As CEO of FranServe, Inc., Alesia Visconti heads the world’s largest franchise consulting organization. Here, she reveals what led her to franchising, how FranServe Franchise Consultants help business ownership dreams come true, and what a true entrepreneur should do to ensure success.
What led you to franchising?
I’ve been a CEO for service organizations for more than 15 years, always with firms that help people in transition – climbing the corporate ladder to advance their careers or looking to own their own business. With corporate America not embracing its people like it once did, I sought out ways that could help people achieve their professional goals. Helping others take control of their lives made perfect sense because I’m all about helping people fulfill their dreams. I loved the idea of helping people with determination, grit, enthusiasm, passion and an entrepreneurial spirit become franchise owners.
How does FranServe help a new, prospective franchise owner choose the right business?
First, it’s important to note that there is absolutely no cost to prospective franchise owners for FranServe’s services, nor is there any added cost to the franchise investment. It’s truly a win-win relationship. Our multi-step process pairs a Franchise Consultant with a candidate. The Franchise Consultant engages in numerous conversations with the candidate to learn about their specific passions and goals. Does the candidate want to be a hands-on owner-operator or a semi-absentee owner? Do they want to have a big staff or a home-based business with a low employee count? The Franchise Consultant serves as a coach to help the candidate look inward and determine what excites and motivates them. The Franchise Consultant assists in building the relationship between the franchisor and candidate and serves as a resource to funding and other important tools. The relationship between the Franchise Consultant and candidate is a very special one.
What does it take to be a successful Franchise Consultant?
Compassion is one of the most important characteristics. You’re working with people who are transitioning to a new career as a business owner. Having a desire to help others is critical. It’s also essential to be a good listener. Each candidate has different needs, goals and aspirations. That’s why listening to the candidate and assessing their needs and desires is essential to being a successful Franchise Consultant.
What sets FranServe apart from its competitors?
For starters, our culture and core values. Of course, the technology and operational systems we utilize are outstanding, but it goes beyond that. It goes to the heart of our people. I believe we have an obligation to help others find their career bliss. We don’t sell franchises; we recommend, and we educate. Sometimes, when someone’s career goals don’t fit well with being an entrepreneur, we advise them NOT to own a franchise. It’s a whole different philosophy than some of our competitors. We see us as part of a franchise family. That big-picture view influences why people love working with us. FranServe is also what I call a PDO – a purpose-driven organization. We have a moral obligation to give back to the world on a bigger level, which is why I founded FranAid and FranServe Cares – initiatives that give to charity. Every CEO wants to be profitable, but it can’t just be about the money. It is incredibly important to me to give back on a global basis in ways that we can because it’s about changing people’s lives.
What advice can you give someone who is considering franchise opportunities?
Move forward despite the fears that come up. You will have excitement, but you will also experience fear, which is normal. A true entrepreneur feels the fear, but they take a baby step and move forward. Let your passion move you forward!
– Rochelle Miller
For more information about FranServe’s services or becoming a FranServe Consultant, visit franserve.com or email connect@franserve.com.