Brooke Wilson: From Graphic Designer to Franchise Owner
When Brooke Wilson graduated from college with a degree in graphic design, she envisioned herself orchestrating ad campaigns and pitching to clients. "I wanted to be a creative director at an advertising company," she recalls wistfully. But like many graduates, she quickly found that dreams often meet the reality of a pressing need for a paycheck.
The Unexpected Detour
Upon graduating and settling in Durham, North Carolina, she accepted what she believed would be a temporary summer job with a local Two Men and a Truck franchise. This role, meant to be a quick fix for her financial situation, unexpectedly ignited a passion within her. "I fell in love with the business," she admits, highlighting its dynamic nature; every day offered unique challenges filled with problem-solving, team dynamics, and interactions with customers. This newfound excitement captivated her soul.
A Rapid Ascent
Wilson’s enthusiasm quickly translated into ambition. As she immersed herself in the daily operations, she advanced through the company’s ranks. By the time she turned 23, she had taken a bold step and opened her own Two Men and a Truck franchise in Durham in 2017. However, the path to this success was laden with challenges.
Battling Burnout
As a first-time business owner, Wilson soon encountered the familiar specter of burnout. Eager to oversee every aspect of her business, she often found herself exhausted. "I was working from 7:30 in the morning until at least 7 at night, and after that, I had to play the role of the owner," she shares. This all-consuming effort left her feeling overwhelmed and stagnated; she couldn’t move beyond the day-to-day dilemmas that required her attention.
A Transformational Experience
An unexpected opportunity arrived when MBA students from Duke University’s Fuqua School of Business approached her for a project. They sought local businesses for evaluation, and though it meant opening her books and engaging in candid discussions, Wilson agreed. The assessment that followed proved eye-opening. The students offered a stark diagnosis: "You’re holding your business back because you’re trying to do it all," they told her. "You need to let go."
The Power of Delegation
With this crucial feedback, Wilson reevaluated her approach. She began hiring for roles in bookkeeping, finance, and human resources, recognizing the importance of delegation. "They said to find the things I’m really good at and delegate the rest," she reflects. This newfound understanding became a catalyst for growth. "That feedback changed everything," she asserts, emphasizing the shift in her management style that unlocked her business’s potential.
Revitalized Growth
Once Wilson stepped back from the minutiae, her business began to flourish. Over the past five years, she expanded into two additional territories in North Carolina’s "Triangle" area, encompassing Durham, Raleigh, and Chapel Hill. Her franchises now generate over $5 million in annual revenue. The key to this success, she believes, lies in a focus on her staff. "If we focus on our people, then our people will focus on the customer side of things," she explains.
Hiring for Culture, Not Just Ambition
In her hiring strategy, Wilson prioritizes cultural fit over mere ambition. "A lot of leaders think every hire needs to be someone who wants to climb the ladder," she points out. She values those who take joy in their jobs and contribute meaningfully to the organization, asserting that they hold just as much value.
Randy Shacka, the brand president of Two Men and a Truck, echoes this sentiment. He emphasizes the importance of finding team members who align with the brand’s culture and mission. "It’s about finding the people that believe what we believe," he states, illustrating the company’s shared ethos among franchise owners and staff.
A Cautious Approach to Expansion
As Durham’s landscape and her business evolved, Wilson remains pragmatic about further expansion. "I wouldn’t say I’m interested in buying more territories just to grow," she remarks. While she is open to opportunities, she prioritizes thoughtful growth over impulsive decisions. This mindful approach stems from a competitive spirit that drives her to stay alert for the right chances without compromising her core values.
Embracing the Entrepreneurial Journey
Surprisingly, Wilson did not initially see herself as an entrepreneur. Franchising offered her a structured path, allowing her access to a proven brand and established processes. "It’s almost like a cut-and-paste template," she explains. However, she notes that customization to fit local markets is essential.
For those contemplating a leap into entrepreneurship, her advice rings clear: "Be open and always take care of your employees. Because the employee is the backbone of any company." Through her journey, Wilson has transformed her unexpected detour into a flourishing success story, demonstrating the power of adaptability and strong leadership.
