The Key is Moving Forward
If you’re reading these words, congratulations! I say that because it’s likely you’re interested in franchise ownership, and that’s an exciting step for your future. It can also be overwhelming. Just try entering “franchises” into Google, and you’ll get hundreds of thousands of results. With more than 4,000 brands on the market today, there are lots of options. So how do you go about finding the one that’s perfect for you? One thing is for certain: It’s not typically done through consensus. Just because a brand is right for one person doesn’t mean it’s right for you. Your choice needs to align with your goals, values, budget, lifestyle, etc., in order for it to work out well for you, and for you to work out well for it. So what’s the best advice and steps to take for a potential franchise owner to determine his or her perfect brand all within a sea of appealing options?
Research and due diligence are always advisable. Some of the most popular methods include internet research, brand research, working with a franchise consultant, attending local franchise shows and expos, and perusing informative media resources (online and print).
SERENDIPITY
Sometimes things simply line up and fall into your lap. That was the case for Amelia and Moses Alvarez, who recently attended a franchise show in New Jersey and visited the Franchise Dictionary Magazine booth, where they were given a printed copy of the magazine. Flipping through the pages, a brand called Just Let Me Do It! Commercial Services grabbed their attention. Intrigued, they contacted founder Colleen Pyle, and they are now on their way to becoming franchise owners. So of course, I’ll encourage you to look through these pages and see if something catches your eye!
If you have a brand in mind, you can go directly to the franchise’s website and social media pages to learn more. Most people however, are seeking ideas and options. Some find help through
franchise portals and/or business-for- sale type sites that list numerous brands. At the click of a mouse, you are provided with assistance and more information. It is fun for some people but overwhelming for others, as it can consume a lot of time and energy to research brand after brand on your own.
WORKING WITH A CONSULTANT
To avoid that, people often turn to franchise consultants. These professionals provide services free of charge. They help to narrow down brands for you that fit your budget, your goals, and your lifestyle, and they introduce you to brands that fit that criteria. Franchise consultants are advisors, not salespeople, so they will never ask you to sign on the dotted line. Best of all, they’re paid by the franchises, so there’s no cost to you.
Visiting franchise expos and shows is also a wonderful way to learn about various brands. Booth after booth of franchises are on display. You can chat in person with representatives and often see product demonstrations. Added bonus: there are usually free funding and legal workshops you can attend for additional information.
MOVING FORWARD
There are numerous ways of finding your perfect franchise, and each has its merits. What’s most important is that you start your journey in whatever way feels comfortable for you. Moving forward is key, because you won’t become a franchise owner unless you take the first steps of exploration.
– Alesia Visconti, CFC
Alesia Visconti, CFC, and her expert team of franchise consultants are passionate about helping others achieve their dreams of business ownership through franchising. Visconti has 20-plus years helping others find career bliss. She is the CEO of FranServe Inc, the world’s largest franchise consulting & expansion organization. Her motto in
life is “work hard, play hard, help others, repeat.” Alesia is a self-proclaimed nerd and loves all things “superhero.” For more information, visit www.franserve.com.