Be the top boss of your own business

MANAGEMENT skills can be a big advantage when starting your own business.

James Craven, a former management consultant, is now a franchisee with driver and logistics recruitment business Driver Hire.

James, 34, from Bournemouth, says: ‘I found many of my management skills transferred over to my business, including people management. ‘Knowing how to motivate your staff is important, so I allocate them the tasks they enjoy to bring out the best in them. I also use my skills in business processing to streamline the business.’

People with management experience might feel the freedom to make their own business decisions is restricted by the franchise model, but as James says: ‘Driver Hire franchisees have some autonomy over marketing and local campaigns.’

Graham Duckworth, Driver Hire’s franchise sales director, says: ‘Management skills are a benefit for anyone considering a management-type franchise.

‘An ability to manage time and people are key skills, but these can be acquired in training.

‘New franchisees join a network of experienced people who can help you succeed.’

The minimum investment for a Driver Hire franchise is £35,000. Some franchises that involve starting a hands-on business let you transition into management as you grow to employ staff to do the practical work.