iCare Intelligent Home Care Solutions is a non-medical home care franchise. The home care industry assists seniors with staying comfortably in their own homes, provides assistance and companionship as necessary, and helps to relieve the burden on their loved ones.
I recently had the opportunity to speak with Bill Redfern, the founder and CEO. No stranger to the franchise business, Bill is also the President and CEO of A Buyer’s Choice Home Inspections.
My questions are below in bold.
Hi Bill. Thanks for speaking with me. Where’d the idea for iCare come originate?
We started the development phase of iCare a few years ago after seeing the demand of the emerging home health care industry. The idea was reinforced with a personal experience of my own. Earlier this year, I was in a crash on my bicycle and went home with seven broken bones and a concussion. I couldn’t find anyone locally to come in on short notice to assist me for a few weeks as needed. This experience pointed out that this is a service that’s needed for both young and old and it’s really not offered at a sufficient level.
How did you bring the business to life?
We brought the concept to life with approximately two years of research and development, utilizing some of our experiences from our other franchise brand, which operates 200 franchises in 14 countries. We formatted a franchise system of unit and master franchises that would facilitate a cost effective, profitable business model for the franchisees and a user friendly, positive experience for consumers all while satisfying our growth objectives and development strategies.
Where do you see iCare in five years?
We see terrific opportunities for iCare to develop domestically as well as internationally. We see iCare’s footprint exceeding 300 franchises in five years.
If you were to start again, what would you do differently?
At this point, my answer would be ‘nothing.’ We are extremely satisfied with the iCare brand and product offering as well as the positive response it has been receiving.
What does your typical day look like?
Typically, I wake up at 3:30 or 4 a.m. and go early to the office. Most days, I’m focused on iCare’s development, specifically growth and strategic sales development.
What is one trend that really excites you?
The growing number of people who are able to stay in their own homes as they age is really exciting. We are thrilled to enable this trend by being a provider of efficient and quality home health care.
What is the worst job you’ve ever had and what have you learned from it?
Working briefly for someone else. It reinforced the point that there’s no substitute for being your own boss, which we offer with this franchise opportunity.
As an entrepreneur, what is one thing you do over and over and recommend everyone else do, too?
Self-evaluation.
What is one failure you had as an entrepreneur and how did you overcome it?
Choosing the wrong people. I’ve learned to be more selective both in staffing and with our franchise partners.
What is one business idea that you are willing to give away to our readers?
Nothing ventured, nothing gained.
If you could change one thing in the world, what would it be and how would you go about it?
I would like to see everyone have the means to take hold of their entrepreneurial spirit and launch a business that’s important to them.
What are your three favorite online tools or resources and what do you love about them?
Everyday I read eight different newspapers online. I love having my finger on the pulse of economic and world news and events.
What is one book that you recommend our community should read and why?
Crucial Accountability: Tools for Resolving Violated Expectations, Broken Commitments, and Bad Behavior. I found this book interesting as an entrepreneur, because my personal expectations are high of myself and generally of other people. If you’re not conscious of that, it can set up a stream of constant disappointments.
Three people we should follow on Twitter and why?
Definitely Jim Cramer from CNBC. I always enjoy his opinions. Also, anything related to iCare and the home health care industry.
When was the last time you laughed out loud? What caused it?
On Halloween, I had so much fun with my kids. They make me laugh all the time.
Who is your hero?
My two autistic children are my heroes.
Do you (or did you ever) have a mentor?
I have always admired Howard Schultz of Starbucks. His never-ending enthusiasm and passion for his business along with the people that work with him make it a concept that’s special and possible.
Tell us a secret
Secret to success: get out of bed, put your feet on the floor and move forward every day.
Thanks Bill. Where can our readers find out more about iCare?
Website: http://www.icareintelligenthomecare.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/iCare-Intelligent-Home-Care/1475478122703839
Twitter: https://twitter.com/iCare_HomeCare