Will Frankling, Co-founder of Kitchen Makeovers, speaks with Jenya Jenkins, the brand’s franchisee for Glasgow West, to explore what her typical day looks like.
One of the key questions that franchise prospects have when enquiring about starting their own business is, “What does a typical day as a franchisee look like?” While general responsibilities and tasks may be similar across franchises, each sector – and even each individual – brings unique aspects to the daily routine that are worth considering. Here, Will Frankling, Co-founder of Kitchen Makeovers, speaks with Jenya Jenkins, the brand’s franchisee for Glasgow West, to explore what her typical day looks like.
Before the workday begins
My day kicks off at around 7am when I like to slowly settle into my morning routine before starting my day’s work. It’s important for me to be energised for the day ahead so that I can feel positive and motivated about my tasks.
Often, my husband is away on business trips, so I help our teenage daughter get herself prepared for the school day and take our dog for a walk – I find this is a great way to get some fresh air and exercise in my routine!
Catching up on enquiries
My first task of the day is checking any emails and responding to enquiries from clients – this is when I will also arrange home visits. Around this time, I’ll also check in with my business partner, Bruce, that there are no pressing issues and that everything is smooth sailing on his end. Together, we map out the day ahead – being proactive like this means lines of communication are never misconstrued.
Home visits
Next comes one of the most significant parts of my day – home visits! I love meeting clients face-to-face and being able to see how we can help to transform their home. Surveying a home is essential to ensuring efficient project execution – they also allow Bruce and I to build personal connections with the clients, which is crucial in a trade like ours.
Client communications
After being out on the road, I get straight to sending any quotes and invoices to clients. By ensuring quick communication, this allows clients to trust us as a business. Being in a trade where customer service has historically been below par, we pride ourselves on making a difference by providing a great customer experience.
Working with suppliers
In many ways, supplier relationships are just as important as client relationships. To ensure that we can provide our services in a timely manner, it’s important that I set aside time for purchasing and placing any orders of supplies and arranging deliveries to fit our schedule.
Financial management
Having only relocated to the UK around two years ago, managing a whole new type of finances was something I found initially very tricky. However, each day I set aside at least 30 minutes dedicated to online banking, as well as another 30 minutes for planning and controlling finances – utilising an outsourced function to do so. This way I can ensure budgets are on track and monitored – keeping the business running smoothly.
Marketing
When I first started out, I found digital marketing was an especially helpful tool in building an initial client base and spreading the word about Kitchen Makeovers Glasgow West. It’s also a great way for us to keep previous and potential clients updated on what we are doing – so, I dedicate two to three hours a week to making social media posts. I love doing this as a way to begin slowing down at the end of my workday, as it allows me to bring out my creative side!
At the same time, I’ve started to think about working with a marketing agency to make this work more efficient and eventually rewarding. I know that being entrepreneur means you must always be pro-active, and I do my best to dedicate at least three hours per week for local community networking and planning business growth.
Preparing for the next day
At the end of the day, I prepare for the next day by reviewing my schedule, planning tasks, and organising for meetings. I follow up with clients and contractors, create a to-do list, and, if travelling, ensure I have all necessary materials and belongings ready for the morning.
Winding down
Being my own boss lets me prioritise work-life balance, so I can relax in the evenings and enjoy quality time with my family, recharging and strengthening our bond. I also like to escape to the countryside with my family most weekends to enjoy the fresh Scottish air and beautiful scenery which is good for the soul and mind. I find hiking helps to inspire ideas that I can use in my work life.
Words of advice
“My advice for anyone interested in franchising is to take the leap! You have access to the perfect support system for anyone who has the passion and drive to start their own business but may be apprehensive of their own abilities. I would say to not try and do everything new at once – instead take small steps and they will inevitably lead to great success!”
From client interactions to managing finances, every aspect of a franchisee’s day plays a vital role in creating a successful business. Jenya’s daily routine highlights the unique lifestyle franchising offers – a blend of ambition and personal priorities. With the right support, it is evident that running a business can be as fulfilling as remodelling a kitchen.