Category Archives: Franchising

Great Canadian Franchise Stories

22 February, 2013 11:47 am ⋅ Leave a Comment ⋅

This may be the coolest thing I’ve ever been part of in my business life. I’m in the book.

Dawn Mucci (the brains behind The Lice Squad) co-authored the book Great Canadian Franchise Stories. And I’m there. Chapter 16, right before the awesome Ruthie Burd of The Lunch Lady.

Great Canadian Franchise StoriesThe book celebrates eighteen of Canada’s top franchisors.  It’s a collection of secrets, advice, and resources. The forward was written by the inspiring Cora Tsouflidou. There is enormous diversity in the book. Different sectors, different parts of the country, different paths to success. These stories have never been gathered in one place. It is an inspiring read, and I highly recommend it regardless of the age or stage of your business.

When I first started out building Concierge Home Services, I read as many success stories as I could get my hands on. This was long before social media, and Google was just a baby. Books were it. So I searched high and low for books about Canadian business successes. I would have loved to read Great Canadian Franchise Stories. Which is one of the reasons why I’m so thrilled to be in the book.

Though I love technology and communicating in 140 characters, there is still nothing like sitting down and turning the pages for a good read. So get yourself a copy, curl up with a cup of tea, and prepare to take notes.

 

 

 

Posted in: Entrepreneurship, Franchising, Resources ⋅ Tagged: , ,

Concierge Home Services Etobicoke

22 January, 2013 12:24 am ⋅ Leave a Comment ⋅

This post is a blend of brag and business, which isn’t my usual mix. I’m really excited about this milestone in the growth of my company, so I just had to share. Drumroll please – we have a new location: Concierge Home Services Etobicoke.

However, this isn’t a back-slapping promotional piece. What I really want to do is introduce Dale Murphy and share his experience of making the change from employee to franchisee. I understand that there are many people who are considering going into business, or looking at making a transition. Once upon a time, that was me. Now, it is Dale. In his own words, here is his story:

Why did you quit your job?

“I needed to do something that I knew I would enjoy and would make me happy. After many years in my field, I felt that all my best efforts were not appreciated or rewarded. I wanted to build something that I could benefit from.”

What did you do before?

“I managed quick-service restaurants in a couple of large franchise systems, and for smaller chains. My background in hiring, training, and customer service was an ideal fit for Concierge.”

How did it feel to make the transition from employee to franchisee?

“It was a big step, and a little scary. But I knew I was ready to be my own boss and run my own business. I am excited about the opportunity to show what I am capable of. I’ve been dreaming of doing this for many years!  I’m excited and eager to build this from the ground up and make it successful.”

Why did you choose Concierge?

“The concept is great, and when I looked around I saw that there was no one in my area which offered the same blend of services – so I knew I had something totally unique. Concierge Home Services has a system that has proven to be successful, and the support was in place. My many years of customer service experience was a great fit for the company, and I can grow my knowledge and business skills.”

 

Concierge Home Services Etobicoke

Long-time Etobicoke resident Dale Murphy is a married father of two, a Leafs fan, and a pet owner.

 

Posted in: Franchising ⋅ Tagged: , ,