Franchisee Spotlight: Jeff Baker

by Dianna Worthington on November 2, 2017

This month, Jeff Baker, owner of The Grounds Guys of East Wichita is our featured franchisee spotlight. Jeff answered five questions about his business and for reaching Top Gun status this year! Franchise Consultant Brandon Cockrell said Jeff has done a great job, and that he recently hired a new manager and is working on budgeting. Read on to find out more!

Dianna: With four years as a The Grounds Guys franchisee, what has been your favorite part of being in this business?

Jeff:  My favorite part of being in this business has been the journey of personal transformation.  I chose to partner with The Grounds Guys because I had become jaded and negative after a full career of law enforcement and government work.  I wanted a fresh, new perspective that brought out the best in me and created a new positive environment.  And thus far, that is exactly what has happened. 

Dianna: What does it mean to have achieved Top Gun status this year?

Jeff:  For me, Top Gun has been a goal since day one.! Not for bragging rights, but for the fact that Top Gun gives you validation that you are doing something right.  In a world where people point out flaws of others, it's nice to be in a world where personal achievement is rewarded.  Do not be fooled, my business has just as many problems as the next, we just choose to power through each one as they present themselves.  I have put a lot of blood, sweat, and tears into my business as we all have.  So it feels good to see some fruits of your labor.

Dianna: What  are your focus areas in your successful The Grounds Guys franchise?

Jeff:  My focus has been two-fold: people and revenue streams. First, I have focused on people.  Surrounding myself with the right people with the right attitude is paramount.  The customers love to see the same employees, and happy employees perform well.  I tell mine everyday I would have nothing without them, and truly appreciate their talents.  I try to praise people as much as possible.  With customers, I try to be genuine.  People can tell when you mean something or if your just saying it because you should.  Be that person of character for others to follow.  My second focus has been on revenue streams.  Be diversified over time with the services you deliver.  If one takes an unexpected dip theres several others to cover each other. 

Dianna: What are your keys to business success and personal success?

Jeff:  The key to business success is finding people that you can invest in.  So often, we look at what employees can do for us.  Ask yourself what you can do for them.  I'm not talking about gimmicks, I'm talking about truly treating people the same way you would want to be treated when you go to work.  I care deeply for my employees, and they know that.  In personal success I have chosen to wake up every morning with a smile on my face, and have a positive attitude to be ready to put one foot in front of the other.  I believe deeply in integrity, and in this world, it is rare.  So do the right thing, and good things will legitimately follow.

Dianna: What advice would you offer to newer The Grounds Guys franchisees or others who strive to reach Top Gun?

Jeff:  My advice would be to utilize everything The Grounds Guys and Dwyer Group offers.  It does not make sense to partner with The Grounds Guys, and then only use half of what is available.  Follow the systems and ask what you can do to be better.  Keep the positive momentum going.  Owning a business is like tug of war.  If you allow the momentum to slide away, it is VERY difficult to get back.  Protect that positive mentality and momentum at all costs.

Topics: Franchisee Spotlight


Dianna Worthington

Dianna Worthington

Vice President of Operations

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