Common Misconceptions

Any business can face damaging and negative rumours and misconceptions about their business and it is often the case that the more successful the company, the more misleading and false information is circulated.

Some common misconceptions may include:

• Bad press about franchise systems
• Armchair critics who have achieved little in life and enjoy spreading rumours and gossip to harm other people and organisations
• Competitors who are frustrated that we are so successful and have such a major share of the market
• Past producers who didn’t follow our system and advice and ran into difficulties or left us and have since regretted it
• A mistrust of “middle men” and a concern about the profit we will be making out of you
• Concerns over the long term contract
  

A worry that being part of our organisation will restrict your freedom and individuality
We can fully understand people’s concerns – starting any new business can be a stressful experience – if you don’t get all the facts.

It is extremely sad to learn of people who have listened to and acted on misconceptions without talking directly to us or attending one of our Open Days. It can be more upsetting to see independent free range units fail because they have listened to gossip and allowed themselves to be led by the blind and inexperienced. Many may be misled into believing that they were buying into a Bowler-type operation and it is difficult to understand how someone could invest so much borrowed money and risk the family nest egg without any independent knowledge or opinions, in fact it’s frightening!

So what do you do if you are exposed to negative rumours and misconceptions? We would urge you to talk to the people who know the facts and can advise you – in particular:

• The Bank Managers who manage our franchise accounts and have first hand knowledge of our organisation and how our producers are doing
• Our existing Producers – they will be able to give you a first hand account of our professionalism, honesty and how we conduct our business
• Our staff and computer system – which can provide evidence of past performance and profitability.

If you have already committed to us and become aware of negative comments then please challenge us so that we can put your mind at rest. If you can’t reach your usual contact within the company then please do not hesitate to contact John Bowler personally on 07966 124171, even at the weekends. John usually answers his phone straight away but, if not, please leave your name and telephone number so that John can call you back.

Please do not get caught in the trap of malicious gossip – arm yourself with the facts and form your own opinion.