“The Number One Success Factor Is Working Hard” — Why Effort Beats Everything Else

Hire Yourself Podcast with Pete Gilfillan

Two people can own the same franchise—one thrives, the other fails. Why?

In this episode, Pete Gilfillan breaks down the real reasons why some franchise owners soar and others stall. It’s not about having the perfect resume or business background. It’s about attitude, discipline, and how you show up as an owner. If you’re a corporate executive eyeing franchise ownership, these five success factors are non-negotiable.

In this episode, Pete discusses:

1. Work Ethic and Energy
Success starts with you. It takes relentless effort, discipline, and energy to get a business off the ground. Pete compares it to getting a plane off the tarmac—you’ve got to power through the launch phase.

2. Follow the System
Franchise success is built on replication. Pete explains why the most successful owners follow the playbook, while also looking for smart ways to make the system better—not reinvent it.

3. Problem Solving is the Job
Setbacks are part of the journey. From staffing issues to marketing failures, Pete emphasizes that being a great franchisee means being a persistent problem-solver.

4. Lead People, Don’t Just Manage Them
Today’s employees want purpose, not just a paycheck. Pete shares how to build a high-performing team with strong culture, shared goals, and a mission that goes beyond the job description.

5. Adapt or Get Left Behind
Markets shift. Customer needs evolve. Pete shows why constant improvement and openness to change are critical to staying competitive and building long-term success.

Key Takeaways:

• Success doesn’t come from luck—it comes from consistent effort.
• Franchising works best when you follow the system and lead with intent.
• Problem-solving is a skill every business owner needs.
• Culture and leadership drive team performance and customer experience.
• If you’re not evolving, you’re falling behind.
  
  

“Franchise success isn’t guaranteed—but it’s absolutely achievable if you bring the right mindset and effort.” — Pete Gilfillan

CONNECT WITH PETE GILFILLAN:
🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/petegilfillan/
🌐 Website: https://www.hireyourself.com/

CONNECT WITH HIRE YOURSELF PODCAST:
🎧 Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-hire-yourself-podcast/id1472038217
🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7eTKOLjuUWbf7BRtGtp6dP?si=eb2f7b38bd884804
▶️ YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@hireyourself7642
📅 Meet with Pete: https://www.hireyourself.com/gilfillan/