A Conversation with Russell Leach, TopMatch Co-Founder

The Franchising Blog recently interviewed TopMatch Co-Founder and business expert Russell Leach. Here’s what he had to say:

Franchising Blog: You’re always looking for new people to join Team TopMatch as both Franchisees and Consultants. What kind of person is the best match for a career with TopMatch?

Russell Leach: If you have genuine interest in people and an enthusiasm for bringing people together, we can probably find a great place for you on our team. We are able to offer our team members sophisticated training that teaches all day-to-day systems operations, so first and foremost we seek out men, women or couples with natural people skills, determination, and enthusiasm.

FB: It’s no secret that the economy is suffering worldwide. How is TopMatch still able to grow and expand in such troubled times?

RL: As troubling as it is to consider the economic climate worldwide, TopMatch is providing a service that comforts those experiencing anxiety. Most people admit they feel less worried by economic instability if they have someone special to offer emotional support, and for those who feel alone, TopMatch is able to help. In addition, many people are seeking a more secure option and have a desire to take control over their lives; a TopMatch Franchise offers them that solution.

FB: What made you want to create a service like TopMatch? Was there an “Ah Ha!” moment when the idea struck you, or did it come to you over time?

RL: I have many years of experience in the industry, initially arising after my divorce and a desire to create a better solution for singles, so the vision of TopMatch built up in my mind through careful research and observation. People want a solution that really works, but not everyone can afford exorbitant fees that traditional matchmakers charge. Using technology and effective marketing techniques to reach new Members helps us keep overhead low, while employing real relationship experts guarantees a quality of service that most dating sites can’t touch.

FB: There are literally thousands of dating sites available to today’s singles. Why were you confident that TopMatch would stand out in the crowd?

RL: If there are so many dating sites, why are there still so many singles? It’s because most of them simply don’t work. I wanted to create a service that focused on real results, and to do that we vowed never to let a computer manage someone’s love life. Because our matches are hand selected, TopMatch clients get a secure, quality and personal service that is unlike any other.

FB: Tell us why you like the franchise business model? Why is it good for TopMatch and why is it good for clients?

RL: I have a very firm belief that anyone who is capable of controlling their own life through running their own business - if presented with the right opportunity, they should take it. However, I realise their decision is based on a real desire for freedom so whilst we provide the operating system, comprehensive training, support, and necessary materials, each franchisee is free to use their own judgement to run their offices day-to-day.

Using locally based Franchisees allows each office to operate in the most efficient manner possible as our Franchisees know their areas and they get to know many of their Members. Our Franchisees have the comfort of coming to head office with any questions ongoing. It’s the best of both worlds for them, and it means that our Members get personalised, immediate and professional attention whenever they need it.