With a FASTSIGNS franchise, you’ll be in business for yourself, but you’ll never be by yourself. You’re very much the boss, but there’s always someone who will have your back!
Starting your own business is something many people dream of doing; it can certainly be one of the most rewarding decisions you’ll make. Making money for yourself instead of for someone else, better prospects for your future, and having the freedom to forge your own path. However, what most people don’t realise is it can sometimes be an isolating, even lonely, experience – especially if you’ve never run a business before.
As a new business owner, you’re ultimately responsible for decision-making and, by going it alone, you may not have colleagues with whom you can openly share challenges and ideas, or check decisions with. So, face the pressure of making sure your business is a success.
Which is why Franchising could be the answer!
Being a part of the FASTSIGNS franchise, gives you the independence of being your own boss, with the support of a wider community. You’ll join a network of like-minded people who have already built successful businesses, on the foundation of collaboration and mutual support. Many franchises talk the big talk about being part of a “family” but, at FASTSIGNS, we really mean it, and our Franchise Mentorship Programme is the perfect example.
Mentoring designed around you
This programme is a huge part of what FASTSIGNS offers you in terms of training and support, not just when you begin, but throughout your critical first year – and beyond. After your initial training, we’ll pair you with another franchisee who is already well-established. You’ll spend a week with them at their centre, learning first-hand about the day-to-day realities of running a FASTSIGNS operation. Then, you’ll be in regular communication with them going forward.
This has proven to be hugely beneficial to our franchisees, who say they value having someone on their level, from whom to ask for advice and guidance, or just to bounce ideas off. Their mentors can help them with any unforeseen obstacles, or challenges, or reassure them they’re on the right track.
As Simon Slee, from FASTSIGNS Hammersmith, says “The support I received from other franchisees, is the greatest asset of running a FASTSIGNS centre. When I had a dedicated mentor, it was a relief to know I could go to him directly. It was so supportive during those early days – and it’s not just the mentorship. All of the FASTSIGNS centres are very open and communicative.” He now offers mentoring to others new to the network, as he found it so beneficial.
Tunde Sodipo, who opened FASTSIGNS Northampton with his wife, Laide in 2022 says, “Any time we had a problem or a challenge, we could call on our mentor – or anyone at FASTSIGNS. They always responded quickly, and with help beyond our expectations. There are many examples of the support we received… they’re always good for solutions. For anything and everything!”
Unrivalled support
Our mentorship programme really came into its own during the pandemic, when franchisees all pitched in to help each other out more than ever before: from shared ideas, to shared production. This was a real lifeline, not just for new franchisees, but for the whole network.
Forging those all-important relationships early leads to greater partnership and trust for the lifetime of your franchise. Whilst FASTSIGNS actually grew during the pandemic, it would have been too easy for franchisees to feel isolated, without having made those prior connections. Never underestimate the power of a friendly voice at the other end of a phone!
Ready to connect?
At FASTSIGNS, we believe we’re stronger together. Isn’t it time you became part of something bigger?
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