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“It’s about confidence, ability, and attitude” Vikki Donnachie, franchisor at Merry Maids Covid was one of the biggest challenges I’ve faced. When the pandemic first hit everyone was just trying to find their way through, some businesses were forced to cease trading. This was a huge learning curve and it has certainly changed how we all work. I have proven to myself that even through the toughest of times, we must learn to embrace changes and make the most of the resources and technology that we have available to us. Our businesses expanded through this time, proving that with the right can-do attitude and thinking outside the box, you can achieve anything. There are certainly plenty of fantastic opportunities available within franchising for women. For me it’s about confidence, ability, and attitude. When I entered the franchising sector it was a predominantly male environment however the industry has changed, and if you have the desire to be successful along with ambition and drive you will succeed in whatever environment you wish. My career aspirations are to continue building and supporting our growing network of franchisees. “Have confidence and trust in your abilities” Shilpi Verma, franchisee at Walfinch, Harrow & Brent Running your own business means keeping on top of the finances. That’s easier as a franchisee than for someone alone in business because your franchise manager can help with financial management and planning. Recruiting, hiring, and retaining carers is challenging, but I’m tackling it by creating a positive culture which increases employee satisfaction. Have confidence and trust in your abilities. Sometimes you’ll experience self-doubt because in business it’s inevitable at times. For instance, I wondered if I could reach a turnover of one million - but then I did. Also, build a good support network around you. A franchise comes with a built-in network of other franchisees, whose support is invaluable, but it also helps to have support from experts in your community, such as community nurses. I’m co-chair of the care sector workforce intelligence organisation, Skills for Care, in Harrow and Brent, so I keep in touch with many people working in care in the local area. “The only obstacle you’ll face is yourself” Angelina Mouralidarane, commercial director at Iceking Group The biggest challenge I’ve faced is the limitations I’ve placed on myself for being a female leader, business owner, wife, and mum. I’ve had this notion of having to do more than my male counterpart at any meeting, presentation, or review, just to justify my seat at the table – but it was exactly that, a mere notion. I soon realised that what earns you a seat at the table is your ability to perform regardless of background and gender; the franchise network has done a very good job of trying to level the playing field. Ultimately, the only obstacle you’ll face is yourself. If you work relentlessly, stay focused and commit to achieving your goals you absolutely will succeed regardless of gender. Inequalities will continue to exist, but it’s how you navigate around them that’s more important than the inequality itself. I’m aiming to build a multi-generational business across different sectors and global markets. I hope to inspire, educate, and mentor women in business and franchising. “Don’t be afraid that you’ll be on your own” Kim Emmett-Gidney, franchisee at Safeclean, HighWycombe I’ve pushed myself to work hard physically and mentally to overcome challenges along the way and, most importantly, learn from them. I think the biggest challenge has been believing in myself and knowing that I do a good job to a high standard. What’s helped me with this is having a regular client base, and obtaining new clients through recommendations. This just proves that if I wasn’t doing good a job then my clients wouldn’t have me back. I also believe that ongoing training is very important, so I’m always updating, and improving my skills. I’m the only female specialist within my network and this was quite isolating at first. Don’t feel that because an industry is male dominated it isn’t for you or you can’t do it, it’s only perceived as a man’s job because it’s a hard graft with the equipment etc. But if you aren’t afraid of hard work then you are just as good as the rest of them. You’ll also be surprised at the amount of support you get from your network support team. INS IGHT 44 WHAT FRANCHISE | ISSUE 19.3