Introducing Annie Long: Franchise Recruiting Manager for U.S. Lawns

U.S. Lawns is entering an exciting phase. The brand is poised for tremendous growth and because of that has welcomed a new face to their team. Annie Long is helping bring U.S. Lawns to new territories as franchise recruiting manager. In addition to knowledge and experience in franchise recruiting, Annie brings a fresh perspective to the recruiting process and a passion for helping people realize their dreams through business ownership. 

“During the pandemic, we prioritized the support of existing franchisees and pulled back from launching new territories. At the same time, we looked inward and started building the infrastructure that would be needed to make a strong growth push once the market was ready,” says Dave Wells, U.S. Lawns vice president, “We invested in technology to streamline franchise operations and added new technology support personnel. We created and filled the new role of career opportunities ambassador to support our franchisees’ recruiting efforts and added two additional advisors to directly support franchisees. We also invested in improved customer data sources to better target commercial property decision makers looking for our services.” 

This is where Annie comes in. “U.S. Lawns has built a process that works and with all the new infrastructure and key people in place, we are well positioned to support this next phase of growth. We are ready to go!” says Annie, “My role in recruiting is to make sure this is the right fit for someone considering joining. This is a big life change, and we want them to succeed.” 

Bringing a new perspective to the franchise recruiting process, Annie says, “U.S. Lawns’ Discovery Process has always been focused on education, now it will be more interactive. We are adding new webinars and more conversations with key support team members. Meet the Team Days are more extensive as well,” says Annie “We want everyone who comes through the U.S. Lawns Discovery Process to have all the information they need to make an informed decision.” 

“Right from the initial call, the goal is to really get to know the individual and whether they are a good fit for our brand. It’s important to understanding what a candidate’s ‘Why’ is; what are they hoping to get out of business ownership.”

“Because our recruiting process focuses on getting to know the candidate in depth, we can then radically tailor our support to the individual franchisee,” Annie says, “One of the things I really appreciate about this brand is that they are dedicated to 100% customer and franchisee satisfaction.  Those who thrive in our system put in the work and then trust the system. The process works!”

What Annie looks for in a potential U.S. Lawns franchisee might not be what many would think. “Absolutely no landscape experience is necessary! We provide all the training and support you need. What is more important is if someone has experience running a business. Experience in operations, sales and management is also helpful. U.S. Lawns has over 30 years of experience in franchising and has a proven system and franchise model, we just need the right growth minded individuals to execute it. I am excited to be a part of it.” 

For Annie, franchise recruiting is more than a job. “I am very much a people person. I have a passion for helping people and I’m excited about what this brand has to offer corporate refugees and current lawncare business owners who are looking to take their business to the next level.” 

Dave and the rest of U.S. Lawns are happy to have Annie on to the team. “Annie brings a fresh energy to the recruitment process and new perspective on our brand. She engages with the candidates and guides them along in the discovery process in a meaningful way. U.S. Lawns is dedicated to helping our franchisees succeed. We want them to build sustainable businesses that in turn maximize their earning potential. Annie is an important part of us finding the right people. We are really looking forward to what is next for U.S. Lawns and its franchisees.” 

If you are interested in learning how to get in on this exciting new growth, contact us here today and Annie will reach out to schedule a call. Here is where we are growing.