At the WSI network, we interview franchise owners every month to learn about their experience and background. Today we learn about Richard Mckeown, our digital marketing expert who operates out of Ireland.
Tell us a little bit about yourself.
I am from Ireland, just south of Dublin. I live here with my wife and two young children. I’ve been in marketing for the past 20 years. My marketing career started in a marketing agency where I worked as a digital project manager. I then went on to work at the Wall Street Journal in New York, assisting them with their paid website and advertising.
A few years later, I moved on to a marketing role in a retail company and eventually moved to assist a startup business with its consumer data. It’s from this business that I started looking at different marketing models and discovered WSI. I originally wanted a solo project but it came with too much risk. WSI offers a support network that is difficult to find when you start your own business.
How long have you been a part of the WSI network?
I have been with WSI for about 5 years.
What did you learn from joining the WSI network?
The training and the learning process that the WSI brings you are amazing. You will learn to sell, you’ll receive education and training. You will gain the confidence you need to achieve success, with a massive company behind you. When you are starting out in the company, you also have peace of mind knowing there is also always
someone there to help you to solve any problems that may arise.
Who has influenced you during your marketing journey?
My dad and my grandparents were self-employed so I was always motivated by them to start a business and be my own boss. With WSI, I also met people who inspired me along the way.
What challenges did you face when you first joined WSI and how did you overcome it?
I never had a sales background so that was a challenge for me. You have to learn to sell yourself and your services to grow your company. WSI provided me with the training I needed which I still use today.
What highlights have you experienced working at WSI?
One highlight is seeing the business grow year by year. Another was being able to help struggling businesses and grow their sales. We have helped B2B businesses gain 25-30 leads in a week which was a major success for us.
What plans do you have for the next 5 years?
On a personal note, as the kids grow older I would love to travel more for weeks at a time and WSI makes that possible as we work remotely. My business goal is to get bigger clients with larger budgets. I want to work with bigger brands and help them to grow further.
What is your favorite motto or words of advice?
Always try to get it right the first time.
If you went to happy hour, what would you order?
I would choose rum and coke.
As a leading digital and marketing agency, WSI has successful franchises and digital marketing consultants across the world. For more information on franchise opportunities, contact our digital marketing team today!
