Monday, April 13, 2015

This Thursday, Experience 'Small Business, Big Potential'


On Thursday, April 16 - join FranNet of Chicago for "Small Business, Big Potential."  Be the first to hear about successful business opportunities coming to Chicago (including Rockford, Elgin, Tinley Park and Northwest Indiana).

Get the answer to questions such as:
  • How do I find a business that's not hamburgers, sandwiches, and French fries?
  • Can I stay in my current job and start a new business?
  • How do I find a business I will really like?
  • How do I get the facts before I buy?
  • Is financing available?
  • What type of business opportunities are coming to my area?
Register today and learn from franchise and funding experts how easy it is to own a business and discover financial and career freedom.

Attend one of two sessions on Thursday - either 10am to Noon or 2pm to 4pm.  For more information and to RSVP, please click on this link

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me at bback@frannet.com or 630-862-0396.

Are you ready to get on the road to success?  On Thursday, April 16 - the light turns green.  

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Wednesday, April 1, 2015

Small Business - BIG POTENTIAL



Attend Small Business - BIG POTENTIAL and be the first to hear about successful business opportunities coming to Chicagoland!

If you've ever dreamed of owning a business but don't know where to start, you won't want to miss Small Business - BIG POTENTIAL. This free event will showcase leading business opportunities coming to the Chicagoland area (including Rockford, Elgin, Tinley Park and Northwest Indiana) in 2015 and answer questions such as:

  • How do I find a business that's not hamburgers, sandwiches and French fries?
  • Can I stay in my current job and start a new business?
  • How do I find a business I will really like?
  • How do I get the facts before I buy?
  • Is financing available?
  • What types of business opportunities are coming to my area?
Register today and learn from franchise and funding experts how easy it is to own a business and discover financial and career freedom!  Click here to register now!

TWO SESSIONS
  • 10 am-noon 
  • 2-4 pm
LOCATION
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel
Chicago – Oak Brook
1909 Spring Rd
Oak Brook, IL 60523

SPONSORED BY:


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Monday, March 23, 2015

Explore the World of Business Ownership - Wednesday (3/25) One Hour Webinar

Join us for this free, detailed webinar from the business experts at FranNet. Designed just for you to answer all those initial questions on business and franchising basics, we’ll cover:

  • 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

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. At FranNet, we use an established, proprietary process to match a person’s talents and goals with the right franchise choice. In a recent study we conducted on clients we’ve placed into business, we found that:

  • Over 91% of clients we place are still in business after two years
  • More than 85% of our clients are still open after five years
  • Nearly 15% of our clients are top performers in their franchise
  • These are all “Best in Class” numbers for our industry

There are other franchise brokerage-type services out there, but what makes FranNet unique is how we look at your career options first, and then jointly decide if business ownership is the right option for you. All of our consultants are locally based and bring face-to-face attention to your needs so that we’re personally there for you every step of the way. And perhaps the best part is that our services are completely free to you throughout.

This webinar takes place on Wednesday, 3/25 at 7pm CT.  It should last about 60 minutes depending on group participation.  The first 25 to register and attend will receive a free copy of Street Smart Franchising!

Let FranNet help you become what you’ve always wanted to be.


Tuesday, March 17, 2015

Exciting Retail Franchise Leader in Sports Industry Nutrition Looks to Grow in Illinois! Learn More Via Webinar on 3/18

A leader in the sports nutrition industry since 1991, Max Muscle® produces and distributes its own line of popular high-quality nutrition supplements as well as a complete line of workout and casual wear for today's active consumer. Max Muscle products are marketed through the company's national network of stores. The Max Muscle brand has earned a reputation for producing and selling superior and reliable quality products within the nutrition industry.
Max Muscle customers come from all walks of life and include men, women, young adults, everyday fitness enthusiasts, and bodybuilders. The one thing that all our customers have in common - and something that keeps them coming back to Max Muscle stores- is they appreciate our employees' reputation for providing a high level of service and knowledge. We motivate and educate our customers to reach and sometimes surpass their fitness and weight loss goals.
On Wednesday, March 18 at 7pm CDT, listen in from the comfort of your home, and in 45 minutes learn if this profitable franchise is the right small business for you! For more information and to register, please visithttps://cc.readytalk.com/cc/s/registrations/new?cid=198vbi1qxg84. You can also contact me directly at bback@frannet.com or 630-862-0396 for more information.

Tuesday, March 10, 2015

Beware of ROAD BLOCKS! A Dream Denied


Many people who dream of independence find a franchise that captures their interest. However, after a short time of a few days or a week at most, that interest and even excitement is gone—even before they have done any serious research on the opportunity. What happened? They encountered a ROAD BLOCK! We call this road block “being ambushed.” Feeling ambushed is overwhelming and can stop you right in your tracks; however, you need to evaluate the facts then continue moving forward.

The Spousal Roadblock 
This is a familiar event. The business seeker claims, “I’ve talked it over with my spouse, and he/she says it’s my call. Whatever I want to do is just fine!” Fine until the hopeful owner comes home and starts talking about the franchise. Suddenly, the objections and concerns begin to flow. Soon, the task of business ownership becomes complicated by marital disagreement and what was so promising now appears impossible.

THE SOLUTION
1. Owning a business is a family decision. Even before the search begins, the couple needs honest discussions about the benefits and challenges of business ownership.
2. When there is agreement to go forward, both parties should attend any future discussions together so that each has the same information. Would you want your spouse to buy a house without knowing your opinion? Investing in a business is an even more important decision and calls for full agreement from both partners. An added benefit is that one may ask a question the partner did not consider.

The Friend/Neighbor Roadblock
It is flattering to be asked for your opinion. The minute you mention your interest in a business, your friends and neighbors will cheerfully provide their (uninformed) opinions about your choice.

THE SOLUTION
Why would their choices match yours? They have different backgrounds and interests. Give each opinion the worth it deserves based on the knowledge and business experience of the opinion giver.

The Self & Internet Roadblock 
Often people destroy their own dreams of business ownership by confusing casual inquiry with real research. It is a classic case of “shooting yourself in the foot.” For example, you can be interested in a certain type of business and check out the Yellow Pages or search engines to see how many of them there are. That is interesting - but it tells you nothing about the size of the market, the markets niche or the retail business targets. It may be that the market is undeserved or you might ask a competitor about the business. Don’t expect an unbiased opinion!

THE SOLUTION
Serious research about the industry and the franchise is absolutely required and franchisees already in the business are an excellent source of information. Your FranNet Consultant will coach you through the research process.

THE LIGHT JUST TURNED GREEN
Take note of the road blocks, but its time to put the pedal to the metal and starting cruising down the road to success.

I invite you to check out an industry leading franchise opportunity from the comfort of your own home.  On Wednesday, March 18th, join me for a FREE webinar.  The franchisor has multiple revenue streams, lower initial investment, flexible hours, a scalable business model, initial and ongoing franchisor support.  For more information and to register, please visit this link.

You can also contact me directly at bback@frannet.com or 630-862-0396.  I have helped steer many towards business ownership, and even some away from business ownership.  Either way, I’m here to help you with FREE consultation and events.



Thursday, February 26, 2015

Is a Franchise with a "Family Friendly" Lifestyle, an Ability to Create Financial Security, and a Support System to Promote Success Right for You?


Seems too good to be true.  Own a business, but have a family life.  But, guess what - it's true!

Join me for a free webinar on Wednesday, March 4th - right from the comfort (and warmth) of your home computer.  We will be examining a franchise model that you will be interested in persuing.

This is a great model that offers franchisees innovative and sophisticated methods to develop large, successful businesses. Franchisees implement an ambitious/effective customer acquisition program driven by targeted corporate marketing (executed on behalf of the franchisees) which is responsible for bringing in over 80% of customers.

This program, through employee management and client satisfaction systems, drives their cash based, residual income model. The franchise model combines simple business fundamentals with sophisticated systems, and an unprecedented support infrastructure, towards tremendous income potential.

The opportunity offers a great ROI, consistent annuity based revenue and a wonderful life-style flexibility. This is a Monday thru Friday business, with few to no weekends or holidays. Per unit revenue averages $1.2 million+. Average sales of the top third is $1.7 million+.

Listen in from the comfort of your home or office and consider if this franchise opportunity is right for you--There are prioritized territory availability in Illinois--Rockford, Elgin, Tinley Park, Lombard, Chicagoland and vicinity, and Northwest Indiana! Register now!
For more information or if you have questions, please contact me at bback@frannet.com or 630-862-0396.  I look forward to talking more about your successful future!  Don't forget to follow me on social media by clicking on the links below.

Saturday, February 14, 2015

February 18th Franchise Spotlight Webinar: An Illinois/Northwest Indiana Business Opportunity in Mature Industry...Showing Excellent Growth and Returns!


Join FranNet Chicago for a Franchise Spotlight Webinar on Wednesday, February 18 at 7pm CT.

A 15-year proven franchisor will share details of their record year, industry leadership position, investment, ideal candidate, business model and more that you don't want to miss!

One of the industry's most respected franchisor organizations continues to lead this company that is also spot-on in meeting consumer trends, demographics, and lifestyle needs.

Franchise opportunities are available in Chicagoland, Rockford, Elgin, Northwest Indiana and other key Illinois territories, and will be discussed on this important call.

To register for this free webinar, please visit https://cc.readytalk.com/cc/s/registrations/new?cid=sfpmipkezrcu.


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Monday, February 9, 2015

It’s a Week About Love … Do You Love Your Job?

Valentine’s Day is a week filled with hearts, chocolate, cupid and roses.   Love is in the air.  But, is love in the air at your workplace?  I’m not talking about an inter-office romance; I’m asking do you love your job?


According to a Society for Human Resource Management survey (SHRM), 81% of US employees reported overall job satisfaction with their current job (2013).  This is unchanged from 2012.

Now, this may be a bit surprising.  You might have been expecting a lower satisfaction number.  But, do all of those people truly LOVE their jobs?


STARTING YOUR OWN BUSINESS
Starting your own business gives you the flexibility to choose what you want to do.  If you are an avid photography, you can get into photography.  Are you a car guy/girl?  From auto repair to rental, there are many ways to get into the car business. 

Did you know that you can actually leverage some already-successful businesses by starting a franchise (in a business category that you love)?  This allows you to take advantage of key practices, brand awareness, and successful business systems that give you a head start compared to starting a business from scratch.


WHAT ARE SOME OF THE DIFFERENT BUSINESS INDUSTRY CATEGORIES?
ADP is the company that provides HR, payroll time, tax and benefits administration services to businesses across the world.  ADP releases an employment report monthly that covers a number of jobs in the country.  For franchise jobs, here are the different industries they list:
  • Auto & parts dealers
  •  Building materials and garden equipment and supplies dealers
  • Food retailers
  • Real estate
  •  Rental
  • Restaurants
  • Gas stations and auto repair
  • Business services
  • Education
  • Accommodation
  • Leisure
  • Manufacture
  • Personal services
  • Personal care retailers
  • Professional, scientific and technical services
  • Other
Odds are, if you can think of it, there is a franchise that exists. 

LEARN MORE ABOUT FRANCHISING
I invite you to learn more about franchising at one of my upcoming FREE events/webinars.  

My next featured webinar takes place on February 18, 2015 at 7pm CT.  Learn more about a 15-year proven franchisor that is looking to move into Chicagoland, Rockford, Elgin, Northwest Indiana and other key Illinois territories.  This business opportunity is in a mature industry, showing excellent growth and returns.  For more information and to register, please visit https://cc.readytalk.com/cc/s/registrations/new?cid=sfpmipkezrcu.  

Keep an eye to the left of the screen for my other events and webinars that are 100% FREE!

If you have any questions about franchising or my upcoming events and webinars, please contact me at bback@frannet.com or 630-862-0396.

Remember, if you don’t love your job – you should be doing what you love!




Thursday, January 29, 2015

More than Half of US Workers to be Independent by 2020?


In 2011, MBO Partners (a provider of management services to independent professionals) made a prediction that freelancers, consultants and other independent workers will reach a total of 65 to 70 million by 2020.  This will make up over half of the expected workfare at that time.

Just recently, the same organization, MBO Partners, mentioned that 2015 would be a Key Pivot Point for the future of work.  It was noted in the discussion that it would be this year that Americans accept and adapt to the rapidly growing self-employment trend, focusing on ways to make it an easier and safer work arrangement for all involved.


Are you prepared for self-employment?
Whether you are looking to remain in the industry you’ve been in for years, or are looking to make a change into a completely new environment, self-employment can be attainable by many.  However, education on the options is key to finding the best fit for you.

Let us help you explore the options:  Independent Contractor, Entrepreneur, or Franchise Owner.  Begin by attending one of our free educational events on Business Ownership Options where we’ll discuss the reasons individuals explore business ownership, as well as three business ownership options.  There will be a deep dive into the franchise industry during this program, including regulations, investment levels, debunking myths and finding a great fit.

Our next featured event will be web-based on February 18, 2015.  Learn more and register here: frannet.com/bback.

You can also look to the right of the screen for any other local seminars or webinars that are coming soon.  These events will either focus on specific topics or provide a deeper dive into a specific franchise that could be expanding in our area.

About FranNet
As a FranNet franchise placement specialist, I provide free services and consultation to help aspiring business owners focused on franchising – including our exclusive matchmaking system that can help you pair with a franchise looking to expand in the area.  We’ll take your transferable skills, values and interests into mind – as well as other factors including your lifestyle and whether you would like to own a business as a career, an investment, or both.

Remember, all of my services, consultations and seminars are totally free.  You can contact me as well at bback@frannet.com or 630-862-0396.


Sunday, January 25, 2015

Franchisor Spotlight: Low Cost, Home-Based, Mobile Service Franchise Opportunity

Starts:01/28/2015 @ 2:00 p.m. Eastern
Ends:01/28/2015 @ 3:30 p.m. Eastern
Description:
This Franchisor Spotlight will explore a low cost, B2B franchise situated in a $10 billion industry. The franchise provides immediate on-site repair and equipment service and sales through a dedicated network of highly trained and successful industry professionals.
With the potential to be a home-based business, this is an opportunity that provides for a flexible lifestyle with regular business hours; Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Owners will be in charge of providing fast and affordable service to their customers. No employees are required to operate this business.
Franchisees can expect ongoing support from the franchisor, beginning with six weeks of extensive training. Support will continue in the form of field support, annual meetings, advertising, central purchasing and more. Plus, the franchisor’s internal sales team makes outbound sales calls for new customers.
Ideal franchisee candidates will have excellent networking and customer services skills, an outgoing personality and the ability to handle administrative tasks. Some handyman skills are needed. This recession-resistant business offers franchisees the ability to succeed as single-unit operators, as well as seek potential opportunities in multi-unit ownership.
Franchisor at a Glance:
1. Home-based mobile service franchise, catering to the B2B sector
2. Low cost, high margin business opportunity
3. In-house support systems, including training, advertising, internal sales team and technical support
4. Recession-resistant business
5. Multi-unit growth opportunity
If this sounds like a good fit for you, we invite you to join us for this informative Franchisor Spotlight. Get started on your way to financial and personal independence!
City & State:Online National Webinar
Contact:
Questions please email webinar@frannet.com
Additional Information:
Registration:Click here to sign up.



Tuesday, January 20, 2015

Location, Location, Location!

Let’s say that you’re well on your way to becoming a successful entrepreneur by this point. You have made the decision to go into franchising because you like the idea of being your own boss, contributing to your own bottom line and experiencing a limitless future. You’ve done your due diligence and selected a carefully crafted opportunity that matches up with your needs. You have a business plan and it’s been blessed by a financial advisor and an attorney. The stars are aligned for your success and it comes down to a question of where your business will be located.

Two things are going to happen based on this decision. Either your business will succeed because you chose to reside in a prime location, with maximum visibility and well-heeled co-tenants or…your business could fail because you located your company in the wrong area. That’s why FranNet has such strong views on the supreme importance of your franchise location.

Taken at face value, many franchisors will have a good idea of the territory they want new franchisees to choose based on the location of other franchisees of the same brand. Typically, there are clauses written into franchise contracts which prohibits direct competition among these like-minded opportunities—and that’s a good thing. Territories are important because they allow you to operate exclusively in a stated set of boundaries. And if your franchise locating your franchise outlet in your community, you should have more than a passing knowledge of your own city or township’s neighborhoods and shopping districts.


That being said, here are three critical points to consider when selecting a location for your franchise:

  • Look for Class A Retail Space. These spaces typically include a high concentration of population and higher household income levels. Ask for it by name!
  • Population figures. Any real estate expert should be able to cite you statistics on daytime population within a three and/or five-mile radius of your location. It’s usually one of their prime selling points. If this isn’t discussed, it’s probably not a positive statistic!
  • Co-tenancy. This is important! If the location is a shopping mall or retail strip, ask who the “Anchor” tenant is. Usually, it’s a well known grocer or national consumer branded store. Make sure all of the other businesses in the location don’t directly compete with your business or service. Also, consider whether or not you’d feel comfortable doing business around the businesses already located there.

Last, before you sign anything related to real estate, get out and investigate the opportunity on your own. Show up on a weekend afternoon and survey the car and foot traffic in and out of the location area. Check to see if public transportation supports your location. Then go on a Tuesday night. Make notes and compare. Talk to some of the other shop owners and proprietors. Many of them will be all too happy to share their experiences with you—both good and bad.

At the end of the day, FranNet wants our new franchisees to succeed well after signing a contract to represent a franchise brand. Blowing the whole opportunity with a bad location selection would be nothing less than a tragedy. Don’t let it happen to you.

Do you feel that you’re ready to get started? If this article has inspired you to investigate a franchise opportunity, perhaps it’s time to check out one of my events or webinars listed to the right side of the screen.  Our next webinar is January 28th at 1pm Central Time, which takes an in-depth look at a low cost, B2B franchise in a $10 billion industry.  The franchise provides immediate on-site repair and equipment service sales through a dedicated network of highly trained and successful industry professionals.

To get more information about our upcoming webinars and to register, please visit frannet.com/bback.  Or, contact me directly at 630-862-0396 or bback@frannet.com.  All of my consultations, events and services are FREE.  Let’s get further down your path to success!

Thursday, January 15, 2015

The First Franchise

Franchises have become a staple of the American economy. Just think of how many franchises you come across on a daily basis. Even if you don’t leave your house for a day, you will see advertisements for dozens of franchises on your television.

So, where did the first franchise begin? What was it? 



Have you heard of the Singer Sewing Machine? 

Isaac Singer didn’t invent the sewing machine. But he developed a simplistic sewing machine that could be adapted to home use – getting a patent for his invention in 1851. He even sold his machines using an installment payment basis that allowed more people to purchase his machines.


The Singer Sewing Machine sales skyrocketed over 500% during a four-year period. Isaac was able to start mass-producing his product with interchangeable parts. But, how could Singer’s company repair these machines across the United States?

The solution to this problem gave rise to the first franchise system. Singer started by licensing out servicing and repairs to local merchants around the country. Later, those merchants were allowed to become regional salespeople for the machines as well. These rights were all conveyed via contracts. 


Franchises are Proven Business Systems 

Singer’s franchising system was a success because his sewing machine was a quality, differentiated product AND he developed an efficient, effective system for selling and servicing it. This is the biggest benefit of franchising; you are using a business system that has a track record of producing successful results. There are no guarantees in business ownership and entrepreneurship, but with research, due diligence, and working a proven system, you can give yourself a distinct advantage. 

Another way to give yourself an advantage? FranNet. Our exclusive franchise matchmaking system and research plan helps to pair you with a business concept that best fits your transferable skills, personality, budget and lifestyle requirements. We offer choices in many different categories, to help you discover options you may not even be aware of, yet may provide a great fit for your unique profile!



Franchising Consulting, Events and Webinars - ALL FREE! 

Want to learn more about franchising? Join me for one of our upcoming webinars, all which are listed to the right. These presentations are educational and can help teach you more about the world of franchising. You can also contact me directly at 630-862-0396 or bback@frannet.com. All of my consultations, events and webinars are totally free.