Rhonda Adams wanted a new job. Like many, she turned to the internet first. During her search, she discovered Express Employment Professionals. “I applied for a Recruiter position,” says Rhonda. But Rhonda had big dreams, and the job itself didn’t align with her career goals. That’s when Express Hiring Manager, Grant Maloney, suggested she look into the Express Recruit-to-Own (RTO) program.
What is Recruit-to-Own?
Express Employment Professionals introduced the RTO program to Australia and New Zealand in 2023 after it proved to be successful in the U.S. market. Designed to help talented sales and business professionals prepare to open their own franchise, those chosen to participate work in an existing Express office in Sydney for approximately 12 months. During that time, they are exposed to all aspects of the business and receive training on management, learning the ins and outs of recruitment franchise ownership along the way.
Candidates learn while they earn
The ability to make money while working toward Express recruitment franchise ownership piqued Rhonda’s interest. “The fact that I could work at building my business and territory whilst earning an income all at the same time was appealing,” says Rhonda. Working at an existing Express office during her time in the RTO program gave Rhonda an inside look at the day-to-day operations needed to keep a recruitment franchise running smoothly, such as candidate sourcing, client interactions and administrative tasks.
“A typical day in the program includes a lot of sales, whether on the phone or on the road,” says Rhonda. “There’s door knocking to try and uncover opportunities and plenty of follow up.” This strong focus on sales is why candidates are required to have a background in sales or recruitment experience to join the program.
A different path to franchise ownership
In addition to providing a salary to participants who need the security of steady income during this time, the RTO program also offers financial assistance to those who show strong business acumen and align with the Express core values. An Express Employment Professionals franchise typically requires a total investment of $200K to $275K over the first two years. Candidates who successfully complete the program will have the opportunity to buy their own franchise at a discounted fee and receive loan assistance from Express.
What makes a good RTO candidate?
Ideal candidates will have a background in sales or recruitment and a strong desire to run their own business. “Firstly, you must have initiative and drive, and then the hunger to do all the hard work for it to start showing rewards,” says Rhonda. “If you do not possess any of these qualities, it may not be suited to you.” She adds that it’s important not to be afraid of rejection, and that being a people person is also a big help.
What does it take to become an Express Franchise Owner outside of RTO?
The traditional path to franchise ownership is another option for those seeking to own their own Express recruitment franchise. Ideal candidates are high-energy, motivated leaders that want to make a difference. You need to be willing to work hands on in your business. Financially, you should have a net worth of $170K to $250K and $190K to $250K in liquid assets.
How can I get started on my ownership journey?
Today, Rhonda is the Franchise Brand Manager in Greystanes, NSW, and is on track to transition to Franchise Owner. “The Recruit-to-Own program is the best experience of my life and by far the best decision I have ever made for myself from a business perspective,” says Rhonda. “I would never have been able to fund this on my own.”
If you’re ready to learn more about Recruit-to-Own and the unique path it offers to Express Employment Professionals franchise ownership, contact Grant Maloney at grant.maloney@expresspros.com.au.
If you’d like to explore a more traditional route to Express recruitment franchise ownership, simply fill out the form below. One of our Franchise Development Directors will contact you.
