Starting a business at a young age can be overwhelming, but it’s also exciting and empowering. After earning a degree in economics and working in finance, I decided to go a different route with my career. At 27 years old, I traded in the stability of my corporate job for a new path in entrepreneurship as a franchise owner of K9 Resorts. I was one of the youngest franchisees in the system when I joined, but I also put in the work to become one of the brand’s top performers.
Jumping into a new endeavor such as this can be intimidating, but I was inspired by the founding story of K9 Resorts. Knowing Jason and Steven Parker initially began a dog-walking business at the ages of 12 and 14, and then went on to build this empire, motivated me to create my own path to success. However, success doesn’t just happen; it’s rooted in passion, hard work, and lots of research. While there’s no one-size-fits-all approach, there are some key lessons that can make the entrepreneurship journey smoother and help you build the future that you want.
Leap Toward What Fuels You
When it comes to your career, stability is always a goal. A steady paycheck, predictable routine, and clear plan for what the future holds are comforting, but it’s also important for your work to be fulfilling. The long days are less draining when you feel fulfilled with what you do. Entrepreneurship gives you the opportunity to combine your business with your passions, but there are risks when you’re pursuing a new venture.
Trading in a traditional job can feel more secure when you have a well-thought-out plan that provides a foundation for you to navigate the uncertainty ahead. When you’re passionate about your business, you are also more committed to ensuring its success. Trust yourself and be resilient when you face the inevitable challenges that come with a career change. Fear is a normal feeling to have, but you don’t let it stop you from pursuing what you’re passionate about.
Do Your Research
A realistic plan crafted from research and data is crucial before taking the leap into entrepreneurship. With a background in finance, I approached the search for the right franchise like a consultant. I dove into the market analysis, identified trends, and investigated the numbers that supported them. Don’t let your excitement about the opportunity be the only factor in your decision. Data from performance metrics and operational models can be the difference between long-term success and a quick burnout. The numbers are proven, which is why it’s better to rely on them than just your emotions.
Beyond the statistics, connect with franchisees to hear about their experience. It’s a big decision, so it’s crucial to do your due diligence. Put time and effort into understanding the risks and the business model. The preparation is a heavy lift, but it’s what sets you up for success. An informed, strategic choice can give you the confidence you need to move forward.
Learn Before You Lead
After signing my franchise agreement with K9 Resorts, I spent two years as an employee at an existing location, learning the ins and outs of the business. I acted like a sponge, absorbing all the information I could about everything from customer service techniques to operational best practices. Pay attention to what makes the day-to-day run smoothly. It was a great opportunity to learn what the employee experience is like.
Knowing the business model on paper isn’t enough; it doesn’t prepare you for reality. Make sure you know the brand backwards and forwards. When the time came to open my own doors, I felt confident and prepared. The hands-on work gave me a unique perspective. I believed in my ability to support my own employees because I had insight into the challenges they face and what tools they needed from me as an owner in order to succeed. Immersing yourself in the business sets you up for a smooth launch and continues to pay off in the long term.
Embrace Your Youth
Your age is an asset—no matter what everyone else says. It’s not a barrier or disadvantage, but a unique strength. It gives you a fresh perspective and energy that can be hard to replicate, as long as you are willing to learn. While you may have less experience, you can lean on your research and natural curiosity.
Be intentional about seeking out resources or try to find opportunities that are specifically designed for young entrepreneurs. For a first-time entrepreneur, franchising is an ideal option since it already has established operations in place, with built-in support from both the corporate level and the community of other franchisees. Being young often means having a unique understanding of current trends and technology. Use this knowledge to be innovative, apply it to customer service strategies and communication, and brainstorm new strategies.
Embrace being young. It can be the reason you succeed.
James Merli is the owner of K9 Resorts in Bluffton, SC
