From Chef to Dog Groomer: The Inspiring Story of Hannah and Kosta
At just 22 and 21 years old, Hannah and Kosta are proving that you don’t have to wait until your 40s or 50s to become a successful business owner.
Discover as the young Jim’s Dog Wash franchisees share their remarkable journey of transitioning from the hospitality industry to launching a thriving dog grooming business.
Their story is a testament to the power of taking a chance, embracing your passions, and leveraging the support of a trusted franchise system.
Whether you’re a young professional looking to break free from the corporate grind or a seasoned worker seeking a career change, Hannah and Kosta’s experience offers valuable insights and inspiration.
From Hospitality to Hounds: Discovering a New Calling
Before venturing on their entrepreneurial adventure, Hannah and Kosta were both working in the hospitality industry.
Hannah had been in the field since the age of 14, while Kosta was studying to become a teacher.
However, the long hours, politics, and lack of fulfillment in their respective roles led them to seek a change.
Kosta echoes this sentiment, noting that they both had a passion for business and a love for animals.
Choosing the Right Franchise: Why Jim’s Dog Wash?
With their entrepreneurial spirit ignited, Hannah and Kosta explored various business opportunities, including the idea of starting a food truck.
However, they ultimately decided to pursue a Jim’s Dog Wash franchise, citing the benefits of joining an established brand, noting that being part of a franchise alleviated the stress of working alone, which Hannah believed would have put them in a very different position.
The decision to join Jim’s Dog Wash was further solidified during the training process, where Hannah and Kosta had the opportunity to meet the brand’s founder, Jim Penman, and other experienced franchisees.
This exposure to the Jim’s Group community and support system gave them the confidence to take the leap.
Mastering the Art of Dog Grooming
One of the biggest challenges Hannah and Kosta faced was learning the art of dog grooming, as it was a completely new skill set for them.
However, they approached the training with an open mind and a willingness to learn.
With the support of their Jim’s Dog Wash trainers and the broader franchise network, Hannah and Kosta quickly gained the skills and confidence needed to provide exceptional grooming services.
They emphasize the importance of patience, communication, and a genuine love for animals when working with anxious or aggressive dogs.
Building a Thriving Business: Challenges and Strategies
In the early days of their business, Hannah and Kosta were determined to work hard and establish themselves quickly.
This led to them working seven days a week, sometimes for 12 hours a day.
However, the young entrepreneurs soon realized the importance of finding a more sustainable work-life balance.
They made the strategic decision to purchase a second van, allowing them to split their workload and cover more ground while still maintaining their energy and enthusiasm.
Educating Clients: The Importance of Proper Grooming Maintenance
One of the key challenges Hannah and Kosta have faced is educating their clients on the importance of proper grooming maintenance between appointments.
Many pet owners underestimate the time and effort required to keep their dog’s coat in top condition.
To address this, the young entrepreneurs have emphasized the importance of using the right tools, such as a fine-tooth comb, to effectively groom dogs with thick, curly coats.
They also encourage their clients to pre-book appointments, even if they’re not sure of their schedule, to ensure their dog’s grooming needs are met consistently.
Embracing Diverse Dog Breeds and Grooming Styles
Hannah and Kosta have encountered a wide range of dog breeds and grooming needs in their business, from the massive 102.5-kilogram Great Dane to the feisty, high-energy smaller dogs.
They’ve developed a particular fondness for the increasingly popular “oodle” breeds, such as Goldendoodles and Labradoodles.
By educating their clients on the importance of regular brushing and using the right tools, Hannah and Kosta have been able to help their oodle customers maintain the longer, luscious coats they desire.
This has not only made their clients happy but has also become a specialty for the young entrepreneurs.
Embracing the Power of Social Media
As digital natives, Hannah and Kosta understand the power of social media in growing their business.
They’ve started to build a presence on platforms like TikTok, where they showcase their grooming skills and the unique services they offer, such as the “blueberry facial” for their canine clients.
By leveraging social media to showcase their expertise, personality, and the fun, playful side of their business, Hannah and Kosta are not only attracting new clients but also building a strong brand presence within their local community and the broader Jim’s Dog Wash network.
The Power of Franchising: Support and Mentorship
One of the key factors that has contributed to Hannah and Kosta’s success is the support and mentorship they’ve received from the Jim’s Group franchise system.
From the initial training and onboarding process to the ongoing guidance and resources, the young entrepreneurs have felt empowered and supported every step of the way.
- Jade, a member of the Jim’s Group divisional support team, has been a particularly valuable resource for Hannah and Kosta, providing them with regular check-ins, problem-solving assistance, and even a “silver membership” reward for their outstanding performance.
- The opportunity to connect with experienced franchisees, both during the training process and through ongoing networking events, has also been invaluable.
- The Jim’s Group franchise system has also provided Hannah and Kosta with a reliable income guarantee, which has given them the confidence to invest in their business and explore growth opportunities, such as the purchase of a second van.
Advice for Aspiring Young Entrepreneurs
For those considering a career change or starting their own business, Hannah and Kosta have some valuable advice to share:
- “Don’t ever think it’s never too late. It’s never too late to start. You’re never at an age where you just think, ‘Okay, well, I’ve left it too late. There’s no point starting now.’“
- “If you’re happy where you’re at and life’s working for that, then continue doing what you’re doing. But you will come across a crossroad where it becomes very rinse and repeat, the same thing. And you will start to question, ‘Can I do something else? Can I feel accomplished? Can I feel appreciated? Can I feel like I’m constantly growing?’“
- “You don’t have to give up anything just because you’re owning your own business. You can have your hobbies, you can go learn something. You can definitely do all of that.“
Hannah and Kosta’s story is a testament to the power of following your passions, embracing your entrepreneurial spirit, and leveraging the support of a trusted franchise system.
By taking a chance and starting their own dog grooming business in their early 20s, they’ve not only found personal and financial fulfillment but have also inspired others to pursue their own dreams.
To learn more about the Jim’s Dog Wash franchise opportunity and how you can start your own successful dog grooming business, visit the Jim’s Group website or call 131 546 (Australia) or 0800-454-654 (New Zealand).
For more inspiring stories and business advice from the Jim’s Group community, be sure to subscribe to the Jim’s Group YouTube channel and check out the Jim’s Podcast.