Wicus Van Biljon our resident franchise partner in Fife, has renewed his franchise agreement for another five years.
Wicus joined Business Doctors in 2018 after relocating from South Africa and set about launching his new advisory business in Scotland. Despite starting from scratch in a new location, and the pandemic, Wicus forged new relationships, developed a successful business and was awarded Winner in the Great British Franchisee Awards in 2021.
We asked Wicus to describe the last five years and to share his experiences along the way.
How would you describe your first five years with Business Doctors?
My first five years with Business Doctors has been a transformative journey. I began as an enthusiastic recruit, eager to dive into the world of business strategy and advisory and during this five year period I have navigated a myriad of business as well client challenges which in a way is very similar to the current support I provide my clients with.
My first year was characterised by a steep learning curve and was all about laying the foundations. It was akin to planting seeds in fertile ground, ensuring the basics were right, understanding the potential clients I could help and building relationships. There was a steep learning curve, and I often found myself wearing multiple hats. But, like a sapling slowly pushing its way out of the soil, the initial efforts began to show promise.
Year two and three witnessed a season of robust growth. Equipped with a clearer understanding of our market positioning, I expanded my service offering, reaching out to a broader clientele, and started gaining traction.
By the fourth year, I had established Business Doctors as more than just ‘another firm’ in the business consulting arena. This was the season, where I reaped the rewards of the strategies I’d put in place earlier. I celebrated successes, learned from my failures, and refined my approach.
The fifth year was about introspection and consolidation, much like a winter’s solace. I took stock of my journey so far, fortified my strengths, addressed my weaknesses, and started laying the groundwork for the next phase.
Throughout these years, what remained constant was a commitment to excellence, a passion for helping businesses thrive, and an unwavering belief in the power of collaboration.
Each chapter of this journey was enriched by the incredible clients I had the privilege to work with and the endless possibilities that the world of business consulting offers. It’s been nothing short of extraordinary, and I eagerly anticipate what the next chapters with Business Doctors will bring.
How would you rate the support you have received from Head Office?
Over the course of my tenure, the support I’ve received from Head Office has been exemplary.
From the get-go, the communication lines have been consistently open and responsive. I felt that there was an unwavering commitment to ensure that all Franchisees, regardless of their location, had the tools, resources, and knowledge they needed to excel in their roles.
One of the standout elements has been the accessibility of the leadership team. Knowing that I can reach out and get timely responses, whether it’s for clarifications, resources, or even brainstorming sessions, has made a significant difference in my ability to navigate challenges and make informed decisions.
In essence, the support from Head Office has been a significant pillar of strength and guidance for me, and I am genuinely grateful for the assistance I’ve received over the years.
Beyond the professional growth, what has been truly remarkable is the culture at Business Doctors. The spirit of collaboration, mutual respect, and a shared commitment to delivering excellence has fostered a sense of camaraderie and belonging. It’s not just about the work; it’s about the people, the relationships, and the shared experiences that make these five years truly exceptional.
What would you say are the top 3 benefits of being a franchise partner?
Turnkey Business Model: One of the most compelling advantages is the ability to leverage a tried-and-tested business model. This drastically reduces the initial hurdles and uncertainties that are often associated with starting a business from scratch. From operational processes to marketing strategies, the franchise blueprint ensures that I hit the ground running with a proven approach, saving time, effort, and financial resources
Brand Recognition and Trust: Associating with an established brand name has granted me instant credibility in the market. Customers often gravitate towards what they recognize and trust, and being a franchise partner has allowed me to capitalize on the brand’s existing reputation. This not only facilitates customer acquisition but also fosters loyalty, given that customers have a set expectation of quality and service.
Ongoing Support: While the initial setup and training were invaluable, what has truly stood out is the continuous support I’ve received. From marketing strategies to operational challenges, the franchisor has been a consistent pillar of support.
In conclusion, being a franchise partner has provided me with a unique blend of entrepreneurial freedom and structured support. It’s allowed me to harness the benefits of a large enterprise while retaining the agility and personal touch of a small business.
“Having a business strategy is not a guarantee that your business will be successful as it is not about predicting the future, but preparing for its many possibilities.”
