In a world where many people feel trapped in unfulfilling careers, Michael McDowell’s story stands as a shining example of how taking a leap of faith can lead to remarkable personal and professional transformation.
This former Corrections Officer and Army veteran has found a new lease of life as the proud owner of a thriving Jim’s Mowing franchise.
Why Michael Left Corrections to Start a Jim’s Mowing Franchise
Michael traded 15-hour shifts for flexible mornings and better pay.
Now he works fewer hours and earns more—on his own terms.
The allure of a better work-life balance and the opportunity to be his own boss drew Michael to the Jim’s Mowing franchise.
“For a few years, I’ve wanted to be in the mowing industry, particularly with Jim’s Mowing,” he explains in an interview with Joel Kleber.
“I saw how well they were doing it, and I thought, ‘I’m going to have a crack at this.‘”
What Kind of Training Does Jim’s Mowing Provide for New Franchisees? | Joel Kleber Interview
Jim’s training gave Michael the tools to succeed, from quoting to customer service.
He also gained valuable connections with fellow franchisees.
The comprehensive training covered everything from horticulture and equipment usage to the all-important art of quoting and customer service.
“The big thing I took away was about having adult conversations with clients down the track,” Michael explains.
“That’s where the quoting and pricing come into play. If we underquote or have an issue, we never get a callback.”
“But John Wildes taught us how to approach clients and have that adult conversation about raising the price, rather than just going in high off the bat.“
Michael also found great value in the networking opportunities the training provided, connecting with fellow franchisees from across Australia and New Zealand.
“I actually caught up with a couple of them when I went on holidays in January,” he says.
“It’s quite common for people to form these friendship groups and stay in touch.“
How Michael Built a Client Base Fast With Quick Follow-Ups and Branding
Michael’s fast response time and the Jim’s trusted brand helped him stand out.
Now, leads come to him without chasing work.
“It was a bit of a slow start, to be honest,” Michael admits.
“I remember thinking, ‘Geez, what have I done here?’ But then it just started happening.”
“The calls started coming in, and I was ringing them back within 10-15 seconds.”
“I find that if you’re quick to respond, the customers are more likely to give you the job.“
Michael’s proactive approach, combined with the power of the Jim’s Mowing brand, proved to be a winning formula.
“People will approach you on the street and ask for your card if they see you working,” he says.
“It’s quite a unique thing with Jim’s Mowing that people feel comfortable coming up to you, as opposed to an independent business.“
Within a short period, Michael had built up a solid client base, now servicing 16 regular customers and taking on additional one-off jobs.
“It’s just been happening,” he says.
“I haven’t really been chasing it; it’s just been coming to me.“
How the Jim’s Mowing Guarantee Helps Franchisees Build Customer Trust
The Jim’s service guarantee gives clients peace of mind.
For Michael, it means fewer complaints and more customer confidence.
This level of accountability and support has been a game-changer for Michael.
“I haven’t had to use the pay-for-work guarantee yet, but I’ve been pretty happy with my income,”he says.
“It’s been in line with what I used to earn, but I’m doing about 50% fewer hours. I’m winning!”
How Michael’s Mowing Business Improved His Health and Lifestyle
Michael feels healthier and happier.
He’s outdoors, active, and has time to enjoy books, family, and life again.
The flexibility of running his own business has also allowed Michael to reclaim his personal time.
“I’ve got my other half, and I’m a pretty big reader, so I’ll actually pull out a few books and read a few thrillers,” he says.
“There’s always something you can do with the extra hours.“
What Kind of Support Do Jim’s Mowing Franchisees Really Get?
From weekly check-ins to problem-solving on the fly, Michael knows help is always just a call away.
It’s support that makes a difference.
The ability to tap into the expertise and resources of the broader Jim’s Mowing network has been invaluable for Michael.
“If I can’t do a job, I just ring up Johnny, and he’ll give me a number for someone else who can,” he explains.
“That’s customer service, in my opinion.”
“If someone can’t do it, someone else will.“
Why Michael Chose to Stay Solo and Keep His Business Simple
Michael plans to stay solo and keep things simple.
He’s focused on client service, not chasing staff or stress.
Michael’s advice to anyone considering a career change or starting their own business is simple: “Just do it.”
“Sometimes you’ve got to fake it till you make it.”
“The prizes will be bigger than the cons, put it that way.“
Is Jim’s Mowing the Right Career for Active, Outdoorsy People?
Michael’s love for footy, walking, and the outdoors fits perfectly with life at Jim’s.
He racks up 18–20 km a day—and enjoys every step.
Michael’s passion for the outdoors and physical activity aligns perfectly with his work as a Jim’s Mowing franchisee.
“The sun and the exercise, it’s just been great for me,” he says.
“I’m always reaching my daily step goal on my iPhone, and I’m sure I’m doing 18-20 kilometers a day, just like some of the other Jim’s Mowing franchisees in Sydney.“
Michael’s journey from Corrections Officer to successful Jim’s Mowing franchisee is a testament to the power of taking a leap of faith and embracing a new path.
Through the support and resources provided by the Jim’s Mowing franchise, he has not only found financial success but also a renewed sense of purpose, improved health, and a better work-life balance.
For anyone considering a career change or starting their own business, Michael’s story serves as an inspiring example of what’s possible when you’re willing to step out of your comfort zone and pursue your passions.
With the right mindset, support, and determination, the rewards can be truly transformative.
To learn more about the Jim’s Mowing franchise and explore opportunities to become a franchisee, visit the Jim’s Mowing website or call 131 546 in Australia or 0800 454 654 in New Zealand.
Don’t forget to check out the Jim’s Mowing’s YouTube channel for more inspiring stories and insights from the franchise.
Key Takeaways:
- Michael transitioned from a regimented career in Corrections and the Army to running his own thriving Jim’s Mowing franchise.
- The comprehensive Jim’s Mowing training program equipped Michael with the knowledge and skills to build his business from the ground up.
- Michael’s proactive approach, combined with the power of the Jim’s Mowing brand, allowed him to quickly build a solid client base of 16 regular customers and an additional one-off job.
- The Jim’s Mowing guarantee and customer service support have been game-changers, providing Michael with financial security and peace of mind.
- Becoming a Jim’s Mowing franchisee has significantly improved Michael’s physical and mental well-being, allowing him to reclaim his personal time and pursue his passions.
Michael’s advice to anyone considering a career change or starting their own business is to “just do it” and embrace the opportunities that come with taking a leap of faith.