Interview with Victoria Green: Haus Maids Franchisee in Farnham & Winchester
Victoria Green shares her story about becoming a Haus Maids franchisee and how she built a successful business in the Farnham & Winchester areas.
Q: What motivated you to become a Haus Maids franchisee?
A: I was really inspired by seeing how successful the business was in other locations. I knew that running a cleaning company independently could be challenging, especially having to make every decision on my own. There are so many aspects to think about, like marketing, client management, and even hiring the right people. Being part of a franchise meant I had a support system and a proven model to follow, which made me feel more confident in taking this step. I also appreciated the fact that I could leverage the brand’s reputation and the experience of others who had been through similar challenges. It made me realise that I wasn’t alone in this journey, and that was very reassuring.
Q: How was your experience starting out as a franchisee?
A: At first, it was definitely a mix of emotions. There was a lot of excitement but also a bit of nervousness. I remember when I signed up my first client, I was so excited—it felt like a major achievement. It’s those small milestones that keep you motivated and remind you why you started. Starting on your own can feel overwhelming, but with Haus Maids, I always had someone to turn to if I needed advice, which made all the difference. The initial training was very thorough, which helped me feel prepared to take on the day-to-day challenges. Plus, the head office team was always available to answer questions, no matter how small they seemed. I really felt like I was part of a bigger family, which made the entire process much smoother.
Q: What would you say are the main benefits of joining a franchise like Haus Maids?
A: The biggest benefit is definitely the support network. Whenever I have questions or face challenges, I know I’m not alone. The training and ongoing support have been crucial. There’s always someone to guide you, whether it’s about managing staff, handling clients, or even dealing with unexpected issues. Plus, having a recognised brand name behind me helps build trust with clients right from the start. People are more likely to trust a business that has an established reputation, and that really helps when you’re trying to grow. Another major benefit is the marketing support. The head office takes care of a lot of the marketing, which allows me to focus more on delivering quality service and managing my team. The systems and processes that Haus Maids have in place are also incredibly helpful—they save me so much time and help me run my business more efficiently.
Q: How has being part of Haus Maids impacted your lifestyle?
A: It has given me a lot more flexibility compared to when I was working independently. I can manage my own schedule, which is important for balancing work with my personal life. Before joining Haus Maids, I found it really hard to take any time off, because everything depended on me. Now, I have a team that I can rely on, and that means I can step back when I need to. The business model also allows me to focus more on growth and managing a team, rather than just doing the cleaning myself. I love that I get to spend time working on the business rather than in the business—it’s a big difference, and it has allowed me to really enjoy what I do. Plus, I now have the opportunity to be more involved in my community, which is something I’ve always wanted to do. I’m able to sponsor local events and support initiatives that matter to me, all thanks to the flexibility that this business provides.
Q: What challenges have you faced, and how did Haus Maids help you overcome them?
A: One of the biggest challenges I faced was building a client base from scratch. It was a bit intimidating at first, but the support from Haus Maids made it much easier. They provided me with marketing materials and strategies that were already proven to work. Another challenge was managing staff, especially in the beginning when I was still learning the ropes. The training I received on recruitment and management was incredibly helpful, and the head office team was always there to offer guidance. It’s not always easy, but having the right support makes a huge difference. I also appreciated the technology and systems Haus Maids provided, which made managing schedules, payments, and client communication much more straightforward.
Q: What advice would you give to someone considering becoming a franchisee?
A: I would say, don’t be afraid to take the leap. If you are passionate about running your own business but want the guidance and support of an established system, a franchise like Haus Maids is a great option. The initial investment can seem daunting, but the rewards in terms of growth and support are definitely worth it. Make sure you do your research and understand what being a franchisee entails—it’s important to go in with your eyes open. Talk to other franchisees, ask questions, and make sure it aligns with your goals. If you’re willing to put in the effort and follow the system, you can be very successful. Also, don’t underestimate the value of the support network. Knowing that there are people who have your back and want to see you succeed is incredibly motivating. The journey can be challenging, but it’s also very rewarding, and you’ll learn so much along the way. Just be prepared to work hard, stay committed, and trust the process.