Networking Your Way to Success

If you’re a business owner or considering business ownership, then it’s likely you know how important networking is to your success. Businesses grow through building relationships and making contacts. So, if you’re not networking, you may be working hard, but not working smart. Let’s take a look at a few tips to help you get started or simply improve your networking strategy.

Networking Goals
The first step in successfully networking is setting goals. These will serve as your framework to take you where you are to where you want to be in creating and nurturing valuable professional relationships. Your networking goals are not set in stone, in fact, you should revisit them often, revise them, scrap the ones that aren’t working for you and set new ones.

Start by making a list of short-term and long-term attainable goals. Now, set a value to them. For instance, your goal is to connect to other business owners. In the short-term, let’s say you want to connect with five different business owners at your next networking event – five connections that you feel you can reach out to for advice, tips, ideas and support. As you reach each of your short-term goals, consider them little “wins,” and let them motivate you as you work toward your quarterly and annual goals.

Networking Tools 
After you have established your networking goals, the next step is to determine how to effectively execute on them. The following are a few tools to consider:

• Business Cards – Easy to carry and simple reminders to those you meet, business cards not only provide your contact information, but are also a reflection of your business and the quality of your work. Writing quick notes on the back of each business card you receive can also be a great way to remember the connection or serve as a conversation starter on your follow up email to them.
• Elevator Pitch – This is a critical tool in your networking toolbox. You should be able to describe your business and what you do in a succinct, concise and engaging way in 30 seconds or less. Be sure to tailor your message or tweak it depending on the audience. 
• Website – If you’re a business owner, you need a website. When potential clients or customers want to learn more about you or your business, one of the very first places they’ll turn to is the Internet. There are a number of tools available to help small business owners get their websites up and running. Which means, you don’t have to be an expert in website design or have a large budget to get started. And, with the content management services available today, it’s easier than ever to create, publish and edit your own site. 
• Social Media – LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter are excellent methods to getting your brand and name in front of hundreds of potential clients and business partners. Link all three and throw in your website and you’ll have a powerhouse of networking tools working for you.

Making Connections
“It’s not what you know, it’s who you know.” This may be an old saying, but it still rings true. Once you’ve developed your goals and compiled your networking tools, it’s time to start making connections.

Networking events are planned for exactly this purpose. So even if walking up to a new person and striking up a conversation is outside of your comfort zone, just know that everyone is there for the same reason you are. Let that give you confidence! Prepare your elevator pitch, bring your business cards and have a few questions in your back pocket to make sure you can keep the conversation flowing. Exchange cards with new connections along with a comment about how you might be able to help them. Be sure to follow up in a few days via email.

Also, consider joining a networking group or groups, which are great for connecting with like-minded individuals. Networking groups can be in-person or online, and both provide you an opportunity to share your expertise and meet and engage with people outside of your normal workday. Find groups that fit you in terms of size, time commitment, industry and goals.

There are a number of tools and tips available to help you network your way to success. From setting goals, to filling your toolbox with effective methods for reaching those goals and adding connections to your professional network, you can make networking a powerful asset to the growth of your business.

Michael Martuza Discusses His New Book, "The Franchise Rules"

Michael Martuza is the owner of FranNet New England and the author of recently released The Franchise Rules: Find a great franchise that ‘fits’ your goals, skills, and budget. As a franchise consultant, Mike works with individuals considering business ownership to match them with franchise businesses in the local market. The book (paperback, ISBN 978-1500615734, $5.99) is the culmination of “rules” he’s gathered over his career to help others discover their ideal business opportunity.

What made you decide to write The Franchise Rules?
While working with clients, I continually come across the same situations and questions. Everyone tends to get hung up on similar issues, so I thought I would write about the underlying guidelines that I recommend clients follow when considering franchise ownership. Not only does it help me as a consultant, but it helps the client be better prepared and educated when they begin their investigation.

Much of the book's content was taken from my franchise business ownership seminars, which feature three basic rules. The book expands on that idea and is really a culmination of all of the rules I’ve figured out over my years of doing this.

How long did the book take you?
Three to four months.

What was your writing process?
I had all of these thoughts and stories I wanted to tell to clients before they began to look at a specific franchise. Prior to outlining the book, I really had to consider how to organize it. How do I make it easy to read and follow?

The book is formulated along the lines of a client’s thought process, beginning with what a client should do or how they should decide if a franchise is the right opportunity. And finally, how best to approach the due diligence process.

I would say 90 percent of the effort was in the organizing and editing. The goal was to provide a lot of great information in a very easy to read book.

How did the title come about?
I was sitting there with this list in my hand thinking about how best to get readers/potential clients to really understand that finding a great franchise is a step-by-step process. It occurred to me that this wasn’t just a list or a process, but for the most part "rules" that should always be followed. I think the title really sums up the contents of this book.

Your first rule, “Don’t Do Anything Stupid,” is pretty blunt. What was the inspiration behind that?
I often talk about people who end up making emotional buying decisions. What I mean are those potential business owners who, without doing any research, think “I want to be in this type of business because …” or “I saw this concept when I was on vacation and it worked there.” I stress that it’s important to inform them so they know what they’re doing and what they’re getting into.

It’s the first rule and phrased that way, because I don’t want readers to rush into a buying decision. Read the book. Read all of the book, and come away better educated on the process before making any decisions.

If there were one thing you would want readers to take away from The Franchise Rules, what would it be?
Utilize experts. They can help the potential franchise owner find the right opportunity; something that will ‘fit’ their goals, skills and budget.

How do these rules come into play when you’re working with clients at FranNet? 
Before a client comes in for a consult they are required (call it homework) to read the book. If they have attended a seminar, I will give it to them in person, otherwise I send it (via Amazon Prime) immediately after a Personal Franchise Assessment (PFA) review call. It takes about two hours to read, so if they are serious about looking at franchises, there is no excuse.

It’s great prep work. Not only does it help educate clients on the process they’re about to start, but it sets expectations and commitments for both parties.

Where can The Franchise Rules be purchased?
The book is available on Amazon, both in electronic ($2.99) and paperback ($5.99) versions.

Five Must Ask Questions Before Investing in a Franchise

There are so many opportunities in franchising that it’s tough to know which ones are worth further investigating and which ones may not be a good fit for your personal and financial goals.  Before you sign anything with a franchisor, here are five questions you must ask (and answer) yourself.

When potential candidates begin talking with franchise systems, they tend to ask pretty standard questions: How much money can I make? How much will I have to spend? How big can I get? Is the franchise territory exclusive? But the deeper you go in your research, the more pointed and detailed the questions get, and they’re critical for a franchisee candidate to ask before signing the franchise agreement.

What does your first-year support look like?

Most good franchise systems, understanding how important the first year of franchise ownership is and how likely a new owner is to struggle, provide extra support and coaching. It could mean the home office assuming all responsibility for marketing, or using customer service reps in a call center to schedule jobs while the franchise owner concentrates on executing the baseline work.

There are all kinds of ways of offering support. But it’s important for any franchisee to know what kind of help they’ll be getting at a time when they’ll really need it.

What are the most common problem areas for franchise owners in your system, and how do you help solve them?

The test of a good franchise system isn’t how well it works when business is going strong. It’s how it helps its franchise owners when they struggle. Even the smartest and hardest-working business owners in rock-solid systems run into challenges every now and then.

When that happens, the franchisor’s operations staff should be prepared to help the owner respond to the problem effectively. In the best systems, they’ve seen and can anticipate many of the pitfalls the business may face.

What kind of insurance should I have?

Don’t overlook this. Some businesses even require certain types of insurance (this would be addressed in the franchisor’s Franchise Disclosure Document).  It’s important to be protected in case of accident or natural disaster, and you need to make sure you’re including the ongoing expense in your business plan.

What kind of ongoing training is available?

Smart franchise systems understand that their franchisees need to keep their skills honed, and franchisees in the system need to stay up-to-date on best practices. Ongoing training opportunities are great for a secondary reason: they send the message that the franchisor cares enough about its franchise owners to give them the tools to succeed.

What’s the relationship among franchisees like?

A culture of cooperation among franchise owners can make the difference between success and failure, and good franchise systems go out of their way to foster good will. Incentives help: franchisors can single out especially helpful veteran franchise owners in internal communications, or they can give monthly “helping hand” awards for the franchisee who most helped first-year owners.

Going into business for yourself requires careful consideration and due diligence – and it’s not a decision to be taken lightly.  But it can be the most rewarding things you can do for your career.  FranchiseWorks.com features some of the best franchises in their respective industry and is a great introduction to those brands.

Many Businesses Thrive in All Economic Conditions

If you’re considering franchise business ownership, then you’re most likely aware of the number of options available to you. From quick-service restaurants to IT services and health and wellness businesses, there are more than 3,000 concepts available across more than 90 industries.

Having experienced an economic recession, you may be among the potential business owners thinking, “What about the economy?” Fortunately, the franchise industry is expected to see a continued increase in employment growth and franchise units established for 2014, according to a report released by the International Franchise Association.

Even so, if the economy is on your mind, you should know that there are many businesses that thrive in all economic conditions. So what are they and why is that the case? Below we discuss three areas of franchise businesses considered to be recession-resistant.

Growing markets driven by demographics
Senior care, residential repair and cleaning are just a few of the markets that continue to see steady growth within the franchise industry. What sets these markets apart is how they are driven by demographics.

Take senior care, for example. There are nearly 76 million baby boomers, those born between 1946 and 1964, in the U.S. They make up approximately 24 percent of the U.S. population. As a matter of fact, there’s a person who turns senior age every seven seconds in the U.S. As this generation ages, we will continue to see a growing need for specialized services, care and products. These are needs that, regardless of the economic climate, will need to be met.

Essential services
Essential services are those things that, for the most part, we have to have. These types of services range from the automotive and damage restoration industries to health and wellness, and even hair care.

Let’s look at the automotive industry. From getting to work, to driving to school or dropping the kids off at practice, many of us depend on our cars daily. The best way to keep your car in tip-top shape is to perform routine maintenance, cleaning and detailing.

If you’re thinking, “I can do an oil change myself,” consider that cars today can have fairly advanced issues. Problems with the electrical or fuel system, for instance, may require the expertise of a professional. Plus, many people just don’t have the time, even if they have the knowhow, for DIY. In other words, if you’re a car owner, it’s likely you’ll make needed financial adjustments in order to keep your vehicle up and running.

Businesses that help other small businesses
Franchise opportunities that help other small businesses are things like business coaching, professional consulting, expense analysis and sales training. These types of franchise businesses are great for taking the skills you’ve developed over your tenure and applying them through your own business to help others succeed in theirs.

In an economic downturn, companies may need to re-budget, improve their sales process or decide how best to retain current clients. Often times, additional expertise is needed in these situations. But if you think about it, even in a good economy, these types of business issues are equally important, helping companies focus on business growth or staff development.

There are more than 3,000 concepts to choose from in the franchise industry. We’ve touched on just a few. If the thought of an uncertain economy makes you weary about business ownership, remember that many businesses thrive in all economic conditions.

West Coast Franchise Expo Franchise Trade Show, BE OUR GUEST at the Premier Franchising Expo in the West!

FranchiseWorks.com | Franchise Trade Show News: West Coast Franchise Expo, BE OUR GUEST at the Premier Franchising Expo in the West!

October 23-25, 2014 - Anaheim Convention Center - Anaheim, CA
Visit: FranchiseWorks.com @ Booth #: 575

You are invited to be our exclusive VIP guest at the 2014 West Coast Franchise Expo. It's a great opportunity to meet us, and over 200 of the leading franchises, including new and recognized brands. All industries will be represented at all investment levels - starting as low as $10,000, with both full and part-time opportunities.

A franchise allows you to be in business for yourself but not by yourself - with a proven business system that gives you endless support and branding. Don't miss your chance - attend the WCFE and get insight into all the benefits that franchise ownership has to offer.

Register FREE now and get access to:
Industry experts who can help you make the right decisions and discover if franchising is right for you. Choose from over 40 FREE seminars and in-depth symposia - all designed to give you the inspiration, tools and knowledge about the sort of business to suit your dream and lifestyle.
Get legal and financial information & advice.

Register FREE Now for the WCFE!
Use Promo Code: FRANWORKS

Thursday, October 23 - 10:00AM-5:00PM
Friday, October 24 - 10:00AM-5:00PM
Saturday, October 25 - 10:00AM-4:00PM

If you would like more information about owning a franchise, go to http://www.franchiseworks.com.


About www.FranchiseWorks.com

FranchiseWorks.com was established in 1999 with the goal of providing qualified prospective entrepreneurs with the right franchise or business opportunity that meets his or her needs. We showcase hundreds of franchise and business opportunities in a variety of industries including new start-ups to established companies. www.FranchiseWorks.com also has information on franchise financing sources, business opportunity and franchise trade show schedules along with the latest franchise news. For additional franchise information visit http://www.franchiseworks.com or the franchise blog - http://franchiseworksblog.blogspot.com. For more information visit https://secure.events-registration.com/wcfe2014/?source=FRANWORKS.

About FranNet
FranNet is North America’s most respected leader in matching individuals with franchise opportunities. Based in Louisville, Ky., FranNet has more than 80 consultants across North America who use a proprietary profiling and consultative process to determine a business model unique to each client’s goals, skill sets and interests, and have matched thousands of entrepreneurs to rewarding small business opportunities. FranNet has been recognized by Inc. Magazine as one of the top 500 fastest growing private companies in America for the last three years. Visit www.frannet.com.

Tutoring Franchise Athena Learning Centers Adds In-Home Franchise Opportunities

FranchiseWorks.com | Tutoring Franchise Athena Learning Centers Adds In-Home Franchise Opportunities to Traditional Retail Storefront Model.

PRINCETON, N.J. - Athena Learning Centers of Princeton, New Jersey, today introduced an In-Home brand model to potential franchisees that would enable them to offer K-12 one-to-one tutoring in math, reading, writing and science, as well as SAT and ACT college test preparation support in students' homes or other mutually agreed upon locations. This complements the company's traditional retail storefront franchise option, offering a lower-cost of entry to join the Athena Learning Centers network and a means to service smaller markets where the population would not support a retail storefront.

Athena Learning Centers franchises are a community of year-round Learning Centers that offer K-12 students innovative solutions for improving their math and reading skills in preparation for success in college and the 21st century workplace. Athena's after-school program curriculum is directly aligned with the Common Core State Standards. The company currently has franchises established in New Jersey, Texas and Florida, and plans to open 20 more in 2014.

"Our decision to create Athena Learning Centers as a franchisor was fueled by our passion to help children and improve their lives through education," said Mark Mele, CEO, Athena Learning Centers. "We seek franchisees who share our commitment and realize that some will not have the resources or potential customer base to support a retail location.  Our In-Home franchise option, along with our original retail storefront model, opens the door for virtually any qualified educator or entrepreneur to join our team and integrate our proven framework for success."

In-Home Brand Option: New Way to Integrate The Athena Advantage SM

By owning the Athena Learning Centers In-Home brand in their market, franchisees leverage all of the operational expertise and products of a traditional Athena Learning Center with an estimated initial investment of $45,000. (The investment for a retail storefront franchise is approximately $125,000.) Owners can either be certified teachers or employers with a staff of certified teachers that provide ... For the rest of the story go to http://www.franchiseworks.com/franchise_news_story.aspx?nid=1455 

Franchise Trade Show Get Your Free Admission Pass To Attend The International Franchise Expo

INTERNATIONAL FRANCHISE EXPO (IFE)

Get Your Free Admission Pass To Attend
Find The Business You've Always Been Looking For
In Just One Weekend!

Join thousands of entrepreneurs and business owners at the International Franchise Expo, the largest franchise expo in the country. Meet hundreds of proven franchise opportunities. Every industry. Every investment level. Full-time and part-time.

June 19-21, 2014
Javits Center
36th Street and 11th Avenue
New York, NY 10001 

•Meet over 450 of the top franchises.
•Take Advantage of 70 Free Seminars and In-Depth Symposia.
•Get the help you need in deciding which franchise is right for you.
•Find out what you need to know as a new franchisee.
•Discover industries that are new or many that you might not have considered.
•Get advice on a wide range of financial options from the experts.
•Talk face-to-face with hundreds of the best franchise opportunities expanding in our area!

Register Today and get your FREE ADMISSION PASS! The International Franchise Expo provides you the perfect opportunity to visit with over 450 franchise concepts, full time or part time, representing every industry at virtually every investment level. Meet face-to-face with the best franchising concepts. If you’re interested in child care, food, cleaning services, or just about any type of franchise business – you owe it to yourself to attend the franchise trade show and learn about the hundreds of franchise opportunities available.

You can also take this opportunity to attend 70+ FREE seminars or register for in-depth symposia. International Franchise Expo is sponsored by the International Franchise Association. Register FREE compliments of FranchiseWorks.com – visit us in Booth # 977.

Lee's Hoagie House Is Now Franchising Own A Franchise, Own A Philadelphia Tradition

Lee's Hoagie House Is Now Franchising

An Authentic Philadelphia Hoagie & Cheese Steak Franchise

Don't Just Own A Franchise, Own A Philadelphia Tradition

Lee's Hoagie House Franchises

Single and Multi-Unit Franchises Available

Call 877-824-4411 Today For More Information or

Click Here For More Information On Owning A Lee's Hoagie House Franchise

A Philadelphia Tradition

For over six decades, the people of Philadelphia have had a good thing all to themselves, the Lee’s Hoagie.

It’s something to behold. A big loaf of fresh-baked Italian bread stuffed with a zesty assortment of cold cuts, topped with lettuce, tomatoes, spices and our own special “secret oil.” Or filled with thinly sliced steak under a blanket of melted provolone cheese and grilled onions.

Why Own a Lee’s Hoagie House Franchise?

Consider the following… 

Product - The quality and value of the Lee’s product invites comparison with all the others. Once you try one, you will know the difference.

Training - Franchisees and store personnel are provided with complete training in all phases of the Lee’s Hoagie House system.

Commitment to Excellence - The Lee’s Hoagie House Mission Statement says it all. By conducting our business with this unbending and ongoing drive to be the very best, franchise owners will benefit from knowing that they are part of a quality team… one that will accept nothing else.

The Investment - Compared with other fast food-style restaurants serving a full line of hot and cold products, we think that you’ll find the cost to open a Lee’s Hoagie House restaurant extremely reasonable. Low $196,550 — High $317,425

Other Key Franchise Terms 

Initial Franchise Fee - $25,000
Term – 10 Years
Royalty – 5% ($200 minimum weekly)
Brand Development Fee – 1%


Be an Owner! Own a Part of the Lee’s Hoagie House Tradition!
http://www.franchiseworks.com/franchise_main.aspx?aid=657&track=N

Jake's Wayback Burgers Franchise Owner Receives Small Business Excellence Award

FranchiseWorks.com | Burger Franchise Owner Receives Small Business Excellence Award - Watertown Franchisee of Jake’s Wayback Burgers Franchise Nets Small Business Excellence Award.

By Ted Booker - Watertown Daily Times | April 28, 2014 - WATERTOWN - Joseph A. Biccum, franchisee of Jake’s Wayback Burgers in Watertown, will receive the Small Business Excellence Award on May 5 at the 16th annual awards luncheon at the DoubleTree Hotel in Syracuse hosted by the U.S. Small Business Administration.

Nominated by Watertown Savings Bank, Mr. Biccum was selected for the award based on successful sales after opening the restaurant in 2013 at Salmon Run Mall. First-year sales at the restaurant exceeded $750,000, according to a news release.

Mr. Biccum, who plans to open five new franchise locations in the Northeast over the next five years, gave credit to the restaurant’s staff for the award.

“My employees and managers are overjoyed to receive this award,” Mr. Biccum said in a statement. “Everyone worked extremely hard to reach our goal, and to actually exceed it is a phenomenal accomplishment. We all look forward to continuing down this successful path.”

Giving back to the community is also a priority for Mr. Biccum. In a twist on the Thanksgiving tradition, Jake’s Wayback Burgers donated 100 of its Turkey Dinner burgers to the Salvation Army soup kitchen on State Street.

To open the Watertown restaurant, Mr. Biccum received matching loans of $40,000 from the Jefferson County Industrial Development Agency and North Country Alliance. It also secured a loan of about $133,000 from Watertown Savings Bank.

Original Story Appeared http://www.watertowndailytimes.com/article/20140428/NEWS03/704289945.

If you would like more information about owning a franchise, go to http://www.franchiseworks.com.

About www.FranchiseWorks.com
FranchiseWorks.com was established in 1999 with the goal of providing qualified prospective entrepreneurs with the right franchise or business opportunity that meets his or her needs. We showcase hundreds of franchise and business opportunities in a variety of industries including new start-ups to established companies. www.FranchiseWorks.com also has information on franchise financing sources, business opportunity and franchise trade show schedules along with the latest franchise news. For additional franchise information visit http://www.franchiseworks.com or the franchise blog - http://franchiseworksblog.blogspot.com. For more information visit http://waybackburgers.com/franchising.

Floor Coverings International Franchise Will Send You $100 Gift Card Just For Asking*

Floor Coverings International Franchise Will Send You $100 Gift Card Just For Asking* ...
Learn and Earn. Find out more about a Floor Covering Intl Franchise Today.

When you inquire about a Floor Covering International Franchise and complete their brief phone appointment, you will earn a $100 Gift Card from Restaurant.com.*

*see below for details.

Floor Coverings International Franchise Opportunity 
Join A Leading Floor Covering Franchise

With a powerful business model in an enormous marketplace estimated to be $65 billion and growing, and with the support and resources from a nationally recognized flooring franchise, Floor Coverings International is an outstanding opportunity for entrepreneurs to build a large flooring business that can maximize their potential.

Floor Coverings International franchisees typically are not interior designers, flooring experts, or home improvement gurus. Our franchisees are smart, successful and highly motivated business leaders. They have a disciplined acumen for maximizing opportunity and they know how to run a business. They are committed to building productive teams and long-term relationships. They know how to inspire and how to bring out the best in other people.

http://www.franchiseworks.com/franchise_main.aspx?aid=310&track=N

Tutor Doctor Franchise Named One Of America’s Top 10 Home-Based Franchises

FranchiseWorks.com | Tutor Doctor Franchise Named One Of America’s Top 10 Home-Based Franchises in CBS Sacramento's Small Business Center.

Working from home is no longer just in the purview of freelancers. For the past few decades, companies have grown by franchising their business through home-based employees. This model has worked so well for a simple reason: Branded companies are giving budding entrepreneurs a chance to be a part of a large company.

Home-based franchises also typically require a low-cost investment to get started (in comparison to high overhead for a storefront) and a lot of support when it comes to running business operations. All 10 of these companies have earned bragging rights over the years. Most not only offer training programs to franchise owners, but also marketing and technology support. All have also received acclaim and awards over the years for the way they do business and work with franchisees.

• Jazzercise: There’s no need to run a home gym with Jazzercise. But the company does require certification for their exercise program—which they’ll help you receive—along with CPR certification. Once certified, organize and teach classes in local gyms and buildings, as well as hire other exercise instructors.
• Tutor Doctor: As a franchise owner with Tutor Doctor, hire the tutors and match them with students of all ages and grades who need homework help. Tutor Doctor also provides technology to help run an in-home business, including an accounting module.
• Home Helpers:  Organize in-home caregivers for medical and non-medical needs in your territory. Established in 1997, Home Helpers offers franchisees marketing, training and support.
• Snap-On Tools: By running a mobile tool store with Snap-On Tools, franchise owners sell hand tools and equipment solutions to professional tool users.
• Rooter-Man: Forget royalties. Rooter-Man works on a simple flat pricing system for its franchisees. In addition to receiving training on how to run the business, franchisees become independent dealers in the plumbing, drain and sewer cleaning business.
• Vanguard Cleaning Systems: It is one of the largest home-based franchises. Vanguard offers a janitorial franchise program that involves independently operating a complete cleaning business.
• Lawn Doctor: The company started as a hardware store but, through its training programs, became a franchisor of all-season care in communities throughout the U.S. Franchisees receive access to training as well as proprietary equipment for lawn care, shrub and tree care, pest control and yard maintenance.
• Cruise Planners – American Express Travel: After franchisees train through online travel courses, they can sell cruises to travelers. Additional money can be made through commissions on trip insurance and other trip add-ons.
• Padgett Business Services: Accountants can become franchisees by offering tax advice and preparation services through Padgett. While Padgett includes training, franchisees should have a tax, accounting, or financial background before investing in the company.
• Proforma: By working with Proforma, franchisees have access to a large network of suppliers and printers in order to sell business documents, promotional products and printing services.

Story From CBS Sacramento's Small Business Center.

http://sacramento.cbslocal.com/2014/03/03/americas-top-10-home-based-franchises/

(Photo credit: Thinkstock)
March 3, 2014 4:00 AM - Elizabeth SanFilippo is a freelance writer, who enjoys trying new foods from all over the world. But her favorite city for culinary treats will always be Chicago. When not writing about food, she’s scribbling novels, and TV show reviews and recaps. Her work can be found at www.Examiner.com.

Visit CBS Sacramento's Small Business Center. http://sacramento.cbslocal.com/category/small-business-center/
(Photo credit: Thinkstock)

If you would like more information about owning a franchise, go to http://www.franchiseworks.com.

About www.FranchiseWorks.com
FranchiseWorks.com was established in 1999 with the goal of providing qualified prospective entrepreneurs with the right franchise or business opportunity that meets his or her needs. We showcase hundreds of franchise and business opportunities in a variety of industries including new start-ups to established companies. www.FranchiseWorks.com also has information on franchise financing sources, business opportunity and franchise trade show schedules along with the latest franchise news. For additional franchise information visit http://www.franchiseworks.com or the franchise blog - http://franchiseworksblog.blogspot.com. For more information visit http://tutordoctor.com/franchise-opportunities/

Franchise Coaching Company: How to Overcome Battered Career & Investor Syndrome

FranchiseWorks.com | Franchise Business Coaching Company The Entrepreneur’s Source Explains How to Overcome Battered Career & Investor Syndrome.

North America’s Leading Career and Franchise Business Coaching Company, The Entrepreneur’s Source, Explains how to Combat the No. 1 Financial Disaster Sweeping through Families Today.

SOUTHBURY, Conn. — The post-recession economy has undergone the slowest recovery in 70 years, leaving almost 50 percent of U.S. households living paycheck-to-paycheck. On top of this, a majority are over-worked and underpaid as employers have been using “Job Enlargement” as the solution to accomplish the same workload with a trimmed workforce. What’s more, nearly half of middle-class workers say they are not confident that they will be able to save enough to retire comfortably.

Recognizing the beating that many of today’s professionals continue to endure, The Entrepreneur’s Source® (E-Source) is asking these individuals to combat the “Battered Career & Investor Syndrome” by taking control of their professional and personal future.

“We want people to stop settling for the ‘New Normal’,” said Terry Powell, founder of The Entrepreneur’s Source, North America’s leading career and franchisee business coaching company. “We are dealing with a New Career Economy domestically and worldwide where employment conditions have forever changed. The days of long-term job security and a lifetime with one company are gone. Employers have been forced to get lean during these economic times, and the lesson they learned is that a smaller workforce can pick up the slack, and employees can do more than one job.”

Many have realized that what they want from life is not going to be achieved through the uncertainty of employment, but they are unsure how to make the changes necessary to achieve the Income, Lifestyle, Wealth and Equity they and their families deserve. Powell explains four key areas of self-discovery these individuals should consider to help determine the best path that will allow them to use their skills and strengths to achieve security and success:

Evaluate Your Opportunities: Look beyond where you are now and where you would like to be by considering what you really want from your life and what needs to happen to begin the process of transforming your frustrations into freedom, going from Employment to Empowerment®. Would you want to reach your goal of financial freedom? Would you want to find a way to focus and create the lifestyle of your dreams? Would you want to spend more time on things that matter most? Would you like to give back within your community?

Assess Your Strengths: Maximizing and reinforcing your talents, capabilities, and skills will help bring success to your business. Make a list of your strengths to help identify opportunities that would be an ideal fit. Do you have a strong work ethic? Do you have strong community, peers, and circle of influence? Have you been successful in your career to date? Are you good at making decisions and implementing a strategy?

Ensure You Have Clearly Defined Short- or Long-Term Goals: Establishing desired Income, Lifestyle, Wealth and Equity (ILWE) goals defines the big picture; the vista that individuals keep in front of them at all times to motivate them to do the necessary activity to get the desired results. By focusing on both short-term (Income and Lifestyle) and long-term objectives (Wealth and Equity), the ILWE creates a framework for long-term application while growing a successful business.

Be Open to Guidance or Support from Others: We live in a hectic, complex society with no short of 20 things tugging at us at any given time. Because of this, it’s challenging to keep focused when in a self-discovery phase. In fact, of the 75 percent of individuals who have a strong desire to be self-sufficient, only a mere 5 percent actually realize their entrepreneurial potential without the help of a Coach. It’s important to create an environment where you can focus on what will have the biggest impact and allow you to find the vehicle that will achieve your goals. Enlisting a career transition coach or business coach will keep you on track and provide you with objective advice and support.

To help aspiring entrepreneurs examine the above strategies, The Entrepreneur’s Source is hosting a complimentary, educational webinar on Thursday, February 20, 2014 at noon EST. Attendees will learn how to take control of their personal and professional future through business ownership by identifying opportunities and defining their desired Income, Lifestyle, Wealth and Equity goals. Coaches will also be present to answer any questions. Registration is free at http://www.you-2-0.com/webinar/.

About The Entrepreneur’s Source®
The Entrepreneur’s Source is North America’s leading career and franchise Business Coaching Company dedicated to the entrepreneur, with more than 200 coaches in the United States and Canada. Dominating the $1.5 billion Business Coaching/Consulting franchise market in North America, the company offers a full range of services to individuals seeking alternate career options and to franchise businesses looking to increase performance.

The Entrepreneur’s Source, New Normal and Employment to Empowerment are trademarks of TES Franchising, LLC.  All rights reserved.

If you would like more information about owning a franchise, go to http://www.franchiseworks.com.

About www.FranchiseWorks.com
FranchiseWorks.com was established in 1999 with the goal of providing qualified prospective entrepreneurs with the right franchise or business opportunity that meets his or her needs. We showcase hundreds of franchise and business opportunities in a variety of industries including new start-ups to established companies. www.FranchiseWorks.com also has information on franchise financing sources, business opportunity and franchise trade show schedules along with the latest franchise news. For additional franchise information visit http://www.franchiseworks.com or the franchise blog - http://franchiseworksblog.blogspot.com. For more information visit www.EntrepreneursSource.com.

Franchise Trade Show - Franchise Expo South Free Admission Pass

FRANCHISE EXPO SOUTH 
FIND THE BUSINESS YOU'VE ALWAYS BEEN LOOKING FOR - IN JUST ONE WEEKEND!

Get your Free Admission Pass to attend the franchise expo south - FES, courtesy of FranchiseWorks.com. 

Join thousands of entrepreneurs and business owners at the FRANCHISE EXPO SOUTH, the premier franchise expo serving the Southwestern US, Latin America and the Caribbean. Meet hundreds of proven franchised businesses. Every investment level.

February 6-8, 2014

Reliant Center, Hall B
One Reliant Park
Houston, TX 77054
Main Number: 832-667-1400

GET DIRECTIONS At FES You Will:

• Meet Hundreds of the Top Franchises
• Find information on the franchise industry as a whole.
• Take Advantage of Free Seminars and In-Depth Symposia.
• Find help in deciding which type of franchise is best for you.
• Find out what will be expected of you as a franchisee.
• Investigate industries that are new, or that you might not have considered.
• Get advice on the wide range of financial options available.
• Have the opportunity to talk face-to-face with hundreds of the best franchise opportunities expanding in our area!

Franchise Trade Show: Get Your Free Pass To The Philadelphia Franchise Expo

Franchise Trade Show: Get Your Free Pass To The Philadelphia Franchise Expo.

Philadelphia Franchise & Business Opportunity Expo
January 25 & 26, 2014 @ Greater Philadelphia Expo Center

FREE ADMISSION Compliments of FranchiseWorks.com
Please print and bring this e-mail to the show to receive 1 free admission. No cash value.

MEET the country's best Franchises and profitable businesses looking to expand in Philadelphia!
LEARN how to bring your dreams to life at free business, legal & financing seminars.
DISCOVER full and part-time opportunities - owning a franchise is more affordable than you might think!