Top secret: An amazing network of colleagues, family and friends who support me through thick and thin.
In just a short time, Ruth Cohen has established an enviable track record of success in her business and was named the Australian company's top performingassociate in 2007. Prior to buying her franchise, Ruth had been an executive director with the Western Australian branch of an international fund-raising organisation where she had worked for 15 years.
What made you turn to franchising? "After completing my MBA, I decided that it was time to look at what I really wanted from my career and that was to manage my own business.
Expense Reduction Analysts accounting franchise was rated as a top franchise in Australia. I met with management and really liked the people and the concept. I really enjoy the interaction with my colleagues. I love the integrity of the business, that we only get paid if we save money for our clients and I have really enjoyed the learning curve.
"I also like the fact that there are people in head office at Expense Reduction Analysts
business services franchise who care about every single thing that I do in the business."
Where do you find Inspiration? From mentors and some terrific people in the Expense Reduction Analysts network both locally and overseas. I'm also an avid reader of books about successful people in business and life generally.
What about your work-life balance? It's easy to carry on working at night and on weekends because I enjoy what I'm doing, when I should be with friends and family and relaxing a bit! It's really about setting goals and sticking to a plan. The business allows me to work flexible hours and I want a balanced life and a happy family.
What were some of the challenges you faced? "I can't say it has been a smooth run. Starting out was very difficult and I don't cope well with financial insecurity, of which there was a lot when you move from a regular salary to being responsible for your own wage. Still, the high level of support I received from Expense Reduction Analysts kept me going.
"In the early days, the biggest challenge was in making those calls to get appointments. I'm now able work mainly on a referral and networking basis but I still set aside some time to make some calls.
What are some lessons learned? "There are no short-cuts. I have achieved what I have through hard work and through following the advice of successful people. You must keep an open mind to opportunities. I never knock back an appointment because it may not yield large dividends."
What advice can you offer prospective franchisees?
"Persevere. You have to keep that new business pipeline filled. Think. Trust your own instincts and gut feel about people and situations."
Ruth Cohen has been a franchisee with Expense Reduction Analysts, a cost management and procurement consultancy, for four years.18-Jun-2008