Reducing the Risk of Business Ownership

I’m going to be honest, it’s not easy to be a business owner.  If it was easy, everyone would own a business.  It takes guts, drive, determination, persistence, and a bit of start-up capital.

But, what if you could tilt the odds to be more in your favor?  One way is to investigate a franchised business concept.

Let’s look at where franchising can help reduce the risk of being a business owner:

• The business concept:  When you own a franchise, you are purchasing an already-existing business concept.  No need to reinvent the wheel and wonder if you’re creating a viable system and/or product.  The business has worked in the past, meaning the odds of it working again are exponentially better.
• The brand:  Logos, colors, name recognition.  The brand already exists!  The marketing is one key component of the franchise, and you don’t have to start from scratch.  You just can take the ball and run with it.
• Infrastructure:  Many franchises have building layouts and computer systems that have been designed specifically for their operations.  This is mostly common with retail and restaurant operations.  Which means you can focus on keeping your business running, not getting it off the ground.
• Support:  From franchise opening and training teams to fellow franchisees, you have a support system that you can reach out to for help.  Even if its just pitching ideas, your part of an ownership family.  It’s not just you on an island.

Is there another way you can reduce risk, even before you sign any dotted line?  FranNet.  I am here to help coach you along the way, from investigating different franchises to explaining different models of ownership.  I host free educational events, and then provide free consulting to those who are ready to take a serious look at franchise ownership.

Don’t miss:

• Webinar:  Business Ownership Exploration Webinar
  Wednesday, December 9 2015
  2:00 PM to 3:30 PM NO COST
  more info | register now

• Live Seminar:  “Franchising as a Career, an Investment, or Both” – TROY
  Thursday, December 10, 2015
  10:00 AM to 12:00 PM  NO COST
  Offices of Derderian, Kann, Seyferth & Salucci, CPAs
  3001 W. Big Beaver, Suite 700, Troy
  RSVP Required
  more info | register now

So, let’s talk a bit more about how I might be able to help you.  Contact me at 312-821-5060 or mcory@frannet.com and you can learn more about how you can add the word “owner” after your name on that business card.  

This Season, Consider the OTHER Side of Retail

Want to get a Piece of Holiday Spending?

Black Friday, 12 Days of Christmas, Small Business Saturday.   SALE SALE SALE! November and December are the most important time of year to the retail sector – ending the year on a high note.

Can you picture yourself at the helm of a retail operation? Be forewarned, it is a highly competitive sector with lots of moving parts. One the many franchised retail concepts can better prepare you to enter this brave new world. Whether it’s helping a customer find a perfect gift for a loved one, or enjoying the sounds of register drawers opening and closing, there are franchise concepts out there within reach.

Ready to help athletes and sports fans? Storefronts that sell shoes, custom shirts, officially licensed apparel, nutritional supplements or sports supplies could be in your future.

Want to unleash your fashion skills?  You can own a nationally recognized upscale women's boutique.

Want to help spruce up someone’s home? Your retail operation could focus on floor covering, window treatments, tools, floral bouquets, custom framing or furniture.

Time to release the techie?  Think about selling mobile phones and accessories, batteries, computers and peripherals.

Help those who need more help?  Health products, durable medical equipment and caregiver referral assistance are always in demand.

Love cars and automobiles?  The auto supply, car repair and oil change industries continue to grow. 

And don't forget our four-legged friends.  Offer pet supplies for Fido and Fluffy! 

There are lots of different retail franchises out there, and many more non-retail franchise concepts that are looking for someone like you. It may seem overwhelming, but that is why FranNet is here! All of our consultations, services and events are 100% FREE! No pressure, no obligation.

When you’re ready to explore options and find the right fit, we can meet one-on-one to talk more about you, your lifestyle and your goals. This is where I can tell you more about FranNet’s exclusive matchmaking system, and make some recommendations on possible fits for investigation. I’ll continue to coach you through the research process, helping you to discern and evaluate the facts, putting you in the best position to make a sound investment decision.

FREE SEMINARA great place start the wheels turning would be at my next seminar, “Franchising as a Career, an Investment, or Both”, where you can learn more about franchising and determine whether it makes sense for you to begin the search process…

• Thursday, 12/10 in Troy, MI
  MORE INFO | REGISTER NOW

FREE WEBINARS
You can also tune into a webinar the day before, coving all of the initial questions on business and franchising concepts.

• Wednesday, 12/9 – “Business Ownership Exploration Webinar”
  MORE INFO | REGISTER NOW

You can also learn more about two different types of franchises in online presentations as well.

• Wednesday, 12/9 – “Light Manufacturing Business Opportunity”
  MORE INFO | REGISTER NOW

• Wednesday, 12/16 – “Master Franchise Opportunity for Empire Builders”
  MORE INFO | REGISTER NOW

Want to learn more? Visit michiganfranchiseforum.com or contact me directly at mcory@frannet.com or 313-821-5060.

Next Week: Give Thanks For the Past, This Week: Look Towards The Future

The Thanksgiving holiday is a time of reflection, looking back with family and friends. But, that’s next week.

This week is the perfect opportunity to look towards the future. This is especially true if you have ever thought about owning your own business.

Along with FranNet, I am presenting two free webinars designed to help you explore the world of owning a franchise business concept.

Wednesday, November 18 – 8pm
Take a Moment And Learn About Business Ownership
Stop climbing the corporate ladder, and create one! If you’re considering business ownership, it’s essential to use the best available resources so you can get it right the first time.

Topics covered:

• The advantages to starting a business
• A look at franchise ownership
• Misconceptions about franchising
• Building equity as a strategy
• How to find the right franchise

MORE INFO | REGISTER NOW

Thursday, November 19 – 8pm
Franchisor Opportunities for African-Americans
African-Americans make up the fastest-growing segment of small business ownership in the US. FranNet wants to make sure you get every opportunity to pursue business ownership.

Topics covered:

• The advantages to starting a business
• Impact of small business in the US
• A look at franchise ownership
• Common misconceptions about franchising
• Building your personal business model
• How to easily find the right franchise

MORE INFO | REGISTER NOW

All of my services, events, webinars and consultations are 100% FREE, so make sure to sign up for one of my webinars today! You can also contact me for more information about franchising. I can be reached at 313-821-5060 or mcory@frannet.com.

CHOOSING A FRANCHISE: Can I be a part-time owner?

If you choose to take advantage of the free services provided by a FranNet consultant like myself, you’ll find that as we start the research process, we’ll ask lots of questions!  That’s because it’s our goal to find you a great fit for your lifestyle, among other attributes.

It’s somewhat similar to the dating world, where you might meet a matchmaker looking to pair you up with your future husband or wife.  You want to be truthful and honest in your answers, because – well, in all honesty – you don’t want to be paired up in a bad relationship. 

One of the important aspects that we look at as we work with you to make matches is lifestyle.  And for you, running a franchise full time may not make sense in the near future. 

Franchising offers lots of variety, including a range in the amount of time necessary for the owner to invest in the business.  If you are looking at franchising as an investment or something to offer great flexibility, semi-absentee ownership may be the best fit for you. This is an option where the owner typically puts in between 10 and 20 hours a week on the business. On-site managers handle your day-to-day operations, making sure that your customers are leaving happy. 

Whether you’re looking for an investment (semi-absentee model) or a career, franchising may be a fit for you.   

Don’t try to figure it out on your own – resources are available to help you as there are many things to consider when looking at different franchise opportunities – that’s where FranNet’s “Proven Match” system comes into play.  We’ll take a look at your available time, your ability to provide the necessary financial capital, and most importantly – your goals and interests!

LUNCH & LEARN – Friday, November 13 (Online event)Learn more about semi-absentee and full-time executive models expanding in Michigan on Friday during our “Lunch & Learn’ web-based event. We’ll feature three brief presentations that you can enjoy over lunch from the comfort of your home or office while learning about some wealth-building options for the next phase of your career.
MORE INFO - REGISTER NOW

FRANCHISING AS A CAREER, AN INVESTMENT, OR BOTH – Thursday, November 12 (Troy, MI)Learn franchising basics, including the array of categories and investment levels available (starting at around $50K), and how to go about defining your own personal vision, matching that up with viable choices, and conducting proper due diligence to make sure you're selecting the RIGHT fit for YOU!
MORE INFO - REGISTER NOW

You can also contact me at 313-821-5060 or mcory@frannet.com to learn more about taking the next step towards business ownership.  Remember, all of FranNet’s consultations, events, advice and more are 100% FREE.  No pressure, no obligations. 

What if YOU CAN? – Learn About Franchising this Thursday in Farmington Hills

A lot of people are scared of the question, “What if?” These are people that are looking towards the past and regret a choice or two they made in the past.

Change your focus and look to the future. Start asking “What if?” questions that will shape your future.

• WHAT IF … I can make an investment in myself?
• WHAT IF … I owned my own business?
• WHAT IF … I can find a proven business system that fits my personal vision?
• WHAT IF … I had a coach that provided a no-fee, no obligation consulting service?

It’s time to head down the road to success. Join me this Thursday, November 5, in Farmington Hills for “Franchising as a Career, an Investment, or Both.” This workshop will teach you franchising basics, including the array of categories and investment levels available (starting at around $50K), and how to go about defining your own personal vision, matching that up with viable choices, and conducting proper due diligence to make sure you're selecting the RIGHT fit for YOU!

Here is a brief outline of the topics covered in the seminar:

• How franchising can provide a desirable alternative to traditional employment by reducing the risk of ownership to an acceptable level through proven business systems, comprehensive training and ongoing support. 
• Basic information on franchising, including the range of industry categories, investment levels and fees. 
• The legal regulations governing franchising that protect the buyer.  
• A strategic approach to defining your personal business model, quantifying your returns and safely researching and selecting the business opportunity that best fits your unique personality, skills, needs and goals. 
• Growth trends and choices in franchising that offer stability and success in weak and strong economies. 
• A brief overview of FranNet’s no-fee, no-obligation consulting service.    

It’s time to look towards the future, and it starts by checking out michiganfranchiseforum.com to RSVP for this Thursday’s event. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to give me a call at 313-821-5060 or mcory@frannet.com.

Don’t look back and ask questions, look forward with the positive mindset “What if I CAN?”

Few Spots Left for "Meet the Franchisors" - This Thursday (10/29) in Birmingham, MI

If you haven't already done so........ THERE'S STILL TIME TO REGISTER! Don't Miss this Special Opportunity to Learn About Successful Franchises Expanding in Michigan & Where YOU Might Fit In! This is your chance to learn about several premier franchise companies that are poised for rapid expansion in Michigan and to meet their franchise development executives! This forum is offered at NO CHARGE to the general public, but REGISTRATION is REQUIRED. Tips on franchise due diligence will also be presented, and a franchise financing expert will discuss your funding options.  Categories will include: B2B Consulting Fast Casual Dining Home and Office Decor Retail/Commercial Distribution & Recycling Automotive Aftermarket Full Service Day Spa Professional Staffing Residential/Commercial Building Services Lawn and Environmental Care Total investment range starts below $100K. The Michigan Franchise Forum, brings aspiring entrepreneurs together with the local franchise experts of FranNet AND franchise development executives from an array of premier concepts eager to expand their presence in Michigan. The program includes: A brief introduction to the world of franchising, and a safer approach to franchise due diligence and selection Updates on the "State of Franchising" here in Michigan A brief presentation by each Franchisor, including an overview of their business model and what they look for in a successful franchise owner Tips on franchise funding An opportunity for Q & A, and optional one-on-one time with any or all of the Franchisors If you’re thinking about making a change and becoming your own boss, or looking for a better investment opportunity, this event is for YOU! SEATS ARE LIMITED. Register now at: www.MichiganFranchiseForum.com or by calling 810-423-3956. October 29, 2015 3:00 PM - 5:30 PM The Community House | 380 S. Bates Birmingham, MI 48009

Presented By: For More Information Contact: Mark Cory | mcory@frannet.com | 313-821-5060

Top 5 Reasons to Attend the Michigan Franchise Forum on October 29 in Birmingham

For over 28 years at FranNet, we’ve been interacting with people that have shied away from exploring franchise ownership due common misconceptions. That’s why we’ve designed educational programs to bust some of myths and provide the facts, thus enabling folks to explore opportunities that they once though we’re of no interest or out there reach. See if any of these reasons might compel you (or someone you know) to attend our next major event:  

5)  Franchising comprises more than the obvious fast food and retail concepts. You’ll hear from companies that you never realized are franchised!

4)  There are some unique franchise funding mechanisms you may not be aware of. A small business/franchise funding expert will enlighten you.

3)  Franchising does not have to “break the bank”. You’ll learn about some opportunities available for less than a $100K investment!

2)  Franchise ownership does not necessarily require you to quit your day job. Some of the concepts presented can be operated semi-absentee!

And the #1 reason to attend the Michigan Franchise Forum on October 29:

1)  Many successful Michigan franchise owners were first introduced to their franchise of choice at one of these events in the past. In fact, one of them will be presenting on October 28!

Curious to learn more? Register TODAY at www.michiganfranchiseforum.com. Admission is free, but registration is required. You can also contact me at mcory@frannet.com or 313-821-5060 for more information. Also,  check out our other events in Troy (10/15), Southfield (10/15), Benton Harbor (10/17), Farmington Hills (11/5) and online!

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Are You a True DIY (Do-It-Yourselfer)?

Are you one of those people that likes control?  Building, fixing, creating – you know that you can finish the task at hand in a quality fashion?

What about starting a business?  If you’re a true DIY – business ownership might be right up your alley.  Even if you don’t have the “million dollar idea” – you can be a business owner of a franchise concept.

You can learn more about how a DIY can succeed in franchising by joining me for one or more of our upcoming educational events, some of which are webinars that you can attend by simply tuning in on your computer.

WANTED:  More Women Franchise Owners
September 22, 2015    Webinar
More Info | Register Now

Franchise Spotlight:  Home-based, Fast-Launching Marketing Services Concept
September 23, 2015    Webinar
More Info | Register Now

An In-Depth Look at Business Ownership
October 7, 2015      Webinar
More Info | Register Now

Franchising as a Career, an Investment, or Both
October 15, 2015 in TROY, MI
More Info | Register Now

If you’d like more info, or want to discuss your particular situation, you can always contact me directly at 313-821-5060 or mcory@frannet.com.  I’ll help you determine if business and/or franchise ownership is even worth exploring, and if so, can guide you through a strategic search process to help you find the RIGHT fit.  Even though you’re a DIY, you can still benefit from my FREE educational events and services and consulting services.

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Entrepreneurial Football: Team “Franchise” or Team “You”

Have you been thinking about the best way to start your own business? You know you can be a STAR because you have the drive to take on a difficult challenge. It’s just like being a quarterback. Will your talent and drive take you to down the field for a big score? When it comes to starting a business, you have a couple of options. Are you going to with the veteran Team Franchise? Or, will you go with your very own expansion team?

Quarterback
Team Franchise:  You
Team You:  You

Running Back, Wide Receivers, Linemen
Team Franchise:  Your “scouts” (franchisors) know key characteristics to look for in supporting talent. In some cases, they may help you find a manager.
Team You:  Do you know the right people? Do you know what to look for?

Coach
Team Franchise:  Your franchisor is there to support you. They have proven systems that have worked.
Team You:  Your on your own, looking for advice … Separate what you think will work, what won’t work.

Offensive Coordinator
Team Franchise:  Fellow franchisees can support you and let you know what has worked, what hasn’t worked.
Team You:  Do you have trusted people to help you out? Do you have people that will give you advice that you might now want?

The Playbook
Team Franchise:  A proven operations manual, computer systems, and other processes that have driven others down the field. There are times when you can audible and call your own plays.
Team You:  You are calling the shots. The question remains, what if you are up against a defense that you have never seen before.

Fans
Team Franchise:  The brand may have local fans that know what to expect.
Team You:  Your starting out with friends and family. You have to get more people to root for you.

Both Team Franchise and Team You are both viable options. In fact, the franchisors at one time were on their own “Team You.” But, as you can see in the above comparison … “Team You” starts out truly as you alone. “Team Franchise” has a developed support system to help you get down the field.

Don’t get tackled on the pursuit to a dream! Contact FranNet today to learn about our free services and consulting that can help you on the road to business ownership. We have free events and free webinars, as well as offer free one-on-one consulting with a no pressure, no commitment approach.

Thursday, September 17 – “Franchising as a Career, an Investment, or Both” 
10am – 12pm: Troy, MI 
Learn franchising basics, including the array of categories and investment levels available (starting at around $50K), and how to go about defining your own personal vision, matching that up with viable choices, and conducting proper due diligence to make sure you're selecting the RIGHT fit for YOU!
More Info | Register Now

Tuesday, September 22 – “Wanted: More Women Franchise Owners” 
2pm – 3:30pm: Online Webinar 
This free, webinar will help you understand the unique business opportunities available to women. FranNet works with women to help them understand special financial incentives, training available and business opportunities available only to women.
More Info | Register Now

Wednesday, September 23 – “Franchisor Spotlight: Home-based, Fast-Launching Marketing Services Concept” 
2pm – 3:30pm: Online Webinar 
Our Franchisor Spotlight features a powerful, business-to-business model that boasts an unlimited prospect base and promotes scalability with no additional franchise fees or royalties. Franchisees can acquire protected multi-territory and regional chains with large local markets and a circulation footprint that will likely expand.
More Info | Register Now

Wednesday, September 30 – “Is Franchising Right For You?” 
4:30pm – 6pm: Clarkston 
Linda Belford, franchise placement specialist from FranNet, will bust some common franchise myths, and enlighten you on the wide-range of categories and investment levels available today. She will also discuss the various entry strategies available in the world of franchising, ranging from single unit owner/operator to semi-absentee investor to regional developer.
More Info | Register Now

To find out more, contact me at 313-821-5060 or mcory@frannet.com.

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The Kids Are Back to School, What Should I Do With All Of This Free Time?

It’s the most wonderful time of the year!  The kids are heading back to school.  Whether you have older kids heading to college or younger kids heading to elementary, the house might be a bit quieter than it has been for the past three months.

What might you accomplish with all of this time on your hands?  Could you imagine starting a business?

Depending on your financial situation, starting a business may be a viable opportunity for you.  With a proven franchise concept, you could reduce the risk of owning a successful business.

Semi-absentee Ownership Still Will Give You Time With Your Kids
The semi-absentee ownership model puts the operating responsibilities on a manager that you hire.  After getting the business off the ground, you focus on supervising from the 10,000 foot level.

Business Ownership Could Be An Investment Toward Your Children’s College Education
College is expensive.  Bank savings accounts and CDs don’t offer that much interest.  What if you can invest in yourself right now, and in essence, be investing in your children’s future?  Running a successful business can help you towards the goal of paying for your children’s college, or adding retirement security

Owning a Business Can Provide a Job For Your Soon-To-Be College Graduate
Have a child that’s about to enter the “real world?”  What if you can groom your child to be the next manager of your business?  With job markets being tougher and tougher, you can give your child a head start on landing a job and getting great experience.

FranNet Provides FREE Consulting and Events to Help You Learn More About Franchising and the Options that may be available to you. 
Don’t miss my free seminar entitled “Franchising as a Career, an Investment, or Both” on Thursday, September 17 in Troy, MI.  Learn franchising basics, including the array of categories and investment levels available (starting around $50K), and how to go about defining your own personal vision, matching that up with viable choices, and conducing proper due diligence to make sure you’re selecting the RIGHT fit for you!

To find out more and to RSVP, please visit michiganfranchiseforum.com.  You can also contact me at 313-821-5060 or mcory@frannet.com.

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Make It Your Business to Help Others

If you have a passion for helping people AND have also been bit by the entrepreneurial bug … there may be a perfect franchised business concept waiting for you. Here are some examples:

• Rehabilitation Therapy – Help the healing and restoration of normal life activities with those that may have suffered illness or injury.  Your team will work directly with patients, educating them on what they can do to restore function and return to routine daily activities.
• Senior Care – As they age, sometimes those we love need a little extra help.  That is where your business can come in.  Providing special care to our seniors is truly a noble act.
• Vitamins / Nutritional Products – Being healthy is being cool. Through providing vitamins, supplements and other important products – you are helping educate and improve the lifestyles of your customers searching to reach peak human performance.
• Massage – Americans suffer from back pain, other muscle pain and routine stress, which are the primary reasons people seek their first massage. Bring the benefits of high-quality, superior massage services to your community.
• Health Care Supplies – Wheelchairs, C-PAP machines, oxygen tanks and more.  Help provide mobility, comfort and relief to those needing specific supplies and equipment that can’t be commonly obtained through pharmacies and supermarkets.
• Weight Loss – Help people lose weight via long-term behavioral modification and coaching. You and your staff can help your clients live a lifetime of healthy habits and wellness.  

There are many different concepts in the world of Health and Wellness that you could be a part of.  Remember, franchises are more than just fries.  In the case of health/wellness, it’s the ANTIDOTE for French fries.

Learn more about the array of franchise options and how to select the right fit for you at my upcoming workshop, "Franchising as a Career, an Investment, or Both," on August 13th in Troy, MI.  Find out more about this event (and RSVP) at michiganfranchiseforum.com.  You can also contact me with any questions at mcory@frannet.com or 313-821-5060.

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Driver's Seat? Passenger Seat? Where Are You Sitting In Your Professional Life?

Life is about choices. Some prefer the control and the power. Some prefer the stability and safety.

If you want to be in the Driver’s Seat, my upcoming FREE workshop is perfect for you. “Franchising as a Career, an Investment, or Both” takes places on Thursday, July 16 in Troy, MI.

Learn more about franchise basics, including the array of categories and investment levels available. We’ll examine how to define your own personal vision, match that up with viable choices, and learn how to conduct the proper due diligence to make sure you’re selecting the right fit for you.

Find out more information, including a brief outline and how to register, by clicking on this link. You can also find out more about this event and FranNet’s free consulting sessions by contacting me directly at 313-821-5060 or mcory@frannet.com.

Are you ready to take the keys?

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