Starting a business can be daunting, especially when it happens sooner than expected. But for Samantha Vale, a First Class Accounts franchisee in Springfield, the shift from corporate life to small business ownership has been life-changing.
From overcoming the early challenges of launching a business in a brand-new town to building confidence and finding a supportive franchise network, Samantha’s journey is full of valuable lessons for those thinking about taking the leap.
Keep reading to learn how she made it work and what she wishes she knew when she started.
From accounts receivable to franchise ownership: The beginning
Before joining First Class Accounts, Samantha worked for over 20 years in office administration, focusing mainly on accounts receivable.
“I was dealing with small businesses that got themselves in over their head with managing their cash flow. I became passionate about wanting to help to make sure they had the support to survive that critical first year.”
Samantha loved her job and her company, but deep down, she felt a calling to do something for herself and something more meaningful for the businesses she’d spent years chasing for overdue payments.
Her initial enquiry to First Class Accounts was part of a long-term plan a potential move 18 months or more down the track. But timing had other ideas.
“I just wanted to see what the cost involved was. I’d just bought a house in Springfield and was starting renovations.”
Then came a conversation with the FCA team.
“Howard told me they needed a franchisee in the area. I thought, ‘Okay, well… do I do it?’ And I just went all in.”
Just like that, Samantha found herself quitting her job, launching a business, and renovating a house all at the same time.
Overcoming early challenges
Starting a business is challenging. Starting one in a brand-new location where you don’t know anyone? Even harder.
“I didn’t know my way around. I didn’t know the local businesses. It was all new.”
To build her local network quickly, Samantha joined her local BNI chapter, which connected her to other small business owners.
“That really helped me get started. Just talking to other people, learning about their businesses and it made all the difference.”
On top of that, juggling renovations and commuting while learning the ropes of a new business was no easy task.
“It was a lot to take on at once. But the support from the other franchisees in the area was amazing.”
Despite the pressure, Samantha stuck with leaning on her community and franchise network to help her push through the early days.
Milestones and mindset shifts
One of Samantha’s proudest moments wasn’t a single event, but a gradual shift in mindset.
“After the first couple of clients, I started to realise I’ve got this. I actually feel like a business owner.”
Adjusting to the new tools and responsibilities took time. Navigating different accounting platforms was a challenge, even with her experience.
“The theory behind them is the same, but they all use slightly different terminology. That took some learning.”
More than anything, the transition from employee to entrepreneur took confidence.
“There’s a big difference between doing the work and having to sell yourself. I had to build that confidence from scratch.”
The power of a strong franchise network
Throughout her journey, the support from First Class Accounts has been a game-changer.
“It completely changed the direction of my life about two years earlier than I expected.”
From her very first interactions with the FCA team, Samantha felt welcomed.
“I was really nervous going in. But dealing with Howard, Monique, and Deb, they made me feel part of the team straight away.”
She also credits her franchise mentor as being instrumental in helping her get off the ground.
“The training was fantastic. And my mentor for the first year and a bit, she’s been incredible.”
“It’s my own business, but I’m not completely alone. I love that I always have people I can turn to.”
Lessons for aspiring business owners
Like many small business owners, Samantha recognises the everyday challenges that come with running your own show.
“There are a lot of legislative requirements. A lot of stress. And a lot to remember.”
Her advice?
“Don’t be afraid to ask for help. And don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Just own them, that’s how you learn.”
And the biggest lesson she’s learned so far?
“No matter how prepared you think you are, something will always surprise you. You never stop learning.”
Looking to the future
While some franchisees dream of building a team, Samantha is enjoying life as a solo operator, for now.
“After working in a company with 400 employees, it’s just nice to be me.”
She has no big plans for scaling at the moment, but she’s focused on continuing to grow, improve, and stay steady.
“If I could go back and tell myself something when I started? I’d say: Stick with it. It’s all worth it.”
Considering a new career chapter?
Samantha’s story is proof that you don’t need to have it all figured out before making the leap. With the right support, confidence comes with time, and so does success.
Join First Class Accounts and benefit from:
- Strong Brand Recognition: Trusted by businesses Australia-wide.
- Comprehensive Training: Learn bookkeeping, software, and business ownership fundamentals.
- Ongoing Support: Get help from franchisees and head office whenever you need it.
- Professional Mentoring: Be guided through your first year and beyond.
- Work-Life Balance: Build a business that suits your goals and lifestyle.
