When Angie left her role as an Assistant Head Teacher, she was looking for something many professionals dream about: greater flexibility, more control over her time, and the opportunity to build something of her own.

Like many people considering a career change, she had questions. Would running her own business be the right move? Could she successfully transition from education into business ownership? And was it really possible to create a better work-life balance while still building a successful career?

Fast forward to today, and Angie is the proud owner of Time For You Rutland, one of the most successful franchises within the Time For You network, supporting more than 500 clients across her territory.

Her journey demonstrates what can be achieved through determination, consistency, and following a proven franchise model.

Building a Business with the Backing of a Trusted Brand

For Angie, one of the biggest attractions of joining Time For You was the opportunity to enjoy the independence of running her own business while benefiting from the support of an established franchise network.

"Having my own business, being my own boss and making my own decisions, but with the comfort and support of the Time For You community behind me."

Starting a business from scratch can feel overwhelming, but franchising offers a different route. Instead of having to develop systems, processes and marketing strategies alone, franchisees benefit from years of experience, proven methods and ongoing support.

That support has played an important role in helping Angie build Time For You Rutland into a thriving business serving over 500 clients.

A Different Lifestyle

One of the most significant changes since leaving education has been the improvement in Angie's work-life balance.

The long days that often come with senior leadership roles in schools are now a thing of the past.

"My life has completely changed. I no longer leave home in the dark and return in the dark. I have more time for myself, my family and my friends."

Despite managing a large and successful franchise, Angie typically works around 20 hours per week. That flexibility allows her to enjoy the things that matter most.

"The dog is delighted because he gets afternoon walks. I can go to the gym, spend time with my mum, and my golf handicap is coming down. I'm even finally finding time to learn the guitar."

For many people considering a franchise opportunity, the ability to create a business that fits around their lifestyle is just as important as the financial rewards. Angie's story proves that both can be achieved.

Helping Clients and Cleaners Every Day

One of the aspects of the business Angie enjoys most is the opportunity to make a genuine difference to people's lives.

Domestic cleaning may seem straightforward on the surface, but the impact can be significant. Clients gain valuable time back to spend with family, pursue hobbies or simply relax, while cleaners benefit from flexible work opportunities that fit around their own lives.

"I love helping both clients and cleaners. I meet so many interesting people, so I'm never short of a tale to tell."

Building relationships and helping people has always been a key part of Angie's career, and it's something she continues to enjoy as a business owner.

Success Doesn't Happen Overnight

Looking at a business with more than 500 clients, it can be easy to assume success came quickly. Angie is the first to admit that there were moments in the early days when the journey felt challenging.

"When you're standing at the bottom of the Time For You mountain, it's easy to look at people with big numbers and think it's unachievable. You can start to feel like you're the only one, that it doesn't work, or that it will never happen. I know I did."

Her advice to new franchisees is simple: focus on small, achievable goals and trust the process.

As she recalls advice from Time For You founder Freddie, setting milestones along the way helps keep motivation high.

"Five clients for a coffee. Ten clients for a walk during work time. Twenty clients for a cheeky cocktail. Fifty clients for a sandwich with a friend."

Celebrating progress along the way makes the journey more enjoyable and helps maintain momentum.

Consistency Is Key

If there's one lesson Angie has learned throughout her business journey, it's the importance of consistency.

"Every day have a plan."

Rather than spending all day behind a computer screen, she encourages new franchisees to get out into their local communities and actively promote their businesses.

"Don't be tempted to get stuck behind a laptop. Go out, deliver leaflets, pop cards in shops and on notice boards, and enjoy the freedom to do it."

She also stresses the importance of reviewing marketing regularly and staying focused on the activities that generate enquiries.

"Are you leafleting? Is your social media presence good? Are you scheduling monthly chats with DBS? Then repeat, repeat, repeat."

It's a simple philosophy, but one that has helped her build a business serving hundreds of clients.

Learning from Others

One of the biggest benefits of being part of a franchise network is access to people who have already faced the same challenges.

Angie encourages new franchisees to make the most of the training opportunities available and to connect with fellow business owners across the network.

"Remember, you are not alone. Reach out to other Time For You members. They are an invaluable source of help, advice and knowledge."

She believes this is one of the greatest strengths of franchising.

"That's the value of a franchise. You don't have to reinvent anything. It's already been done for you. Furthermore, it's been tried, tested and improved again."

For someone transitioning from employment into business ownership, having access to that level of support can make a huge difference.

Looking After the People Who Help Build Your Business

Angie is passionate about the importance of recruiting great cleaners and building strong relationships with them.

"Look after your cleaners. They are the key to your success."

She takes time to recruit carefully and never rushes the process.

"My best cleaners provided all the documentation before or at our initial meetings."

Once cleaners join the business, she makes a conscious effort to maintain regular communication and show appreciation.

"I send a weekly email to establish good communication, quarterly newsletters, and gifts like chocolates, coffee and flowers for birthdays."

This approach helps create loyalty, trust and a strong sense of community within her business.

Attention to Detail Matters

As someone with a background in education and leadership, Angie understands the importance of organisation.

She believes maintaining accurate records and keeping systems up to date is an essential part of running a professional business.

"We maintain our Time For You database carefully and log every email, enquiry and query so we have a full client history."

Her team also provides welcome packs for both clients and cleaners, helping create a positive experience from the very beginning.

These small details contribute to the professionalism that has helped Time For You Rutland grow to more than 500 clients.

Enjoy the Journey

For anyone considering a Time For You franchise, Angie offers one final piece of advice.

"Stay in your own lane. Follow the process. It will happen."

Building a successful business takes time, effort and patience, but every step contributes to future success.

"Enjoy the struggle. Each step builds your expertise and establishes you as a professional cleaning service and part of the Time For You family."

From Assistant Head Teacher to the owner of a franchise serving more than 500 clients, Angie's journey is a powerful example of what can be achieved with the right mindset, a proven business model and the support of a strong franchise network.

Her story shows that success is not about reaching the finish line overnight. It's about taking consistent action, learning from others, trusting the process and building a business that works for both you and your lifestyle.

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