E Profiles

In 1995, Tammy Huinker had a 4-year-old, a corporate job, and a burning desire to own her own business. “This was a huge risk,  but something I needed,” Tammy says.”After years of thinking about starting a business, I decided I wanted to run a franchise. If I was going to take the plunge and put money into a company, I wanted the trials and errors at someone else’s expense!”

Tammy knew one of her big priorities was a schedule that fit with her family, including not working nights and weekends. “This left about 5 percent of the businesses,” Tammy laughs.  Of the ones remaining, Molly Maid fit her requirements in terms of day-time hours, a quality reputation, and a high level of professionalism.

In July, Tammy quit her job and opened her doors for business on September 1.

Family-Focused From the Start

“My son was already in a daycare situation, but at my other job, I had to pick him up at 6 p.m.,” Tammy says. “I told myself going into my business that I would work strictly 8-5 so I could drop him off and pick him up at 5:15 p.m. I decided I didn’t have to work 50–60 hours a week, and except for the occasional evening estimate, I didn’t work nights or weekends.”

Six months later, Tammy had a surprise–make that two! She was pregnant with twins.

“I brought in another office person–who is still with me–and when I had the twins, I went down to three days a week,” Tammy says. “My twins are 12, and I’ve only worked 24 hours a week since they were born, unless I’m covering for someone’s vacation.”

Still Growing Strong in Just Three Days a Week

Over the past 14 years, Tammy’s business has grown to include three office personnel and 23 cleaners. “I just feel it’s all in the management of having your business under control and people you can rely on,” Tammy says. “I could personally make more money, but I don’t want to put in 40 hours a week–that’s just my choice. I feel mentally healthier because my kids need me and love that every other day I’m home. I’m just a happier person that way.”

Tammy is a perfect example of building her business in a way that empowers her to live her ideal lifestyle. Discover more of the secrets to her success in next week’s post!

Until then, have a brilliant day!

Elizabeth

P.S.–If you’re interested in taking control of your business so you have more time for your kids, contact me to set up a consultation.

To find out more about Molly Maid, go to: www.MollyMaid.com. If you’re in the Ankeny, Iowa, area and are interested in house cleaning services, you can contact Tammy at Molly Maid Ankeny at 515-964-4111.

Elizabeth Grace Saunders is a time management coach who empowers entrepreneurs to build businesses without burning out.

Inc magazine, NBC, and The Chicago Tribune are just a few of the places where Elizabeth has appeared, and she’s happy to be interviewed for your publication or broadcast.