Here at Tezlom, we believe that our franchises are a part of the wider Tezlom family. They are a vital part of what makes Tezlom a success and each franchise has its own strengths.

This is why we have decided to introduce a series of ‘meet the franchisee’ style interviews. Through these, each individual franchisee will be given their time to shine; an opportunity to share their unique skills and explain what Tezlom means to them as an individual.

We decided to start this series by chatting with Lesley.

Lesley has been a Tezlom franchisee since the end of 2021 and currently runs the South Yorkshire franchise with her daughter, Rebecca.

Q: How did you hear about Tezlom and what was it that appealed to you?

A:I first heard of Tezlom in 2018 when they were called 247 Professional Health. I was looking for something connected to Health and Social care but didn’t want a home care agency. I met Ryan and was impressed by the strong family feel to the company and their commitment to building a strong network.

Q: What made you decide to become a Tezlom franchisee?

A: I didn’t go ahead at that time as my circumstances changed but in 2021 I knew that I wanted to take the leap and Rebekah was keen to join me so we started researching franchise opportunities. However, I never forgot that initial meeting and so contacted Ryan again to pick up the conversation. Rebekah and I did the discovery day together and were in complete agreement that this was the franchise we wanted.

Q: What was your background before Tezlom?

A: I had worked in the professional performing arts sector for 20 years, most recently as CEO of a music development charity and previously as Executive Director of a large regional theatre and a touring dance company. I have also been a trustee of two charities – one supporting adults with learning disabilities and one supporting young people facing homelessness. Rebekah left the prison service to join me on this journey. Prior to that she was a pulmonary function technician for the NHS.

Q: What do you like most about being a Tezlom franchisee?

A: Tezlom are very supportive and responsive as a company and the other franchisees are also really helpful and approachable – we definitely feel part of something bigger. I enjoy working with Rebekah and knowing that we are building something for the future.

Q: What would a typical day look like for you?

A: I am not sure that there is a typical day but it is always busy! We get to the office at around 8.45 but one of us may have dealt with a phone query before getting there (my earliest call so far is 5.15am!) Once we get to the office, Rebekah and I have split responsibilities so that she looks after recruitment and compliance whilst I take care of the general running of the business, finance and also business development. The latter includes researching, calling and visiting potential clients. Our territory is geographically quite large (although with lots of rural areas) so I try to focus on one area per week and my aim is to spend 2-3 days a week on this. Our plans do get derailed when a large booking comes in and although this can be stressful, it is also really exciting, especially when it is a new client. We leave the office at around 5 but the office phone then transfers to one of us and it is not unusual to be taking an urgent booking for the next morning or trying to recover for an ill worker until quite late at night.

Q: Can you give me an example of an achievement or situation you are proud of?

A: We had our first worker out with a client within 5 weeks of starting the franchise and she has worked consistently ever since. She has been joined by quite a few more since then of course. One thing I am proud of is the feedback that we have received from clients about the quality of our workers. At least two of our clients have told us that we are now the first agency that they call because of the quality of our workers and the service that we provide.

Q: What would your advice be for anyone considering becoming a franchisee?

A: Do your research, explore other opportunities and always talk to existing franchisees before making a decision. Once you do know that this is for you then don’t procrastinate. Take the leap but be prepared for hard work and very little down time for at least a year.

If you would like to find out more about how Tezlom can help you build on your strengths, then don’t hesitate to get in touch. We are always happy to hear from you.