In 2016, this entrepreneur boldly ventured into the franchise world with high hopes, but he never imagined the success he would achieve. He credits much of it to his personal approach to doing business. The irrepressible Ian Kaner talked with me about his journey, franchise know-how, and royal moniker.
Ian Kaner
What is your favorite part of your work?
Definitely the people. Connecting with customers comes first. In sales, people don’t buy things; they buy relationships. I don’t like crowds, but I enjoy people. I’m not usually the guy at the center of the party, but I really like shtick, so sometimes I am that guy!
How do you build a connection with your customers?
I make it a point to get to know who they are. It’s a big deal to invite a stranger into your home. We don’t discount that. I consider it an honor. My sole mission is to enhance their home life.
How did franchise ownership in the home decor industry come about?
At four years old, my first word was “cornice.” Kidding! I actually wanted to be a camp director and ended up being one. Then, I spent four years at Disney Cruise Line as Manager of Youth Activities. After several years as a stay-at-home dad, the time came when I needed to make money. I looked into franchises, and as fate would have it, there was a Budget Blinds territory open, so I threw my hat into the ring.
What’s your secret to success?
The secret to growth is planning. No doubt about it. The funny thing is, I almost didn’t grow the business because I didn’t believe I could. Now, I have two territories out of the Portsmouth showroom and a third territory on Cape Cod and the islands.
What advice do you give people investing in a franchise?
Read the franchise agreement! The whole thing. It is thick but tells you everything you can and can’t do. Use a good franchise attorney to fully understand what you’re agreeing to.
I hear you dubbed yourself “The King of Blinds?”
I sometimes hold a scepter and pull a drapery “robe” over my shoulders. Some people call me “The Blinds Guy,” but you can call me “The King of Blinds.”
Humor aside, you take your work seriously.
Yes, when working with a client, I’m solving three problems: light control, privacy, and décor. But it’s about more than that. It adds stress to your life if you don’t like where you live. If we do our job well, we can transform the feel of the home. Seeing a customer’s face brighten with excitement keeps me going for weeks.
Are window treatments worth the investment?
The investment is well worth it. The right window treatments maintain the value of your home and protect furnishings. Some products lend to energy efficiency. The biggest reason, though, is you’ll feel better about your space.
What is trending in blinds these days?
Outdoor solutions like solar screens, drapery, and shutters provide sun protection and a bug barrier and, if motorized, can adjust automatically or be programmed to move with the sun.
Will you ever get tired of this work?
Of course not. I’m always excited to tackle a new project. And I love getting to know new people. “The King” is here.
“If we do our job well, we can transform the feel of the home. Seeing a customer’s face brighten with excitement keeps me going for weeks.”
