Which Franchise is Right for You?
I have been a business owner for a long time and have sold hundreds of franchises. Periodically, I have friends, neighbors or acquaintances approach me and ask for my opinion on various business-related matters. I am happy to help if I can.
I have been friends with a particular gentleman for about 15 years. He called to ask my opinion about a particular franchise opportunity he was considering. As a little background, he is over 50 years old and recently lost his job. With bills to pay and limited resources, he was anxious to make a decision.
I have learned in business that it’s very important to learn how to listen. I sat patiently and listened while he told me which franchise he was considering, how he was going to finance it, etc. After about 20 minutes he asked, “So what do you think?” In response, I said, “More importantly, what do you think?” Sounding a little frustrated his reply was, “What do you mean? I just told you everything.”
I explained to him that the franchise he was considering was well known, and as far as I knew, well managed with a good business model. What I never heard my friend say was that he would enjoy the business or that he was well suited for it. In this case, he felt pressured for time, didn’t know what else to do with himself and was trying to buy himself a job.
Many excellent franchise opportunities are available, and you can be taught how to implement their business model. First, make sure it’s a business you would enjoy doing and that suits you. Imagine your employees calling in sick. Can you see yourself doing their job until they return? Can you see yourself proudly wearing the company logo and passionately telling your friends, neighbors and relatives what you do? Hopefully, the answer to all these questions is an enthusiastic "yes!" If not, take some more time and do some more looking.
Best regards, H.R. Mason
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I have been a business owner for a long time and have sold hundreds of franchises. Periodically, I have friends, neighbors or acquaintances approach me and ask for my opinion on various business-related matters. I am happy to help if I can.
I have been friends with a particular gentleman for about 15 years. He called to ask my opinion about a particular franchise opportunity he was considering. As a little background, he is over 50 years old and recently lost his job. With bills to pay and limited resources, he was anxious to make a decision.
I have learned in business that it’s very important to learn how to listen. I sat patiently and listened while he told me which franchise he was considering, how he was going to finance it, etc. After about 20 minutes he asked, “So what do you think?” In response, I said, “More importantly, what do you think?” Sounding a little frustrated his reply was, “What do you mean? I just told you everything.”
I explained to him that the franchise he was considering was well known, and as far as I knew, well managed with a good business model. What I never heard my friend say was that he would enjoy the business or that he was well suited for it. In this case, he felt pressured for time, didn’t know what else to do with himself and was trying to buy himself a job.
Many excellent franchise opportunities are available, and you can be taught how to implement their business model. First, make sure it’s a business you would enjoy doing and that suits you. Imagine your employees calling in sick. Can you see yourself doing their job until they return? Can you see yourself proudly wearing the company logo and passionately telling your friends, neighbors and relatives what you do? Hopefully, the answer to all these questions is an enthusiastic "yes!" If not, take some more time and do some more looking.
Best regards, H.R. Mason
