Are you new to franchising or an old hand at being your own boss? The executives at Franchise Business Review share their insights into the ever-changing and ever-challenging world of franchising.
BLOG POST | SEPTEMBER 1, 2010
Evan Hackel of Ingage Consulting shares his Franchise Advisory Council White Paper
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BLOG POST | AUGUST 25, 2010
I'm curious... how many of you already have programs like these running in your franchise system? What other similar ideas can you share with the group? Help me add 5 more tips...
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BLOG POST | AUGUST 18, 2010
"The CFE program is the only one of its kind entirely devoted to continued education in the franchising field," said Randy Burzynski, CFE, manager, franchise support systems, ADQSR, and chairman of the ICFE Board of Governors.
Deb Evans, President of Computer Explorers and a CFE herself, shares how being a part of this program allows franchisees and franchisors to gain more knowledge of the franchise industry. Whether you've been apart of the industry for years, or have just started researching, becoming a Certified Franchise Executive can make for a better franchising experience.
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BLOG POST | AUGUST 18, 2010
Unfortunately, there are dozens of myths about franchising that many consumers mistakenly believe. Investing in a franchise is a huge decision, and you want to make sure you are well informed before signing any agreements. To help anyone looking for more information on franchising, the Roni Deutch Tax Center team has put together the following guest blog debunking the most common franchise myths.
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BLOG POST | AUGUST 16, 2010
In today's market, brands need to be constantly evolving to meet the changing wants and needs of their customers. Franchisees need to be comfortable with constant change and franchisors need to be comfortable involving franchisees in that decision process.
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BLOG POST | AUGUST 11, 2010
Most people today use the internet to evaluate franchise opportunities before they ever contact someone at the corporate office. Here are some ideas of what to look for and questions to ask when you finally do talk with their franchise development.
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BLOG POST | AUGUST 10, 2010
Franchising has provided the opportunity to invest in niche companies that offer specialty work for services ranging from environmental cleaning to concrete cutting. These companies are worth looking to invest in because they offer opportunities in markets that haven’t been saturated with businesses; they still have a lot of potential market share and not been fully capitalized on.
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BLOG POST | AUGUST 3, 2010
Papa Murphy’s has consumers lining up to experience the Take-'N'-Bake Pizza franchise. The serving process is innovative, convenient and is offered at reasonable price compared to dine-in pizza restaurants. However, it is not just the Take-'N'-Bake process that contributes to the success of Papa Murphy’s; it is the company’s local, community-oriented marketing techniques.
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BLOG POST | AUGUST 1, 2010
Franchise Business Review would like to recommend some of the most informational and useful books to help perspective franchisees to make an educated decision when purchasing a franchise.
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BLOG POST | JULY 31, 2010
Franchise Business Review would like to recommend one of the most informational and useful books to help perspective franchisees to make an educated decision when purchasing a franchise.
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BLOG POST | JULY 31, 2010
Franchise Business Review would like to recommend one of the most informational and useful books to help perspective franchisees to make an educated decision when purchasing a franchise.
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BLOG POST | JULY 31, 2010
Franchise Business review would like to recommend one of the most informational and useful books to help perspective franchisees to make an educated decision when purchasing a franchise.
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BLOG POST | JULY 31, 2010
Franchise Business Review would like to recommend one of the most informational and useful books to help perspective franchisees to make an educated decision when purchasing a franchise.
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BLOG POST | JULY 21, 2010
The Roni Deutch Tax Center team put together a guest blog this month that consists of a list of the 7 most popular business tax deductions to help new business owners who might be confused about tax planning.
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BLOG POST | JULY 15, 2010
5-Star Painting is back with a new blog post about why you should consider franchising. To be successful as a franchisee, the relationship between the franchisor and the franchisee must thrive. It's a way to be your own boss within a system with proven results.
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BLOG POST | JULY 15, 2010
This month, Deb Evans, President of Computer Explorers, gives us a look at open leadership and what it may mean to you. If there are certain attributes you wish to see in a leader, or yourself, perhaps the four talked about in this blog will help you assess a certain franchise system better.
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BLOG POST | JUNE 23, 2010
Roni Deutch Tax Center shares a few tips this month on what to look for when choosing insurance for your franchise. Finding proper business insurance can be difficult and confusing, but RDTC believes with the help of these tips, you'll be more at ease when doing the research.
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BLOG POST | JUNE 16, 2010
Satisfaction is everything! If a customer is unsatisfied with your product or service then they won't use your business again. When employees or franchisees are unsatisfied, sales drop and complaints start. Deb Evans, President of Computer Explorers, gives advice, from personal experience, about communicating with her franchisees and being open to their opinions.
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BLOG POST | JUNE 9, 2010
For this week, 5-Star Painting talks about entrepreneurship and how it's connected to franchising. Franchisees are entrepreneurs and they fit the definition just right.
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BLOG POST | JUNE 8, 2010
This month, Thomas Scott of Showhomes Home Staging shares why researching day spas may be worth the time and effort. Day spas may make up a smaller category in the franchising world, but they have the largest growth in franchising opportunities.
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BLOG POST | JUNE 3, 2010
As the target audience for senior care services continue to grow there hasn’t been a better time to consider a senior care franchise.
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BLOG POST | JUNE 2, 2010
This weeks installment from 5-Star Painting is made of two parts. The first part is about making a great elevator pitch. An elevator pitch is a very short presentation, lasting the amount of time if would take you to go on an elevator ride from the lobby of a building to the top floor of your investor's office. 5-Star Painting supplies some scenario's for using an elevator pitch and key tips on what makes a pitch a good one.
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BLOG POST | JUNE 2, 2010
The second part to the Elevator Pitch blog is about how it improves leadership skills and helps make entrepreneurs successful in leading others. If you are able to demonstrate any of the key points discussed here during your elevator pitch, then you are on the right path toward great leadership.
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BLOG POST | MAY 27, 2010
Thomas Scott of Showhomes Home Staging shares a few tips on selecting a franchise that is the right fit for you. From someone who once was a franchisee himself, he knows first hand what it's like to be on the otherside.
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BLOG POST | MAY 26, 2010
This month, Roni Deutch Tax Center shares ways to keep employees motivated. This comes at a great time with the summer months ahead and everyone feeling the pull of nice days. Motivation can be hard to muster sometimes, but perhaps these tips can help you find a way to bring focus to the tasks at hand rather than the sunshine outside.
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BLOG POST | MAY 26, 2010
There are thousands of different languages spoken worldwide. This week, 5-Star Painting discusses how living in a country where there is more than one language spoken can cause difficulties within the workplace. Patience and understanding are great qualities to have in order to override the frustration and intimidation of not being able to communicate properly.
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BLOG POST | MAY 19, 2010
This week 5-Star Painting brings some insight into starting a business. Gain support where you can and know what you're up against when starting out. 5-Star believes that by being smart with the decisions you're making and maintaining focus on the end product and buyer, you will be successful.
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BLOG POST | MAY 19, 2010
Deb Evans, CEO of COMPUTER EXPLORERS, shares with us this month some insight on the different personalities franchisors look for in prospects. The assessment is known as DISC which represents Dominance, Influence, Steadiness, and Conscientiousness. Read this months blog and see where your personality falls.
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BLOG POST | MAY 12, 2010
5-Star Painting shares five reasons why they think investing in a franchise is a good thing.
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BLOG POST | MAY 5, 2010
This week, 5-Star Painting is reaching out to those veterans interested in starting their own business. The International Franchise Association has helped many veterans establish their own franchise. By working with the franchise companies themselves, the IFA provides discounts as well as other financial incentives to help our veterans get started.
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BLOG POST | APRIL 28, 2010
Ever wonder what makes someone leave their job to start their own business? This week, 5-Star Painting discusses what they believe is the motivation behind an entrepreneur's decisions. It's never easy going off on your own, but true entrepreneur's have what it takes to succeed; hard work and determination.
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BLOG POST | APRIL 28, 2010
Roni Deutch Tax Center provides some insight on common mistakes made by prospective franchisees when choosing franchises. Overlooking these issues may cause problems in the future, and making a plan beforehand may save you the headache of dealing with these obstacles afterward.
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BLOG POST | APRIL 21, 2010
5-Star Painting discusses how social media has become a popular trend and how businesses should embrace being able to have a more personal touch with their clients.
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BLOG POST | APRIL 21, 2010
Deb Evans, from COMPUTER EXPLORERS, gives some insight on social media. Learn how to find certain franchisors online and which social media platforms can help you get there. The use of social media can provide potential franchisees with information about franchises from a real time perspective.
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BLOG POST | APRIL 16, 2010
Showhomes gives advice on how having online resources that franchisees can access easily makes for a better overall franchise system.
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BLOG POST | APRIL 14, 2010
Learn more about how 5-Star Painting believes that teamwork and exposure to new tasks and functions is the best way for franchisees to find opportunities during an economic downturn.The use of technology may be the key to franchisees becoming cost efficient.
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BLOG POST | APRIL 8, 2010
Some franchisors still think they can run their brand without asking the franchisees what is working, what isn't. This "turning a blind eye" doesn't work for franchisor/franchisee relationship anymore! With the amount of tools available today there is no reason not to have this information to help you make smart decisions for your business.
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BLOG POST | MARCH 24, 2010
Learn how top franchises, Showhomes Home Staging and Brightstar Home Health Care, maintain happy franchisees, top performers, and system growth.
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BLOG POST | FEBRUARY 19, 2010
Here's a short list of incredible resources for franchisors and franchisees to help improve franchise relations and drive franchise system performance forward...
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BLOG POST | FEBRUARY 18, 2010
The New Girl assesses the franchise industry and social networking just one year in the making...
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BLOG POST | FEBRUARY 17, 2010
Sharing my favorite topics and take aways from the IFA convention this month in San Antonio.
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BLOG POST | JANUARY 19, 2010
Small Business Expert, Rieva Lesonsky, reports on Franchise Business Review's satisfaction surveys, transparency within your system, and the importance of the franchise relationship.
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BLOG POST | JANUARY 18, 2010
In just a short two and a half weeks, FBR will join hundreds of other franchise companies, and thousands of colleagues and friends in Texas to reveal our Top Franchises for 2010.
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BLOG POST | DECEMBER 22, 2009
Discover how FBR's partnering companies can help guide you to the franchise of your 2010 dreams...
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BLOG POST | DECEMBER 8, 2009
Do you have what it takes to join them? FBR's 5th Annual Franchise Satisfaction Awards are under way...
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BLOG POST | DECEMBER 3, 2009
IFA Franchise Relations Committee Document Library... a great resource for both franchisors and franchisees.
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BLOG POST | NOVEMBER 23, 2009
Wall Street Journal reports on Franchise Business Review, Our President, Eric Stites, and the importance of third party franchisee surveying... Read more!
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BLOG POST | NOVEMBER 5, 2009
With 5 years of franchise satisfaction research under our belt, we decided to take a look at where the most satisfied franchisees live and work in the United States.
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BLOG POST | NOVEMBER 3, 2009
The New Girl promotes FBR's webinar, Franchise Success: The Ins and Outs of Buying the Right Franchise. It will be held Wednesday, November 4th at 1pm ET and is free to register! Take a peek...
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BLOG POST | OCTOBER 27, 2009
With the advice of a Hollywood pirate, The New Girl takes a look at the definition of being "Social Media Savvy," and gives just a few critical ideas that will keep you up to speed with your networking platforms.
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BLOG POST | OCTOBER 15, 2009
FBR is on the hunt for franchisors up for the challenge of our 5th Annual Franchisee Satisfaction Awards. No risk, great data, why aren't you registered?
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BLOG POST | OCTOBER 10, 2009
The New Girl delves into the words of an old classic rock song to uncover social media strategies for attaining franchisee satisfaction now...
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BLOG POST | OCTOBER 5, 2009
Continuing from her last entry, Social Media 101, the New Girl discusses simple ways to avoid a Social Media storm...
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BLOG POST | OCTOBER 2, 2009
Attending the Leadership & Development conference last week confirmed business and franchising is changing. Thanks to social media and internet research, prospective buyers are more knowledgeable before they even have the first conversation with your corporate office. Franchisee (& Employee & Customer) Satisfaction is more relevant than ever.
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BLOG POST | SEPTEMBER 28, 2009
What I've learned as a social media newbie turned groupie here at FBR...
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BLOG POST | JULY 24, 2009
From what we have seen in today's economy, it seems undeniably clear that finding and keeping the right customers must be a top priority. Recently, there has been a lot of talk about this in the franchise world...
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BLOG POST | JULY 1, 2009
Question: I am about to purchase a sandwhich shop near a 22,000+ student campus that is a Franchise store. My question given the recession (if we are really in one), what is your opinion on this idea outside of the scientifcal and business facts needed to give an even more accurate opinion?
Thanks, Torrey
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BLOG POST | MAY 26, 2009
Q: What can you tell me about the i9 Sports franchise opportunity from an "outside voice." Thanks, Bo
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BLOG POST | MAY 15, 2009
Q: What are your thoughts on investing in a fairly new franchise and what are the risks. The franchise I am looking into is less than 2 years old. What are your thoughts?
A: Be very cautious and approach the "opportunity" like an angel investor. (read full response)
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BLOG POST | JANUARY 21, 2009
Q: Are franchise fees negotiable? I was told by a certain franchise that the FTC regulations restrict this from happening. Thanks - Rob
A: Yes... franchise fees are negotiable! But...
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BLOG POST | DECEMBER 16, 2008
Q: I was looking into a franchise called PUROCLEAN. They are a disaster restoration company that claims to have an edge over all others. They also claim that the return on investment is fantastic. What do you think about the company? Is this market too saturated with too much competition that I wont be able to survive? How much do you think its worth investing in them? Thanks for any help - Jim
Jim - Thanks for your question...
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BLOG POST | DECEMBER 8, 2008
Recently, I have been receiving dozens of emails every week from people wondering if now is the right time to invest in a business. This morning I received an email from a guy who's thinking about investing in a handyman service. My advice to him applies to anyone looking at buying a franchise right now - or really any time for that matter.
Here's my advice...
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BLOG POST | DECEMBER 1, 2008
Q: What has been the feedback on waste management consulting companies such as Environmental Waste Solutions? Do you think that it is a good opportunity?
Thanks, Idrees
A: Survey says... NOT a good opportunity. Read more...
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BLOG POST | JUNE 13, 2008
Whether you’re a fast-food junkie or just an occasional eater, quick service restaurants (QSR) are as American as baseball and apple pie. From Main Street to Wall Street, and just about every highway exit and rest area nationwide, QSR franchise options have exploded in recent years.
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BLOG POST | APRIL 21, 2008
Just because the economy is down doesn't mean that a smart investment decision can't be found. In fact, I would argue it is actually a great time to look at investing in a new business -- as long as it has a history.
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BLOG POST | MARCH 26, 2008
We've been busy this week interviewing some of the best minds in franchising. We already have an archive of almost 40 interviews and this week alone we've added interviews from Two Men and a Truck, Bruegger's, Snap-on Tools and more.
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BLOG POST | MARCH 19, 2008
It's common knowledge that the US franchising industry expands as the US economy dips. At first blush this doesn't make sense but let's break it down.
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BLOG POST | MARCH 10, 2008
When nearly 45,000 franchisees talk about their franchise systems, they have something to say. The 2008 Franchisee Satisfaction Awards presented by Franchise Business Review highlights those franchises whose validation among their franchisees was superior in the industry.
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BLOG POST | JANUARY 18, 2008
Just a few weeks away from the 2008 FBR 50, we are keeping busy collecting data, measuring franchise systems, and growing our client list!
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BLOG POST | OCTOBER 17, 2007
Franchising follows trend of capitalizing on the Green Movement.
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BLOG POST | OCTOBER 10, 2007
I've heard franchisors mention that validation is easy for their prospective investors. What planet are these guys from? Have they tried it themselves?
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BLOG POST | SEPTEMBER 21, 2007
Why Financial Details on Franchises Aren't Easy to Find
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BLOG POST | SEPTEMBER 14, 2007
Even the franchise systems with the happiest franchisees have dissatisfied owners. The reasons why these people are unhappy are a varied as the people themselves.
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BLOG POST | JULY 31, 2007
BLOG POST | JULY 17, 2007
Part II of a look at advertising funds for franchise companies.
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BLOG POST | JULY 11, 2007
As part of many franchise agreements, franchisors require franchisees to contribute to an advertising fund. Sometimes these funds are national (i.e. McDonald's) ...
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BLOG POST | JULY 6, 2007
Including your spouse in your search for a franchise may help ease their worries and make for a more successful business AND marriage!
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BLOG POST | JULY 3, 2007
A few examples of franchises offering home based opportunities
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BLOG POST | JULY 2, 2007
One of the things I realized early on here at FBR is how hard it is to find a good franchise information online. If you've done some research yourself you know what I'm talking about. If not, do a Google search for "franchise." Go ahead, I'll wait... What did you get?
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BLOG POST | JUNE 26, 2007
I'll start with the most obvious lesson in franchising: if someone out there has found a profitable business model, someone is offering a franchise of that model. Honestly, the number of franchise opportunities available is astounding and there is no doubt one that a perfect fit for you...
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BLOG POST | MAY 23, 2007
I just read this in the May 14 issue of
The New Yorker and wanted to pass it along. Richard Branson, CEO of Virgin Atlantic (and about 130 other "Virgin" brands) says about entrepreneurship
BLOG POST | MAY 22, 2007
The ability to market (sell) your business to the public could be one of the most important steps to succeeding. Franchisors are not only selling products to consumers ... but they are also convincing other entrepreneurs to buy in to their businesses.
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BLOG POST | MAY 16, 2007
Entrepreneurs are often go-getters; people that can do anything ... for anyone ... and, yes, sometimes overcommit. I recently read David Allen's, Getting Things Done and found it one of the most helpful books I've read in 2007. A quick excerpt on the five phases of project planning.
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BLOG POST | APRIL 30, 2007
I am often asked whether or not it is a good idea to invest in a “hot, new franchise concept” or to go with a “safe” established brand. Certainly, established franchise brands typically have a higher success rate as compared to younger franchise systems. Yet, while investing in a new franchise concept may come with higher risks, the return on your investment, if successful, may be higher as well. Which is right for you? The answer really depends on two factors: you and the franchise itself.
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BLOG POST | APRIL 25, 2007
It’s a common misunderstanding that businesses with many locations are all franchises. In fact, many of the places you frequent on a daily basis are NOT franchises at all, but corporate-owned and operated stores. For example, FedEx/Kinkos, The Gap, Red Lobster and yes, even Starbucks are NOT franchises.
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BLOG POST | APRIL 25, 2007
I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been asked by someone thinking about investing in a franchise “How much money can I make?” It’s far and away the number one question prospective franchisee want answered. And why not? Isn’t money the primary reason most people go into any business? I love my job and the work I get to do helping people discover the best franchise opportunities in the marketplace today – but heck, if it weren’t for the equity I’m building as part of owning my own business, I’d rather be fishing!
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BLOG POST | APRIL 25, 2007
A few questions to start: What are the keys to franchising? How do you (or I) know if franchising is right for me? And the frequently asked, “What are the hot franchises right now?” Most of these questions will be covered in the articles and resources section in the upcoming Franchise Center and while I may not know what the hot concepts are, I can try to provide you with the information and guidance to make a more educated decision yourself.
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BLOG POST | APRIL 24, 2007
Last week was a tough week. Hundreds of people lost their lives in the escalating war in Iraq. The Virginia Tech massacre left 33 students and faculty dead and 29 others injured. A neighbor of mine was killed in a car accident, leaving behind his wife and three young kids. So much tragedy. So much loss. Yet for most of us, life continues on.
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With bad news on the economy and instability in the job market, there are a lot of people questioning if it is a good time to think about buying into a franchise system.
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