Jim Norconk spent most of his career in the field of substance-abuse treatment. Launching his profession as a clinical technician before earning his master’s degree and advancing to therapist, the North Carolina resident most recently moved into the operations side of the business, building and maintaining treatment facilities for the better part of a decade. But Norconk became maxed out. By Jessica Jones

Jim Norconk spent most of his career in the field of substance-abuse treatment. Launching his profession as a clinical technician before earning his master’s degree and advancing to therapist, the North Carolina resident most recently moved into the operations side of the business, building and maintaining treatment facilities for the better part of a decade. But Norconk became maxed out.

“I think it’s a common story with a lot of franchisees. I hit that almost 50ish age and was at the top of my career with no place left to advance,” Norconk says. “I was well paid and had years of experience. The only people above me were the facility owners. I basically did a little bit of soul searching and asked myself, ‘Now what?’”

Norconk started researching the franchise industry to determine how plausible it would be to launch his own business.

“If you were to tell me a year and a half ago that I would be in the painting business, I would have laughed in your face,” he says. “But here I am celebrating my year anniversary with this company and so incredibly glad that I took the leap of faith.”

Together with his wife, Teri, Norconk has operated a 360˚ Painting franchise in Asheville, North Carolina, since May 2019.

“I have no previous industry experience and I really didn’t know anything about paint, but that’s the beauty of entering into this company,” he says. “They give you the tools and resources that you need to get started. My role is to oversee the business. I’m really the marketing, sales, and production manager, and 360˚ Painting teaches you how to make that happen.”

Norconk looked at four other franchises before choosing 360˚ Painting. He says the company’s business model made his decision easy.

“When we were doing our due diligence, reaching out to franchise owners to get a good feel for the business, I spoke to about five 360˚ Painting owners across the country who were all extremely happy and successful,” he says. “I requested to also speak to a business owner who wasn’t as successful. What impressed me was that they also had praise for the company.”

Norconk says the on-boarding process was comprehensive, all company members and business coaches were approachable and helpful. “If I needed something, I knew I could just reach out and ask.”

Having the freedom to set his own schedule is one of the primary benefits of the career change, Norconk says. “I work hard to make this company succeed. In the spring and summer we are working 12-hour shifts, six days a week, but I am accountable for my own success and that makes you work harder.”

Norconk admits that starting a business during a year of pandemic and economic downturn hasn’t been easy, but he doesn’t regret making the career change. “If given the opportunity, I would do it all over again. If you’re thinking about franchising, do your homework and find a business that is the right fit for you. I am 1,000% happy that I made this choice.”

For more information about franchising opportunities with 360˚ Painting, visit premiumservicebrands.com/360-painting.

– Jessica Jones