Giselle Jesse invested in a Ready Steady Go Kids franchise with Kerrie Froese just over a year ago. They have formed a positive relationship and are equally responsible for running the business. 

1. Why did you decide to buy a franchise?

Due to more and more businesses failing, it is great to be part of a bigger brand. Having support of the directors and other franchisees enables me to build on my territory and the brand both nationally and internationally.

2. How long have you been in the system?

My business partner and I have just celebrated our first anniversary.

3. How did you come to decide on this brand?

My partner and I had extensive discussions on what type of business we were looking for… product versus service…. [and] we decided on service.

I found out about Ready Steady Go kids through a referral from the Royal Childrens Hospital in Melbourne. In addition I had my child in a another program and switched to this program.

My partner knew about RSGK as she put her child through the program too!

4. What surprised you about the business?

No real surprises but it have learnt relationship building in a service industry is paramount. I have also met wonderful children and their families too.

5. How do you spend an average working day?

Early starts getting the family ready, go to my classes and in the afternoon spend time with my children. Evenings are dedicated to kids and when they are asleep it is admin time.

The great part of the job is my hours change to fit in my schedule.

6. Are you a sole franchisee or in a partnership, and if so, who with and how do you manage the roles?

Partnership. I am responsible for marketing, relationship management, financial targets and data analysis.

My partner takes care of ordering/admin, recruitment, class scheduling and payroll.

Our roles sometimes cross over and we are close knit unit, we often ring each other three or four times a day and we live 9 houses apart.

7. How has the franchisor training helped you in business?

We had extensive on court training as well as important admin and process training. Without it we would not be on the same page.

With a brand as big as RSGK we have a responsibility both nationally and internationally to provide all our children with the same exciting and positive sporting experience.

8. How do you raise your brand’s profile in the community?

We love to chat and meet with people. We spend a lot of time with parents and at community events.

9. What are your goals for the business?

To retain and grow our existing enrolment numbers.

10. How has franchising changed your life?

I learnt there is life after the corporate world. I loved my old job but now I realise I can be flexible with my hours and have a lot of fun along the way.

Giselle and Kerrie’s territory spans the Donvale (Box Hill, Blackburn, Ringwood, Warranwood) and Knox (Wantirna) areas in Victoria.