Susan is a driven, intelligent business woman and we are so proud to have her as part of the Anago family. Susan is growing her business every day. Why did Susan choose to become an Anago Master Franchise Owner? Read her full story here.
Why did you choose Anago?
I started out by doing some online research. I found a website from a Google search of Franchises, filled out a form, and a broker representing Anago called me. I did not want to buy a cleaning franchise, so I instructed him to look up some options other than cleaning. I looked into a popcorn franchise and even handyman franchise. As I got more franchise information throughout the process, I started to recognize the benefits of buying an Anago franchise.
What sparked my interest was that I did not need to hire a ton of employees right away. I talked to other Anago Franchise Owners, and they were great! They were very truthful; they shared the highs and lows and weren’t trying to make the Anago franchise opportunity any different than it was. I recall the Cashmans standing out the most. Mark and Sue Cashman purchased Anago of Balitmore and were an awesome husband and wife team. Thy seemed very truthful. I was intrigued by her success, and she was very warm and told me that I could call anytime. The Anago model turned out to be right up my alley because I get to help people grow their business! I’m a teacher by trade and helping people is my specialty. I love teaching people how to own a successful business. I made the right decision
What ignited the spark in you to start a new business venture?
I’ve always wanted to be a business owner. I was a stay at home mom to my three children. I did home schooling and taught Sunday school. I owned a vending machine business, but the vending machine business was not for me. I couldn’t help anyone. I ‘ve been a business owner since the age of 20 in college, so I’m used to business ownership. I’ve owned a couple businesses, and it’s completely natural to me.
What do you love most about being an Anago Master Franchise Owner?
I like the variety of my day to day; no two days are the same! Homeschooling three children was hard, but this has been hard and fulfilling. I am filled with excitement every time we are awarded a cleaning contract from a client and see the Franchisee’s face light up because his business is growing.
Why did you choose the janitorial industry?
When I spoke with Vice President of Marketing, Judy Walker, she explained that the cleaning industry is recession resistant versus expecting people to buy popcorn. Plus, I didn’t want to push products on people. Cleaning is always going to be around because it’s always going to be in need. You have to sell yourself and be the best of the best. It’s exciting! The more I thinking about it, the more in awe I am of what a great choice I made.
Can you give us a summary of your background, education, and work experience?
My dad worked for the railroad industry. With every promotion he received we had to move, and that meant several different schools. It was an adventure, except for my time in high school. My favorite place of all was Texas, but I had to move to Minnesota and complete high school. In Texas, I had big hair, designer jeans, and high heels. When I moved to Minnesota, everyone saw my Calvin Kline jeans were just in shock, and I heard the whispers “who’s that?!” They were wearing, cookie cutter clothes, white turtle necks with a sweater, and I stood out like a fish out of water. My first job after college, I was a teacher. I wanted to see if the missionary work was my calling, but it wasn’t.
Where do you see your Anago franchise in the next year? In the next five years? The next ten years?
Hiring more people! I plan on quadrupling my business in five years.
What is the single most critical talent you possess in your role as a business owner?
Be absolutely positive. Finding the best in situations and believing in people. If I didn’t have my Franchisees, I wouldn’t have my business.
What advice would you give to college students who want to become entrepreneurs?
Get a good education. I don’t have a business degree, so at times I do feel like I’m not in the “club”. Always be empathetic and improve on you interpersonal skills because it’s what will make or break your business.
What skills are needed to be a successful entrepreneur?
Excluding yours, what company or business do you admire the most?
Chick-Fil-A. We finally got a Chick-Fil-A! I had only eaten there in high school in Texas. I find their philosophy of not being open on Sunday admirable.