We get asked these questions every week. Here are honest answers from Michael Antoun, Jim’s Mowing franchisee. This article covers 8 of the most common questions about starting a Jim’s franchise at 22, including training, support, and backing yourself early.
Watch the video above, or keep reading for the full Q&A.
Why Did Michael Decide To Start A Jim’s Mowing Franchise Now?
Michael decided to start a Jim’s Mowing franchise because he wants to be on the road working for himself.
He has recently finished his Cert 3 in horticulture, which he started about four years ago. He says he has picked up skills in outdoors work, gardening, and mowing, and feels he has “the technique pretty much locked down”.
He also explains that fresh out of school, he did not know what he wanted to do, so he jumped into an apprenticeship that was very physical. Now he feels ready to take what he has learnt and build something of his own. If you are looking at the practical steps, check this.
Is 22 Years Old A Good Age To Start A Jim’s Franchise?
Yes, 22 can be a good age to start a Jim’s franchise if you are ready to work and you have support around you.
Michael is 22, and he talks about the idea that “I wish I had done it earlier” stuck with him. His point is simple: for him, 22 feels early enough to start, learn fast, and build momentum.
Age alone does not make it work. Your habits do. If you can follow a process, ask for help when you need it, and keep showing up when you are unsure, starting at 22 is not a disadvantage. It can be the reason you get ahead.
Why Don’t More People In Their Early 20s Start A Small Business?
Michael says he does not know, but he thinks support makes a big difference.
He says he has “an excellent support group around me”, and that has probably made it easier than the average person. That matters because starting a business can feel like a lot when you have never done it before.
He also explains how quickly the Jim’s network stepped in. His franchisor rang him straight away, walked him through what to do, and made it clear: “This is what we need, this is what we’ve got to do.” That combination of personal support plus a system reduces the fear factor for a lot of young people. If you want to see the common questions people ask before they start, read this.
What Research Helped Michael Choose Jim’s Mowing?
Michael chose Jim’s Mowing after listening to the Jim’s Mowing Podcast and seeing ads that made him think, “I wish I had done it earlier.”
He says he was already keen based on the ads, and one Instagram ad in particular stuck with him because someone said, “Oh, I wish I did it earlier.” He kept repeating that line to himself at work, then thought, “It’s still pretty early for me.”
The podcast helped reinforce what he was already leaning towards. He describes it as everyone saying how good it is, and he calls it “really good advertising.” If you want to do the same homework, start with The Jimcast and listen to what the day-to-day actually sounds like.
What Is Jim’s Franchise Training Like In Real Life?
Michael says the training is great and he is loving it.
He specifically calls out the experience: “The food’s insane. The accommodation’s awesome.” For him, that matters because training is intense, and your environment affects how well you learn.
He also says it is good to be able to meet Jim Penman, founder of Jim’s Group, learn Jim’s story, and meet the people behind the scenes. If you want a clearer picture of what happens in training and what it covers, see this.
Is Jim Penman Actually Accessible During Training?
Michael says yes, and he was very surprised by it.
He explains that Jim is down there for lunch every day, and he thinks Jim pops in for dinner too. That level of visibility is not what most people expect from a founder of a large group.
Michael also shares a real moment where he had an issue, and Jim sorted it out straight away. His takeaway is not about status. It is about speed. When someone can fix a small problem quickly during training, it keeps you moving and reduces stress when you are already learning a lot.
What Does Michael Like About Mowing And Gardening Work?
Michael likes the industry because he gets to be outdoors, and he can see the impact of the work.
He describes it in a simple way: “You make flowers grow, and then you pick the flower and give it to the client.” He likes seeing how smiley people get, because it is a direct response to something you have done with your hands.
He also says many of the jobs he has done are with elderly clients. For him, that creates a genuine environment because you are often doing something they cannot do anymore, and you know you are helping them in a practical way.
What Should You Do If You’re Thinking About Jim’s Training?
Michael says you should inquire and see if it is the right fit for you.
He frames it as a straightforward step rather than a massive leap. His view is that worst case, you come to training, and you could still change your mind if you really wanted.
That approach matters for people who overthink the decision. If you are stuck choosing between paths, decide what work you actually want to do day to day, then match the division to that. This can help.
Make an enquiry at jims.net or call 131 546 and ask what Jim’s Mowing territory options are available near you.