After many years working in a corporate environment, Kevin Barker was ready to build a path for himself. When he came across WOW 1 DAY PAINTING, he knew he had found the right place: it had a proven process, a strong support network, and truly felt like joining a family. Here's what Kevin has to say about his journey into entrepreneurship, and how he defines success in business (it might surprise you!)
Q: What made you want to own a business?
KB: It's something I've always wanted to do: to challenge myself, to grow something, and to build a team. I've spent a long time working in a corporate environment, and I've always wanted to guide my own path. Given everything that's going on right now, this felt like a pivotal moment for me to champion my own business. I wanted to have a clear vision of my future and in order to do that, I really felt like this was the right time to take the leap.
Q: Why now - what was it that made you take the leap?
KB: Simply put, the right opportunity presented itself at the right time. I feel like there's a lot of change going on right now, and I didn't want to sit on the sidelines. It was time to get in the game.
Q: In your opinion, what are the benefits of joining a franchise system?
KB: The proven track record. While the majority of new businesses fail, the majority of new franchises succeed. I have the opportunity to learn from the franchise partners who came before me, particularly those who have perhaps done the wrong things and learned from those mistakes. In short, I'm repeating a proven, reputable system.
Q: Why WOW 1 DAY PAINTING, what made this the right fit?
KB: WOW 1 DAY PAINTING has a solid team and support network, with folks who are engaged and excited about what they're doing. Second, it's a well thought-out system, with processes that enable a new business owner to follow along without needing years and years of experience to succeed. Thirdly, the family-style atmosphere. That kind of camaraderie and support is invaluable and incredibly unique.
Q: What are you most looking forward to about being a business owner?
KB: Building a team and helping them achieve their goals. I believe that if I can find a group of individuals who have their own dreams of success -- of building their careers -- and I can help them achieve that, then I don't have to worry about my own goals.
Q: What are your passions / interests / hobbies - what makes you happiest and motivates you?
KB: I love listening to music, particularly contemporary Christian music. It's my heartbeat and it feeds my soul. I try to fill my days with music that has a message in it...when I catch myself singing along, I really do feel affirmed and encouraged.
Q: Tell us about your territory, what makes it unique?
KB: My territory is the eastern edge of and around Nashville. It has a lot of diversity in it, with lots of up and coming new developments and marketplaces, as well as small town areas.
Q: How has the virtual element of the process been - the fact you haven't been able to visit the Junktion etc.?
KB: Yes, it's been difficult. It has presented its challenges, but I believe at the end of the day it has forced us to learn to adapt and grow our communication style and technical abilities. You lose a lot by way of verbal communication when so much is being done over email. We've all had to learn to be better communicators, which in the end isn't a bad thing.