According to the International Franchise Association, the market for franchising is growing, with the total output of franchised businesses expected to increase by 4.1% to $893.9 billion in 2024. Figures like that have made franchising seem more attractive than ever, but for those considering switching gears and exploring franchise ownership, getting started can seem like an uphill battle.
Luckily, that process seems a lot more approachable when we hear from those who have been there before—like our Spherion franchise owner community. To help shed some light on the entrepreneurship process, we asked our franchisees to share more about their experiences and their path to successful franchise ownership. First up, we’re hearing from Spherion franchise owner Laura Brady. After a varied professional background, including owning her own chain of salons, Laura took over ownership of the Spherion Owatonna office from her long-time mentor last year. Now, she’s providing a firsthand account of her experience—from her early days of employment to her decision to franchise with Spherion to her day-to-day schedule as an owner. Get ready to gain a deeper understanding of franchising and working with Spherion through the eyes of one of our dedicated team members!
Tell us your Spherion story: What was your path to Spherion franchise ownership?
My journey began in 2002 when I answered an ad that Spherion posted for a data entry associate position. Being a single mother at the time, I jumped at the opportunity and successfully completed the assignment. Afterward, the folks at Spherion recognized my potential and offered me another role as a part-time, in-house associate, which I gladly accepted. Over the next six years, I transitioned from a part-time front desk associate to a full-time recruiter and eventually found my true passion in sales.
One pivotal moment that significantly impacted my career trajectory was in 2004 when Spherion introduced The Apprentice Sales Competition. Despite some initial fears, I embraced the challenge and leveraged my competitive spirit to secure a second-place win, resulting in a promotion to Business Development Associate.
In 2008, I temporarily left the staffing industry to pursue entrepreneurship and started a chain of salons. Following the sale of my businesses in 2013, I returned to the workforce, and shortly after, Ann Miller—the Spherion Owatonna franchisee at the time—reached out to me.
Reconnecting with Spherion reignited my passion for the industry, and the desire to become a franchise owner began to grow within me. With over a decade of experience and a genuine passion for Spherion, becoming a Spherion franchisee was a natural next step. My deep roots in the local community, coupled with my resourcefulness, dedication, and ability to exceed expectations, have contributed to the substantial growth of the Owatonna branch. Through active involvement in organizations like the SHRM board and delivering insightful presentations, I've established myself as a thought leader within my community.
Why did you choose to franchise with Spherion?
I chose to franchise with Spherion because the organization has been integral to my career, education, and professional journey. Throughout the years, Spherion has provided me with opportunities for growth and development, shaping me into the professional I am today.
My deep-rooted history with Spherion instills a sense of loyalty and trust that extends far beyond any other franchise opportunity. I believe wholeheartedly in Spherion's mission, values, and vision, making it my natural choice to franchise with. Spherion is more than just a business venture—it's family.
What does a typical day in the office look like for you?
A typical day in the office is anything but typical, especially in the dynamic world of the staffing industry. While we strive to adhere to established processes and best practices, the nature of our business revolves around working with people—clients, candidates, employees, members, and the community.
We embrace the unpredictability of our work, knowing that it makes our job fulfilling and meaningful and will positively impact the lives of those we serve.
What’s one thing you know now that you wish you knew when going through the potential franchisee process?
The support and guidance the current franchisee and corporate teams provided facilitated a seamless transition into franchise ownership.
What is the most rewarding part of being a Spherion franchise owner?
The most rewarding aspect of being a Spherion franchise owner is the opportunity to have a significant financial and professional impact. I have the privilege to positively influence the lives of my internal team members, our dedicated Spherion employees, and the businesses we serve within the community.
Ultimately, the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others while pursuing my passion for business ownership makes being a Spherion franchise owner truly rewarding.
Franchising with Spherion offers autonomy and support
Laura is one of dozens of franchise owners who are thrilled with their choice to work with Spherion. Offering a blend of independence along with the support of a leader in the staffing space, franchising with Spherion gives owners everything they need to hit the ground running, grow rapidly, and achieve their entrepreneurship goals.
If you, like Laura, are interested in starting your franchising journey, we encourage you to text, call, or email Dan Brunell, our Regional Vice President of Franchise Development, for more information. With more than 30 years of experience helping prospective franchisees succeed, Dan can give you the insights you’re looking for when considering joining our franchise community.
