Erin Zide

People usually hear Outdoor Lighting Perspectives and think that they need to be technical. But we know how to train people, and we actually like people who are new to the business. I’ve been an owner myself since 2000, and I can tell you I don’t install lights. We’re looking for a salesperson, a networker, an entrepreneur. It only requires a small team of people, so someone who can lead and really enjoys getting out there with their clients is key.

Funding, not because franchisees are incapable of getting the proper funding, but more so the learning curve of how to get through that process and the lack of timing and speed that comes with that sometimes. They want to get going and hit a good season, so we have wonderful third-party lenders that are very good at walking people through that process. So we help them overcome those hiccups.

This industry is one that I’ve seen growing over the last 19 years, and it keeps growing more and more. People are enjoying their homes more than ever, and with LEDs, we’re getting more opportunities. Now we’re lighting entire homes, including outdoor living spaces.

Holidays are a priority, and hotels, restaurants and golf management associations are interested in our services. They want smart lighting with energy-saving alternatives . Lighting used to be an afterthought, but it’s now one of the top three design elements in any space.

It gives us a massive opportunity to get out there, build those relationships and get the job done.