From Truck Driver to Franchisee: Russell Smith’s Pool Care Success in Coastal Waters

Following on in our series of successful Franchisee stories, Eden Exchange recently spoke with Russell Smith, a Jims Pool Care  Franchisee role model, in the regions of Shellharbour, Wollongong and Kiama in New South Wales. In this interview, Russell discusses his journey into the Pool Care Franchise and his views on what it takes to be a leader in the business.

Eden Exchange
Thanks for speaking with us today Russell. Firstly, can you tell us a bit about your work and personal background? How did you first get involved with Jim’s Pool Care?

Russell Smith
I had been a truck driver for 38 years, and due to injuries I could no longer continue driving trucks. I decided to look for alternative employment and  began investigating employment avenues through the internet. This is where I came across Jim’s Pool Care. The idea of a franchise business seemed appealing,  I had heard of Jim and his franchise group and knew they had been around for a long time and had a strong brand, so I felt confident about the venture. From making the enquiry 5 years ago, I am now running a successful business and loving every minute of it. 

Eden Exchange
The Jim’s Pool Care team have mentioned you to us several times and made a point of saying how well you are doing. How would you say you are going in the business?

Russell Smith
It depends on your expectations, it all comes down to how well you think you are doing. I feel I am very successful.

Eden Exchange
Your take care of areas like Shellharbour, Wollongong and Kiama in New South Wales. What are some of the factors that make these regions need your level of service?

Russell Smith
There are a lot of families with both partners providing income, so families are time poor, which means that there is plenty of demand out there for a service like ours. I also service pools for a number of Real Estate Agents, it keeps us busy, considering even vacant pools need care.

Eden Exchange
Do you think business strategy needs to be different between city and regional locations?

Russell Smith
Yes, actually I do. There is not as much money in our state’s regional areas as there is in the city, so pricing must be adjusted accordingly to each region and territory. There are other ways to make your franchise successful without the need to mark up prices.

Eden Exchange
Do you find that you know the lives of your community and customers really well? Does the nature of the work mean you form relationships with a wide range of people?

Russell Smith
Yes, for the most part I do. From families to friends and business people, there is a great customer- provider relationship in this business. Whether you are in the city or the regional territories, a strong level of trust means that you will be highly recommended to others, that is, by far, what builds a reliable customer base.

Eden Exchange
Can you tell us about your first day at Jim’s Pool Care?  Do you have any memories about your first day and how does this compare with your business today?

Russell Smith
It was 5 years ago, a long time,  but I do remember thoroughly enjoying my first day, as it was something completely different for me. I remember after that day being inspired to build the business up to what I have today.

Eden Exchange
How has the the business experience changed you? How has it affected your work life and personal life?

Russell Smith
My confidence in dealing with people has skyrocketed during the last 5 years. As well I have learnt and mastered many computer and accounting skills and organised a number of business as well as doing sales and purchasing items.

It definitely has changed my life, I am very happy in my work life now, this has enabled me to thoroughly enjoy my holiday breaks and family time.

Eden Exchange
What advice would you have for someone looking to buy a Jim’s Pool Care franchise for the first time? Is there a particular proverb or saying seems the most relevant?

Russell Smith
I’d say GO FOR IT!.  You need to be very motivated, organised and really want to achieve a goal.  If you are serious about the franchise opportunity, you certainly must take pride and be thorough in all of your work. There is no half measures, you have to go for it all the way to get the most out of it.

Eden Exchange
What are your plans for your Jim’s Pool care franchise? In your opinion who would best suit running a Jim’s Pool Care franchise? Are there any misconceptions about being your own boss that you think should be rectified?

Russell Smith
I think it is crucial to build up your customer base and work on keeping true to your goals.  Anybody who is responsible, motivated and takes pride in every aspect of their work will do great in the franchising business. I have to say though, being your own boss is beneficial if you are capable in multitasking.  e.g. working on pools during the day and always making sure you do your accounts in the afternoon or evening. You have to have the right mindset

Eden Exchange
What’s your take on where your industry is heading? What are some trends you believe operators in the pool care and maintenance sector need to be aware of?

Russell Smith
As there are more homes built, with a growing population, there are more families with more homes and more pools.  With the rate of population growth in Australia, there will be an increase in work.  It also helps that there is a lot of sunshine and warm weather in Australia.

My advice to new Franchisees is always be honest and don’t take short cuts,  always do the right thing by people, and they will do right by you.

Eden Exchange
What’s the best thing about your job? What drives you to do what you do?

Russell Smith
It has to be the lifestyle most definitely. Being your own boss, having job satisfaction and having customers more than satisfied is very fulfilling.  Being happy in the quality of your own work is always a bonus.

Eden Exchange
Thank you for you time Russell

About Jim’s Pool Care

Jim’s Pool Care is ready to grow and have a fantastic opportunity for servicing all over Australia – they are looking for a Franchisee who is ready for a change in their life!The Jim’s brand is recognised by 94% of Australian adults & coupled with the accrued business acumen and proven systems, your business will have an enormous head start over your competitors.

Jim’s Pool Care provides you with the opportunity to work outside, the convenience to work your own hours cleaning & servicing pools. You can be your own boss and build & manage your own business without limit.

Jim’s Pool Care will be there to help you reach your goals, with full training and ongoing support. So if you are ready to grow a successful business then they want to hear from you today.