Who better than a franchisee to reveal what it takes to achieve success as a franchise business owner? Six franchisees sharing what they’ve learned from their experiences.

1. Emma Makai, Begin Bright

Experienced teacher Emma always wanted to have her own business and found a renewed passion for her craft in her Begin Bright franchise.

Top tip: Fully commit but understand that it won’t be a breeze. Be realistic about struggles. Success depends on the amount you put in and how much you want to sacrifice.

2. Chris Hartzenberg, Poolwerx

After 30 years in the telecoms world, Chris found a new challenge in running his own Poolwerx franchise outlet.

Top tip: Keep your eyes open and learn, analyse. Your mindset will only get you so far; then to take the next step, you have to work out what has to change.

3. Richard Wake, Finn Franchise Brokers

Corporate refugee Richard has been just five months in his franchise but he’s got a clear perspective of what leads to success.

Top tip: It is critical to understand business finance and understand your costs. Sales and profits are a result of the amount of effort you put in, it’s the costs that will kill you.

4. Ian Clarke, Clark Rubber

Ian and his wife Denise have been on top of their game for more than 20 years. As Clark Rubber franchisees they know a thing or two about making a retail franchise like a successful operation.

Top tip: You will still get stressed as a franchisee. You have responsibilities to yourself, your franchisor, and the bank – the difference is, you’re making the decisions, you’re in control.

5. Beverley Taylor, InXpress

This bubbly Brit moved to Australia 11 years ago and has been kicking goals in her InXpress franchise since she invested in the business in 2013.

Top tip: Work hard and follow the model. We all try different things but none of them work as well.

6. Sherwin Djamil, Soul Origin

Running four Soul Origin franchises in Parramatta and Melbourne is all in a day’s work for this energetic young businessman with a community spirit.

Top tip: Success is all to do with systems, trust and respect for every person, giving relationships. When you trust, efficiency goes up.