Bill Hayward has been with V.I.P. for 10 years.

Q: Why did you choose this particular type of franchise?

A: I had been in the printing industry for years, and noticed that my skills were no longer useful due to changing technology; I needed a job with little specialisation required to start up. I spent a day in the field with a V.I.P. garden and lawn maintenance franchisee and I was hooked.

Q: What were your expectations when you started as to the amount of work you would undertake, how much time it would take to get leads, grow the business, and your lifestyle?

A: I had opted to purchase $400 worth of weekly income; with the aim to replace my salary of $42,000 by year end. I ended up making just under $52,000 the first year, and now I have a great customer base I meet my financial goals. However, the financial windfall isnÕt what kept me with V.I.P. — it is the satisfaction I gain from being self employed and giving my customers V.I.P. service.

Q: What are your plans for developing your business?

A: As a sole operator I think I have reached a plateau so now I must decide if I want to take on an employee or sell some of my work back to V.I.P.