John Wildes, a resident of Melbourne, Australia, embodies the spirit of resilience and determination. Despite facing numerous challenges from a young age, John has built a successful Jim’s Mowing franchise, turning over more than $250,000 annually. Join us in exploring John’s journey, his business philosophy, and the valuable lessons he’s learned along the way.
Early Life and Family Background
Childhood Struggles and Family Love
John’s childhood in Melbourne was marked by financial difficulties.
His family often struggled to make ends meet, experiencing times without electricity and facing food insecurity.
Despite these hardships, John’s family life was rich in love and support.
“We were a normal everyday family living in a tiny square house. My parents loved my brother and I dearly and gave us the best they could. We didn’t know we had nothing,” John recalls.
Influence of Grandparents
John’s grandparents, particularly his grandfather who was a fisherman, played a significant role in his upbringing.
His grandfather taught him the value of hard work and introduced him to fishing at the tender age of three.
“If he wasn’t working, he would be making nets and getting ready to go out and catch fish. He’d say, ‘Come on, John, let’s go fishing,’” John remembers fondly.
Family’s Work Ethic
Coming from a family deeply rooted in small businesses, whether it was farming, fishing, or framing, John learned early on the importance of hard work.
“A whole generation has never worked for another person,” he notes, highlighting the entrepreneurial spirit that runs in his family.
Education and Early Jobs
Schooling Experience
John’s primary school years in Melbourne were marred by violence, with some teachers resorting to physical punishment.
Despite these negative experiences, John found solace in the social aspects of school.
When his family moved to a country town, he attended a local primary school with only thirty students, most of whom were his cousins.
“It was like a daily family picnic,” he describes.
Early Work Experience
At twelve, John started working at a milk bar, where he quickly demonstrated a keen eye for customer service.
“I remember customers walking in for milk, bread, and cigarettes, and I’d already have their stuff sitting on the counter as they walked in because I saw them coming and I knew they bought the same thing every day,” he shares.
By fifteen, John had moved on to work at a butcher’s shop, where he was entrusted with significant responsibilities, including handling large sums of cash.
His passion for work far outweighed his interest in academics, leading him to leave school in year eleven after failing English.
Entering the Workforce
After leaving school, John’s father, who ran a wholesale picture framing business, encouraged him to find a job.
John landed a position in picture framing, a field in which his father also worked.
Over time, John proved his capabilities and eventually took over running a framing shop, turning it into a profitable business.
Career in Framing and Transition to Jim’s Mowing
Building a Career in Framing
John spent twenty-seven years in the framing business, managing multiple shops and traveling extensively for sales trips.
“Travelling the country was awesome. I was living in hotels and airports and touring all over,” he reminisces.
Seeking Change
In his mid-forties, John began to question whether he was truly happy in his career.
His longstanding interest in gardening, inspired by his childhood experiences, led him to explore new opportunities.
Recalling an interview with Jim Penman on The Today Show, John decided to buy a Jim’s Mowing franchise in 2013.
Joining Jim’s Mowing
John conducted thorough research before joining Jim’s, speaking to existing franchisees and attending the company’s training.
The training emphasized self-sufficiency, a principle that resonated with John.
Despite a rocky start due to rain on his first day, John quickly secured his first client, a body corporate of take-away food shops, which remains his client to this day.
Growth and Expansion of the Franchise
The First Year
John’s first year with Jim’s Mowing was hectic but rewarding.
Six months in, he hired his first employee, a friend with thirty years of horticulture experience.
Given John’s limited experience in the field, hiring him was a strategic move.
Current Operations
Today, John’s franchise employs six full-time employees and two casual staff.
They operate out of a warehouse in Knoxfield, Victoria, and cater to ten regular real estate companies.
Specializing in property management, John’s team excels in meeting tight deadlines and maintaining high standards of service.
Importance of Customer Service
John emphasizes the importance of customer service in building a successful business.
“Customers need to trust you and know you aren’t going to rip them off,” he advises.
His commitment to customer satisfaction has earned him a loyal client base and numerous referrals.
Process-Driven Approach
John’s success is also attributed to his meticulous, process-driven approach.
From how tools are organized in trailers to how bills are sent to customers, every aspect of his business follows a well-defined process.
“If I get that process right, then the rest will take care of itself,” he asserts.
Challenges and Hard Work
Long Hours and Dedication
John’s workday typically starts at 4:30 a.m. and ends around 7 p.m., sometimes extending into Saturdays.
“Work is good for the soul,” he believes.
Despite the long hours, John thrives on hard work and remains dedicated to his business.
Overcoming Obstacles
The multiple lockdowns in Melbourne posed significant challenges, but John managed to expand his business by acquiring another franchise.
His perseverance and adaptability have been crucial in navigating these difficult times.
Leadership and Mentorship
Supporting Employees
John places great importance on the mental health and well-being of his employees.
He empowers them by involving them in quoting and decision-making processes.
His servant leadership style fosters a positive work culture and has helped many employees thrive.
Mentorship and Learning
John credits much of his success to the mentorship he received from his father’s business partner and other successful individuals he met along the way.
He continues to seek advice and learn from others, emphasizing the importance of mentorship in personal and professional growth.
Advice to New Franchisees
Planning and Research
John advises new franchisees to plan meticulously, seek advice, and conduct thorough research.
Understanding the market and having a clear strategy is essential for success.
Focus on Quality
Competition is not solely about price.
“A lot of people are prepared to pay for the convenience of good service,” John notes.
Providing high-quality service at a fair price builds a loyal customer base.
Personal Reflections and Future Goals
Sacrifices and Rewards
John acknowledges the sacrifices he has made, including time away from family, to build his business.
However, these sacrifices have paid off, providing his family with financial stability and a comfortable lifestyle.
“When my family see me work hard and they see what we get as a result, they know it’s worth it,” he says.
Future Aspirations
John’s goal is to build a long-term, sustainable business that can be passed on to his son.
He envisions a future where he works on the business rather than in it, focusing on growth and development.
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