Catherine Little is a brand new owner of Window Genie of Meridian, Mississippi. Window Genie, founded in 1994, is a nationally ranked mobile window cleaning service franchise offering residential and light commercial window cleaning, window tinting, pressure washing, gutter cleaning and more. Recognized as one of the fastest growing franchise systems in North America, Window Genie grew to more than 100 franchise partners operating in 29 states as of June 2016. In 2016, Window Genie became a subsidiary company of the Dwyer Group®, and is closing in on 200 territories sold. Based in Waco, Texas, the Dwyer Group has grown to become the holding company of 11 service-based franchise organizations. Together, these brands provide a diverse array of specialty services through more than 2,700 franchisees in nine countries.
1. Tell me about your background
I am married and have three precious children that are 13, 10, and 4. I started working for Eli Lilly six days after graduation. I worked in this industry for 18 years. I went back to school at night and got my Masters in Business Administration from 2002-2004.
2. What was happening in your life that caused you to want to own a business?
I have always had the dream of owning my own business, and being my own boss. As the pharmaceutical industry changed and became so regulated and restrictive, it lost a lot of the fun for me. I felt more like a robot and was not able to use my creativity, knowledge, or experience.
After my last “try” at pharmaceutical sales, I finally decided that I cared less about lots of money and more about job satisfaction. For a year, I worked as a marketing director at a pain clinic. I LOVED the freedom, creativity, and variety, but I still was frustrated because I knew that I could do so much better for myself if I was in control of my success.
3. Why franchising (did you consider a startup)?
I am married and have three precious children that are 13, 10, and 4. I started working for Eli Lilly six days after college graduation. I worked in pharmaceuticals for 18 years. I went back to school at night and got my Masters in Business Administration from 2002-2004.
Over the years I have explored so many different things from owning a clothing store or gift shop, to opening other franchises, etc. My husband owned his own sporting good business in Mississippi with his brother. They sold their company to BSN Sports three years ago, and my husband went to work for them. I learned a lot about what a retail business with a store front is like. I decided that would not work for me. I have 3 BUSY children that play TONS of sports. We also love to travel. I did not want to have to be open on nights, weekends, or have inventory to manage.
I finally hit a point after I turned 40 where I decided I better open a business so I have time and energy to build it! I realized that starting from the ground up brought lots of risk and uncertainty and also take a lot of time. That is when I decided that I wanted a business that was set up and ready to run with. I am not afraid to work hard. My motto has always been “the harder you work, the luckier you get.” I hate excuses and decided to jump in!
4. Why Window Genie – did you look at any other options?
Over the last couple of years, I bounced lots of ideas off of friends and family. I looked into a smoothie franchise, a tutoring center, a sandwich shop, and a mosquito spraying franchise. There was something about each one that was not fit for me. I did not want to work nights, weekends, or to own a restaurant.
Finally, I decided that the home services space would be the right fit more me personally. I started researching and my thought process was that I wanted to fill an unmet need. I thought to myself, “What do I hate to do, not want to do, or don’t know how to do?” Through my research, I came across Window Genie. I was immediately intrigued. I called the franchise consultant at the Dwyer Group, and he was wonderful! He offered me so guidance and support through the decision-making process. He was not just trying to sell a franchise. He wanted it to be a great fit for all.
There is no established business that can take care of most all outdoor cleaning on a home. People in the area clean their own windows (not good), have the yard guy clean their gutters, and maybe the painter pressure wash. We can do all of these in one stop. We also offer window tinting. This is in great demand in HOT Mississippi. I knew right away I had found a good fit and could meet a great need.
5. What was the biggest surprise (something you didn’t expect) when you opened your business?
The biggest surprise is how surprised people are that a woman opening a business in the home services industry. People have even asked how much my husband is helping. He is a great help and support, but Window Genie of Meridian is run by me.
6. What would you have done differently now that you know what you know?
Only thing I would do different would be to start this business years ago.
7. What’s the best thing about owning your own business?
The best thing so far is the sense of accomplishment that I did not put my dreams aside. I LOVE being a mother so much, but I have always wanted and needed something for me.
8. What’s next for you?
We have been in business in Meridian for just two months. The demand has been so great that I have already bought my second service vehicle and added another crew. We plan to focus on this market for the next two years, and then we plan to open a second location in Jackson, MS.
To learn more about this or any other franchise models, email us at info@yourfranchiseiswaiting.