By Lisa Stead, Head of Franchising at Shuttercraft
My instant response is a resounding “NO!” In my opinion, it is never too late – but it is key to pick the right opportunity that utilises your skills and experience; with the right goals, objectives and support. In fact, Pip Wilkins, CEO of the British Franchise Association, believes that a long career is a huge benefit for those who are seeking a new challenge in franchising.
Did you know that in 2020 the age that men and women were allowed to claim their state pension changed, rising to 66 years old. Being in your 50’s can no longer be considered old in the working world. Yet, a survey conducted by TotalJobs revealed that 88% of 51–60-year-olds believed that putting their date of birth on their CV makes it harder to get a job, while a further 73% believing that they have been rejected for a job purely because of their age. With the state pension age creeping further towards 70, retirement isn’t an option for many.
So, what should you do with decades of experience and developed skills?
Franchising can offer an alternative route for those who may find themselves unemployed, or dissatisfied at the prospect of their current role, for another decade or more as they provide ongoing support from a head office team, and structure with a pre-established brand.
At the age of 62, Mark Richardson (pictured) decided it was time to be in control of his future. “When work is going well, you tend to put your dreams on hold and forget about them.” But after three redundancies, it was now or never to follow the dream. Mark now runs his own Shuttercraft franchise with a small team, and believes that the franchising model has helped flex his unique skills and experience while providing support in other areas of the business.
“Technology is definitely my weakness,” said Mark
“Thankfully there are people on the team that will help me with that, especially the digital advertising and website. I know that I will also be able to call upon the support of my neighboring franchise partners, who I have already met and are doing very well.”.
Mark Richardson, Shuttercraft in Lichfield
Support in Franchising
“Thankfully there are people on the team that will help me with that, especially the digital advertising and website. I know that I will also be able to call upon the support of my neighboring franchise partners, who I have already met and are doing very well.”
Franchising offers a route for ‘olderpreneurs’ to harness their decades of crafted expertise, with sales, marketing, organisation, and people skills easily transferred to running a franchise business. This, coupled with confidence in ability and composure when issues arise, makes them an ideal franchisee.
For an entrepreneur looking to start their own business, after a long career in another industry, joining a franchise can provide the perfect business choice. To start with, there is a structure to follow meaning that the transition from employee to business owner is seamless. The ongoing support and training means that new skills need not be a challenge and there is the continuous reassurance and guidance that a franchise network provides.
