and all issues. Customers and employees will see this ability and gain confidence and respect for the manager.

Teamwork and Camaraderie

Managers need to share with other managers- it is cathartic, productive and creates a competitive element that promotes hard work. Successful managers take a team approach to management by sharing marketing resources, painters, knowledge and leads. Creating this camaraderie is one of the elements present among the very top echelon of our franchise managers. Sharing experiences with someone who can relate can also be fun as there are always a few laughs and in-jokes to enjoy.

Understanding the Importance of Marketing

Marketing is the essence of a successful business and successful managers stick to their marketing plan and reinforce this plan when necessary.

Understanding the Business Cycle

Successful managers know that a business does take time to develop and understand that while most businesses have a 12-month business cycle, a UFCP franchise has a 4-6 month cycle. They understand that there is a sense of urgency with seasonal businesses.

The above is not an all-inclusive list but provides many of the characteristics that our successful managers share. These traits may not come naturally so you may have to work very hard to develop these. If you are weak in a particular area, we will assist and work with you until you turn your weakness into strength.